Shelby County holds highest 7-day positivity rate in Missouri; Gough issues warning

SHELBY COUNTY, MO -- The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is reporting that Shelby County currently holds the highest seven day positivity rate in the state of Missouri with a rate of 54.2%. This rate means that of those who get tested, slightly over half are testing positive for the coronavirus. The last update to the state's website was December 5th. A reported 59 tests were administered within the county in the last seven days with 32 being positive for COVID-19. Shelby County Health Department Administrator, Audrey Gough, is urging people to mask up and stay home if exhibiting symptoms.

"It's sad to see that we have the highest positivity rate for Missouri, especially when you look at the positivity rate for the state as a whole. We can do better. Thanksgiving holiday is beginning to show up in the numbers, a few were reflected in this current percentage. We have had many more since December 2nd. It's as simple as wearing a mask, stay out of large groups, wash those hands. AND stay home if you are having any symptoms. I can't tell you how many times this week we heard - "I thought is was just my allergies, I always have these symptoms this time of the year." Getting tested is not a crime. It doesn't stop the spread if you keep going about your day thinking you're ok because you aren't having a fever. This symptom is being reported but it hasn't been the only one. Loss of taste or smell or both is prevalent. It's time for folks to start looking at this on a more serious note. We have many folks suffering and struggling to get well. We've had at least 2 deaths so far. Our nursing homes are seeing a rise in their numbers. Everyone needs to do better with taking precautions and being considerate of the health and wellbeing of their neighbors, friends, and those who live in this county, state and country," stated Gough.

To view the Show-Me-Strong COVID-19 Dashboard, visit the following link: https://showmestrong.mo.gov/public-health-county/