-Messenger photo by Elijah Decious
David Wilson gets a free mask from Hy-Vee employee Kaye Miklo Tuesday morning. Over 125 Hy-Vee stores across Iowa gave away 500 to 1,000 cloth masks each Tuesday, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the customer service desk.

Webster County Public Health confirmed nine new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, bringing the county to 28 confirmed cases, a jump of 47% since Friday.

The nine new cases in Webster County include one adult (age 18-40), four middle age adults (age 41-60) and four older adults (age 61-80).

Confirmed COVID-19 cases fall into the following age categories:

• Child (age 0-17): 1

• Adult (age 18-40): 9

• Middle age adult (age 41-60): 10

• Older adult (age 61-80): 8

The latter two categories saw the biggest increase with the most recent cases. Middle age adults confirmed positive went from six to 10; older adults doubled from four to eight.

A total of 15 cases have recovered or been released from public health isolation since diagnosis. A total of 1,364 people have been tested for COVID-19 in Webster County, up 224 people from the number nearly a week ago.

Webster County’s death count remains at one.

“As we increase our testing, complete target testing, and have more tests available, we may see our COVID-19 positive tests increase,” said Kari Prescott, Webster County Public Health director.

WCPH reminds residents to be mindful of their own surroundings and health.

“Continue social distancing, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds each time, cover your coughs and sneezes, wear a mask and sanitize surfaces that are often touched,” she said. “If you are over the age of 65 or are medically vulnerable, it is wise to remain at home as much as you are able to, making only essential trips out or as you are comfortable.”

Statewide, positive cases totaled 17,704 as of Tuesday at 4 p.m., up 2,171 cases (about 14%) from last Wednesday. Another 89 deaths since that time last week brought the statewide toll to 477 by 4 p.m. Tuesday, a jump of nearly 23%.

On Tuesday, Gov. Kim Reynolds said casinos, amusement parks, bowling alleys, pool halls, skating rinks and arcades will be allowed to reopen Monday at 50% capacity.