Local leaders release statement regarding COVID-19 in Jo Daviess County

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HANOVER–On Friday, July 24, mayors and village presidents across the county held a Zoom call with Dr. Ralph Losey, chief medical officer of Midwest Medical Center; Sandra Schleicher, administrator of Jo Daviess County Health Department; and Scott Toot, county board chairman.

The goal of the meeting was to get all local leaders on the same call so that they can all hear the same information regarding coronavirus and preventative measures that the communities can take.

The press release, signed by Toot, Kirk Van Ostrand, Mayor of East Dubuque; Mike Dittmar, Village of Elizabeth President; Terry Renner, City of Galena Mayor; Donald Schaible, Village of Hanover Mayor; Jim Davis, Scales Mound President; Rod Brandt, Village of Stockton President; and Wayne Raisbeck, Village of Warren Mayor, highlights concerns that local leaders have for the rising number of cases in the county.

Losey and Schleicher informed the mayors of the growing concern they have about the rise in cases across the county. Losey focused on the impact of the rise and the effect that could have on the medical system in Jo Daviess County.

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The goal of the meeting was to have all of the mayors come together and to have a common message for their residents.

On July 1, the county had 45 positive COVID cases and on July 24, at the time of the press release, the county had 92 positive cases.

“We would like to remind the public of the need for social distancing, wearing masks and following CDC and IDPH guidelines to slow down the rate of transmission,” the press release stated. “If you test positive, please cooperate with the Jo Daviess County Health Department regarding contact tracing and self-isolation.”

The statement continues asking the public to follow all guidelines so that the county or region doesn’t roll back in the Restore Illinois plan which could result in more closings.

“Remember the regional numbers are what determine the mitigation levels that the State of Illinois may impose,” the press release stated. “Jo Daviess County plays a role in that region and we are confident that residents of and visitors to Jo Daviess County will do the right thing and cooperate with the guidelines regarding COVID-19.”