Ripley County Confirms 30th COVID-Related Death Since March 2020

Ripley County coroner Mike Jackson and health center director Tammy Cosgrove announced Oct. 13 a new confirmed death of a county resident who suffered from COVID-19 among other underlying conditions.

The death is the 30th in the county with connections to the virus since declaration of the pandemic emergency in March 2020. Nineteen deaths have occurred in 2021 including 13 from Sept. 13-Oct. 13.

The health center announced Oct. 14 that nine new positive cases of COVID-19 were confirmed, bringing the total during 2021 to 1,151. The total number of postives cases ending Dec. 31, 2020, was 722.

Local health center staff continue to monitor cases and follow up with contacts.

The flu vaccine is here with a limited amount available at the Ripley County Health Center. The cost this year is $25 for the Quadrivalent and $50 for the Fluzone High Dose. If you have Medicaid or Medicare, the health center will invoice them. For more information call 996-2181.

“Our community is reminded that everyone has a responsibility to help keep people around them safe. While our cases continue, please help by washing your hands, consider taking the vaccine and practice distancing in large crowds,” said Cosgrove.

“Wear a mask in areas where there are concerns. Please stay home if you experience any symptoms. Contact your health care provider as needed.”