Three cases of COVID-19 are confirmed in Tama County.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the individuals are self-isolating at home.

“While these are Tama County’s first cases, they may not be the last, and that’s why we encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority,” said Tama County Public Health Director Shannon Zoffka.

IDPH released this morning that 23 additional COVID-19 cases have been reported across Iowa. Zoffka said Tama County isn’t yet on the department’s list of 68 positive cases.

Approximately 80 percent of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19.

People who are sick must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house.

Actions people should take include:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, elbow or upper arm.

• Staying home when ill.

• Social distancing of at least 6 feet and avoiding gatherings

The isolation should continue until:

• There is no fever for at least 72 hours — that is three days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers.

• Other symptoms have improved, such as an improvement in a cough or shortness of breath.

• At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

If someone believes he or she needs health care, call the provider first. The physician can assess if someone needs to be seen in the office or if recovery is possible at home.

Ask if there are options to communicate with a medical provider from home using technology.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH webpage at idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus.