Two Webster City financial institutions have announced additional building restrictions due to the increase in COVID-19 cases in the area.

Officials with WCF Financial Bank, 401 Fair Meadow Drive, and People’s Credit Union, 310 First St., said the lobbies of both businesses would be closed to the public.

WCF Financial said in a statement that staff would be available by appointment for business that could not be conducted by email or phone. The bank’s drive through operation will remain open normal business hours, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon.

Officials with People’s Credit Union said all branch lobbies would be closing for in-person transactions starting Friday, Nov. 13. The drive-up window will remain open, according to a statement released on the business’ Facebook page. To schedule an appointment for business that cannot be handled online or via phone, customers can call 832-6346. Those arriving for an appointment will have their temperature taken and will be required to wear a mask and use hand sanitizer. Officials said all touch areas would be sanitized between each appointment.

The Webster City Veterinary clinic also updated policies related to COVID-19. Masks will now be required for entry into the building and must be worn by all older than age 2. There will be a limit of 1 adult plus a child if needed per patient int he reception and exam area. Those needing meds or supplies can call ahead to 832-1700 and those items will be brought out to the vehicle.

Those who have been symptoms of COVID-19, who have been exposed to COVID-19 or who are waiting for test results are asked not to visit the vet clinic.

Van Diest Medical Center on Wednesday announced additional restrictions for visitors to the hospital. For the immediate future, no visitors will be allowed in the hospital inpatient or emergency settings. Officials said they believe the fewer contacts to potential disease carriers, the less likelihood there will be to contract or spread COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

Some visitor exceptions will be made for extenuating circumstances, including:

ØChildren admitted to the hospital

ØPatients receiving end-of-life care

For approved exceptions, only one visitor per patient will be allowed. They must be:

Ø18 years of age or older

ØEither immediate family members, powers of attorney, guardians or patient representatives

ØHealthy with no symptoms of illness, including fever, cough, or trouble breathing

The COVID-19 positivity rate climbed to 19.8 percent for Hamilton County on Thursday Thirty-four new cases were reported in the county. The total number of cases reported since March is 675. The number of individuals who have recovered during that time is 491, leaving 184 active cases, according to the coronavirus.iowa.gov dashboard.