Precautions Taken in Light of Coronavirus Outbreak

As you are aware, there is an expanding global outbreak of a respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. The disease the virus causes has been named COVID-19. While most COVID-19 cases are associated with travel to or from China, person-to-person spread is now being reported in other places, including Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. For the general public, who are unlikely to be exposed to the virus at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is low; however, the potential of the public health threat is high. 

Please be advised that Heartland AEA is staying abreast of the situation with information from our partners at the Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Public Health. Should action be needed, we will respond rapidly and inform you of any changes needed to your daily routine. In the meantime, our custodial staff will be taking extra measures to clean and disinfect surfaces in our agency offices, especially during days when we have additional guests in our larger offices.   

At this time, it is important to understand that the risk of influenza is much higher than the risk of COVID-19 in Iowa right now. The prevention measures for influenza and COVID-19 are the same. 

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper arm/elbow. 
• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water. 
• Contain germs by staying home when ill. 
• See your health care provider if you have concerns. 

Please refer to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website for the most current information and tips for prevention. Also, as a gentle reminder, section 11:12 of the Staff Handbook provides guidance on communicable diseases.