IOWA (IRN) – With record hospitalizations and nearly 300 patients in ICUs, Iowa on Wednesday reported its largest one-day increase in reported deaths. At 10 a.m. Wednesday, the state was reporting 2,064 COVID-19-related deaths, an increase of 40 deaths since the state’s tally at 10 a.m. Tuesday.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The White House Coronavirus Task Force says the spread of COVID-19 cases in Iowa is exponential and unyielding. Iowa has the third highest case count in the country. The task force said Iowans should not gather with anyone outside of their household until the number of cases decreases, always wear a mask in public, and get a flu shot.

IOWA (IRN) – Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, who is 87 years old, tweeted that he tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday. Grassley, as president pro tempore, is the most senior Republican in the chamber, and third in line for presidential succession. He says he’s feeling fine.

WAYNE COUNTY, IA (IRN) – The Wayne County Public Health’s Facebook page has been taken down by Facebook. Shelley Bickel, administrator, says the page promoted wearing a mask and social distancing, and since many in the county don’t take the virus seriously, a community member likely complained. Facebook hasn’t responded.

DUBUQUE, IA (IRN) – A business in Dubuque is defying Governor Reynolds’ mask mandate. The owner of 7 Hills Brewing Company says that “Simon Says” should not now be “Science Says,” and the use of masks should be determined by the business owner. Police have issued three citations to the restaurant for not complying. The latest citation means a $750 fine and $85 in court costs.