While Governor Kim Reynolds is lifting the 50% capacity limit for businesses and has allowed gatherings of more than 10 people, Iowans with preexisting medical conditions and those over the age of 65 are still encouraged to limit activities out of the home.

Guthrie County Public Health Director Jotham Arber says he wants residents to enjoy the summer but to also keep the health and safety of themselves and loved ones a priority, “We know that the pandemic hasn’t gone away, and it certainly feels like it’s not in the mainstream anymore, so that can sometimes make us a little bit complacent. But I think just using some common sense when you’re around people, right? If you’re not feeling well, if you notice they’re not feeling well, that may not be the best time to get together.”

The Governor’s newest proclamation lists six-foot distance requirements for all businesses and entities, and Arber recommends keeping that same distance when interacting with friends, family members, or the general public. He also emphasizes the importance of frequently washing hands for 20 seconds at a time, covering coughs and sneezes, and wearing a face mask when social distancing isn’t possible. Listen to a COVID-19 discussion with Arber from Wednesday, June 10th below:

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