x
Breaking News
More () »

Polk County officials, Iowa Restaurant Association, hold press conference on business safety

Text FACTS to 515-457-1026 for the latest coronavirus coverage.

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — The Polk County Health Department and Board of Supervisors, as well as the Iowa Restaurant Association, held a press conference Thursday on business safety amid the coronavirus pandemic

As of 9 a.m. Thursday, 40,493 Iowans have tested positive for COVID-19, a 24-hour increase of 700.

"Our trends do not look good, and the only thing that makes an impact is social distance and wearing a face covering," said Polk County Supervisor Matt McCoy. "Until we get a vaccine, we have to rely on these tools to save lives ... to keep our business and our economy open."

Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie, West Des Moines City Councilman Russ Trimble and Gilroy's Kitchen Pub & Patio Managing Partner Carl Wertzberger also spoke about dining out safely.

Download the We Are Iowa app or subscribe to Local 5's "5 Things to Know" email newsletter.

RELATED: Gov. Reynolds encourages, but doesn't mandate, wearing face masks with social media campaign

RELATED: Tracking city and public building closures in central Iowa

Before You Leave, Check This Out