The Moniteau County Health Center confirmed the county's third and fourth cases of COVID-19 coronavirus Saturday.
One individual is in their 30s, while the other is in their 50s. One of these cases was travel-related, but the other marks the first instance of community spread among Moniteau County patients so far. However, the Health Center says there is no identified link between any of Moniteau County's COVID-19 cases. Besides this information, any other details about the patients will remain confidential. Of the four confirmed cases in the county so far, the first two patients have already recovered.
In a release, the Health Center said it is working in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to determine any close contacts of these individuals who may have possibly been exposed. If there were any, health officials will provide guidance to them and monitor them closely for the development of COVID-19 symptoms.
The Health Center said it urges the public to take appropriate precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19, including good hygiene, social distancing and limiting in-person interactions. Those who are sick, especially with a fever and cough or shortness of breath, should stay home and contact their health care provider for guidance regarding any next steps.
The Health Center will continue to update its website, www.moniteaucovid19.com, with information about the spread of COVID-19 in the county. Further guidance may be found at www.health.mo.gov/coronavirus or www.CDC.gov. The DHSS also has a 24-hour COVID-19 hotline, which can be reached at 877-435-8411.