Linn County health official says a COVID-19 order will be issued; urges residents to 'stay home'

Jay Allen, of the Linn County Health Department, said the department will issue a public health order addressing COVID-19 and urged residents to stay home and protect neighbors.

Allen introduced himself and apologized for reading prepared remarks, saying the order may cause some discomfort for individuals and businesses and asking people to read and share the department’s document. He said preparations for the local response began in March and involved seven partners and input from the Linn County emergency manager, sheriff, counselor, county commission and clerk.

"We have 7 partners with over a thousand man and woman hours regarding the COVID 19 disease," Allen said. He reported that daily testing has increased and that Linn County has six cases: four laboratory confirmed and two highly suspected but not laboratory confirmed.

"As a result of this, the time has come to issue the following order," Allen said, then urged the public: "Stay home. Stay safe. Watch out for your neighbors. Call for help." He asked residents to "please read the document that we're putting forth carefully and share." The transcript does not include the full text of the order Allen referenced.

Allen closed by saying, "Remember why we're doing this, and may God be with you." The briefing recorded Allen's announcement and guidance; no vote or formal adoption by an elected body was recorded in the transcript.