Date: December 9, 2021
Contact: Black Hawk County Health Department
Phone: 319-291-2413
publichealth@blackhawkcounty.iowa.gov
State of Iowa Confirms Omicron Variant in Black Hawk County
The Black Hawk County Health Department reports that the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the State Hygienic Lab have confirmed the first case of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in a Black Hawk County resident. This is the first case of the Omicron variant identified in Iowa.
The new Omicron case is in an individual that is under age 18, is unvaccinated, and remains asymptomatic. The family sought testing due to travel exposure based onpublic health guidance.
Black Hawk County Health Department urges the community to pursue vaccination and booster shots to protect themselves from Omicron and other strains of COVID-19 virus.
“Getting vaccinated againstCOVID-19 is the best way to prevent infection from the Omicron variant, or any other strain of the virus. We have the opportunity to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities, especially as we enter the season of gathering” said Dr. Nafissa Cisse Egbuonye director of the Black Hawk County Health Department.
Vaccines are available for everyone ages 5 and older. To find a vaccine and schedule an appointment, visit https://www.bhcpublichealth.org/covid-19/vaccine-information. The emergence of the Omicron variant underscores the importance for our community to continue the mitigation efforts that we know work to slow the spread of COVID-19.
o Get a COVID-19vaccine or booster shot
o Wear a mask or face covering indoors regardless of vaccination status
o Practice social distancing with those outside your household
o Clean your hands frequently with soap and water
o Stay home if you feel sick
o Get tested if you have recently traveled, are exposed to, or have symptoms of COVID-19.
For information and updates related to COVID-19, visit www.blackhawkcovid19.comand follow us on Facebook (@BlackHawkCountyHealthDepartment) and Twitter(@BHCHD). Additionally, you can subscribe to our NotifyMe tool that includes weekly COVID-19 updates.
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