FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Carol Bookhout, Public Information Officer
carol.bookhout@polkcountyhealth.org
Media Line: (417)326-7250
Polk County, Missouri reports new COVID-19 cases
POLK COUNTY, MO July 8, 2020 – The Polk County Health Center has confirmed 10 positive cases of COVID-19 in Polk County.
One Polk County patient contracted the virus as a result of travel outside the region. The patient is currently at home in isolation following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nine additional Polk County cases are direct contacts to a previously reported positive case. All patients are currently at home in isolation. As with all positive cases, the Polk County Health Center contact tracing staff will be daily monitoring individuals for COVID-19 symptoms throughout the isolation period.
All those who may have come into contact with the individuals while infectious have been contacted and will be monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms by the Polk County Health Center contact tracing staff.
As we continue to take steps to reopen our community, it is even more important for all of us to interact with our environment carefully. Remember 1-2-3. Wash hands (1), practice social distancing (2), and stay home if you are sick (3). Additionally, we encourage all residents to wear a face covering while in public areas, especially when social distancing may be difficult.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- cough,
- fever,
- shortness of breath,
- chills,
- muscle pain,
- sore throat, and
- new loss of taste or smell.
If symptoms do develop, seek medical attention.
COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It spreads between people who are in close contact with one another.
If you believe you have symptoms of COVID-19 please contact your primary care physician via phone or virtual visit for treatment recommendations.
“It is our responsibility to take steps to suppress COVID-19 in our community and interact with our environment carefully. If someone is sick or thinks they may be sick, they need to stay home. We all need to practice social distancing, proper hand hygiene and wear a face covering whenever possible,” says Michelle Morris, Polk County Health Center Administrator.
For more information, please visit the Polk County Health Center website: www.polkcountyhealthcenter.org
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