COVID-19 endemic response-transitioning from a pandemic response to an endemic phase of COVID-19

The State of Missouri recently announced we are transitioning from a pandemic response to an endemic phase of COVID-19. This change to endemic does not mean the end of COVID-19; it means that the disease is here to stay, and, that we have the resources to manage the disease in our daily lives. These resources are meant to keep Missourians safe and healthy.

The change to an endemic phase, however, means changes to the state’s surveillance from monitoring daily cases to monitoring the disease severity and its impact in our community. When we are notified by the testing sites, the Macon County Health Department will continue to contact those who test positive to support them during their time of illness and provide them the resources they need to be healthy. We will also continue to provide awareness, guidance and vaccines to contain the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

Due to the change in surveillance data from the state and reporting changes to DHSS, the Macon County Health Department will no longer report weekly data as we have been for the past two years. DHSS’ new change in reporting will no longer provide detailed data on a county level. In order to keep our community aware, we plan to provide awareness and guidance if there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in Macon County.

COVID-19 continues to have a significant health effect on certain residents in our community. Testing for COVID-19, at home or at a facility, continues to be important so individuals are aware they are positive, they can take the necessary precautions to avoid spreading COVID-19 to others. We continue to recommend everyone stay home when they are sick, apart from household members, according to the CDC guidelines.

Vaccination against COVID-19 helps protect individuals against severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19. With the change to the endemic, we accept that COVID-19 will continue to circulate, but with vaccination, it can reduce the burden of illness to keep your family healthy.