The immediate risk for the COVID-19 virus, otherwise known as the novel coronavirus, remains low in Webster County, according to local health officials.

“Since the start of this outbreak, Webster County Public Health has worked closely with the Iowa Department of Public Health to monitor potential cases of COVID-19,” said Webster County Public Health nurse Tricia Nichols. “We have and will continue to work with our local, state and national partners to be ready in case the virus does come to Iowa.”

According to the IDPH, as of Wednesday afternoon, 12 people in Iowa were being monitored by Public Health officials, and were showing no symptoms.

So far, two Iowans have been tested for the COVID-19 virus in Iowa, both testing negative.

“There are currently no cases of COVID-19 in Webster County, or Iowa,” said Nichols.

While the coronavirus may be receiving heightened attention right now, both Nichols and Jess Bailey, UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge Director RN, want to remind citizens of the very present influenza threat.

“As we continue to closely track novel coronavirus, it’s important to remember the influenza virus continues to impact our communities,” Bailey said. “The CDC estimates that so far this season there have been at least 19 million flu illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations and 10,000 deaths from flu.”

Nichols added that it’s not too late to get a flu vaccine, and they are available at Webster County Public Health, 723 First Ave. S.

Those with the highest risk of contracting COVID-19 are those who have recently traveled to mainland China, where the virus outbreak began.

Despite the currently low risk of COVID-19 in the area, local health officials are still standing sentinel to monitor the virus’ activity.

“At UnityPoint Health, the safety and care of our patients, their families, guests and team members are always our top priorities,” said Dr. Rossana Rosa, medical director of infection control, UnityPoint Clinic. “As health care professionals, we take our responsibilities very seriously. Our infection prevention team is carefully monitoring the novel coronavirus and keeping our leadership and team members informed as new information becomes available. Our medical staff and infection prevention leaders are following the latest guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for screening, testing and infection control among patients suspected of coronavirus infection.”

It is important to prepare for the potential of COVID-19 in the same way one would prepare for severe weather, Nichols said.

“Make a plan and discuss it with your family; What would you do if you could not get to work or school because of illness? What if your daycare provider was ill? How would you get groceries if you were ill?” she said. “These are all questions to think about.”

“If people are concerned about novel coronavirus, the best prevention methods are the same as the flu which include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, frequently washing your hands with soap and water, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands,” Bailey said.

For information and updates related to COVID-19, visit https://idph.iowa.gov/emerging-health-issues/novel-coronavirus.