White House announces free public tours will resume full operating ...

(CNN) Public tours of the White House will resume a full operating schedule on July 19 for the first time since they were suspended in 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the White House announced Monday.

Limited tours of the White House resumed earlier this year on Fridays and Saturdays but will be offered Tuesdays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET, excluding federal holidays, under the full operating schedule. The tours are free to the public and can be scheduled through the office of a member of Congress.

The White House says it will continue to monitor Covid-19 and operate based on guidance provided by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Face masks are not currently required for the tours. Anyone who has tested positive for Covid-19, has symptoms or has been exposed to the virus within 10 days of their scheduled tour is being told to stay home.

The White House has hosted several large-scale events at the White House in recent months, after being unable to do so for much of President Joe Biden's first year in office. The President and first lady Jill Biden welcomed thousands of guests to the South Lawn of the White House in April for the Easter Egg Roll, an annual holiday tradition that had been canceled for the past two years because of the pandemic. The White House also hosted spring garden tours this year, which were free and open to the public.

The Biden administration has been trying to move the country into a new phase of the pandemic that is less disruptive to Americans' daily lives.

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COVID travel restrictions: Where fully vaccinated Americans can go

Corrections & clarifications: Germany’s, Spain's and Italy's entry requirements have been updated.

As vaccination levels continue to rise in the U.S. and around the world, countries that had been off limits to foreigners for more than a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic are beginning to reopen.

On June 18, the European Union added the U.S. to a list of countries for which travel restrictions should gradually be lifted. The list applies to all American tourists, vaccinated or not, for nonessential travel.

The recommendation is not legally binding, and the decision on how and when to reopen borders is up to each individual member country.

► Europe travel restrictions for vaccinated visitors:Making sense of rules in France, Spain, Italy

► Spain reopens: Vaccinated Americans can now visit

In April, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that fully vaccinated Americans could resume travel at low risk to themselves, though the agency still recommended against travel due to rising COVID case counts. On June 7, the agency softened its guidance for dozens of destinations, and now says travelers should make sure they are fully vaccinated before entering these countries.

Federal travel guidance:CDC, State Department downgrade travel alerts for dozens of countries

You'll still need a negative COVID test to fly back to the US

If Americans do decide to travel abroad, no matter which country they decide to visit, they'll still need to be tested for COVID within three days of an international flight back to the U.S. – even vaccinated travelers. You can find available testing sites in your destination country and turnaround times on the website for the U.S. embassy there.

Some resorts are also offering COVID testing on site to help satisfy the U.S. requirement.

► Beware: These Americans were stranded in Mexico after testing positive for COVID

About the list of countries allowing vaccinated travelers

Rules are evolving, so we've chosen to focus on countries that did not admit Americans before COVID-19 vaccines began to roll out and now are open or opening to vaccinated Americans. Keep in mind that countries' rules and plans may shift quickly, so before planning, check with your destination to find out the latest requirements.

The information below pertaining to vaccination and testing requirements comes from official sources such as government agencies (such as embassies and immigration ministries and the U.S. State Department) or official tourism websites.

If you would like to find out how much of the local population is at least partially vaccinated in a country you plan to visit, you can find the latest data on USA TODAY. Johns Hopkins University, which has tracked COVID infection and death statistics since the earliest days of the pandemic, drills down even further, with percentages for both the partially and fully vaccinated.

Europe

When will Americans be allowed back in Europe? The European Union on June 18 added the U.S. to a list of countries for which travel restrictions should gradually be lifted. The list applies to all American tourists, vaccinated or not, for nonessential travel.

The recommendation is non-binding, and national governments have authority to require test results or vaccination records and to set other entry conditions.

However, some countries had announced their own plans before the EU's recommendation, including Portugal, Spain, Austria and Greece.

And finally, while the United Kingdom does admit Americans with a negative COVID test, travelers must have a negative test result from within 72 hours of travel and quarantine for 10 days. They must also schedule follow-up tests for days 2 and 8 of their visit, though they can arrange a private test after five days to be released from quarantine early. This is required even for people who have been vaccinated. Failure to be tested can result in a fine of up to £1,000 ($1,418).

Earlier this month, airlines reiterated their plea for the U.S. and U.K. to rescind their respective travel restrictions, citing rising vaccination rates in both countries. At the G7 conference, President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson launched a travel task force that will make policy recommendations about safely reopening international travel between the U.K. and the U.S. But no specific timing was announced.

Countries that allow Americans in with a negative COVID test (and other conditions: Italy

Portugal announced June 15 that travelers 2 years and older must take a nucleic acid amplification test – such as a PCR test – within the last 72 hours before boarding, or a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of boarding.

Italy has said that Americans can enter and bypass quarantine with a negative COVID test taken no more than 48 hours prior to entry. Italy also noted visitors would be allowed to enter the country even if they've recently been in other EU countries.

Austria travel

Vaccine requirements: Vaccinated travelers need a certificate or vaccine passport. Certificates for people who received their first of two shots at least 22 days prior to entry are valid for three months; documents for people who have had both shots or are considered fully vaccinated after a single dose are good for an additional six months.

Testing requirements: Visitors who are unvaccinated or who have not had COVID need a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. If you arrive without a valid negative test, you will have to take one at your own expense within 24 hours after arriving. People who have proof they have recovered from COVID in the past six months or a positive COVID antibodies test no more than three months old may enter.

Other restrictions: Travelers who arrive without a vaccination certificate, proof of recovery or negative COVID test result must complete an advance clearance form to get permission to enter.

Details: Austria official travel portal

Bulgaria travel

Vaccine requirements: Visitors need to show proof that their final dose was administered at least 14 days prior to entry may enter Bulgaria.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors over the age of 5 need a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or an antigen test no older than 48 hours. People who have recovered from COVID need a positive PCR or antigen test taken between 15 days and 180 days prior.

Other restrictions: Look for businesses with a Safe Travels stamp from World Travel & Tourism Council

Details: U.S. Embassy, Sofia; Bulgarian government tourism site

Croatia travel

Vaccination requirements: Tourists must present a vaccine certificate showing they received their final dose or single dose at least 14 days prior to entering the country.

Testing requirements: Individuals who have not been vaccinated yet must have a negative PCR or rapid antigen test taken within the last 48 hours or proof they have recovered from COVID-19.

Other restrictions: Tourists must pay lodging fully in advance and provide proof. They must also complete an arrival form with their contact-tracing information.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Zagreb

Cyprus travel

Vaccine requirements: Though COVID vaccinations are not required to enter Cyprus, Americans who can prove they are fully vaccinated will not be subject to testing or quarantine as long as their vaccine is approved by the European Medicines Agency.

Prior to travel, visitors must upload a copy of their vaccination certificate to the Cyprus Fight Pass platform. Verification is the responsibility of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Cyprus reserves the right to randomly test passengers on any arriving flight, including vaccinated travelers.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors from countries classified as red must have a PCR test from a certified lab taken within 72 hours prior of departure.

Other restrictions: Visitors must present their Cyprus Flight Pass to enter crowded venues. In addition, there is a curfew in effect from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Details: Cyprus Flight Pass

France travel

Vaccine requirements: Americans may enter as of June 9, provided they have proof they've had their final dose of an approved vaccine at least two weeks prior to travel. They will also need a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated Americans may not visit France for tourism purposes, according to the French Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Other restrictions: Travelers must complete a sworn document saying they do not have symptoms of COVID-19, nor have they been exposed to it. They must also be willing to be tested upon arrival, quarantine if deemed necessary and undergo retesting afterward.

Details: French Embassy, Washington; U.S. Embassy, Paris

Germany travel

Vaccination requirements: American tourists with proof of vaccination of an approved vaccine may enter Germany via air and bypass testing. They must be two weeks past their final dose.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors from the U.S. will also be allowed, but they must have proof of a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours or antigen test no older than 48 hours prior to entry. Alternately, people who have recovered from COVID can provide a positive PCR test carried out at least 28 days prior but not more than six months prior.

Other restrictions: Regardless of vaccination or test status, all visitors must complete a digital entry registration prior to travel. Americans who enter Germany from a variant concern area need a negative PCR test and must quarantine for 10 days. Travelers are also advised to check the rules for each German state they plan to visit.

Details: German Foreign Office; U.S. Embassy, Berlin

Greece travel

Vaccine requirements: The country announced it is reopening to international tourists on May 15. Fully vaccinated individuals may bypass the testing requirement if they they present a vaccination certificate issued by a public authority showing their second shot occurred at least 14 days prior to arrival in Greece.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors must have a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to entering the country.

Other restrictions: All visitors must complete Greece's online Passenger Locator Form at least 48 hours before entering the country.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Athens

Non EU-member countries that allow Americans in with a negative COVID test (or other conditions):

Iceland travel

Vaccine requirements: Individuals who can provide proof they are fully vaccinated are exempt from testing and quarantine requirements. Iceland will also accept a yellow card issued by the World Health Organization.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated Americans need a negative PCR test from within 72 hours of departure and must quarantine at an official facility for five days upon arrival. People who can provide proof they've recovered from COVID are exempt from quarantine requirements.

Other restrictions: Visitors must pre-register online; however, this does not count as a travel authorization.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Reykjavik; covid.is

Ireland travel

Vaccine requirements: Vaccinated Americans will be welcome in Ireland beginning July 19. They will need proof of vaccination to bypass quarantine and testing requirements.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated adult travelers are still required to undergo testing and quarantine, per the Irish government.

Other restrictions: Travelers need to complete a passenger locator form prior to arrival in Ireland.

Details: Irish government website

Italy travel

Vaccine requirements: Travelers from the U.S. can enter Italy without a quarantine period, so long as they submit a passenger locator form and present a COVID-19 Green Pass or CDC vaccination certificate.

In order to obtain a Green Pass, travelers must either become fully vaccinated against COVID-19; recover from COVID-19 and pass the medical isolation period, or provide a negative COVID-19 test result performed in the 48 hours prior to entering the country.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Italian National Tourist Board

Romania travel

Vaccine requirements: Travelers with proof of vaccination can bypass the mandatory 14-day quarantine.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated travelers need a negative test taken no sooner than 72 hours prior to departure to bypass quarantine. People who enter without one must quarantine and won't be allowed to test out until day 10.

Other restrictions: Visitors may be asked to complete a questionnaire upon entry.

Details: RomaniaTourism.com

Slovenia travel

Vaccine requirements: Vaccinated Americans need to show proof they are at least 14 days past their final dose.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated Americans need a negative PCR test result no older than 48 hours. Travelers who have recovered from COVID need either a positive test that is at least 10 days old but no older than six months or a certificate attesting to the same. Children under 15 who cross the border with a direct family member or organized group are exempt from testing.

Details: Republic of Slovenia

Spain travel

Vaccine requirements: U.S. citizens can travel to Spain, regardless of vaccination status, as long as they present a QR code from the Spain Travel Health portal upon arrival. There is no requirement to bring proof of vaccination. This applies to all U.S. citizens, including those who visited another country before making their way to Spain.

Information required to complete the health portal form includes travelers' identity document number (which can be found on passports) and details such as a traveler's arrival date and flight number.

Testing requirements: U.S. citizens are not required to show a negative COVID test to enter Spain.

Details: Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs; TravelSafe Spain, U.S. Embassy

Caribbean

Countries that allow Americans to bypass quarantine if they present a negative COVID test and meet other conditions:

Countries where Americans don't need proof of vaccine, negative COVID test or quarantine: Dominican Republic

Bahamas travel

Vaccine requirements: Travelers who are two weeks past their last vaccination are exempt from the testing requirements for entry and inter-island travel.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated travelers must have a negative PCR test result no older than five days prior to entry. (Children 10 and under are exempt.)

Other restrictions: Visitors must complete a Bahamas Travel Health Visa application.

Details: Bahamas.com

Saint Lucia

Vaccine requirements: Americans who have documentation proving they are at least 14 days past their final dose will be given a wristband and granted freer access to the island as long as they obey mask and social-distancing requirements. Unvaccinated minor children will be granted the same freedom of movement as their vaccinated parents.

Testing requirements: All travelers ages 5 and up, regardless of vaccination status, need a negative PCR test result from within the past five days and can only partake in approved activities and eat at COVID-certified restaurants.

Other restrictions: All visitors must use COVID-certified lodging regardless of vaccination status.

Details: StLucia.org

North America

Canada remains off limits to American leisure travelers, unless they meet certain exemptions. On May 11, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation that his government prefers to keep its border closed until 75% of the population has had at least their first vaccine dose.

"My gut tells me it's going to be (closed) at least well into the fall of 2021," he predicted a week earlier.

Countries where Americans don't need proof of vaccine, negative COVID test or quarantine: Mexico

In mid-May, the governor of Mexico's Quintana Roo state, home to the Caribbean tourist meccas of Cancun, Cozumel and Tulum, warned that the area faced "imminent risk" of returning to lockdown conditions due to surging COVID cases there.

►Border closures extended: Canada, Mexico land border closed to nonessential travel through June 21

► Trouble in paradise: Mexico's Caribbean coast including Cancún, Cozumel, Tulum at 'imminent risk' of lockdown

Central America

Countries where Americans don't need proof of vaccine, negative COVID test or quarantine:

►Costa Rica during COVID: What's it like to vacation there during the pandemic?

Countries where Americans can bypass quarantine with a negative COVID test result:

Belize travel

Vaccine requirements: Individuals who are at least two weeks past their second shot and bring their official vaccination card must bring their official certificate. If two weeks have not passed, a negative PCR test no older than 96 hours or a rapid antigen test no older than 48 hours old are required.

Testing requirements: Anyone over the age of 4 who is not vaccinated needs a negative test result.

Other restrictions: It's recommended that visitors stay within the Tourism Safe Corridor, and a curfew is in effect from 10 p.m. to 4:59 a.m. daily.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Belmopan; Belize Tourism Board

El Salvador travel

Vaccination requirements: Visitors who have completed their shots may present their vaccine certificate in lieu of a negative test. However, it is still recommended that you contact your airline to confirm whether you also need a negative test to board your flight.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors ages 2 and up need a negative PCR test result no older than 72 hours of their scheduled arrival time.

Other restrictions: The U.S. Embassy notes that El Salvador strictly enforces the policies and cannot assist anyone who arrives without testing or vaccine documentation.

Details: U.S. Embassy, San Salvador

Guatemala travel

Vaccine requirements: Vaccinated individuals ages 10 and up may enter Guatemala by air or land but need proof the last shot was administered at least two weeks before arrival.

Testing requirements: Guatemala will also accept proof of a negative test completed within 72 hours prior to check-in at the airport or documentation from a licensed health care provider attesting the visitor recovered from COVID-19 in the 90 days prior to travel.

Other restrictions: All visitors must complete a Health Pass form prior to arrival.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Guatemala City

South America

Countries where Americans can bypass quarantine with a negative COVID test:

Ecuador travel

Vaccine requirements: Travelers must have a certificate showing they have received their full course of vaccinations.

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors need a negative PCR or antigen test taken no more than three days before entering Ecuador. Children 2 years of age and younger, as well as airline crew, are exempt from this requirement. People who have had COVID-19 but are at least one month past the onset of symptoms may also present a medical certificate attesting to their recovery.

Other restrictions: International visitors transiting en route to the Galapagos Islands must arrive with a negative PCR test taken within the last three days.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Quito

Middle East and North Africa

Countries where Americans can bypass quarantine with a negative COVID test:

Djibouti (Visa required)

Egypt

Iran (However, no visas are being issued currently.)

Iraq (Visa required)

Morocco (Tourists must have reservation at approved hotel or resort.)

United Arab Emirates (All visitors to Dubai and Abu Dhabi still need PCR tests to enter the country; Abu Dhabi also requires a second PCR test on days 6 and 12, regardless of vaccination status.)

Bahrain travel

Vaccine requirements: Inbound airline passengers vaccinated in the U.S. with approved certificates will be provided with a card for use in Bahrain. However, vaccinated visitors are still required to undergo PCR tests on arrival as well as days 5 and 10 of their stays (at a cost of $95).

Testing requirements: Unvaccinated visitors must test on arrival as well as on days 5 and 10. (Children 6 and younger are exempt.)

Other restrictions: Visitors must download the BeAware Bahrain app prior to arrival.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Manama

Israel travel

Vaccine requirements: Visitors vaccinated outside of Israel must undergo testing at an approved Israeli lab at their own expense to prove their status. They then will be allowed to apply to be exempted from quarantine. They must provide their vaccination certificate and their negative test result along with their exemption application.

Testing requirements: All visitors, regardless of vaccination status, need a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to their scheduled departure to Israel.Unvaccinated people will be required to quarantine for at least 10 days. People who have recovered from COVID must provide medical documentation of their recovery.

Other restrictions: Major U.S airlines have suspended flights to Israel amid the current unrest there.

Details: Israeli Ministry of Health; U.S. Embassy, Jerusalem

Lebanon travel

Vaccine requirements: Americans who can prove they are fully vaccinated, have an antibody test showing sufficient antibodies or proof of testing positive for COVID more than 15 days prior to arrival can bypass quarantine.

Testing requirements: All arriving travelers who do not qualify for one of the exemptions need a negative PCR test no older than 96 hours. In addition, travelerswill be tested at the airport at their own expense ($50). They will also have to quarantine for 72 hours and download the CovidLebTracker app.

Other restrictions: Tourists must request permission to enter certain establishments.

Details:U.S. Embassy, Beirut

Africa

Countries where Americans can bypass quarantine with a negative COVID test:

Western and Central Asia

Countries that allow Americans to bypass quarantine if they present a negative COVID test and meet other conditions:

Georgia travel

Vaccine requirements: Vaccinated tourists can enter by air if they present a certificate proving they have received the full round of shots.

Testing requirements: Upon arrival, unvaccinated visitors can avoid quarantine by presenting a negative result from a PCR test conducted 72 hours or less before arrival in Georgia. They will also need to undergo a second test at their own expense on day 3 of their stay.

Other restrictions: Before crossing into Georgia, tourists must complete an authorization form detailing their contact information and their travel history for the previous 14 days.

Details: U.S. Embassy, Tbilisi; Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

South and East Asia

Much of Asia either still remains off limits to American tourists (including Olympic host nation Japan and Indonesia) or requires them to quarantine (as is the case in Cambodia, China, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Nepal, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam).

Destinations where Americans can bypass quarantine with a negative COVID test:

Oceania/South Pacific

Most South Pacific countries remain off limits to American tourists, most notably Australia, which has indicated it may not reopen its borders until 2022. In addition, New Zealand and Fiji have both been reluctant to speculate about a reopening timeline. Other island destinations either require a lengthy quarantine (Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu) or special permission to visit (Samoa), One notable exception: the U.S. territory of Guam.

Countries that admit Americans who can provide a negative COVID test and meet other conditions:

Northern Mariana Islands (Health declaration form required)

Guam travel

Vaccine requirements: Travelers to the U.S. territory who are two weeks past their last dose of an FDA-approved vaccine who can provide a vaccine record card and a secondary form of vaccine verification (such as a letter from the provider) may bypass quarantine.

Testing requirements: Tourists who have recovered from COVID-19 within three months of visiting Guam and are no longer symptomatic may be eligible to bypass quarantine if they can present a positive PCR test between 10 and 90 days old and a negative PCR test collected within 10 days prior to arrival and clearance from their medical provider attesting to their recovery. Visitors who arrive without a vaccine certificate or proof of recovery must spend five days at a quarantine facility but can test out on day 6 with a negative result.

Additional requirements: Vaccinated individuals must sign a declaration attesting to their COVID status (under penalty of perjury).

Details: VisitGuam.com; Guam Department of Health and Social Services

Contributing: Matthew Brown, Dawn Gilbertson, Maureen Groppe, Kim Hjelmgaard, USA TODAY

COVID-19 sports postponement updates: NHL, college games affected

No, this is not March 2020.

The coronavirus pandemic still poses a threat, and will continue to do so, but the medical field and infectious disease experts have learned plenty about the virus and its spread. Tools such as safe vaccines and masking options offer individual protection.

That means sports leagues will not shut down like they did 20 months ago. But with each passing day, it seems another sport or league is once again being affected by this pandemic, with postponements and infections. For example, 51 NFL players went on the COVID-19 reserve list Monday, including Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce.

Here is the latest in COVID-19 news and disruptions in the sports world:

NFL:Chiefs' Travis Kelce among 51 NFL players placed on COVID-19 list on Monday

NBA:With more than 90 players in COVID protocols, here's what the league plans to do about it

NHL pausing season two days early

Due to the rising number of positive COVID-19 cases throughout the league, the NHL and NHL Players' Association agreed to start their Christmas break early.

The NHL plans to pause its season on Wednesday, two days before the originally scheduled holiday break from Dec. 24-26, the league confirmed Monday night.

Monday night's game between the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild was played as scheduled, but the other four games on the docket had been postponed. Two games remain on Tuesday's schedule — Washington Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers (7 p.m. ET) and Tampa Bay Lightning at Vegas Golden Knights (10 p.m. ET) — and both are still a go, pending any additional positive tests.

There were originally 10 games slated for Tuesday, but some games between Canadian and American teams were already postponed because all cross-border games were put on pause.

The NHL and NHLPA agreed to postpone the five games that had remained on Thursday's schedule during consultations Monday night. Players are set to report back to team facilities on Dec. 26 and resume daily testing. The NHL schedule is set to resume on Dec. 27.

Earlier Monday, the Columbus Blue Jackets were shut down because of a rising number of cases, and a pair of Tuesday games — New Jersey Devils at Pittsburgh Penguins and Arizona Coyotes at Seattle Kraken — were also called off because of COVID issues on the Devils and Kraken.

NHL:League, players will make decision soon on whether to pull out of Olympics

Louisville-Kentucky men's basketball game called off

The Louisville men’s basketball game Wednesday at Kentucky is postponed, and the Cardinals have paused basketball activities because of “multiple positive COVID-19 tests within the program,” the school announced Monday.

Louisville is coming off an 82-72 loss at Western Kentucky in which it played without starting center Malik Williams, who was absent from the team. Though Louisville did not name Williams, a spokesman said a player was not with the team due to COVID-19 protocols.

OPINION:Penny Hardaway's negligence around COVID, his Memphis basketball players threaten season

Women's hockey: USA vs. Canada canceled

USA Hockey announced Monday that an exhibition between the U.S. women's hockey team and Canada has been canceled due to "concerns around COVID-19."

The series, which Canada currently leads 4-2, was scheduled to pick back up in Canada after the new year.

Rafael Nadal tests positive

Rafael Nadal said Monday he tested positive for COVID-19 after returning to Spain from an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi last weekend.

The timing of the positive test potentially complicates Nadal’s plans for the Australian Open, which begins on Jan. 17. Nadal, 35, has played very little competitive tennis since last year’s French Open because of various injuries and was attempting to ramp back up in time for the first Grand Slam event of the season.

TENNIS:Rafael Nadal tests positive for COVID-19, putting Australian Open in doubt

NBA allows for COVID-19 replacement players

According to multiple reports, NBA teams can sign one replacement player for each player that tests positive for the virus between now and Jan. 19. Organizations will be required to sign at least one replacement player in the event of two positive players.

Lineups across the league were decimated by roster restrictions over the weekend.

Following a weekend of NBA stars testing positive for the virus, Golden State Warriors guard Andrew Wiggins – who received the COVID-19 vaccine after expressing much hesitancy – entered the health and safety protocols.

NFL teams face tall task in containing virus

As USA TODAY Sports columnist Jarrett Bell writes, "the NFL must brace for COVID-19 to wreak havoc on playoff ramifications before, during and throughout the run to Super Bowl 56 on Feb. 13 in Los Angeles."

Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield didn't clear protocol and will miss Monday night's game against the Raiders. Nick Mullens will get the start.

But Bears defensive coordinator Sean Desai was cleared and he will be available on Monday against the Vikings.

Two games will be played on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET: Washington vs. Philadelphia and Seattle vs. Los Angeles Rams.

Washington said six coaches and a coaching intern would not be available for the game against the Eagles.

Contributing: Dan Wolken, Brett Dawson

CDC cruise guidelines 2022: New distancing, quarantine updates

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Friday published an update to its guidance for cruise ships participating in the health agency's COVID-19 program.

The updates are based on the "latest public health conditions" so ships can continue operating in a manner that provides a safe and healthy environment for passengers, crew and the communities ships visit, David Daigle, spokesperson for the CDC, told USA TODAY.

Cruise Lines International Association, the leading trade organization for the industry, told USA TODAY in a statement shared by spokesperson Laziza Lambert that the changes to the CDC's guidance were "welcome."

"The updates announced today acknowledge the effectiveness of the cruise lines in their ability to create an environment that provides one of the highest levels of COVID-19 mitigation and reflect the improvements in the public health landscape," CLIA said.

Daigle said Friday's main updates, which are effective immediately, include:

Updating the physical distancing requirements for shore excursions and transportation.

Updating quarantine guidance for close contacts.

Revising components of port agreements.

'I felt safer on the cruise than Walmart':COVID-19 protocols on cruises prove effective, initial CDC data shows

Boost and cruise:CDC pushes for COVID-19 boosters in new optional program for cruise lines

What do the CDC updates mean for cruisers?

According to the CDC's "Operations Manual for CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships Operating in U.S. Waters":

Physical distancing during shore excursions and transportation will turn into a recommendation for "Highly Vaccinated" and "Vaccination Standard of Excellence" ships.

"Highly vaccinated" ships have at least 95% of passengers and crew fully vaccinated. "Not highly vaccinated" ships have less than 95% of passengers and crew fully vaccinated. Ships that fall under the third and newest tier, "vaccination standard of excellence," have at least 95% of passengers and crew "up to date" with their COVID-19 vaccines, which would mean full vaccination plus any eligible booster shots.

Cruise lines can resume approved "passenger interactive experiences" that had to be suspended before because of COVID-19.

The length of quarantine for close contacts still depends on vaccination status, Daigle said. However, with the new guidance, if a traveler is disembarking from the ship within 36 hours, the cruise ship operator may allow the traveler to stay in their original cabin if they will be alone in the cabin.

The general components of port agreements have been revised and the CDC has clarified what documentation is needed for medical and housing agreements, according to Daigle.

The remainder of the guidance for the voluntary program outlined in February remains the same, Daigle confirmed.

"While cruising will always pose some risk of COVID-19 transmission, this program provides passengers with the resources and tools they need to determine if the cruise they are planning is safe," Daigle said, noting the CDC is working closely with ships participating in the program to monitor COVID-19 protocol.

CDC says risk of getting COVID-19 on ships is moderate

Before adjusting protocols Friday for cruises in its voluntary COVID-19 program, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last Tuesday lowered its assessment of cruising to Level 2 or "moderate" risk.

Cruise ships had been lowered to Level 3 status in mid-February after being at Level 4 since December.

The health agency recommends that all cruise ships operating in U.S. waters choose to take part in the program, though it is voluntary. While it's optional, 110 cruise ships have opted in and only one opted out of participation, according to the CDC's Cruise Ship Status Dashboard which provides info on COVID-19 levels present on ships and what kinds of precautions those vessels are taking.

Here's what this means:The CDC's new COVID-19 mitigation program is optional for cruises

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, Eve Chen

Carnival cruises will not operate at pre-COVID-19 capacity until 2022

Cruise giant Carnival plans a phased-in approach for its return to sailing, beginning with fewer ships and fewer passengers, on a region-by-region basis. The company will not make a full return in terms of passenger capacity until 2022 at the earliest, according to CEO Arnold Donald.

"[The] nature of restart is going to be almost country by country and destination by destination," Donald said on an earnings call Friday, four months after the company paused operations because of the coronavirus.

Carnival's restart will mimic international reopenings.

The resumption of shoreside social gathering practices will be the "critical thing" as an indicator for the resumption of cruising. Donald pointed to Germany, where Carnival subsidiary AIDA Cruises will resume sailing three of its ships in August after the country began to reopen in the spring. Italy, he suggested, might be next.

AIDA's three scheduled cruises will not make port calls in Europe when it begins sailing in early August. Nor will it sail to Canada or the USA for the remainder of the year.

Because most of its client base varies by region, Donald said he believes Carnival is in a good position looking ahead, in spite of travel restrictions. For example, 95% of AIDA's passengers come from Germany – likewise, 92% of Carnival Cruise Line's passengers are from the USA.

Though AIDA is scheduled to sail, the majority of Carnival's brands, including flagship Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, Seabourn and Cunard will remain on pause for the time being, spokesperson Roger Frizzell told USA TODAY on Thursday, reiterating that "the time frame for restart in the U.S. has not been determined."

When will Carnival lines return to service in the USA?

None of Carnival's lines will sail until at least early October because all have extended their North American suspensions through the end of September, Frizzell said Thursday. That's two weeks longer than members of the trade group Cruise Lines International Association agreed to remain idle and nearly two months beyond the expiration of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's "no-sail order," which is scheduled for July 24.

Frizzell said the extended suspension has given Carnival extra time to finalize plans for health protocols and ship-capacity levels when it resumes operations.When its lines resume cruising, they are likely to take a phased approach, returning to sailing over time rather than all at once.

'We are going to be patient':Carnival plans phased return to cruising amid coronavirus pandemic

How Carnival addresses COVID-19 and onboard health

Carnival hasn't released a full plan for how its ships will combat coronavirus, but Donald noted some changes during Friday's call.

As they restart operations, ships will not be full. Carnival will follow the social distancing guidelines that the country of operation has determined appropriate.

"[We'll] probably start at less than 50% occupancy as we work out details," Donald said.

The company hopes to ramp capacity up quickly, if it is safe to do so.

On July 28, Carnival will host a joint summit with the World Travel and Tourism Council, where Donald represents North America.

During the event, open to the public for viewing online, Carnival said, medical, epidemiology and public health experts will "explore and share the latest best practice on the science of COVID-19 and how best to address the many practical questions people have about the disease."

2021 bookings are in demand

In spite of the industry's operational pause, which will have spanned at least six months in North America by the time CLIA's suspension expires Sept. 15, cruisers are still booking.

Though spending less on advertising, Carnival continues to see demand. In the first three weeks of June, nearly 60% of its 2021 bookings were new; the remaining bookings were the result of customers applying cruise credits in lieu of a canceled cruise.

The company hasn't seen many changes in the profile of cruisers booking itineraries, but there has been one discrepancy: Longer cruises, particularly those with a duration of longer than 21 days, are not being booked as much as shorter cruises, Donald said.

Carnival brands have attempted to provide cruisers with more "confidence" with the announcements of varying incentives and flexibility measures, including reduced or refundable deposits.

Delays, itinerary changes are causing cancellations

The company is negotiating the delay of delivery of 16 ships on order – 14 ships and two expedition ships – across its brands, Donald said.

Many Carnival cruise lines announced schedule changes and ship repositionings before Friday's call, causing a domino effect that resulted in the cancellation of at least 30 cruises.

Because of the delay of Carnival Cruise Line's newest ship, the Mardi Gras, and the delay of renovations on the Radiance, Carnival Cruise Line was forced to shift sailings, moving some itineraries to the Carnival Breeze and the Carnival Magic. Princess Cruises altered its plans for Alaska and Europe next summer.

13 ships to leave the fleet

In June, Carnival announced that six ships would leave its fleet within 90 days. Friday, Carnival said additional ships would be removed from the fleet, reducing it by nearly 9%.

The 13 ships will meet different fates. One was sold in June, four are agreed upon for sale, five will be disposed of and there are "preliminary" agreements for three ships, according to Friday's earnings report.

Company remains under investigation for its handling of the virus

In early May, Carnival was put under investigation by the U.S. Congress over its handling of outbreaks of COVID-19 on its ships.

The House of Representatives required the company, which owns at least nine ships that experienced outbreaks, including the Diamond Princess and the Grand Princess – to turn over all internal documents pertaining to COVID-19 from Jan. 1 onward.

Thursday, Frizzell told USA TODAY that Carnival is "providing any information requested."

'Feels very unfair':Families say cruise lines use a 'technicality' to refuse refunds

Israel, Myanmar, Laos: Countries relaxing COVID-19 travel restrictions

Countries across the globe are continuing to relax international travel restrictions related to COVID-19 with the European Union dropping its mask mandate for air travelers starting next week.

And COVID-19 travel warnings are being dropped, too. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last month removed all the remaining countries on its "Do Not Travel" list.

"More and more people are once again traveling to destinations around the world and enjoying all that comes with travel," the agency said Thursday in a statement shared by spokesperson Tom Skinner.

While many warnings and restrictions around the world have been relaxed, the CDC said that traveling can still increase the risk of exposure to the virus.

"The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and CDC are working with the White House and other federal partners to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the American public while returning to more normal routines safely," the CDC continued. "Travel requirements are made using the best available science."

Mask rules:Where are masks still required now that the mask mandate has been lifted?

Canada:Is easing entry requirements for some international travelers

New Zealand opening up to all tourists by July

New Zealand will reopen its borders to tourists from all countries by July, allow back cruise ships and make it easier for skilled workers to immigrate as it looks outward to the world again following the COVID-19 pandemic, the government said Wednesday.

New Zealand has been slowly reopening, first to Australians last month and then to tourists from the U.S., Britain and more than 50 other countries earlier this month. Wednesday's announcement will allow tourists from China, India and other countries to come starting July 31.

The government said it also planned to end the need for people to get predeparture COVID-19 tests by the end of July.

Post-pandemic travel:Is it OK to ask another passenger's vaccine status or request they mask up?

The European Union:Is dropping its mask mandate for airplanes, airports starting next week

Israel to drop arrival testing requirement for US visitors

Starting May 20, all U.S. travelers arriving to Israel by plane will no longer have to take a PCR test upon arrival and will not have to quarantine. That said, testing before flying to Israel will remain a requirement.

Laos reopens to international visitors after more than 2 years

The landlocked Southeast Asian nation of Laos reopened to tourists and other visitors Monday, more than two years after it imposed tight restrictions to fight the coronavirus.

Thipphakone Chanthavongsa, head of the government’s agency for controlling COVID-19, announced on Saturday the reopening date, the last in a three-phase plan, state news agency KPL reported. She said vaccination certificates or virus tests will still be required for Lao citizens and foreigners entering the country.

Travelers 12 years of age or older without vaccination certificates must be able to show negative ATK tests taken within 48 hours of departure for Laos.

As part of the easing of restrictions, entertainment venues including karaoke parlors will be able to reopen, but must comply with COVID-19 control regulations. All border crossings were reopened.

Myanmar issuing tourist visas

Myanmar announced Thursday it will resume issuing visas for visitors in an effort to help its moribund tourism industry, devastated by the coronavirus pandemic and violent political unrest.

Starting on Sunday, tourist “eVisas” will be provided online in a move also intended to harmonize tourism with neighboring countries, according to a government notice in the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper.

Visitors need a certificate of vaccination, negative results from a COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken shortly before their flight and a travel insurance policy. They must also take an ATK rapid test after arrival.

Myanmar on April 1 had already resumed issuing business visas, and on April 17 dropped a ban on international commercial flights. It had stopped issuing visas and suspended flight arrivals in March 2020.

Czech Republic eases all travel restrictions, too

Last month, the Czech Republic's Ministry of Health eased travel protocols for international visitors and Czech citizens.

"There are no longer any coronavirus restrictions for entry into the Czech Republic," CzechTourism said on its website April 14.

Jamaica relaxed some restrictions in April

Jamaica rolled back its COVID-19 entry restrictions in April with hoping that easier entry would attract more tourists.

The Jamaica Tourist Board announced last month that the Caribbean island would drop its indoor mask mandate and its pre-departure PCR COVID-19 testing requirement starting.

Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway? Here are the COVID entry restrictions for popular islands

As you consider travel, consider any restrictions and recommendations

While you plan travel, even as restrictions easel the CDC recommends all travelers stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines and "follow all domestic and international travel requirements and recommendations."

And, each week, the health agency updates its Travel Health Notices to alert travelers.

In addition, CDC’s COVID-19 Travel Health Notices are updated each week to alert travelers of the COVID-19 situation in international destinations and advise them on how to protect themselves before, during, and after travel.

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY, and The Associated Press

NCAA cancels championships, CSU and CHSAA suspend spring ...

Colorado State, the Mountain West and the Colorado High School Activities Association announced the suspension of all in-season spring sports Thursday and the NCAA canceled all remaining winter and spring championships amid concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.

The NCAA not only called off its popular men's and women's basketball tournaments, which were scheduled to begin next week, but also postseason competition in hockey and gymnastics and in all spring sports. The Mountain West, in response, canceled all spring sports for the entire season.

"These changes are based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat and the ability to ensure the events do not contribute to the spread of the pandemic," the conference, of which CSU is a member, said in an evening news release. "The health and well-being of student-athletes, as well as the campus and general communities, is of utmost priority."

The conference, with the approval of the presidents of each of its member institutions, also "established a moratorium on all on-campus and off-campus in-person recruiting activities for the foreseeable future."

The NCAA gave a similar explanation for its decision, adding that it would be impractical to host any championship events for the remainder of the academic year, "given ongoing decisions by other entities."

The American Hockey League, of which the Colorado Eagles are a member, also announced the suspension of its season Thursday.

CSU had two athletes — thrower Taryn Sieg and distance runner Eric Hammer — competing in the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Those were originally closed to fans, including family members of the athletes, and then canceled completely along with all other NCAA championship events.

High schools across the state were just beginning their spring sports seasons but will not be allowed to practice or compete until at least April 6, CHSAA announced, when the ban will be re-evaluated. CHSAA is the governing body for all high school sports in Colorado. CHSAA said decisions on whether or not to play games as scheduled Thursday would be left up to the participating schools and their school districts.

There were high school state basketball tournament games played on Thursday, including Resurrection Christian's 3A quarterfinal win over Lutheran.

But shortly after that game ended, CHSAA announced that all remaining state tournament games have also been cancelled due to coronavirus concerns.

Moving forward, CHSAA's news release said, "the situation will be monitored and evaluated with key decision-makers from around the state to determine when, or if, to resume a spring season."

More:Fans banned from Colorado basketball tournaments over coronavirus concerns

Coronavirus in Colorado: Tracking the confirmed cases, latest news and updates

More:Map: Where in Colorado has coronavirus been detected?

The CSU and MW bans do not apply to practices, with the conference announcing it would leave those decisions up to each member school. CSU was scheduled to hold its final spring football practice before spring break on Thursday, and an athletic department spokesman said it would still be held as scheduled, though there was no media availability.

CSU had previously planned on taking next week off from spring football while students are on spring break and was planning to resume practices March 24.

CSU extended spring break through March 24 on Wednesday and announced that classes will resume online from March 25 through at least April 10. Buildings on campus are scheduled to remain open during spring break and beyond, officials said, with access to some limited to students, faculty and staff.

CSU’s spring football game had been tentatively scheduled for April 9.

The American Hockey League suspended "play until further notice, effective immediately, due to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic," the league announced. "The AHL will continue to monitor developments and will provide updates on the 2019-20 season at the appropriate time."

The Colorado Eagles, the Loveland-based minor-league affiliate of the NHL's Colorado Avalanche, are in second place in the AHL's Pacific Division — three points behind the Tucson Roadrunners — with a 34-18-3-1 record. The Eagles defeated the Texas Stars 3-1 on Wednesday night in a home game at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland and were scheduled to play road games Saturday and Sunday in Stockton, California, and Tuesday in San Jose, California.

"The Colorado Eagles place the health and well-being of our fans, players, partners and staff as paramount to our operation," the team said in a news release. "In light of the American Hockey League suspending all future games as they continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation, the Colorado Eagles fully support the AHL and its decision. In addition to the postponement of future games, the Colorado Eagles will also be postponing all upcoming community events until further notice.

"The Eagles will continue to work hand-in-hand with the AHL and will continue to communicate updates regarding ticketing, promotional events and community appearances to Eagles Country. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we navigate these extraordinary circumstances."

The AHL is the top level of minor-league hockey in the United States and was following the lead of just about every other major sports organization in the country.

The NBA suspended its season Wednesday night after learning one of its players had tested positive for the COVID-19 strain of the coronavirus. The NHL and Major League Soccer announced the suspension of their seasons Thursday, and MLB announced a suspension of spring training games and a delay to its Opening Day.

The decisions by the NCAA, CSU and the MW came on a day that saw every major conference in the country cancel its postseason basketball tournaments, some already in progress, and several schools and conferences — including the Atlantic Coast, Big Ten, Pacific-12, Western Athletic and Conference USA — also announce the suspension of all spring sports. The Big Ten and ACC pulled their athletes out of competition at the NCAA's Indoor Track and Field Championships.

Coronavirus cancellations: Fort Collins, Loveland events canceled, postponed amid outbreak

Many schools and some conferences have also announced suspensions of spring football, cancellations of spring football games and a suspension of all recruiting activities by their football staffs. The MW said it was leaving decisions on recruiting activity up to individual schools.

Editor's note: As the coronavirus outbreak continues to evolve, we don’t want you to panic. In fact, quite the opposite. That’s why the Coloradoan is committed to providing you with accurate, up-to-date information so you can make informed decisions on issues affecting you and the people you love. As such, this story, and many others, are being provided free for all to read. Help us continue this important work by subscribing to the Coloradoan.

Kelly Lyell covers CSU and other local sports and sports-related news for the Coloradoan. Contact him at kellylyell@coloradoan.com, follow him on Twitter @KellyLyell and find him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KellyLyell.news. Help support Coloradoan journalists by purchasing a subscription today.

Coronavirus: Six Flags, Eiffel Tower, Grand Canyon close

USA TODAY staff

Major tourist hot spots across the world, including the San Diego Zoo, the Eiffel Tower, Pearl Harbor and the Grand Canyon, are taking precautionary measures by closing to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The Grand Canyon National Park announced in a press release on Wednesday that it would close to the public after receiving a request to do so from Coconino County, Arizona, health officials.

The park would close immediately until further notice, the press release said. The closure follows an announcement earlier this week that a Delaware North employee is the Grand Canyon South Rim's first identified case of the new coronavirus.

Since mid-March, facilities inside the park have gradually closed, including restaurants, lodging and trails, and the National Park Service suspended entrance fees.

Legoland New York Resort

In a statement posted to its website, Legoland announced it will be delaying the opening of its New York Resort until 2021 due to the pandemic.

"This move is consistent with the closure of venues and postponement of events worldwide. In this unprecedented and challenging time, nothing is more important to us than the health, safety and security of our guests," the statement read.

Those who have already purchased an annual pass or single-day tickets will be able to use those tickets for the new opening date.

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo announced Monday that the zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will remain closed until further notice. The popular California destination initially closed on March 13 and had planned to reopen April 1.

According to a statement, the zoo will "continue to have essential and dedicated staff on grounds at both parks, ensuring that the remarkable wildlife in our care continue to thrive. The urgent nature of our work to save species is unchanged, even in the face of this pandemic."

Six Flags

On March 30, Six Flags President and CEO Mike Spanos announced all of its theme parks across the country will suspended operations through mid-May amid the coronavirus pandemic.

"The top priority at Six Flags is the safety and well-being of our guests and team members," Spanos wrote on the company's website. "We continue to monitor and follow the guidance of federal, state, and local officials regarding COVID-19."

Navajo Nation tourist sites, casinos closed

The Navajo Nation declared a state of emergency over the new coronavirus on March 11, and all tourism locations, tribal parks and casinos on the reservation were closed.

At least three tribal members have tested positive for the virus. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said travel agencies that organize visits to the Navajo Nation have been notified and he hopes they will abide by the request. His emergency order urged Navajo people to stay home for 15 days. "We're trying to lessen that curve and get ourselves through this pandemic," he said. "We ask for our visitors to respect the sovereignty of the Navajo Nation."

Pearl Harbor memorial closed

The National Park Service said the Pearl Harbor National Memorial has closed temporarily. The site includes the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the 1,177 Marines and sailors killed when their battleship sank during the 1941 Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor. The memorial normally receives about 1.8 million visitors each year.

Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Guggenheim Bilbao

In case you're in Paris, be warned: The Louvre is closed until further notice. Elsewhere in the French capital, the Eiffel Tower is closed to the public.

In Spain, the Guggenheim Bilbao on March 14 said it will be closed until further notice.

Las Vegas' Neon Museum

The Neon Museum in Las Vegas has closed its doors to the public. The museum's president and CEO Rob McCoy announced the temporary closure following a March 17 order by Nevada governor Steve Sisolak to close nonessential businesses in the state for 30 days.

All events and programs scheduled at the museum have also been cancelled.

Employees at the museum will continue to receive full pay and benefits during the closure, and customers can call 702-387-6366 ext. 1 or email customerservice@neonmuseum.org to receive refunds for purchased tickets.

The Neon Museum's mission is to collect, preserve and exhibit classic neon light displays. At the museum, signs for defunct casinos like the Stardust and Riviera share space in the "Boneyard" with rejected signs from Binion's and the Golden Nugget that have been replaced with more modern examples.

Las Vegas show cancellations: Cirque du Soleil, Blue Man Group

And major Las Vegas shows are suspending performances, too.

All Las Vegas hotels and casinos are affected by mandatory Nevada state closures, as well as ticketed shows.

Caesars Entertainment previously announced that "all ticketed live entertainment" events held in its venues would temporarily suspend performances . Major shows at Caesars properties in Las Vegas include Rod Stewart performances and Reba McEntire, Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn's residency at Caesars Palace, plus Kelly Clarkson and Shania Twain residencies at Planet Hollywood.

“Refunds and exchanges for affected dates are available at the point of purchase," an announcement on the website read. "We are taking these bold measures now and look forward to welcoming guests back to enjoy world-class entertainment experiences as soon as we are able. We thank you for your understanding and patience as we work through these challenging circumstances.”

On March 14, Cirque du Soleil announced it would shut down all its shows on the Las Vegas Strip and throughout the world because of the outbreak.

Las Vegas show closures include "Ö" at the Bellagio, "KA" at MGM Grand, "The Beatles LOVE" at the Mirage, "Mystere" at Treasure Island, "Zumanity" at New York-New York, "Michael Jackson ONE" at Mandalay Bay and Blue Man Group at Luxor.

"From the very beginning of the new coronavirus outbreak, (Cirque du Soleil) took rigorous measures to protect its work teams and the public," the statement said. "Our priority has always been, and remains, the health and safety of our artists, our partners, our employees and our audiences. We will continue to monitor and assess the situation to determine when shows will resume."

Tickets for canceled performances will automatically be refunded within 30 days.

Additionally, Cirque shows in Austin, Chicago, Houston, New Orleans, Salt Lake City, Boston, Denver and Costa Mesa, Calif., as well as Montreal, Tel Aviv, Munich, Spain (Meloneras) and Australia (Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth), also are cancelled.

Also March 14, Penn & Teller called off their long-running comedy/magic show at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino.

Penn Jillette tweeted: "Out of concern and love for our audiences, & well, concern and love for everyone – we will be canceling our shows starting tonight for the next few weeks."

Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island closed

The Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island are both closed. Customers can go here for refund information, or call 877-523-9849.

Chicago shutters 'The Bean' and Navy Pier

Cloud Gate Plaza, a section of Millennium Park featuring Chicago's famous Cloud Gate sculpture nicknamed "The Bean," has closed. The rest of the park remains open, though events and programs in the park are canceled through April 12.

Navy Pier also is closed, according to its official website. The pier shut its doors to the public at least through April 2.

Broadway closes until at least April

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced a ban on gatherings of more than 500 people in a news conference March 12, shuttering Broadway. Cuomo said the shutdown, which The Broadway League said will last until at least until April 12, could remain in place for far longer than one month.

The Tony Awards, scheduled for June 7, also have been postponed to a later date. It is unclear how eligibility rules for the awards will change as a result.

Broadway national tours across the country also have canceled performances.

Washington closures

The White House and the U.S. Capitol are closed to tours until April 1, the House and Senate Sergeant at Arms announced March 12. The Capitol Visitor Center is closed to tours “out of concern for the health and safety of congressional employees and the public” amid broader fears about the spread of the coronavirus. During this time, only staff, credentialed press and those with official business will be allowed entry.

On March 13, the National Gallery of Art announced it was closing due to coronavirus concerns.

The Smithsonian said in a release that all its museums and the National Zoo will close temporarily starting March 14 "as a public health precaution due to COVID-19." No date has been set for reopening and updates will be provided on a week-to-week basis, the Smithsonian announced.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington announced March 17 that it has canceled all public performances and events scheduled through May 10.

Tickets for events can be exchanged or fully refunded, according to a release from the Kennedy Center.

Boston's John F. Kennedy Library announced March 12 in a release that it was closing immediately "after learning that two employees attended a conference at the Row Hotel in Somerville, MA last week where other attendees were confirmed to have come down with the coronavirus." The library said both employees are in self-quarantine, and encouraged people who visited the library between March 5 and March 11 to "monitor your health for symptoms of coronavirus, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath."

New York City closes the Met, Carnegie Hall, Broadway

On March 13, the New York Public Library announced it would close through the end of the month due to health concerns.

The Madison Square Garden Company announced on its website that it "supports Governor Cuomo’s decision regarding New York venues."

"We encourage you to check back to this site, which will be your source for further details about our future events, which we will update regularly as more information becomes available," the statement added.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art also announced March 12 it would temporarily close its doors at its three locations: the Met Fifth Avenue, The Met Breuer and The Met Cloisters .

As for the annual Met Gala held at the museum, Anna Wintour wrote in an article posted to Vogue on March 16 that this year's event has been pushed back.

Carnegie Hall also said March 12 all upcoming events and programming through March 31 are canceled.

Those who purchased tickets by credit card from Carnegie Hall for a performance that has been canceled will receive automatic refunds, and those who purchased with cash can also receive a refund through June 30.

The Frick Collection also announced March 12 it will close its galleries and libraries and cancel all planned events. Visitors requesting a refund for these events are encouraged to contact the institution directly.

'We’ll get you out':Travelers race to get home, prices soar after Europe coronavirus travel ban

Walking tours impacted by coronavirus

Though travel is diminishing as coronavirus concerns increase, some tours are still available for those interested.

Free Tours by Foot, a walking tour company which operates in DC, Seattle, Chicago, New York City and a dozen other North American cities, said it is still hosting tours on a smaller scale.

"The vast majority of our tours take place outside in small groups already. Our focus is on continuing to offer these and to arrange private tours to individual families and small groups travelling together who do not need to travel far to reach us. Like many in the service industry, we have worked with guides to take measures to help ensure the health of our guides and guests - we have a vast knowledge of where the bathrooms are to wash hands and we encourage online payment rather than cash."

Q&A:What you need to know about Trump's travel ban from Europe due to coronavirus

Contributing: USA TODAY Network; Associated Press

Coronavirus updates: Whiskeytown closes visitor center, park areas

This content is being provided for free as a public service to our readers during the coronavirus outbreak. Please support local journalism by subscribing to the Record Searchlight/Redding.com here.

Whiskeytown closes visitor center, park areas

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area announced Tuesday it will close some areas of the park and suspend services in the wake of COVID-19 concerns, and to comply with government-issued safety guidelines.

Closures include the park's visitor center at the intersection of California State Highway 299 and Kennedy Memorial Drive.

Some outdoor areas of the park, including trails and beaches, that allow park staff and visitors to adhere to good health practices — like those that allow people to keep a social distance — will remain open. For a complete list of open areas, go to www.nps.gov/whis.

Read updates about park operations at www.nps.gov/coronavirus.

Shasta Regional Community Foundation sets up COVID-19 fund

The Shasta Regional Community Foundation has set up a relief fund for people impacted by widespread closures and other fallout from the novel coronavirus.

The COVID-19 Relief Fund "will address the needs of our region’s most vulnerable residents who will be impacted by the Coronavirus," the fund's Chief Executive Officer Kerry Caranci said in a press release.

“We’re concerned about community health, and the potential for people to face economic hardship and food insecurity in the coming months," a statement from Caranci reads. "By being proactive during times of uncertainty, this fund will allow us to help one another through this challenge."

When funds are collected, the organization will "deploy resources to best meet evolving needs," including through grants to nonprofits, the press release reads.

To donate, go to https://www.shastarcf.org/funds/covid-19, or you can mail a check to Shasta Regional Community Foundation, 1335 Arboretum Drive, Suite B, Redding, CA 96003 with “COVID-19 Relief Fund” in the memo. You can also call 530-24-1219 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This year's Kool April Nites canceled

Kool April Nites has been canceled this year by its board of directors owing to concerns over COVID-19.

“We understand the disappointment and frustration of the public, but the health, wellness and safety of Redding’s citizens and our participants is our first priority,” the organizers said in a press release.

The group says the plan is to resume Kool April Nites next year, from April 17-25, 2021.

“This decision was not made lightly as we understand the impact that this will have on our city, however we believe in this community and its ability to move through hardship and come out stronger,” the group said.

The statement by the group’s board of directors said they canceled the hugely popular auto event based on recommendations from President Trump, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Centers for Disease Control to abandon all non-essential social gatherings.

Board member Jennifer Fontana said the group is asking for patience before answering more questions because they need to spread the word about this year’s Kool April Nites being called off.

“Our board of directors is comprised of volunteers with limited time and resources, therefore during this time we ask that you please be courteous and patient by limiting communications with our office while we work to inform all of our registrants, sponsors and volunteers,” the press release says.

“At the present time we’re still just trying to figure out how to move forward,” Fontana said minutes after the cancellation was announced Tuesday.

Win-River Resort & Casino closed for two weeks due to COVID-19 concerns

The Win-River Resort & Casino has closed its casino, hotel, restaurant and meeting facilities for the next two weeks, due to coronavirus concerns.

The tribal council of the Redding Rancheria, Win-River’s owner, will be meeting regularly to assess the situation and decide when to resume operations at the resort.

The resort closed its entire operation starting at noon on Tuesday, said Redding Rancheria Chairman Jack Potter.

During the two-week shutdown, workers will be “deep cleaning and sanitizing” the facility. “We’ve already implemented that, but it will be easier not having people there,” Potter said.

No coronavirus cases had been reported at the resort.

Tribal members needing to conduct business can come to the Redding Rancheria’s offices for the rest of this week, but will have to conduct transactions by telephone starting on Monday.

Non-Redding Rancheria members will have to conduct business with the tribal office by telephone starting on Wednesday, March 18.

Customers’ hotel reservations will be honored later in the year and musical performances are being rescheduled, Potter said.

Other casinos in the North State have also closed or curtailed their operations.

Cinemark will close all its theaters

Cinemark announced that it will close its theaters, including the two in Redding, starting ednesday.

The theaters will not reopen until “we believe it is safe to once again welcome moviegoers to our auditoriums,” the company said on its website.

There are two Cinemark theaters in Redding: Movies 14 on Old Alturas Road and Movies 8 on Park Marina Circle.

The company is extending the expiration date for its Movie Rewards points to June 30, 2020, and pausing Movie Club memberships while theatres are closed. Cinemark also will not bill monthly fees, the company said.

Redding police announce changes in service; emergency calls still top priority

The Redding Police Department said Tuesday morning it's making some immediate, temporary changes because of the coronavirus.

First, Chief of Police Bill Schueller assures residents the 911 system remains in service for emergencies.

"Our response to emergency calls will not change and will remain our top priority," the department said.

However, all non-emergency calls for service — where a suspect is not present — will be handled by phone or through the department's online reporting system.

"Only after initial phone contact will an officer respond and only when absolutely necessary to do so," the department said in a news release.

The police department's lobby at City Hall will still be open but fingerprinting services are being suspended,

Also being canceled are police ride-a-longs and building tours.

"Citizen participation in force options training is also suspended until further notice."

All training and meetings with more than 10 people are being canceled unless they're needed to protect public safety

The measures are being taken to lessen the risk of coronavirus exposure and spread of the virus for the public safety staff and the public.

"We appreciate your patience during this rapidly evolving situation," the department said.

For more, the RPD says residents can go to its website, reddingpolice.org, and its social media channels @reddingpolice for up-to-date information.

Libraries in Redding, Anderson, Burney likely to close soon

The Redding Library likely will close soon due to concerns over coronavirus, and if it does, the public libraries in Burney and Anderson will close their doors too, Kim Niemer, the city's director of community services, said Tuesday morning.

"We don't have a date certain on that," Niemer said, but the library's status could be decided at the Redding City Council's special meeting called for 6:05 p.m. Tuesday.

Council members will consider an emergency declaration "to coordinate planning, preparedness and response efforts regarding COVD-19."

The declaration "will help the community respond to the current threat and provide potential receipt of emergency aid from state, and possibly federal, authorities," according to the agendal.

So far, there is just one confirmed case of coronavirus in Shasta County, reported on March 8, said Kerri Schuette, spokeswoman for Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency. The man, in his 50s, is at home and is expected to make a full recovery, she said.

Another five Shasta County residents are in self-quarantine at their homes, Schuette said. Those people are not showing symptoms but are in quarantine because they were "potentially exposed to someone with the virus," she said.

Mt. Shasta Mall changes hours, postpones arrival of Easter Bunny

The Mt. Shasta Mall is changing its hours and postponing Easter Bunny visits, the Redding shopping center has announced.

Effective Monday, the mall’s new hours are noon to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

“We remain committed to supporting the operations of our retailers. We recognize that, in light of concerns surrounding the coronavirus, retailers and merchants may implement their own corporate policies regarding modified hours or temporary store closure,” mall management posted on the website.

Meanwhile, the mall is postponing the arrival of the Easter Bunny.

“Should the situation change, it may open closer to Easter,” the mall said. Easter is April 12.

Newsom asks restaurants, health clubs, movie theaters to close 'for the moment'

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has recommended health clubs and movie theaters close, and restaurants provide take-out orders to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

"We are directing those gyms and the health clubs close down for the moment, as well as those movie theaters," Newsom said Monday night.

What's more, Newsom is recommending restaurants across the state stop serving patrons inside their establishments.

More:Coronavirus schools: Local districts shut down K-12 schools

We "are asking our restaurants to close down for the moment, provide take out if they wish and operate in that frame," Newsom said. "That will focus alignment throughout the state of California (that) at this point we believe is necessary."

More:Here's how Shasta College is transitioning to online courses during COVID-19 outbreak

The governor's Monday night advisory for restaurants comes a day after he called for the closure of bars and wineries in the state.

March 16

Dollar General asks customers to reserve first open hour for senior shoppers

Starting Tuesday, Dollar General is asking customers to devote its stores' first hour of operation in the morning for seniors, one of the groups most vulnerable to the coronavirus.

Staff at Dollar General Corporation, headquartered in Tennessee, announced Monday the company "wants to provide these at-risk customers with the ability to purchase the items they need and want at the beginning of each day to avoid busier and more crowded shopping periods."

Stores will close one hour earlier than usual each day to allow employees to clean and restock store shelves. Opening times will stay the same.

Check your Dollar General store's normal operating hours at https://bit.ly/2wcfqvd.

One SAFE Place suspends some services

One SAFE Place will suspend gatherings that are not mandatory at its Sierra Center. It also announced it won't accept physical donations at this time.

"We understand the (coronavirus) may be creating extra anxiety for people who are experiencing abuse," One SAFE Place said on its website. "We are committed to continuing to serve everyone who needs us, (and) we are also committed to protecting the health of our clients and team, and doing our part to prevent the spread of the (virus)."

Advocates will be on site from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, but staff ask those seeking help to call the hotline at 530-244-0117 if possible, especially if they feel sick or suspect they have been exposed.

Jury trials could be suspended in Shasta County; casino cuts back on gaming stations

Shasta County Superior Court officials are asking the chief justice of the California Supreme Court to allow the lower court to suspend new jury trials over the next month.

Gov. Gavin Newsom's strict guidance on public activities, announced Sunday afternoon, as well as the California Department of Public Health's recommendations, guided the court's decision to suspend trials from now through April 13, Shasta Court Executive Officer Melissa Fowler-Bradley said.

Three criminal trials in progress will resume on Tuesday, Fowler-Bradley said. No new jury panels will be ordered to report to the courthouse until April 14.

Rolling Hills Casino cuts back on gaming stations

Rolling Hills Casino and Resort in Corning has reduced the number of operating gaming stations and taken other measures to ward off the spread of the novel coronavirus.

In the wake of the widespread outbreak, attendance at Rolling Hills is “definitely off a reasonable amount, for sure,” said General Manager Steve Neely.

He said the establishment has “shut off every other machine on our floor,” creating more space between patrons and taking the number gaming stations from 850 to 425.

Casino staff members are also cleaning gaming tables, slot machines, ATMs and other frequently-touched surfaces every two hours, according to the casino’s website.

Buffet diners are also now being required to sanitize their hands before going through the line, where restaurant staffers will dish up diners’ food. Before, patrons could pick up the tongs and serve themselves.

“We’re just trying to stay in front of it the best we can,” said Neely.

Some tribally-owned casinos in California have temporarily closed since the virus emerged.

On Sunday, Cache Creek Casino Resort near Sacramento announced that it will voluntarily close for an unknown amount of time due to coronavirus concerns, but that its employees would still be paid and receive benefits.

California officials have requested the cancellation of any gathering of 250 or more people in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

On Monday, President Trump urged people not to gather in groups of more than 10 for the next two weeks to help stop the coronavirus from spreading.

United Way of Northern California starts relief fund

United Way of Northern California has established the Coronavirus Relief Fund to help North State residents affected by the crisis.

The fund will provide grants to agencies assisting affected individuals, especially senior citizens; support expanded operations of 2-1-1 NorCal, which has been activated as a public information resource; support coordination of nonprofit response through Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster and similar groups; and allow the United Way to strengthen its staffing and infrastructure to assist.

To donate:

Go to www.norcalunitedway.org and click the “donate” button

Text CORONANORCAL to 91999

Or mail a check to the United Way of Northern California, c/o Coronavirus Relief Fund, 2280 Benton Drive, Building B, Redding, CA 96003.

Forest Service says call first before visiting its offices

U.S. Forest Service officials are asking people to call first before they visit their offices in California and Hawaii, officials announced Sunday night.

“We are asking all visitors to self-assess using the following USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture provided questions,” a news release sent out by Lassen National Forest spokesman Mark Gaston said.

Questions include:

Have you or someone you’ve been in close contact with been diagnosed with the coronavirus.

In the last two weeks have you or someone you’ve been in close contact with traveled to places like China, Korea, Japan or Europe.

Do you have or have you had any cold or flu symptoms, including a fever greater than 100.4.

If the answer to these questions are “no” visitors are asked to call the office they plan to visit first for assistance in entering. If you answer “yes” to any of the questions, call the office and someone will see if they can assist through other means besides face-to-face.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19,” Gaston said in the news release.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Coronavirus in Iowa: A look back, March 16-22: Reynolds closes ...

Register staff

State and federal officials say there are simple, everyday steps you can take to avoid catching or spreading respiratory diseases, including COVID-19: Cover your coughs and sneezes, thoroughly wash or sanitize your hands and stay home if you are sick. Get more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at CDC.gov/coronavirus, or call 211, the Iowa Department of Public Heath's hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Personnel at health care facilities, schools, the state government and businesses in Iowa are taking a series of measures in response to the novel coronavirus, which causes a disease known as COVID-19.

► Looking for the latest? Here's what we know, March 23-29.

Here's the latest on what Iowans need to know:

Reynolds signs executive order closing salons, spas, tattoo parlors and more

March 22: Iowa's salons, barber shops, medical spas, massage therapists, tattoo shops and swimming pools will be closed until March 31, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced at a news conference Sunday.

She signed an executive order, which will take effect at 10 p.m. Sunday, she said. She has also suspended foreclosures on residential, commercial and agriculture properties.

Reynolds and DHS Director Kelly Garcia are also asking schools, churches and community centers that have space to open day care for children of essential workers, such as hospital staff and first responders.

The department will conduct an on-site visit to ensure it's age-appropriate, can accommodate groups of 10 children, and that all caregivers have passed background checks. The department will also help locate caregivers, Garcia said.

Iowa day care centers have not been ordered closed, but DHS has asked caregivers to do temperature checks of all children before check-in, remove all plush toys and to keep children far apart.

► Read the full story here.

Reynolds asks spring break travelers to self-quarantine for 14 days

March 22: In announcing Iowa's 22 new cases Sunday, Gov. Kim Reynolds said spring break and other travelers "should strongly consider" self-quarantining for 14 days. That extends to domestic and international travelers, she said.

"This will support Iowa's ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, and limit the introduction of the virus from other points of travel," Reynolds said in a statement.

If school was in session, children would be returning back from spring break Monday. Many Iowa families still took their spring break vacations as planned.

On March 15, Reynolds recommended all schools close for four weeks.

Iowans turn to homemade masks, hospitals plead for donations

March 22: Nurses and other health-care workers across the nation and in Iowa have made pleas for donations of personal protective equipment as they face a nationwide shortage while trying to keep up with an influx of patients.

Joyce Flinn, director of Iowa Homeland Security, said Sunday the state has submitted a request to FEMA for protective medical supplies — based on needs at hospitals and other clinics — and is expected to receive a shipment Monday or Tuesday. The Iowa National Guard and the Iowa Department of Public Health has prioritized "hot zones" and will get the equipment to those areas "as quickly as the product comes in," she said.

Meanwhile, Iowans are volunteering during their self-quarantine time to sew homemade masks for hospitals to have as a back-up option and for non-profit organizations like homeless shelters that are also in need of protective masks during the shortage.

A Facebook group of seamstresses has grown to more than 600 members since it started Friday. They're connecting volunteers to organizations who have requested homemade masks.

►Read the full story here.

Another 22 positive cases in Iowa

March 22: There are 22 new positive cases of COVID-19 in Iowa, the Department of Public Health announced Sunday, bringing the total number of cases to 90 across 24 counties.

The new cases were reported in:

Cerro Gordo County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old

Dallas County — one adult 61-to 80-years-old

Dubuque County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old

Harrison County — two adults 61-to 80-years-old

Johnson County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old; one adult 41- to 60-years old; two adults 61-to 80-years-old

Kossuth County — one adult 18- to 40-years-old

Linn County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

Poweshiek County — one adult 81-years-old or older

Scott County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

Sioux County — one adult 61-to 80-years-old

Tama County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old; one adult 41- to 60-years old

Washington County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

Woodbury County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

► MORE:Here's a map of the coronavirus cases in Iowa

Johnson County mayors urge residents to stay home

March 22: Mayors in Iowa City, Coralville and North Liberty are asking residents to only leave their homes for essential items. They represent the state's third larges

The Johnson County mayors are also asking residents to strictly adhere to Gov. Kim Reynolds' order to restrict gatherings of 10 people or less and her guidance to self isolate for 14 days if returning from out-of-state for business or spring break vacation. The three mayors represent Iowa's third largest metropolitan area.

Their plea comes a day after Des Moines' mayor issued a similar voluntary "stay home, stay healthy" request to help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus.

UIHC asks for donated face shields

March 22: Leaders at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics have made an "urgent request" for face shields to protect all employees who interact with patients, visitors and coworkers as it works to fight COVID-19 in Johnson County — the epicenter of positive cases in Iowa.

The health system is asking businesses and individuals to donate new or used protective face shields.

UIHC currently has a supply of face shields for staff who provide patient care or do screenings at hospital entrances, but are wanting all employees to wear them.

According to a posting on its website, the protective face shields should be lightweight and adjustable, with a shield area that extends below the chin. Staff will disinfect any used face shields that are donated.

The hospital is also in "critical need" of N95 masks, isolation/surgeon masks, face masks with attached eye shields and isolation gowns.

Information on how to donate can be found on UIHC's website, UIHC.org/kind-donations.

► Read the full story here.

Metro orthopedic employee tests positive for COVID-19

March 22: An employee of Iowa Ortho, a metro orthopedic clinic, has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement from the company Friday.

The employee did not display symptoms while working on-site, the company said.

Iowa Ortho is working with public health officials to determine its next steps and will continue its enhanced screening measures and temperature checks of all patients coming in its Des Moines and Clive locations.

"We are proceeding with the utmost caution as the safety and well-being of our patients and staff is our top priority," the statement reads. " ... As essential health care workers, it is critical for our doctors and staff to continue to care for emergent and urgent orthopedic issues."

DHS: Keep kids at home, run fever screenings at day cares

March 22: The Department of Human Services released new guidance Friday, advising parents working from home to keep their children with them. It also directed day-care providers to take the temperatures of children as they arrive each morning, sending home those running fevers.

DHS also encouraged day-care providers to limit the number of people in a room to 10 or fewer; to keep children farther apart; and to report clusters of absences.

Parents and day-care operators across the state are grappling with how to care for their children while also attempting to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus.

In other states where cases of COVID-19 are more widespread than in Iowa, child care centers have shut down statewide to stem the spread.

► Read the full story here.

First downtown Des Moines hotel closes

March 22: The Des Lux Hotel in Des Moines has closed temporarily because of the COVID-19 outbreak, making it the first downtown Des Moines hotel to close because of the coronavirus.

Other downtown hotels remain open with skeleton staffs and reduced amenities.

► Read the full story here.

Help us report this story

The news surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Iowa is unlike anything the Register has covered. We'll be updating this story as news develops.

You can read what happened in central Iowa prior to this week regarding COVID-19 here.

You can help us report this story by letting us know how novel coronavirus is affecting your routine, your workplace and your day-to-day family life. We also take requests: Just tell us what you want to know. Send news tips to our online contact form, or call us at 515-284-8065.

More on the outbreak:

More on preventing the virus' spread:

More on the impact:

Iowa sees largest single-day spike in positive tests

March 21: Twenty-three more Iowans have tested positive for COVID-19 — the largest single-day jump in positive cases, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

There are now 68 cases of the novel coronavirus across 17 counties in the state.

Des Moines mayor asks residents to leave home only for essentials

March 21: Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie has asked residents to voluntarily stay home — only leaving for essential items like groceries, medicine and health care — for at least two weeks to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Iowa's capital city.

He has also waived all enforcement at downtown parking meters, recognizing that downtown residents are likely parking on city streets as they work from home or have been laid off.

Cownie said the decision was made after consulting mayors from across the country who are considering or have implemented similar measures.

"I just think it's best practice and I'm hopeful that other mayors, county officials and other elected officials would follow suit," he said. "I think each day that we don’t take these kinds of measures we're threatened by the spread of this coronavirus pandemic.

"And I just think that advising anything different is a step in the wrong direction."

More: Read the entire news release

Loans available to small businesses

March 21: The United States Small Business Administration has issued a disaster declaration for Iowa, allowing "pandemic-impacted" small businesses to apply for low-interest loans, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Saturday.

The Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations that can be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable or other bills.

The interest rate for small businesses is 3.75% for small businesses and for non-profits is 2.75%.

Applications can be made online at DisasterLoan.sba.gov/ela/. For questions, contact the disaster assistance customer service center at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Meskwaki Tribe issues emergency declaration

March 21: The Meskwaki Tribe in Iowa issued an emergency declaration after members of the tribe tested positive of COVID-19 from community transmission on the Meskwaki Settlement, according to a Meskwaki Tribal Council news release.

"Tribal Council hereby determines and directs that all individuals residing on the Settlement shall shelter in place and shall not leave their homes unless going to and from grocery stores, pharmacies, or the Meskwaki Health Clinic effective March 21, 2020; and that all social, community, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events of more than 10 people are hereby prohibited at all locations and venues on the Meskwaki Settlement; and close the Meskwaki Settlement to outside visitors," the statement reads.

Auditor: Public funds can be used to promote businesses

March 21: Iowa Auditor Rob Sand said Saturday that public funds can be used to "encourage the public to patronize local businesses," such as printing flyers or using newspaper or radio ads that emphasize ordering take-out or delivery from local restaurants.

Such use of public money would generally raise red flags in an audit, however, Sand's office said during the novel coronavirus pandemic, it meets the "public purpose" test as a way to retain jobs.

The auditor says governments should follow three procedures: Record the public purpose prior to spending money, don't show favoritism to particular businesses and avoid conflicts of interest.

Local officials considering other unusual measures should first contact the auditor's office at drew.stensland@aos.iowa.gov.

Iowa National Guard cancels some plans, stands ready to help

March 20: The Iowa National Guard is postponing and canceling planned drill and training to minimize the possible spread of coronavirus, it announced in a news release Friday evening.

It has also closed the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, the Camp Dodge Wellness Center and the USO. It canceled all armory and facility rentals through May 19.

The National Guard is prepared to send service members to help with coronavirus response "if necessary" to help with things such as storage, transportation and delivery of personal protective gear and providing tents to communities affected by the pandemic. Col. Michael Wunn said they may have orders to carry out those missions next week, but expects it would be a small-scale operation to help with transportation and logistics.

Nine of its service members are currently supporting the State Emergency Operations Center at Joint Force Headquarters in Johnston. The soldiers attached to the operations center are helping to coordinate with other state agencies that are leading the response to the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, Col. Wunn said.

Iowa suspends routine hotel, home bakery and restaurant inspections

March 20: The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals is temporarily suspending routine inspections of hotels, home bakeries, restaurants, bars, food trucks and other food establishments, it announced in a Friday evening news release.

Reynolds closed all bars and suspended dine-in options at restaurants on Tuesday as part of the state's effort to limit the spread of coronavirus.

The state department is also temporarily suspending inspections of food processing plants. It has a contract with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to inspect those plants, but the FDA ordered it to stop.

It is also waiving late fees for businesses that need to renew their food licenses if the tardiness is during the governor's disaster proclamation. This does not affect current late fees.

Secretary of State reschedules upcoming special elections

March 20: Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announced on Friday that upcoming special elections in three Iowa counties will be rescheduled for Tuesday, July 7. Concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus prompted the change, he said in a news release.

The Cedar Falls special election in Black Hawk County, the Craig special election in Plymouth County, and the Board of Supervisors special election in Woodbury County are now set for July 7, which is the first available date, according to release.

Pate said he consulted with county auditors before the decision and noted that under Iowa law the special elections can not be held within four weeks of the June 2 primary. Any absentee ballots that were already cast will be counted on July 7, Pate tweeted.

Additional COVID-19 case identified; total at 45

March 20: The Iowa Department of Public Health announced Friday it has been notified that another Iowan has tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of known cases in Iowa to 45.

According to a news release, the person is between the ages of 41 and 60 and lives in Allamakee County.

Sen. Ernst requests 'immediate action' to help Iowans abroad

March 20: After multiple Iowans stranded in Peru during the coronavirus pandemic expressed frustration with a lack of communication from the U.S. Embassy there, wheels seem to be turning on getting them home.

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst called for "immediate action" to get those stuck in Peru and elsewhere abroad returned quickly. Ernst's office said a letter she sent to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged him to act quickly to ensure the health and safety of these Americans.

Kohl's stores close nationwide

March 20: Beginning March 19, Kohl's announced it was closing all of its stores nationwide through April 1 "to support efforts underway to slow the spread" of coronavirus.

In a statement, the company said it was giving all of its store associates two week's pay to help them get through the period when they won't be receiving regular hourly wages.

The department store chain has four stores in metro Des Moines.

► More:Here's a map of the coronavirus cases in Iowa

Federal assistance available to Iowa cities, counties

March 20: Local governments in Iowa can apply for federal disaster funds to help pay for costs incurred while fighting the spread of COVID-19.

Cities, counties and some nonprofits can now request money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency after President Donald Trump declared a national emergency because of the pandemic last week.

Among other things, FEMA can offer funds to help governments build additional medical shelters, buy medical equipment, disinfect public facilities, pay for emergency operation center costs, procure and distribute food and medicine and cover overtime costs.

“This grant is designed to reimburse costs associated with emergency operations for jurisdictions and specified private nonprofit organizations that are on the front lines of the COVID-19 response,” said Melissa Spencer, deputy coordinator of the Story County Emergency Management Agency in a news release.

According to a fact sheet provided by Polk County officials, the state will receive the FEMA funds before disbursing them to the individual recipients. Governments have 30 days after the disaster declaration — until April 12 — to request the grants.

Iowa suspends property tax fee collections, evictions

March 20: Gov. Kim Reynolds on Friday suspended the collection of some fees on property taxes and halted most home evictions through a series of relaxed regulations aimed at helping Iowans impacted by the coronavirus.

Reynolds' office initially announced she was suspending the collection of property taxes as part of her orders, but her office later corrected that and said it was just for penalties and interest for property taxes.

Reynolds announced the temporary changes through a state public health emergency declaration that went into effect immediately.

The declaration pauses restrictions and regulations from certain statutes and other state rules. That includes suspending the collection of property taxes and related penalties and interest.

The order also suspends some evictions under the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, or the Manufactured Home Communities or Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Read more on the proclamation:Iowa suspends property tax fee collection, evictions; relaxes or extends deadlines on regulations in reaction to coronavirus outbreak

CORRECTION: The governor's office initially said Iowa was suspending property taxes, it later corrected that information. Iowa is suspending penalties and interest as it relates to the collection of property taxes. This article has been corrected.

UIU will hold virtual commencement ceremony

March 19: The Upper Iowa University in Fayette will now hold their commencement ceremony on May 9 as a virtual ceremony.

"I understand an in-person ceremony is preferred, but I also have no doubt that everyone would agree that the health, safety and welfare of our students, visitors and employees drive this decision," Duffy said. "To provide the graduates their much-deserved recognition, UIU is making arrangements to continue to celebrate this momentous occasion virtually."

As details become available, the school will post them on the commencement web page.

UI dentistry student tests positive for COVID-19

March 19: University of Iowa officials informed campus and community members Thursday that a dentistry student has self-identified as having tested positive for the novel coronavirus. It's the first COVID-19 case reported on campus.

In a letter sent Thursday to the UI community, school officials said others who had contact with the student have been notified of the test results. The student, who was last on campus March 12, also saw a dentistry patient while symptomatic, according to the letter. After learning of the results, school officials informed the Johnson County Public Health department. The student does not live on campus and is self-isolating, according to the letter.

"It is not the practice of Iowa Department of Public Health to notify employers or institutions of a positive case," the letter reads. "The university is able to share this news because the student self-identified, but the university will not be able to report each time a member of the UI community tests positive, moving forward."

Read the full letter and learn of campus resources here.

801 Grand building to undergo deep clean after COVID-19 exposure

March 19: A visitor to Principal Financial Group's downtown Des Moines office tested positive for COVID-19, leading to nearly 20 floors at 801 Grand to go through a "deep clean" starting tomorrow. The building is expected to

According to a notice sent to employees Thursday evening, all workers in the building are being required to self-quarantine for at least 14 days.

"We have alerted our downtown Des Moines employees and other tenants of the building," spokesperson Jane Slusark said in an emailed statement. "We have asked all Principal employees who work in the 801 Grand office complex to self-quarantine. We will also deep clean the Principal floors on Friday. A majority of Principal employees in Des Moines are already working remote and we have significantly limited visitors to our campus. Our top priority remains protecting our employees and their families, while continuing to serve our customers.”

Story County Sheriff's Office to take reports over the phone

March 19: The Story County Sheriff's Office announced it has closed to the general public and is changing how it responds to calls in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a news release Thursday.

Deputies at the sheriff's office dispatch center are asking more questions when someone calls than is standard procedure, and are trying to take reports over the phone whenever possible. If a deputy needs to meet the caller in-person, they ask them to come outside their residence.

Similarly, the office asks for residents to do as much of their business online, by mail or by phone as possible. In-person meetings are by appointment only with the exception of attorney visits, bail bonds and warrant services, according to the release.

The Story County Jail is also taking measures limiting contact: all visitations, programming and classes in the facility have been canceled until April 1.

This doesn't mean all in-person services are suspended; first responders continue to work "around the clock" on public safety issues, according to the news release.

Des Moines Public Schools' Central Campus gets a deep clean

March 19: The Des Moines Public Schools cleaned Central Campus to disinfect surfaces and clean equipment.

While teachers were pitching in, the school's director Tascha Brown found gloves, masks, gowns and other supplies from the school's nursing program, marine biology program, and other science classes. She plans on donating the supplies to Unity Point.

Bridgestone plant to close for two weeks

March 19: Bridgestone is sending about 1,400 workers home from its Des Moines agricultural tire manufacturing plant for two weeks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, said Steve Vonk, president of U.S. Steelworkers Local 310.

The shutdown begins at 6 a.m. Sunday, Vonk said, adding that Bridgestone is closing all North and South American facilities to protect the health of employees.

"They're really looking out for their employees," he said.

No employee at the Des Moines plant, which makes tires for farm equipment, has tested positive for the coronavirus, Vonk said.

More: New Iowa unemployment figures show slight rise, but don't reflect most coronavirus impact

Hy-Vee says it's adding window panels at checkout to protect employees, customers

Hy-Vee says the grocer is adding temporary window panels at checkouts to help provide an additional layer of protection for its employees and customers.

The panels are being installed at the checkout because it’s the point in the store where customers and employees are in the closest contact, the West Des Moines-based grocery chain said Thursday.

"In the aisles or at our service counters, customers and employees have more flexibility in placing distance between themselves, but the setup of the checkout limits that ability," Hy-Vee said in a news release.

The company said the panels are in place in its Des Moines-area stores, and will be installed in all other Hy-Vee locations over the next few days.

Additionally, Hy-Vee said it will no longer allow customers to bring in reusable bags, effective Friday. The company said it's not always easy to tell how clean the bags are, and stopping their use is another step the chain can take to help prevent the spread of the virus. The bag restriction will be in place until further notice.

Des Moines Public Library offering digital cards

March 19: The Des Moines Public Library tweeted Thursday that it has created digital cards for people who do not yet have a library card to sign up and access thousands of eBooks and Audiobooks. The card also includes streaming video and free digital access to the New York Times.

The library has also added eBooks and Audiobooks that are available to everyone, including those with library cards outside of Des Moines.

People who already have a Des Moines Public Library card do not have to sign up for the digital card, as they already have access to the library's services. People can sign up for the card at www.dmpl.org.

On Twitter, the library also encouraged people needing an internet connection to drive to its branches and use the branches’ WiFi connection from outside. Even though people aren’t in the buildings, the free internet will still be accessible.

Physician assistants have expanded abilities under new law

March 18: Gov. Kim Reynolds on Wednesday signed a bill that will expand the role of physician assistants in Iowa, a move she said will assist the state in the fight against novel coronavirus.

“As the state continues to combat the spread of COVID-19 and the strains it will place on our health care system, this will be yet another tool in our arsenal,” Reynolds said in a news release.

The bill, Senate File 2357, gives physician assistants the full ability to prescribe medicine, allows them to be reimbursed by Medicaid and gives them similar legal protections to other health care professions.

The Iowa Legislature passed the bill last week, prior to suspending the session for 30 days due to the spread of the virus.

University of Iowa closes dorms, cancels commencement ceremonies

March 18: Out of fear of exacerbating the spread of COVID-19, the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa and Simpson College are closing dorms, canceling spring commencement ceremonies and extending virtual classes through the end of the school year.

University leaders on all three campuses stressed the need for sweeping action in announcing the news.

The University of Iowa announced "sweeping efforts to keep campus safe," including closing dorms, canceling commencement ceremonies and extending virtual classes through the end of the school year. UI officials said the decision was made after receiving word of community spread in Johnson County.

Previously, all classes were scheduled to resume virtually Monday, and in-person classes were expected to start again after two weeks. Now classes will resume as virtual classes on March 30 and continue online for the remainder of the semester.

Dining halls and most residence halls — initially planned to stay open — will close Thursday. Exceptions will be made for students who cannot easily move off-campus.

Officials said they are working to organize an alternative commencement celebration.

More:University of Iowa, Iowa State, Northern Iowa cancel spring commencements, in-person classes for the semester in response to COVID-19's spread

Nine more COVID-19 cases confirmed; state total to 38

March 18: Nine more Iowans have tested positive for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus, according to a news release Wednesday from Gov. Kim Reynolds' office.

This brings the total cases in Iowa to 38. The nine new cases also represent the largest single-day increase in positive diagnoses of COVID-19 since it was first found in Iowa on March 8. The prior biggest jump was on Tuesday, with six new cases.

The new cases include three residents of Johnson County; two residents of Polk County; two residents of Dallas County; and one resident each from Washington and Winneshiek counties.

Reynolds also announced a news conference for Thursday afternoon.

Sick Iowans denied coronavirus screenings

March 18: There are Iowans frustrated with what they say are testing criteria in the state that are jeopardizing human life in the pandemic. Meanwhile, when tests are completed, the state's public health department is releasing less information about the results than officials in some other states.

The Iowa Department of Public Health, the main agency tasked with overseeing the state's response to coronavirus, did not immediately return a request for comment Wednesday regarding complaints about the lack of testing.

In recent days, the department has provided general information about Iowa's testing capabilities.

Read the complete story here.

IDPH urges groups to donate extra health care supplies

March 18: The Iowa Department of Public Health is urging businesses and organizations to donate health care-related protective devices.

Department officials welcome any kind of personal protective equipment, or PPE, but especially gloves, gowns, eye protection and masks. Donations should be made through the local county public health department or emergency management office.

"This is an unprecedented public health disaster, and stocks of personal protective equipment for health care providers are being used rapidly," said Ken Sharp, division director of Acute Disease Prevention, Emergency Response and Environmental Health. "Any organizations that have extra PPE supplies that aren't immediately needed should consider donating them to help those on the front lines of this disease."

Hospitals in Cedar Rapids have already canceled non-essential surgeries for at least the next month in part to preserve medical supplies. Des Moines hospital officials have also warned about a lack of medical supplies.

Local health department contact information can be found here. County emergency management information can be found here.

Grassley criticized for using the term 'Chinese virus' to describe coronavirus

March 18: U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley set off a round of criticism for his Wednesday morning tweet asking why China would be upset if people call the novel coronavirus the “Chinese virus.”

“I don’t understand why China gets upset bc we refer to the virus that originated there the 'Chinese virus' Spain never got upset when we referred to the Spanish flu in 1918&1919,” Grassley tweeted.

His critics on social media told Iowa's senior senator that the term has contributed to racism towards Asian Americans.

"China is attempting to shield itself from criticism for covering up the gravity of the coronavirus and silencing whistleblowers who tried to warn the world. Despite what the communist Chinese government may want, there’s no hiding that the coronavirus originated in Wuhan, China," spokesperson Michael Zona said in a statement.

President Donald Trump has used the terms “China virus” and “Chinese virus” to refer to the coronavirus and defended the language, saying he doesn’t believe it creates a stigma.

COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus, was first linked to an outbreak in Wuhan, China, but has since spread around the world. The World Health Organization has declared the virus a pandemic, meaning a disease that has spread worldwide.

Iowa Board of Regents declares state of emergency amid pandemic

March 18: Following suit with the governor, the Iowa Board of Regents president declared a state of emergency Wednesday and immediately loosened restrictions around sick leave and family leave.

In announcing the state of emergency, the Iowa Board of Regents waived limits on the number of hours of accrued sick leave employees can use to care for an immediate family member and limits on using family leave to care for a child whose school or childcare center closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more here.

IDOT relaxes expired driver's license, registration rules during emergency

March 18: The Iowa Department of Transpiration will grant leniency to people with driver's licenses and license plates which expired in the past two months after Gov. Kim Reynolds' Tuesday emergency proclamation to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Drivers' licenses and license plates which expired on Jan. 17 or later will be considered valid for as long as the emergency declaration lasts, IDOT said Wednesday.

Purchasers of vehicles also will not need to obtain a title and register their vehicle within 30 days during the emergency. People purchasing vehicles from a dealer will not be required to obtain license plates within 45 days, IDOT said.

Driver’s license and ID business is being conducted by appointment only to limit the number of people waiting in line. All non-commercial drive tests will be rescheduled.

Hy-Vee, Fareway dedicate shopping hour for elderly, others vulnerable to coronavirus

March 18: Starting Thursday, Hy-Vee will offer a special shopping hour from 7-8 a.m., seven days a week, for senior citizens ages 60 and older, expectant mothers and those who are considered to be at higher risk for serious illness.

On Tuesday, Fareway said the first hour of operation each day, 8-9 a.m., will be reserved for customers 65 and over, expectant mothers, people with serious medical conditions and "anyone with an underlying medical condition that increases the susceptibility to serious illness from COVID-19."

Both Iowa grocery chains said Tuesday they're cutting store hours to give employees more time to clean and restock shelves. Fareway will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Hy-Vee said its new store hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

DPS says people may be charged with misdemeanors for holding gatherings of 10 or more people

March 18: The Iowa Department of Public Safety said Tuesday night that people may be charged with simple misdemeanors for violating Gov. Kim Reynolds' emergency proclamation to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak.

A news release from the governor's office said the proclamation will be in place until nearly midnight on March 31.

Under the governor's order, restaurants will end dine-in services but can provide food and beverages through drive-thru, carry-out and delivery. Other facilities such as bars, gyms, theaters and casinos must close.

The prohibition includes events considered social, such as for community, spiritual, religious, recreational, leisure and sports-related purposes.

Under Iowa law, a simple misdemeanor is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine between $65 and $625.

“As this public health event rapidly unfolds, we will continue to partner with law enforcement agencies across the state to uphold and respond to Governor Reynolds’ health and safety directives,” said Stephan Bayens, Iowa Department of Public Safety commissioner in a news release. “Together, we will all see this through.”

Beaverdale family trades books for toilet paper, gloves in little free library

March 17: Bob Meeley's little free library has been a source of joy to those who stumble upon it. Now it's something more.

On March 12, Meeley took the books out of the library and put in goods that have been in short supply since the coronavirus was labeled a pandemic. In the place of stories of adventure and intrigue are now rolls of toilet paper, wet wipes, Emergen-C, and gloves. At the top of the library is a sign that says "Flatten the Curve!" with a chart advocating for proactive measures to avoid stressing the health care system. Read the story here.

► More good news:Cedar Rapids business owners team up to make, give away hand sanitizer

Six new COVID-19 diagnoses brings total Iowa cases to 29

March 17: Six more Iowans have been diagnosed with COVID-19, the respiratory disease that can stem from coronavirus infection. It is the largest single-day jump in cases, and brings the total in Iowa to 29.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, three of the cases are residents of Johnson County, and one each from Adair, Blackhawk and Dallas counties. The news release did not specify their ages, genders or if they had traveled to high-risk countries, been in contact with other people identified as infected with coronavirus or if they were instances of community transmission, the term for when a case has no easily identifiable point of origin.

Amy McCoy, a policy adviser for the IDPH, said at this point in the virus' spread, trying to pinpoint the source of the infection isn't as important as mitigating the spread. She emphasized the need for social distancing and other individual actions to prevent its spread.

► MORE:Here's a map of the coronavirus cases in Iowa

Photos: Downtown Des Moinies' Court Avenue closed on St. Patrick's Day

Hy-Vee making changes to stem coronavirus' spread

March 17:Hy-Vee is shortening its hours, closing the dine-in portion of its restaurants and suspending its weekly coupon ads.

The company announced Tuesday the grocer will only be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., saying it will use the extra to more thoroughly clean the store. In compliance with Gov. Kim Reynolds’ order earlier in the day, Hy-Vee will not allow diners to eat in the store. It is also closing the Market Grille bar.

Customers also will not be able to order food directly from Hy-Vee’s Aisle Online program. Any shoppers who want groceries delivered will need to order through apps like Shipt and Door Dash. In its news release, Hy-Vee said this will allow workers to focus on pick-up orders and the needs in the store.

Hy-Vee is suspending the weekly coupon ads in newspapers because it cannot guarantee local stores will have those items in stock. The company already printed some of those ads, which consumers may see this weekend. Hy-Vee says it will still honor those advertised sales.

“This is an unprecedented situation for all of us,” Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman, CEO and president, said in a statement. “We’ve never dealt with anything like this before, and we know our customers haven’t, either. We appreciate their patience and loyalty as we navigate these changing times.”

Coronavirus patients discharged from hospitals

March 17: At least two coronavirus patients have been released from Iowa hospitals.

A coronavirus patient who had been hospitalized at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in recent days has been discharged. Molly Rossiter, a spokeswoman for the Iowa City hospital system, confirmed the information Tuesday.

Rossiter did not release any other information about the patient, including whether the patient has recovered.

The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics announced Sunday that its latest patient was admitted. The hospital system is separately treating another patient who tested positive for coronavirus. That patient was admitted on March 11, according to the hospital.

In a news release, it said the individual was infected with the virus through community-acquired transmission, another term for “community spread” that is used to describe infections from an unknown source. At a news conference on Tuesday with Johnson County public health officials, Mercy Iowa City spokeswoman Margaret Reese said its hospital system has been treating two coronavirus patients. One has been discharged, according to Reese. She did not provide more information.

More:As UIHC treats second patient with COVID-19, staff ramp-up screening, start a hotline

DMARC hands out food to families

Des Moines Area Religious Council gave bags of food to families in the Carver Elementary parking lot. Many area public school children rely on the school system for meals. When the schools closed to prevent the virus from spreading, many lost access to that meal.

Cedar Rapids hospitals suspend non-urgent surgeries

March 17: Elective surgeries are being suspended as of Thursday at four prominent health care providers in Cedar Rapids to both prevent the spread of the coronavirus and preserve medical supplies.

“We’re getting down to critical volumes (of supplies), and it's a little uncertain when it can all be replenished,” Dr. David P. Hart, the chief medical officer and board president of the Physician’s Clinic of Iowa, said. “We don't know how bad this can get, and we just want to be prepared and to make sure we have enough supplies if things do get worse.”

The suspended surgeries include things like carpal tunnel and hip and knee replacement. Urgent procedures will still be done, Hart said. Even so, he expects this will affect hundreds of patients. The suspension is slated for at least a month, with officials revisiting the policy weekly.

The decision was jointly made by officials at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital, Physician’s Clinic of Iowa, Mercy Medical Center and the Surgery Center of Cedar Rapids. Mercy Medical Center is unaffiliated with MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center.

More:Des Moines hospital official warns: 'We do not have enough of supplies' to combat coronavirus

DART waving bus fares

March 17: Starting Tuesday, the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority is waiving bus fares in an effort to curtail the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The metro’s public transportation provider won’t accept cash, bus passes or tickets, DART said in a news release on its website.

Beginning Wednesday, bus riders will also be instructed to get on and off the bus via the rear doors, away from the driver.

DART also encouraged riders to practice social distancing: staying 6 feet apart, remaining at home when sick and only taking the bus to go to work or other location that’s absolutely necessary.

On Sunday, the authority began cleaning its buses daily with an antiviral cleaning agent recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Staff have cleaned the buses at the end of the service day.

Corteva says one employee in Johnston tested positive for coronavirus

March 17: Corteva Agriscience said Tuesday an employee at its Johnston campus has tested positive for COVID-19.

The seed company said it’s identifying and reaching out to people who “had close contact with the impacted employee, advising self-quarantine."

"We have informed the appropriate public health officials, the employee is quarantined, and we are working to support the employee and their family at this time," the company said in a statement.

"Within our offices, following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other local authorities, as well as our own policies, we have taken significant actions to contain any potential spread."

Corteva, the new parent of Pioneer seed, said it's cleaning and disinfecting the site as needed as well. “The health and safety of our employees is our top priority," the company said.

Fareway stores restrict operating hours

March 17: Fareway supermarkets announced that beginning Wednesday, they will limit their hours to 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday because of the coronavirus outbreak.

In a statement, Fareway communications manager Emily Toribio said the reduced hours will allow extra time for cleaning, sanitation and restocking.

In addition, she said the first hour of operation each day, 8 a.m.-9 a.m., will be reserved for customers 65 and over, expectant mothers, people with serious medical conditions and "anyone with an underlying medical condition that increases the susceptibility to serious illness from COVID-19."

 National Guard deployments to go forward

March 17: Deployments announced by the Iowa National Guard prior to the pandemic will move forward as scheduled, a spokesperson said Tuesday.

About 680 Iowans from two units who received their deployment orders within the last six weeks will leave in May and June, Col. Michael Wunn said.

In late May, the 133 Infantry Battalion out of eastern Iowa — also known as the Ironman Battalion — will deploy about 550 soldiers to Operation Spartan Shield in U.S. Central Command, located in the Middle East, Wunn said.

Coming from armories in seven communities — Charles City, Davenport, Dubuque, Iowa City, Iowa Falls, Oelwein and Waterloo — this deployment is expected to last a year. Their mission will still involve security and “force protection operations,” as a news release previously announced.

In June, two troops from the 113th Cavalry Regiment will deploy about 130 soldiers to Operation Enduring Freedom in U.S. Africa Command.

Also lasting a year, this deployment will include 90 soldiers from Le Mars, Iowa, and 40 from Johnson. These troops will help with “military operations, exercises and security cooperation activities on the African continent, its island nations and surrounding waters,” as a news release previously announced.

Full-time staff members of the Iowa National Guard are following travel restrictions announced Monday by the Department of Defense, which limits military and personal travel to just “mission essential” or personal hardship trips, including funerals and family emergencies. Traditional guardsmen are not subject to the personal travel restrictions, but the Guard has significantly restricted training, conferences and any events that can be delayed or postponed.

“This is a very fluid situation,” Wunn said, adding that they are making decisions every day based on recommendations from the Iowa Department of Public Health, the CDC and the Department of Defense.

“We will protect the health of the force and make sure they are being taken care of while doing what we can to stop the spread,” Wunn said. “And we will balance that with our focus on mission readiness in case we need to support the Governor as well as the strict timeline our forces are on to prepare for deployment.”

The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum and the Wellness Center at Camp Dodge will be closed to the public by the end of the day Tuesday, though Camp Dodge will remain open, Wunn said.

The Guard is currently looking at events scheduled to take place at armories across the state and accessing next steps with organizers.

Reynolds prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people, closes theaters, casinos, restaurants, bars

March 17: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds is closing restaurants, bars and other recreational facilities in Iowa for two weeks in an effort to restrict the spread of coronavirus.

Reynolds made the announcement in a news release Tuesday. The order goes into effect at noon and continues until March 31.

The news release says the governor has issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency, a proclamation designation that allows her to take these actions.

Restaurants will be able to provide food through drive-through, carry-out and delivery only. Bars and other facilities like gyms, theaters and casinos will close.

Iowa lawmakers grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded power

March 17: The Iowa Legislature has suspended its session for 30 days after passing legislation early Tuesday morning to keep the government running and grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded powers to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The bill, unanimously passed by lawmakers just after midnight, grants Reynolds, a Republican, increased ability to transfer spending between state agencies and departments, giving her flexibility to allocate funds where needed. It also allows her to tap 10% of the state's $200 million Economic Emergency Fund to deal with the coronavirus.

The bill also waives schools' requirement to make up class days canceled as a result of the virus and passes a supplemental appropriation for some state programs, including $525,000 for processing COVID-19 test kits at the State Hygienic Lab at the University of Iowa.

More:Iowa lawmakers grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded power as they suspend legislative session due to coronavirus

More:Iowa waives 4 weeks from school year as classes stop for coronavirus

Urbandale Community School District employee tests positive for COVID-19

March 16: An employee of the Karen Acres Elementary School in Urbandale has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently in quarantine.

The employee, who is not being identified by the school district out of concerns for confidentiality, has sought medical attention, according to a notification from the Urbandale Community School District. The notice did not specify the person’s condition.

The district also announced that all of its schools would be closed beginning March 16 for four weeks, adhering to the recommendation from Gov. Kim Reynolds. The closure includes cancellation of all school-related programming, activities, athletics, Adventuretime and community education classes. Under current plans, students would return to school on Monday, April 13.

There have been 23 known cases of coronavirus in Iowa. Some of the cases involve people who do not know how they contracted the virus, and some of those infected have had to be hospitalized. COVID-19 is the respiratory illness caused by the virus. It is unclear if this employee is part of that 23 or if the person is an additional case.

More:Urbandale district employee tests positive for coronavirus

Des Moines-area YMCAs completely shut down for 15 days

March 16: The six membership branches and the Y-Camp serving the greater Des Moines area will shut down for 15 days, officials announced Monday night.

No coronavirus cases have been linked to a YMCA facility, but its leadership is following federal, state and local health officials' guidance to try to slow its spread, Ruth Comer, the YMCA's vice president for marketing and communications wrote in an email.

It had previously canceled all group fitness classes, personal training sessions, youth programming and facility rentals and suspended Learn and Play centers and guest passes.

Full-time staff will remain employed during the closure. President and CEO of YMCA of Greater Des Moines Leisha Barcus asked members to pay dues and register for future programs as they're able to help it operate once the crisis passes.

Des Moines Water Works suspends water shutoffs

March 16: Des Moines Water Works, which provides drinking water to most of the Des Moines metro area, announced Monday that it would stop shutting off the water service of delinquent ratepayers.

Water needs to be available to help residents sanitize, which will hopefully slow down the spread of the novel coronavirus, the utility said in a news release. The suspension is temporary.

Des Moines Water Works’ water remains safe to drink, the release said. COVID-19 hasn’t been detected in drinking water, and water works’ treatment practices kill viruses. There’s also no need to boil tap water.

The U.S Environmental Protection Agency said, “Americans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.”

Starting Tuesday, water works will also prohibit walk-in customers at its general office building on George Flagg Parkway. In-home visits, except for emergencies, will also be suspended.

Water customers can pay online at dmww.com, by phone at (515) 283-8700, at the office’s dropbox, by mail or at pay stations at local Hy-Vee or Wal-Mart stores.

The utility has also started “stockpiling” chemicals, repair parts and other equipment to ensure the production and distribution of safe drinking water, the news release said.

Iowa DOT may make customers wait in cars, encourages appointments

March 16: The Iowa Department of Transportation is encouraging people to postpone in-person services and, if unavoidable, for customers to make an appointment before visiting.

Many services, including renewals, address changes and certified copies of driving records, are likely available online. To view those services, or make an appointment, visit https://mymvd.iowadot.gov/. Customers can also call 515-244-8725.

Officials hope appointments will reduce the number of people waiting at the service centers. Staff will watch the size of groups in the waiting areas and may ask people to come back another time or wait in their vehicles if the room becomes crowded, according to a news release.

Staff will also ask customers questions designed to evaluate their risk of exposure to the coronavirus and risk of exposure to other customers. If someone is determined to be a “heightened risk,” they will be asked to delay their visit. The news release did not specify what criteria will be used to make that judgment.

DOT staff are also instructed to increase how often they clean and disinfect the facilities.

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