JCPH continues to urge staying home, wearing masks

     The weekly update from Public Health Coordinator Jenna Lovaas at the July 14 Jones County Supervisor meeting revealed that JCPH is following 16 COVID-19 cases.

     “They are all still in isolation,” noted Lovaas.

     Of that 16, 10 have been confirmed as positive cases and six were probable cases.

     As reported the previous week, Lovaas noted that Jones County did have one death due to the virus.

     “We just really encourage people to stay home as much as possible,” urged Lovaas. “And wear masks when out in public.”

     Supervisor Wayne Manternach asked if the 16 cases was an all-time high for Jones County. Lovaas the most cases the county has had at one was 19.

     “We’re still riding high right now, though,” commented Lovaas.

     As of July 20, Jones County has seen a total of 95 confirmed cases.

     Supervisor Ned Rohwedder inquired as to whether the person who passed away over the weekend had underlying health conditions, in addition to coronavirus. Lovaas said if so, those health conditions were not reported to JCPH. In addition, she said the individual was not hospitalized due to severe COVID-19 symptoms.

     Emergency Management Coordinator Brenda Leonard reported that she received an order of washable gowns from the National Guard.

     “This is probably going to be our last order,” Leonard said of PPE, which will be divided between local long-term care facilities.

     Leonard said the state placed certain requirements on long-term care facilities before they can re-open to visitors. One of those requirements is having enough PPE.

     “I cannot provide them with PPE,” stipulated Leonard. “It’s been a struggle to say ‘no.’ They have to get it on their own.”

     Supervisor Manternach informed the board of an e-mail he received from a county department head requesting permission to work from home for the next two weeks. He said the request fits into the county’s policy that was laid out several weeks ago concerning working from home during the pandemic.

     Lovaas said she was brought into the situation as well, and recommended the board approve the request.