(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha has announced that all city-owned parks and playgrounds have been closed to the public, effective immediately.

In a press release issued Wednesday, the city said it includes the playground and shelter houses at the City Lake. The lake itself remains open.

The release says while they are not aware of a positive case of COVID-19 in Hiawatha at this time, the action is being taken in an effort minimize the effects of the virus in the community.

The release adds the city will continue to evaluate the situation as the COVID-19 pandemic further evolves nationally, regionally and locally.