The ABC 6 News Team brings you the latest updates on local, regional, and national news, as well as in-depth coverage of events and breaking stories. Stay up to date on sports and get the most recent weather updates, including the extended forecast.
According to ABC 6 News, several Iowa facilities have reinstated mask mandates due to a recent surge in COVID-19 cases. The number of facilities that have implemented this measure is close to 10, indicating a growing concern for public safety.
The COVID-19 data from the state indicates that the cases were on a steady decline post-Christmas. However, the numbers started to rise again in June.
Public health officials currently rely on reports from the CDC, as COVID-19 tests are no longer tracked by counties. Despite the increase in cases, the cause remains uncertain.
According to Sam Jarvis, the Community Health Manager at Johnson County Public Health, there has been an increase in COVID-19 cases recently, but the reason behind it is not clear. He mentioned that there have been varying patterns since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 four years ago.
Currently, mask mandates have been implemented solely in several healthcare facilities, including Iowa City, Coralville, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport.
