First Postive COVID-19 Case Found in Dade County

by James McNary, Articles Editor

The Dade County Health Department has announced that an individual received a positive test result for Coronavirus infection this morning in Dade County.

This is the first positive case of COVID-19, the disease caused by the Coronavirus, in Dade County since the pandemic began earlier this year. Dade was one of the last handful of counties in the state of Missouri that had yet to have a positive case of COVID-19.

DCHD Administrator Pam Allen said that the infected person is currently isolated in their home, and that the Health Department will contact any close individuals that may have been exposed to the virus. Guidance will be provided to them on how to watch for symptoms.

Barton County reported its first case Thursday, after a spike of cases in Jasper County as the state prepares to roll back temporary restrictions that had been aimed at preventing the spread of the virus.

Before being diagnosed, the infected individual from Dade County visited multiple locations in Barton County. The individual was infectious and symptomatic and did not wear a mask. Anyone who was at these locations during the dates and times listed below is considered to be at low risk for contracting COVID-19, but should monitor for symptoms. There is no need for these people to self-quarantine unless symptoms develop.

Locations visited by the individual in Barton County included: Tractors, Lamar, June 8, 10-11 a.m.; Dollar General, Lamar, June 10, 5-6 p.m.; Sonic, Lamar, June 11, noon-1 p.m.; Walmart, Lamar, June 12, 11 a.m. - noon.

The disease caused by the Coronavirus, known as COVID-19, is spread via 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: Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue (feeling tired), muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and/or diarrhea.