WCPH Issues Statement On Delta Variant Of Covid-19

The Iowa Department of Public Health has confirmed increasing cases of COVID-19 and the Delta variant throughout Iowa.

(The Webster County Public Health issued the statement below on Thursday morning)

Webster County residents should assume that it is circulating in our communities after it was first confirmed in Iowa on May 4th. The predominant strain in Iowa is the Delta variant and according to the Webster County Health Department, it has been identified in Webster County.

“It is important to get vaccinated,” said Webster County Health Department Director Kari Prescott. “The vaccination is the best line of defense against COVID-19 and the Delta Variant and new strains as they evolve.”

“My concern is that vaccination rates are dropping in Webster County while the highly contagious Delta variant is circulating,” said Prescott.

According to the CDC and Iowa Department of Public Health, fully vaccinated people have some protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant. Unvaccinated people are recommended to limit their actions and wear masks.

“Our message is simple,” said Prescott. “Get vaccinated! Wash your hands. Stay home if you are sick.”

“Not to create a scare tactic, but you need to assume that at some point, you will be exposed to COVID-19, the Delta Variant or a mutated strain,” said Prescott. If you are vaccinated, you have protection against the virus. If you are unvaccinated, you do not. In fact, unvaccinated people are at risk for acquiring the Delta variant which is more contagious. Please get vaccinated.”

The vaccine is available to limit the severity of the illness. Vaccines continue to be available in Webster County at Daniel Pharmacy, Hy-Vee,  Iowa Specialty Clinic, Unity Point, and Community Health Center Of Fort Dodge.

Webster County Health Department will continue to monitor the COVID-19 climate within the county and will continue to call positive cases and offer guidance.