FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Carol Bookhout, Public Information Officer

carol.bookhout@polkcountyhealth.org

Media Line: (417)326-7250

Health officials confirm first death due to COVID-19 in Polk County

Patient contracted the virus through contact with another COVID-19 case

The Polk County Health Center today reported the first confirmed death of a Polk County resident due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

The death occurred Aug. 5, 2020 in a Polk County resident who recently tested positive for COVID-19 and was the contact of an earlier confirmed case.  

“The Polk County Health Center staff and I extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones during this time of loss,” said Michelle Morris, administrator. “Now more than ever, each of us must do our part to prevent the spread of this virus.”

Steps that everyone can take to slow the spread of the virus include:  

  • Wear a mask or face covering especially when you are unable to practice social distancing.
  • Practice physical distancing by staying 6 feet away from people who are not a member of your household.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterward.
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home if you have cold or flu-like symptoms for seven days after your illness onset or three days after your fever resolves without fever reducing medicine, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Since the outbreak started in December 2019, 60,935 cases and 1,312 deaths have been reported in Missouri.

Citizens Memorial Hospital offers a COVID-19 Hotline 417-328-4300.  More information can be accessed on their website www.citizensmemorial.com/covid-19.

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