Online Update: LawCo Reports 9 New Cases of COVID-19; Total Now 27

by James McNary, Articles Editor

The Lawrence County Health Department announced June 25 that 9 more new cases of COVID-19 have now been confirmed in that county.

There are currently 20 active cases in Lawrence County, with 7 previously recovered; putting the total number of confirmed cases at 27.

The LCHD has instructed those individuals testing positive for COVID-19 to self- isolate in their homes, and any close contacts they have or may have had are in process of being contacted. The health department stated they will continue to monitor these individuals and provide instruction, in a statement.

Many of those testing positive only traveled between work and home prior to being diagnosed; however, some visited a number of public locations while they could have been infectious, including:

Rapid Robert's in Monett at Central Avenue (State Highway 37) and Cleveland Avenue (across from Dairy Queen). This location was visited on the afternoons of June 12, 13, and 14. The individual or individuals involved did not wear any mask or face covering during this visit.

The Dollar General in Purdy was visited at about 6 p.m. on June 18 by an individual or individuals later testing positive for COVID-19. The individual or individuals involved did not wear any mask or face covering during this visit.

Walmart in Monett was visited between 2:30-3 p.m. on June 19 by an individual or individuals later testing positive for COVID-19. The individual or individuals involved did not wear any mask or face covering during this visit.

Lowe's in Monett was visited between 5-5:30 p.m. on June 20 by an individual or individuals later testing positive for COVID-19. The individual or individuals involved did not wear any mask or face covering during this visit.

Anyone who may have been present at these locations during these dates and times should watch out for the following symptoms: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea.

If symptoms do develop, contact your healthcare provider for instructions before visiting any facilities or making any in-person contacts.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Lawrence and surrounding counties, the LCHD is urging the public to take the following precautions:

• Wear a mask or face covering in public (this helps protect others from those who are infected but not yet showing symptoms)

• Avoid large crowds and gatherings

• Maintain at least 6 ft of distance between persons when possible

• Stay at home when sick

• Wash hand frequently, don’t touch the face, and clean often all frequently touched surfaces

More information from the LCHD is available at their website, including about COVID-19 and testing, at www.lawrencecohealth.com.