‘This virus is not going away’

Calls for mask wearing and social distancing from the CDC continue as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Some of the advice from politicians and health experts conflict. A hodge-podge of regulations and rules have been enacted across the country. Lacking direction from state officials, many retailers are now requiring masks for all customers as well as employees.

Some people have stayed home for months, avoided crowded areas or even lost the lives of loved ones.

The Southeast Iowa Union turned to the local experts and talked with public health administrators about how they have navigated their day-to-day lives through the coronavirus pandemic.

Danielle Pettit-Majewski

Washington County

Do you wear a mask everywhere?

I wear a mask or a face shield any time I'm indoors with others not in my household and can't maintain 6 feet of distance. Anytime I go shopping anywhere, I'm in a mask or shield. If I'm in a car with others not in my household, I mask or shield. If I can't socially distance outdoors, I will wear a mask. Remember, we are contagious 48 hours prior to having symptoms, and that mask protects those around you.

Do you find yourself spending less time away from the house?

Yes. I essentially go to work, go home, take walks outdoors and go shopping for essentials only.

What's been the biggest adjustment in your day-to-day life with guidelines in place?

I think the biggest adjustment for me is not being able to visit friends and family the way that we used to. I've been unable to see my parents since Christmas, and that has been hard. They don't live close, so being able to stop by for a socially distant visit hasn't been an option. I'm hoping to do that before the next wave. Also, I used to walk to work a lot, and would enjoy just popping in and out of stores on a whim. I do very little on a whim now.

Do you utilize businesses like salons/barber shops?

I have, but I always wear a mask.

Have you been to a restaurant or bar during the pandemic?

Only for carryout or delivery. When I go in to pick up my food, I wear a mask.

What's the biggest advice you have to the public?

Please wear a mask. Please maintain that 6 feet of distance from those not in your household. I recognize there's some COVID fatigue, but if we pull together and follow the recommendations, the sooner we'll be able to ensure our schools can open safely, and we can go back to the normal activities we all look forward to.

Anything else?

I understand it can be challenging to know who or what to trust. This is a brand new virus, and we're learning more about it all the time. The more we learn, the more guidance might change. I understand that is frustrating, but your local health departments, local hospitals, and local emergency managers are doing their best to sort through the guidance to explain it in a way that is easy to understand. Please know that your health is always our goal, and our recommendations come with that goal in mind. There will be times when we simply won't know the answer, and we'll tell you that, too. We're all learning and pivoting as new information becomes available. We appreciate your patience.

Chris Estle

Jefferson County

Do you wear a mask everywhere?

I wear a mask when in public or when in extended close contact with others.

Do you find yourself spending less time away from the house?

Yes.

What's been the biggest adjustment in your day-to-day life with guidelines in place?

As the public health administrator, it is challenging to keep up with the constant changes and recommendations. Communication within our community is very important.

Do you utilize businesses like salons/barber shops?

Yes, my salon requires masks. They also perform screenings and hand sanitizer use upon arrival. Customers wait in their car to ensure social distancing.

Have you been to a restaurant or bar during the pandemic?

Yes, I have been in restaurants during this time.

What's the biggest advice you have to the public?

This virus is not going away. As with any communicable disease, community spread is here and the virus will continue to circulate throughout our population. We need to continue to practice good hand hygiene and follow current CDC recommendations. The health of the public depends on the actions of the public.

Shelley Van Dorin

Henry County

Do you wear a mask everywhere?

I wear a mask anywhere I cannot socially distance. I always have one available if socially distancing is not possible.

Do you find yourself spending less time away from the house?

Yes, besides work and an occasional errand or outing that I can properly social distance, I am at home.

What's been the biggest adjustment in your day-to-day life with guidelines in place?

Not getting to see family as much, especially in the beginning. Planning activities as opposed to being spontaneous.

Do you utilize businesses like salons/barber shops?

I have gotten my haircut once, but the salon was mindful of proper hygiene practices.

Have you been to a restaurant or bar during the pandemic?

I have been to restaurants, but I am mindful of their hygiene practices and the number of clients already there. If it is too full that socially distancing would be difficult, we go elsewhere.

What's the biggest advice you have to the public?

Please follow the guidelines, stay home if you are sick, cover your cough and sneezes, wash your hands frequently, cover your nose and mouth with a face covering if social distancing is not an option. Please be mindful of others.