Stay vigilant in fight against COVID-19

With the July 4th holiday approaching, retail stores and restaurants are reopening, and people are mingling, but Kossuth County officials say people need to stay vigilant in battling COVID-19 by using safe health practices.

More than 25 states are reporting an increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases following the reopening of businesses and public facilities. The number of positive cases of the novel coronavirus in Kossuth County has risen to over 30. Over one-thousand individuals have been tested, with most of those tests showing negative results. Kossuth County has reported no deaths due to COVID-19.

With ABATE announcing its Iowa Freedom Rally in Algona, July 2 through July 4, and the Kossuth County Fair Board announcing it will move forward with the Kossuth County Fair on a limited basis, County Emergency Management Coordinator, David Penton, reminds everyone that the COVID-19 virus is still considered a pandemic.

“While there is a desire for normalcy, we need to stay vigilant against the virus,” said Penton. “We need to continue to practice good hygiene, including covering our mouth and nose when we sneeze or cough. And we need to continue to practice social distancing by staying six feet or more away from another, when appropriate.”

Penton said washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds several times a day also helps mitigate the virus. If soap and water are not available, then use hand sanitizer.

Penton encourages residents to shop before next week’s Freedom Rally to limit exposure to people that come from out of the area or state. He said continue to wear masks to cover the mouth and nose to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. “Remember, by wearing a mask, you’re not only protecting yourself, but you’re protecting those around you from spreading the disease,” said Penton.

Penton said if you are comfortable, pray for the health and healing of our country. He encourages everyone to enjoy Independence Day holiday weekend by staying safe.