Officials with the Pottawattamie County Department of Public Health report this week, they are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases and local hospitalizations due to the emergent COVID-19 variant. As of Tuesday, August 10th, the 14-day positivity rate in Pott. County was 17.2%, which officials say is a significant jump from weeks prior.  Vaccines have shown to be one of the best methods of slowing the spread and severity of COVID-19. Vaccine clinics are available in Pottawattamie County every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 4-to7-pm, and on Saturday from 8-am too Noon. Vaccinations will be administered at the Veterans Affair Building in Council Bluffs (623 6th Ave.).

In addition, IDPH asks that residents limit activities that can potentially expose you or your family. If you are unvaccinated and are exposed to COVID-19, please follow standard guidance: quarantine at home, monitor your symptoms, and get tested if you notice a change in your health. Isolate if necessary. PCPH has home test kits available for pick up. Please call 712-242-1155 for an appointment.

PCPH recommends residents remain vigilant with mitigation methods. Continue to wear a mask and socially distance indoors, regardless of vaccination status, practice good hand washing, and stay at home if you are sick.