DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered a partial activation Saturday of the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) in Johnston in order to ensure state agencies are prepared in the event the COVID-19 virus is detected in the state.
“While no positive tests of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Iowa at this time,” Reynolds said, “we are proactively coordinating plans across state agencies to protect the health of Iowans and assess our operational needs so we are as prepared as possible. We will continue to work with President Trump and his Coronavirus Task Force to make sure Iowa has the resources, information, and expertise to keep our communities safe.”
Reynolds said the partial activation began March 4 and was followed by a state agency conference call led by Reynolds March 6 to discuss preparedness strategies. The SEOC provides a mechanism for face-to-face coordination and information sharing between state agencies and other partners.
Twice-weekly agency coordination briefings will begin March 9 in order to provide the latest information on COVID-19 and to ensure necessary preparedness measures are in place, Reynolds said. Should the situation change, the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is prepared to transition the State Emergency Operations Center to an increased level of activation.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently signed a $8.3 billion spending bill to combat the coronavirus through prevention, research and other efforts. Reynolds’ office continues to receive regular updates from U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and the Coronavirus Task Force.
