COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa. (KMTV) — University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) testing indicated a second positive case of coronavirus out of Pottawattamie County on Friday.
The individual is a Neola man with existing medical conditions and no recent travel history. He's currently at the UNMC Intensive Care Unit.
According to PCPH, the man was at the DaVita Dialysis clinic located at 300 West Broadway Suite 150 in Council Bluffs on March 16 while symptomatic.
Pottawattamie County Public Health (PCPH) is conducting the contact tracing investigation. Officials are currently unsure if the case was community-spread.
PCPH is considering this a low-risk exposure to others because DaVita Dialysis had implemented protocols requiring all patients and employees to wear masks to the clinic prior to the visit from the patient with COVID-19.
Anyone who visited the clinic on March 16 should contact the Pottawattamie County Emergency Management Agency COVID-19 Call Center at 712-890-5368 or 712-890-5369.
The first positive case in the area, a woman between 41-60 years old, is currently under voluntary quarantine with some remaining symptoms.
PCPH said she will be released from home quarantine when she's symptom-free for three days.
There are now 68 positive coronavirus cases in Iowa.
Officials recommend that people stay home as often as possible during this rapidly changing situation and to increase social distancing efforts.
Iowans can contact the following help lines with questions:
- Methodist Health System is offering a community hot line and screening tool at 402-815-SICK (7425).
- CHI Health has a help line to answer questions and direct patients who may be at high risk of the coronavirus illness. Visit www.chihealth.com for information.
- Pottawattamie County Emergency Management Agency has COVID-19 Call Center open M-F from 8am-4pm. 712-890-5368 or 712-890-5369.
- Hope 4 Iowa Crisis Hotline – This crisis call line connects individuals in crisis to a helping hand the resources to address and improve mental wellness. Available 24/7. Call 84-HOPE-4-IOWA, or 844-673-4469.
Watch a live stream of a press conference Saturday in Pottawattamie County regarding the new case below.