BREAKING: First case of COVID-19 reaches Macon County

by Benjamin Nelson

MACON, MO — Health Officials on Wednesday confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Macon County, Missouri.

Official Press Release from The Macon County Health Department:

“The Macon County Health Department has confirmed the first positive case of COVID-19 in Macon County. The person is in self quarantine and those with close contact are also in self quarantine. We will not be releasing more information about the person to protect their privacy.

Healthcare and public health are working together to contain the spread of this virus, in a manner to protect the health of the community and the safety of our healthcare providers. They are communicating with local agencies as well as the Department of Health and Senior Services to maintain current situational awareness on COVID-19.

Symptoms of COVID-19 are fever of 100.4°F or above, cough and shortness of breath and appear 2-14 days after exposure. Exposure could happen if you have been in close contact with someone who is positive with COVID-19, or, have travelled outside the country to a place where the virus is widespread or areas within the United States that are experiencing widespread community transmission.

If you exhibit these symptoms and may have been exposed, stay at home to avoid transmission to others. Please call ahead to your doctor or call the State of Missouri’s COVID-19 hotline at 877- 435-8411. You can also contact the Macon County Health Department at 660-395-4711 to discuss risk assessment, possible testing and to direct you to take the correct first step.”