The Moniteau County Health Center has reported another spike in new COVID-19 cases, less than a week after the county reported its second coronavirus-related death.
Moniteau County reported 11 new cases Monday afternoon. Last Tuesday, the county also reported its second coronavirus death since the start of the pandemic, an individual in their 60s who had tested positive for COVID-19 on June 29.
In total, the county has now seen 92 cases since the start of the pandemic, 16 of which are active, with 74 recoveries and two deaths as of Tuesday.
Two patients with active cases have been newly admitted to the hospital for their symptoms, the Health Center reported Monday.
Monday's spike is the second such increase in active cases the county has seen since the beginning of July.
The Health Center explained in a statement on social media the increase in cases is considered to be from community spread, the term used for when cases are no longer able to be linked to a definitive source.
The Health Center emphasized the importance of adhering to proper social distancing and using a mask that covers the nose and mouth when social distancing is not possible.
The Health Center stated it is working with the patients with identified cases and their contacts to ensure they are isolated from others.
The Moniteau County Health Center reminded people in a news release last week to take preventive actions to prevent spread of respiratory viruses, including avoiding close contact with people who are sick; avoiding touching one's eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; washing one's hands often with soap and water; cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces; staying home if one is sick; and wearing a cloth face covering when in public.
The Health Center also stressed that older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for more serious complications resulting from COVID-19.
Anyone who believes they have been exposed to COVID-19 and develops a fever and other symptoms, such as a cough or difficulty breathing, should contact their health care provider for advice before showing up for an appointment.
For more information, visit the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website at health.mo.gov/coronavirus or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov/coronavirus. A statewide COVID-19 hotline that operates 24/7 can be reached at 877-435-8411.
This story, first posted at 5:21 p.m. July 20, 2020, was updated with additional information on the morning of July 22.