JONES COUNTY, Iowa - A COVID-19 outbreak at the Anamosa State Penitentiary is contributing to a spike in Jones County, which now has the highest positivity rate in the state.
Almost 500 (476) inmates at the prison have tested positive for the virus, and the county's positivity rate over a 14-day average is now 38 percent.
That rate is more than twice as high as the level where schools can apply for online only classes.
A statement from the county said community spread of COVID-19 within Jones County surpassing all previous levels.
Jones County Public Health is asking residents to wear face masks and practice social distancing in public.