FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Carol Bookhout, Public Information Officer

carol.bookhout@polkcountyhealth.org

Media Line: (417)326-7250

Polk County reaches 10 positive COVID-19 cases

POLK COUNTY, MO June 15, 2020 – The Polk County Health Center has confirmed its 10th positive case of COVID-19 in Polk County. The patient, a Polk County resident, is currently at home in isolation following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Testing was offered to close contacts of the recent positive cases.  As a result of the testing completed Monday, June 15, 2020, the 10th positive case was identified.  The patient has been in quarantine since notification from the PCHC staff of their exposure.  Due to the cooperation of the patient there are no direct contacts to monitor and no public exposures to announce.

“We believe the early identification of positive cases and potential exposures has prevented the spread of the virus among our community.  I would like to commend and thank the Polk County Health Center staff and community partners on their hard work and dedication to helping our community” We appreciate the cooperation of all those who have been affected and wish everyone a safe and happy summer ahead,” says Michelle Morris, Polk County Health Center Administrator. 

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.   

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:  

  • cough,
  • fever,
  • shortness of breath, 
  • chills,
  • muscle pain, 
  • sore throat 
  • and new loss of taste or smell.

Citizens Memorial Hospital is offering drive-thru testing for COVID-19 with a CMH doctor’s order. Patients with COVID-19 symptoms should complete a CMH Virtual Visit or call a CMH clinic for screening to obtain the order.  More information is available at citizensmemorial.com.

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