COVID-19 UPDATES AND RESOURCES (Business Resources and Unemployment Links are below the Daily Update)
DAILY UPDATE: September 10, 2020
For up to date community information in Shelby County, please visit the Facebook page of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Myrtue Medical, Harlan Newspapers and KNOD Radio.
As of 8 am on September 10th, there were 2 additional cases of COVID-19 reported in Shelby County. 214 individuals have been released, and 10 individuals are currently being monitored. As of the last report, there are 2 tests pending results, there have been 17 positive serology tests and 1 death reported. From the COVID-19 In Iowa site, Shelby County is reported to have an overall positive rate of 11.1% and a positive rate of 4.7% over the last 14 days. Statewide, as of 11 am today, there have been 71,956 cases recorded. 1,205 deaths have been reported in Iowa. 302 individuals are hospitalized, 85 patients are in ICU and 34 patients are currently on ventilators. For RMCC-Region 4, of which Shelby County is a part of, there are 13 hospitalized patients, 8 are in an ICU and 3 patients are on a ventilator.
UPDATE regarding the Greenridge Steam & Gas Antique Show: Originally scheduled for Sept. 19-20, this year’s event has been officially cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The organizing committee is looking forward to bringing this event back in 2021.
UPDATE from the Harlan Community School District: Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, for Homecoming Week (Sept. 14-18) the district announced they will not be holding a Homecoming Parade, Powderpuff Game, Homecoming Dance or Vollerama this year. Homecoming Coronation will be held Friday at 2:45 pm and will be live streamed via FMCTC and HMU. On Friday, September 18th, after the game the high school will host a movie night at Merrill Field. Black Panther/Avengers will be shown.
UPDATE from Myrtue Medical Center: Myrtue will be offering two Influenza Drive-Up Clinics.
Thursday, September 17: Influenza Drive-Up Clinic, 9 – 1 pm, Myrtue Medical Center Community Health, 2712 12th Street, Harlan. Appointments are required by calling 712-755-4422 or https://shelbycountyclinics.schedulemeappointments.com/. Masks are encouraged to protect the Public Health staff. Please wear clothing that will allow a shot, such as a short-sleeved shirt. Upon arrival, just call from your car and their staff will come to you. Consent forms are available at Public Health or https://www.myrtuemedical.org/services/community-health/public-health/.
Friday, September 18
Influenza Drive-Up Clinic, 3 – 7 pm, Myrtue Medical Center Community Health, 2712 12th Street, Harlan. Appointments are required by calling 712-755-4422 or https://shelbycountyclinics.schedulemeappointments.com/. Masks are encouraged to protect the Public Health staff. Please wear clothing that will allow a shot, such as a short-sleeved shirt. Upon arrival, just call from your car and their staff will come to you. Consent forms are available at Public Health or https://www.myrtuemedical.org/services/community-health/public-health/.
UPDATE from Myrtue Medical Center: Myrtue Medical Center is the Presenting Sponsor to this year's Walk to End Alzheimer's. The walk will not be in the same capacity as in previous years, due to COVID-19. On Saturday, Sept. 12th, you can view the opening ceremonies at 10 am on “Mainstage”, the interactive online platform for this year’s walk (https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=walk_mainstage&mainstageLink=WalkMain). Individuals are encouraged to walk in small family groups or friend groups in their own neighborhood. You can also experience a “virtual” walk on the “Mainstage” platform. The Promise Garden at Pioneer Park in Harlan will be setup for a drive-by viewing from 9-11 am. Drive by and support Alzheimer's.
UPDATE from West Central Community Action: A Drive Thru Mobile Food Pantry, sponsored by Harlan Lion’s Club and Farm Credit Services of America, will be held at Vet’s Auditorium on Monday, Sept. 21st from 5-6:30 PM. Please do not arrive early. To participated, enter from 12th street or Chatburn Avenue. You will be directed where to lineup. Food will be placed in your vehicle – limit, 2 per vehicle. If you have any questions, please call 712-579-0286.
UPDATE from the American Red Cross: Two upcoming blood drives are scheduled for Shelby County. September 23rd, from 11am-5pm at the St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia and September 29th, from 11:30am-5:30pm at Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium in Harlan. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for more information.
REMINDER from the City of Shelby: MANDATORY Water Conservation Notice
As a result of dry weather conditions across Shelby County, the City of Shelby's public water system is currently experiencing difficulties meeting water demands and calling for citizens to LIMIT excessive water use. NO watering lawns and gardens, NO filling pools, NO washing cars, Use water wisely - turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, only washing your clothes when necessary, check for leaks in hoses and faucets.
The Shelby Food Pantry is also in need of donations. The food pantry is located at 419 East Street. Hours of operation are 8 am – 4 pm, Monday through Friday.
REMINDER from Myrtue Medical Center: Follow this link to view a video featuring Bonnie and George Kenkel and their experience with COVID-19: https://www.facebook.com/MyrtueMedicalCenter/videos/1687280978094994
REMINDER from the Iowa Economic Development Authority: Governor Reynolds allocated federal CARES Act Funds to assist Iowa farmers, producers and biofuel producers impacted by COVID-19. The Iowa Agriculture Relief programs are now open for application. Both the Iowa Beginning Farmer Debt Relief fund and the Iowa Livestock Producer Relief fund offer grants up to $10,000 to offset expenses/loss cause by the COVID-19 pandemic. To review eligibility requirements and to apply, click on this link: https://www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/covid-19/
REMINDER from Governor Reynolds’ Office: During an August 27th news conference, Gov. Kim Reynolds closed all bars, breweries and nightclubs in Polk, Linn, Johnson, Story, Dallas, and Black Hawk counties to combat spiking coronavirus spread. She cited high positive test rates among young adults age 19 to 24. The order went into effect at 5 p.m. Thursday, August 27th and lasts until Sept. 20. It also restricts restaurants from selling alcohol after 10 p.m.
REMINDER from Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie’s Office: Mayor Cownie has issued a face mask mandate for the City of Des Moines. All persons in the City of Des Moines shall wear a face covering such as a cloth mask, surgical mask, plastic shield or similar covering that covers their nose and mouth when in a public place, when using public transportation or private car service (including taxis, ride share, or carpooling). No organization that is a public accommodation of any sort, including without limitation, a business that is open to the public, may provide service to a customer or allow a customer to enter its premises, unless the customer is wearing a face covering as required.
REMINDER from the Myrtue Medical Center Public Health Nurses regarding testing: If you are tested for COVID, please isolate at home until you have been notified of your test results. Further action will be determined by results. If your test comes back positive for COVID-19, you will be notified by your health care provider. A Public Health nurse will also call to provide isolation guidance and to complete a disease investigation. If your test result is negative for COVID-19 and you ARE a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID, you will still need to quarantine at home for 14 days from time of last contact with the ill individual. Lastly, if your test is negative and you are NOT a close contact of someone that tested positive for COVID, you can resume daily activities 24 hours after fever and other symptoms resolve.
REMINDER from West Central Community Action: Donations of non-perishable items are once again needed for the West Central Community Action food pantry. Donations may be dropped off at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. There is a large blue container in the atrium to receive the donations.
REMINDER from Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry: To help with donations of fresh produce/fruit to West Central Community Action, the Chamber has food grade white buckets available in the lobby of our building. Local gardeners who have excess produce/fruit may pick-up a bucket, fill the bucket with the excess, and return the full buckets to the Chamber. We will forward the donations to West Central. Please call the Chamber at (712) 755-2114 if you have questions regarding this program.
CDC travel requirements reminder: The CDC recently update its travel requirements, advising travelers to "follow state, territorial, tribal and local recommendations or requirements after travel." Previous guidelines recommended a 14-day quarantine for those returning from international destinations or areas with a high concentration of coronavirus cases. The CDC still notes that those exposed to the coronavirus pose a risk of infecting others for 14 days. The CDC's page on traveling amid the pandemic recommends that travelers, "regardless of where you traveled or what you did during your trip," follow social distancing guidelines indoors and outdoors, wear a mask outside the home, wash hands often and look out for COVID-19 symptoms upon their return home. Please review travel restrictions between states as well as each state has their own quarantine guidelines.
REMINDER from Iowa Economic Development Authority: The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) today announced that more Iowa small business owners and nonprofits are now eligible to receive financial assistance with electric and natural gas utility bills. Eligibility criteria for the Iowa Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program has been expanded to include utility assistance for eligible small businesses and nonprofits for electric or natural gas service provided between March 17, 2020 and October 15, 2020. Eligible small businesses and nonprofits must have experienced a COVID-19 loss of income. Full eligibility information and the application is available at iowabusinessrecovery.com. The program will accept applications through October 31 or until all funds have been exhausted. The program will provide short-term relief in the form of direct payments to utility providers to be applied to accounts. A minimum of $400 and up to $7,500 can be applied towards utility bill costs for eligible small businesses and nonprofits. The state allocated approximately $14.5 million of federal CARES Act funds for the program when launched in early July.
REMINDER from Elm Crest Senior Living Community: As of August 5, 2020, we are canceling all visits and will not be scheduling future visits at this time. The numbers in Shelby County are still rising and we do not feel it is safe to resume visits in two weeks like we initially hoped. We will continue to send out emails to our families and Facebook posts with updates as to when we will resume visits however that date is uncertain at this point in time. Elm Crest does remain COVID-19 free. Window visits are still permitted.
REMINDER from Myrtue Medical Center Public Health Nurses: Community-acquired COVID-19 transmission remains high in Shelby County. As we enter the fall season, it is important that everyone does their part to reduce opportunities for the coronavirus to spread. Schools, businesses, and vulnerable individuals are negatively impacted by high transmission rates.
Four preventative measures to avoid being infected by the SARS2 coronavirus are:
It is also important to stay home if you are ill. COVID has a wide range of illness from very mild or no symptoms to critical illness and everything in between. People with the following symptoms may have COVID-19:
Continue to follow CDC or Iowa Department of Public Health Guidance. These are experts in infectious disease and epidemiology. While it is tempting to look for other opinions, please rely on these reputable sources related to COVID-19. Learn more at: https://bit.ly/320tqWl
REMINDER: IEDA Announces Extension of Iowa Nonprofit Recovery Fund: Volunteer Iowa and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced an extension of the Iowa Nonprofit Recovery Fund application period due to the August 10 derecho and resulting widespread loss of power and internet access. The Nonprofit Recovery Fund will now remain open and continue to accept applications until funds are exhausted. Eligibility criteria has also been expanded beyond the priority service populations, so all nonprofit organizations experiencing COVID related hardships are encouraged to begin the application process to see if they qualify. The Iowa Nonprofit Recovery fund is an extension of the Iowa Small Business Relief Grant Program. The program provides short-term relief to nonprofit organizations that experienced a net loss due to COVID-19. Eligible nonprofits may be awarded a grant up to $25,000, based on a variety of income and expense factors. The program has $10 million available, which was allocated through federal CARES Act funds. “As a result of the widespread impact of Monday’s storm, Iowa’s nonprofits are once again stepping up to help their communities recover from disaster, even in the midst of challenges faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Adam Lounsbury, executive director of Volunteer Iowa. “We are extending the application period to ensure eligible organizations who are providing relief for those at a disadvantage the opportunity to apply for a grant through this program.”
For more information on eligibility and assistance or to apply, visit iowabusinessrecovery.com.
REMINDER from the Iowa Finance Authority: The Iowa Finance Authority announced the Iowa rental assistance and mortgage assistance program has been expanded to allow Iowans who have been receiving $600 a week in federal unemployment stimulus benefits to apply for this program. Current renters and homeowners that are at risk of eviction or foreclosure due to a documented COVID-19 related loss of income on or after March 17, 2020 may apply. For more information, and to access the application, visit iowahousingreceovery.com
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is something that has not been cancelled this summer. To protect yourself and others, wear a facemask and practice social distancing https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/coronavirus-is-not-canceled-wear-your-mask
Iowa Launches #StepUpMaskUpIA to slow the spread of COVID-19. The Iowa Department of Public Health, along with Governor Kim Reynolds, is asking the public to #StepUpMaskUp IA. This new campaign encourages Iowans to follow important public health mitigation measures such as wearing a cloth face covering when in public. For more information, please visit: https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus/Public
IEDA Launches “Shop Iowa” Website. Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) has released a new online sales opportunity for brick & mortar retailers who may not currently have an online presence. Shop Iowa is an online marketplace that businesses can use to sell up to 25 items at no cost to the business for the first year. With the uncertainty regarding the COVID-19 pandemic as we move into the fall/winter season, this may be an excellent opportunity to get your products online. Visit shopiowa.com for additional details and to apply to be included on the site.
National Retailers who require the use of face masks. https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2020/07/16/masks-required-shopping-these-stores-walmart-target-costco-coronavirus/5446365002/
SHOUT OUT to our Long Term Care Facilities: We would like to recognize Salem Lutheran Homes and Rehabilitation Center, Hansen House Memory Care, Country Care Center and Elm Crest Senior Living Community for the excellent work their staffs and management teams have done during this pandemic. Long Term care facilities have been a statewide focus – many spikes in other areas of the state have been due to the virus spreading in these environments. We would also like to thank the families and friends of the facilities clients for their patience and understanding during the last few months.
Social Distancing is the easiest way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and its free!
REMINDER regarding WIC (Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children): Struggling to provide healthy food for your young child during the COVID-19 crisis? If you or another member of your family has lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for nutritional and breastfeeding support from WIC! WIC provides healthy foods that pregnant and postpartum women, babies, and young children need. West Central Community Action WIC Program is now enrolling new WIC clients over the phone, so you do not need to come into the clinic. Please call 1-800-338-4129 to contact your local clinic. WIC is here for you!
Seasonal allergies or COVID-19?? It is easy to confuse COVID-19 symptoms for seasonal allergies. COVID-19: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, fatigue and/or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Seasonal allergies: runny nose, itchy eyes, skin, or mouth, sneezing, stuffy nose, history of allergy symptoms. Whether you need some help with your allergies or are having COVID-19, call 712-755-5130.
3 Common Mask Myths Debunked by an Infectious Diseases Expert https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/3-common-mask-myths-debunked-by-an-infectious-diseases-expert?fbclid=IwAR0iOIpX0rBDUBANdJFJBK15s1UYTWtB_TXoh51IfAszOUlcKqBnJZM0GH8
REMINDER from Iowa Dept. of Human Services: DHS has launched a COVID Recovery Iowa program to provide free crisis counseling to any Iowan who has been affected, in any way, by the COVID-19 pandemic. Counseling will take place via virtual sessions, chat, or phone call. People of all ages may join groups online to find support and learn new strategies to cope with the effects of the pandemic. Iowans can access the service by calling the Iowa Warm Line, 844-775-9276 or by visiting www.covidrecoveryiowa.org and completing a contact form. A counselor will follow up with you after completing the form.
INFORMATIONAL videos from Myrtue Medical Center:
Watch videos from Tina Dotzler, Vice Chair of the Shelby County Board of Health, Dr. Phil Markham, Chairman, Shelby County Board of Health, Myrtue Medical Center physician Dr. Scott Markham, and Myrtue Medical Center physician Dr. Brian Anderson regarding COVID-19 in Shelby County: https://www.myrtuemedical.org/covid-19-updates/
Follow this link - https://www.myrtuemedical.org/covid-19-updates/ - to listen to a webinar from Shelby County Public Health Director Lori Hoch discussing the COVID-19 pandemic. During the webinar, Lori covers COVID-19 including symptoms, transmission, cases in Iowa, and business guidance including preventing outbreaks, detecting outbreaks, managing outbreaks, testing opportunities and reporting guidance.
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Business, State, and Federal Resource Links:
IEDA Launches "Shop Iowa" Website: Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) has released a new online sales opportunity for brick & mortar retailers who may not currently have an online presence. Shop Iowa is an online marketplace that businesses can use to sell up to 25 items at no cost to the business for the first year.
With the uncertainty regarding the COVID-19 pandemic as we move into the fall/winter season, this may be an excellent opportunity to get your products online. Visit shopiowa.com for additional details and to apply to be included on the site.
NOTE: Shelby County Area Banks Approved for SBA Loan Assistance: Shelby County State Bank, Midstates Bank,
United Bank of Iowa and Bank of the West
Small Business Administration, Coronavirus Disaster Relief Options including Paycheck Protection Program information and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance information: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options
Iowa Economic Development - COVID-19 Iowa Business Recovery Assistance: https://www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/our-agency-detail-resources/6710
Iowa Workforce Development information for Employers:
https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/Employer%20COVID-19%20QA.pdf
Iowa Workforce Development information for Employees: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/updates-and-resources-about-covid-19
OSHA - Guidance for Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf
CDC - Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html
Governor Reynold's State of Public Health Disaster Declaration of 03.17.20: https://governor.iowa.gov/press-release/gov-reynolds-issues-a-state-of-public-health-disaster-emergency
Iowa Department of Public Health - COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses: https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus/Business-and-Organizations
Federal Government COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/
For up to date community information in Shelby County, please visit the Facebook page of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Myrtue Medical, Harlan Newspapers and KNOD Radio.
As of 8 am on September 10th, there were 2 additional cases of COVID-19 reported in Shelby County. 214 individuals have been released, and 10 individuals are currently being monitored. As of the last report, there are 2 tests pending results, there have been 17 positive serology tests and 1 death reported. From the COVID-19 In Iowa site, Shelby County is reported to have an overall positive rate of 11.1% and a positive rate of 4.7% over the last 14 days. Statewide, as of 11 am today, there have been 71,956 cases recorded. 1,205 deaths have been reported in Iowa. 302 individuals are hospitalized, 85 patients are in ICU and 34 patients are currently on ventilators. For RMCC-Region 4, of which Shelby County is a part of, there are 13 hospitalized patients, 8 are in an ICU and 3 patients are on a ventilator.
UPDATE regarding the Greenridge Steam & Gas Antique Show: Originally scheduled for Sept. 19-20, this year’s event has been officially cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The organizing committee is looking forward to bringing this event back in 2021.
UPDATE from the Harlan Community School District: Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, for Homecoming Week (Sept. 14-18) the district announced they will not be holding a Homecoming Parade, Powderpuff Game, Homecoming Dance or Vollerama this year. Homecoming Coronation will be held Friday at 2:45 pm and will be live streamed via FMCTC and HMU. On Friday, September 18th, after the game the high school will host a movie night at Merrill Field. Black Panther/Avengers will be shown.
UPDATE from Myrtue Medical Center: Myrtue will be offering two Influenza Drive-Up Clinics.
Thursday, September 17: Influenza Drive-Up Clinic, 9 – 1 pm, Myrtue Medical Center Community Health, 2712 12th Street, Harlan. Appointments are required by calling 712-755-4422 or https://shelbycountyclinics.schedulemeappointments.com/. Masks are encouraged to protect the Public Health staff. Please wear clothing that will allow a shot, such as a short-sleeved shirt. Upon arrival, just call from your car and their staff will come to you. Consent forms are available at Public Health or https://www.myrtuemedical.org/services/community-health/public-health/.
Friday, September 18
Influenza Drive-Up Clinic, 3 – 7 pm, Myrtue Medical Center Community Health, 2712 12th Street, Harlan. Appointments are required by calling 712-755-4422 or https://shelbycountyclinics.schedulemeappointments.com/. Masks are encouraged to protect the Public Health staff. Please wear clothing that will allow a shot, such as a short-sleeved shirt. Upon arrival, just call from your car and their staff will come to you. Consent forms are available at Public Health or https://www.myrtuemedical.org/services/community-health/public-health/.
UPDATE from Myrtue Medical Center: Myrtue Medical Center is the Presenting Sponsor to this year's Walk to End Alzheimer's. The walk will not be in the same capacity as in previous years, due to COVID-19. On Saturday, Sept. 12th, you can view the opening ceremonies at 10 am on “Mainstage”, the interactive online platform for this year’s walk (https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=walk_mainstage&mainstageLink=WalkMain). Individuals are encouraged to walk in small family groups or friend groups in their own neighborhood. You can also experience a “virtual” walk on the “Mainstage” platform. The Promise Garden at Pioneer Park in Harlan will be setup for a drive-by viewing from 9-11 am. Drive by and support Alzheimer's.
UPDATE from West Central Community Action: A Drive Thru Mobile Food Pantry, sponsored by Harlan Lion’s Club and Farm Credit Services of America, will be held at Vet’s Auditorium on Monday, Sept. 21st from 5-6:30 PM. Please do not arrive early. To participated, enter from 12th street or Chatburn Avenue. You will be directed where to lineup. Food will be placed in your vehicle – limit, 2 per vehicle. If you have any questions, please call 712-579-0286.
UPDATE from the American Red Cross: Two upcoming blood drives are scheduled for Shelby County. September 23rd, from 11am-5pm at the St. Boniface Parish Center in Westphalia and September 29th, from 11:30am-5:30pm at Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium in Harlan. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for more information.
REMINDER from the City of Shelby: MANDATORY Water Conservation Notice
As a result of dry weather conditions across Shelby County, the City of Shelby's public water system is currently experiencing difficulties meeting water demands and calling for citizens to LIMIT excessive water use. NO watering lawns and gardens, NO filling pools, NO washing cars, Use water wisely - turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, only washing your clothes when necessary, check for leaks in hoses and faucets.
The Shelby Food Pantry is also in need of donations. The food pantry is located at 419 East Street. Hours of operation are 8 am – 4 pm, Monday through Friday.
REMINDER from Myrtue Medical Center: Follow this link to view a video featuring Bonnie and George Kenkel and their experience with COVID-19: https://www.facebook.com/MyrtueMedicalCenter/videos/1687280978094994
REMINDER from the Iowa Economic Development Authority: Governor Reynolds allocated federal CARES Act Funds to assist Iowa farmers, producers and biofuel producers impacted by COVID-19. The Iowa Agriculture Relief programs are now open for application. Both the Iowa Beginning Farmer Debt Relief fund and the Iowa Livestock Producer Relief fund offer grants up to $10,000 to offset expenses/loss cause by the COVID-19 pandemic. To review eligibility requirements and to apply, click on this link: https://www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/covid-19/
REMINDER from Governor Reynolds’ Office: During an August 27th news conference, Gov. Kim Reynolds closed all bars, breweries and nightclubs in Polk, Linn, Johnson, Story, Dallas, and Black Hawk counties to combat spiking coronavirus spread. She cited high positive test rates among young adults age 19 to 24. The order went into effect at 5 p.m. Thursday, August 27th and lasts until Sept. 20. It also restricts restaurants from selling alcohol after 10 p.m.
REMINDER from Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie’s Office: Mayor Cownie has issued a face mask mandate for the City of Des Moines. All persons in the City of Des Moines shall wear a face covering such as a cloth mask, surgical mask, plastic shield or similar covering that covers their nose and mouth when in a public place, when using public transportation or private car service (including taxis, ride share, or carpooling). No organization that is a public accommodation of any sort, including without limitation, a business that is open to the public, may provide service to a customer or allow a customer to enter its premises, unless the customer is wearing a face covering as required.
REMINDER from the Myrtue Medical Center Public Health Nurses regarding testing: If you are tested for COVID, please isolate at home until you have been notified of your test results. Further action will be determined by results. If your test comes back positive for COVID-19, you will be notified by your health care provider. A Public Health nurse will also call to provide isolation guidance and to complete a disease investigation. If your test result is negative for COVID-19 and you ARE a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID, you will still need to quarantine at home for 14 days from time of last contact with the ill individual. Lastly, if your test is negative and you are NOT a close contact of someone that tested positive for COVID, you can resume daily activities 24 hours after fever and other symptoms resolve.
REMINDER from West Central Community Action: Donations of non-perishable items are once again needed for the West Central Community Action food pantry. Donations may be dropped off at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. There is a large blue container in the atrium to receive the donations.
REMINDER from Shelby County Chamber of Commerce & Industry: To help with donations of fresh produce/fruit to West Central Community Action, the Chamber has food grade white buckets available in the lobby of our building. Local gardeners who have excess produce/fruit may pick-up a bucket, fill the bucket with the excess, and return the full buckets to the Chamber. We will forward the donations to West Central. Please call the Chamber at (712) 755-2114 if you have questions regarding this program.
CDC travel requirements reminder: The CDC recently update its travel requirements, advising travelers to "follow state, territorial, tribal and local recommendations or requirements after travel." Previous guidelines recommended a 14-day quarantine for those returning from international destinations or areas with a high concentration of coronavirus cases. The CDC still notes that those exposed to the coronavirus pose a risk of infecting others for 14 days. The CDC's page on traveling amid the pandemic recommends that travelers, "regardless of where you traveled or what you did during your trip," follow social distancing guidelines indoors and outdoors, wear a mask outside the home, wash hands often and look out for COVID-19 symptoms upon their return home. Please review travel restrictions between states as well as each state has their own quarantine guidelines.
REMINDER from Iowa Economic Development Authority: The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) today announced that more Iowa small business owners and nonprofits are now eligible to receive financial assistance with electric and natural gas utility bills. Eligibility criteria for the Iowa Small Business Utility Disruption Prevention Program has been expanded to include utility assistance for eligible small businesses and nonprofits for electric or natural gas service provided between March 17, 2020 and October 15, 2020. Eligible small businesses and nonprofits must have experienced a COVID-19 loss of income. Full eligibility information and the application is available at iowabusinessrecovery.com. The program will accept applications through October 31 or until all funds have been exhausted. The program will provide short-term relief in the form of direct payments to utility providers to be applied to accounts. A minimum of $400 and up to $7,500 can be applied towards utility bill costs for eligible small businesses and nonprofits. The state allocated approximately $14.5 million of federal CARES Act funds for the program when launched in early July.
REMINDER from Elm Crest Senior Living Community: As of August 5, 2020, we are canceling all visits and will not be scheduling future visits at this time. The numbers in Shelby County are still rising and we do not feel it is safe to resume visits in two weeks like we initially hoped. We will continue to send out emails to our families and Facebook posts with updates as to when we will resume visits however that date is uncertain at this point in time. Elm Crest does remain COVID-19 free. Window visits are still permitted.
REMINDER from Myrtue Medical Center Public Health Nurses: Community-acquired COVID-19 transmission remains high in Shelby County. As we enter the fall season, it is important that everyone does their part to reduce opportunities for the coronavirus to spread. Schools, businesses, and vulnerable individuals are negatively impacted by high transmission rates.
Four preventative measures to avoid being infected by the SARS2 coronavirus are:
- Practice social distancing at work, school, or in social interactions.
- Wear a face covering in public.
- Practice regular hand washing or hand hygiene throughout the day.
- Avoid high risk activities, such as parties and mass social gatherings.
It is also important to stay home if you are ill. COVID has a wide range of illness from very mild or no symptoms to critical illness and everything in between. People with the following symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Continue to follow CDC or Iowa Department of Public Health Guidance. These are experts in infectious disease and epidemiology. While it is tempting to look for other opinions, please rely on these reputable sources related to COVID-19. Learn more at: https://bit.ly/320tqWl
REMINDER: IEDA Announces Extension of Iowa Nonprofit Recovery Fund: Volunteer Iowa and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced an extension of the Iowa Nonprofit Recovery Fund application period due to the August 10 derecho and resulting widespread loss of power and internet access. The Nonprofit Recovery Fund will now remain open and continue to accept applications until funds are exhausted. Eligibility criteria has also been expanded beyond the priority service populations, so all nonprofit organizations experiencing COVID related hardships are encouraged to begin the application process to see if they qualify. The Iowa Nonprofit Recovery fund is an extension of the Iowa Small Business Relief Grant Program. The program provides short-term relief to nonprofit organizations that experienced a net loss due to COVID-19. Eligible nonprofits may be awarded a grant up to $25,000, based on a variety of income and expense factors. The program has $10 million available, which was allocated through federal CARES Act funds. “As a result of the widespread impact of Monday’s storm, Iowa’s nonprofits are once again stepping up to help their communities recover from disaster, even in the midst of challenges faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Adam Lounsbury, executive director of Volunteer Iowa. “We are extending the application period to ensure eligible organizations who are providing relief for those at a disadvantage the opportunity to apply for a grant through this program.”
For more information on eligibility and assistance or to apply, visit iowabusinessrecovery.com.
REMINDER from the Iowa Finance Authority: The Iowa Finance Authority announced the Iowa rental assistance and mortgage assistance program has been expanded to allow Iowans who have been receiving $600 a week in federal unemployment stimulus benefits to apply for this program. Current renters and homeowners that are at risk of eviction or foreclosure due to a documented COVID-19 related loss of income on or after March 17, 2020 may apply. For more information, and to access the application, visit iowahousingreceovery.com
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is something that has not been cancelled this summer. To protect yourself and others, wear a facemask and practice social distancing https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/coronavirus-is-not-canceled-wear-your-mask
Iowa Launches #StepUpMaskUpIA to slow the spread of COVID-19. The Iowa Department of Public Health, along with Governor Kim Reynolds, is asking the public to #StepUpMaskUp IA. This new campaign encourages Iowans to follow important public health mitigation measures such as wearing a cloth face covering when in public. For more information, please visit: https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus/Public
IEDA Launches “Shop Iowa” Website. Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) has released a new online sales opportunity for brick & mortar retailers who may not currently have an online presence. Shop Iowa is an online marketplace that businesses can use to sell up to 25 items at no cost to the business for the first year. With the uncertainty regarding the COVID-19 pandemic as we move into the fall/winter season, this may be an excellent opportunity to get your products online. Visit shopiowa.com for additional details and to apply to be included on the site.
National Retailers who require the use of face masks. https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2020/07/16/masks-required-shopping-these-stores-walmart-target-costco-coronavirus/5446365002/
SHOUT OUT to our Long Term Care Facilities: We would like to recognize Salem Lutheran Homes and Rehabilitation Center, Hansen House Memory Care, Country Care Center and Elm Crest Senior Living Community for the excellent work their staffs and management teams have done during this pandemic. Long Term care facilities have been a statewide focus – many spikes in other areas of the state have been due to the virus spreading in these environments. We would also like to thank the families and friends of the facilities clients for their patience and understanding during the last few months.
Social Distancing is the easiest way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and its free!
REMINDER regarding WIC (Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children): Struggling to provide healthy food for your young child during the COVID-19 crisis? If you or another member of your family has lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for nutritional and breastfeeding support from WIC! WIC provides healthy foods that pregnant and postpartum women, babies, and young children need. West Central Community Action WIC Program is now enrolling new WIC clients over the phone, so you do not need to come into the clinic. Please call 1-800-338-4129 to contact your local clinic. WIC is here for you!
Seasonal allergies or COVID-19?? It is easy to confuse COVID-19 symptoms for seasonal allergies. COVID-19: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, fatigue and/or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Seasonal allergies: runny nose, itchy eyes, skin, or mouth, sneezing, stuffy nose, history of allergy symptoms. Whether you need some help with your allergies or are having COVID-19, call 712-755-5130.
3 Common Mask Myths Debunked by an Infectious Diseases Expert https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/3-common-mask-myths-debunked-by-an-infectious-diseases-expert?fbclid=IwAR0iOIpX0rBDUBANdJFJBK15s1UYTWtB_TXoh51IfAszOUlcKqBnJZM0GH8
REMINDER from Iowa Dept. of Human Services: DHS has launched a COVID Recovery Iowa program to provide free crisis counseling to any Iowan who has been affected, in any way, by the COVID-19 pandemic. Counseling will take place via virtual sessions, chat, or phone call. People of all ages may join groups online to find support and learn new strategies to cope with the effects of the pandemic. Iowans can access the service by calling the Iowa Warm Line, 844-775-9276 or by visiting www.covidrecoveryiowa.org and completing a contact form. A counselor will follow up with you after completing the form.
INFORMATIONAL videos from Myrtue Medical Center:
Watch videos from Tina Dotzler, Vice Chair of the Shelby County Board of Health, Dr. Phil Markham, Chairman, Shelby County Board of Health, Myrtue Medical Center physician Dr. Scott Markham, and Myrtue Medical Center physician Dr. Brian Anderson regarding COVID-19 in Shelby County: https://www.myrtuemedical.org/covid-19-updates/
Follow this link - https://www.myrtuemedical.org/covid-19-updates/ - to listen to a webinar from Shelby County Public Health Director Lori Hoch discussing the COVID-19 pandemic. During the webinar, Lori covers COVID-19 including symptoms, transmission, cases in Iowa, and business guidance including preventing outbreaks, detecting outbreaks, managing outbreaks, testing opportunities and reporting guidance.
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Business, State, and Federal Resource Links:
IEDA Launches "Shop Iowa" Website: Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) has released a new online sales opportunity for brick & mortar retailers who may not currently have an online presence. Shop Iowa is an online marketplace that businesses can use to sell up to 25 items at no cost to the business for the first year.
With the uncertainty regarding the COVID-19 pandemic as we move into the fall/winter season, this may be an excellent opportunity to get your products online. Visit shopiowa.com for additional details and to apply to be included on the site.
NOTE: Shelby County Area Banks Approved for SBA Loan Assistance: Shelby County State Bank, Midstates Bank,
United Bank of Iowa and Bank of the West
Small Business Administration, Coronavirus Disaster Relief Options including Paycheck Protection Program information and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance information: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options
Iowa Economic Development - COVID-19 Iowa Business Recovery Assistance: https://www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/our-agency-detail-resources/6710
Iowa Workforce Development information for Employers:
https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/sites/search.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/files/content-files/Employer%20COVID-19%20QA.pdf
Iowa Workforce Development information for Employees: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/updates-and-resources-about-covid-19
OSHA - Guidance for Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf
CDC - Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html
Governor Reynold's State of Public Health Disaster Declaration of 03.17.20: https://governor.iowa.gov/press-release/gov-reynolds-issues-a-state-of-public-health-disaster-emergency
Iowa Department of Public Health - COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses: https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus/Business-and-Organizations
Federal Government COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/
