FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

Carol Bookhout, Public Information Officer

carol.bookhout@polkcountyhealth.org

Media Line: (417)326-7250

Health Center announces additional potential COVID-19 exposure

POLK COUNTY, MO June 22, 2020 – The Polk County Health Center is updating the public of an additional potential exposure as a result of ongoing contact tracing investigations. 

During the PCHC investigation of our 11th case it has been determined that public notification of the following activity is warranted.

On Tuesday, June 16, our case visited Westlake Ace Hardware between the hours of 3:30- 5:00p.m. The case was not symptomatic and was not masked at the time. 

Anyone who was at the above location at the time of potential exposure is at low risk for contracting COVID-19, but should monitor for symptoms. There is no need to self-quarantine or isolate unless symptoms develop.  

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.   

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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