County Records 30th COVID-Linked Death Since March 2020, State Numbers Declining

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Over the last two months, the average number of COVID-19 cases has dropped considerably in Missouri – some 50.8 percent down from Aug. 5 (the summer high), according to the state department of health and senior services.

Hospitalizations across the state were also down, though not at the same rate, from 2,456 patients on Aug. 18 (the summer high) to 1,466 on Oct. 2.

Still, local residents are reminded that new positive cases and deaths continue to occur and citizens are advised to remain cautious in areas where there are concerns.

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 Monday, Oct. 18, that nine new positive cases of COVID-19 were confirmed, bringing the total during 2021 to 1,151. The total number of positive cases ending Dec. 31, 2020, was 722.

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

The Ripley County Health Center will be having an after hour adult vaccination clinic on Thursday, Oct. 21, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

“We will be offering the flu vaccine during this time. No appointment is needed,” Cosgrove.

Those with special needs may call 996-2181 to request assistance. The health center staff will take care of billing for those with Medicaid or Medicare.

If you are paying with cash, check or credit card: High Dose for age 65 and over is $50. Quadrivalent is $25.

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