University of Iowa Health Care Media Statement on COVID-19

We are currently caring for a patient with COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus, at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. The patient is in isolation, which means that other patients are kept at a safe distance, and those caring for this individual are properly protected. 

We were aware of this patient’s illness before they arrived at the hospital so our care team had the appropriate measures in place. We continue to follow the advice of the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Iowa Department of Public Health, and our clinical experts. 

We are committed to protecting the safety of our patients, staff, trainees, and visitors. We will take appropriate steps, which may include additional visitor restrictions and screening of those who enter the hospital. Currently, visitors are limited to two adults (age 18 and older) per patient in most circumstances.

Everyone can play a role in keeping our community safe. We are asking people to follow our visitor rules and practice good hygiene:

• Use a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing to cover your mouth and nose.
• Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can also use alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

As usual, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics is available to provide care for a wide array of conditions facing Iowans. We are maintaining our same levels of care.

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