COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update – March 14, 2020

We are working closely with state and local health officials to protect staff and patients from the coronavirus strain known as COVID-19. We’re working hard to keep you updated on this rapidly changing event.

Call your doctor: If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. You can reach Avera Medical Group at 712-754-3658.

Avera Medical Group Sibley will keep normal business hours from 8am to 6pm, Monday through Friday, and 8:30am to 10:30am on Saturday.

Updates: These updates are based on recommendations from the CDC and the Iowa Department of Public Health.

Sibley-Ocheyedan School District – No non-essential gatherings outside of students and staff during regular school activities.

Osceola Regional Health Center – Visitor Restrictions have been implemented as a standard precaution. Please call if planning to visit.

Osceola Regional Wellness Center – Closed until March 27, 2020.

Osceola Regional Therapy and Rehab – Open to all physical therapy, occupational therapy, cardiac and pulmonary rehab, and message therapy.

Heartwood Heights – Visitor Restrictions have been implemented as a standard precaution. Please call if planning to visit.

Sibley Specialty Care – Visitor Restrictions have been implemented as a standard precaution. Please call if planning to visit.

Country View Manor – Visitor Restrictions have been implemented as a standard precaution. Please call if planning to visit.

Visitor Restrictions

COVID-19 effects older adults and people who have severe underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Please call each facility if you have questions about access.

How it Spreads

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Can someone spread the virus without being sick?

  • People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest).
  • Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this occurring with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

How easily the virus spreads

How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas.

Symptoms

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.*

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath

Call your doctor if you develop symptoms, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or you have traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19.

Steps to Prevent Illness

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

How can I help protect myself?

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

What to do if you are sick with coronavirus (COVID-19)

  • Stay home except to get medical care
  • Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
  • Call ahead before visiting your doctor
  • Wear a facemask
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes
  • Avoid sharing personal household items
  • Clean your hands often
  • Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day
  • Monitor your symptoms
  • Discontinue home isolation in consultation with healthcare providers (754-3658) and local health department.

What the public should do

  • Stay informed
  • Remember to take everyday prevention actions
  • If you feel sick call your doctor’s office (754-3658) or emergency room (754-2574) before you arrive so that they can take the necessary precautions.

CDC Guidance

Contacts

Avera Medical Group Sibley – Clinic (712-754-3658)

Osceola Community Health Services – Public Health (712-754-4611)

Osceola Regional Health Center – Emergency Department (712-754-2574)

As with all medical concerns, please call Avera Medical Group Sibley to schedule an appointment at 712-754-3658. Please notify your provider if you have concerns that you may have COVID-19. This will help the provider’s office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.