COVID-19 Cases Again Increasing in Area, Including Lawrence County

A number of area counties, including Lawrence, have seen a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases since the beginning of June, with 40 new cases alone added from June 7-June 11 in that jurisdiction alone. Area hospitals are also seeing an increase in the number of patient admissions for the Coronavirus-caused illness.

“We are all tired of COVID-19, we get it,” started a post on the Lawrence County Health Department Facebook page. “But, now is not the time to let our hair down during these summer months and not take precautions if you aren’t vaccinated.”

The LCHD post continued by asking residents still on the fence about getting vaccinated to reconsider, and to contact health department staff with any concerns at 417-466-2201.

“There is so much misinformation out there,” said the LCHD. “Call us to talk through your worries. We are here for you.”

As of Monday, June 14, Dade County continued to have zero reported cases, a number Health Dept. Administrator Pamela Cramer would like to see remaining the same.

“Even though times are starting to get back to normal, we must keep being smart about being protected and safe during COVID-19,” said Cramer. “Counties surrounding us battle with large outbreaks of COVID-19 and so far our county is staying vigilant and avoiding any large outbreaks.”

Cramer said that almost 60 percent of residents in Dade County have been vaccinated for COVID-19, with efforts to further immunize the community continuing.

“According to our region, we are second on the list in percentages of getting our county all vaccinated. That’s something I’m very proud of,” said Cramer, who also offered some tips on how to prevent the spread of the illness.

“Continue to protect yourself and others. It is very important to wash your hands often, Stay 6 feet apart from others who don’t live with you, get vaccinated, avoid large crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces.”