Thursday afternoon, the Iowa Department of Public Health released the latest figures on the COVID-19 pandemic, reporting the largest single-day spike in confirmed cases in the state.

There were 125 new positive tests for coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 1,270 since the outbreak began. Among the new cases was one in Dallas County, the first in several days. The individual is between age 41-60, and is the 36th positive test in the County to date. However, the Dallas County Health Department emphasizes that 25 of the affected individuals have already recovered. The IDPH also points out that there have been 13,703 negative tests in the state, and around 60% of people who have caught the virus required no hospitalization.

In addition to the new positive tests, two more coronavirus-related deaths were reported Thursday. Both individuals were from Linn County, with one between age 61-80 and the other over 81. The total number of COVID-19 casualties in Iowa is now up to 29. Public Health warns that the peak of the virus has likely not yet arrived, so they continue to urge people to stay home and practice social distancing to keep themselves and others safe. The IDPH and the Governor’s Office are providing daily updates on the coronavirus situation, and Raccoon Valley Radio will continue to bring you the latest information affecting the listening area as it becomes official.