An official with the Shelby County Health System said today (Tuesday), residents of the County Can be confident in [the] hospital system, which has facilities and proper protective equipment and protocols in place for individuals who contract very contagious diseases.” Public Health Director, Calla Poldberg said in a news release, “Our hospitals and staff are well trained and ready for any public health threat, should the need arise.”

Poldberg says “It’s important to remember Ebola is not a virus spread through the air, and is only contagious if the infected person is having active symptoms. Ebola is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids of a sick person or exposure to objects such as needles that have been contaminated.
Shelby County Public Health has been and will continue to work closely with the Iowa Department of Public Health to ensure we are ready to respond should the need arise.”

The IDPH has been working with CDC and local public health agencies by:
• Enhancing surveillance and laboratory testing capacity in states to detect cases.
• Developing guidance and tools for health departments to conduct public health investigations.
• Providing recommendations for healthcare infection control and other measures to prevent disease spread.
• Disseminating up-to-date information to the general public, international travelers, and public health partners.
For the latest information on Ebola, visit www.cdc.gov.