The Howell County Health Department reported the first death of a Howell County resident due to COVID-19. The individual was a male in his 90’s who resided in the West Plains area.
Everyone is urged to take preventative actions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These actions include:
- Maintain a 6 foot social distance in public.
- Wear a mask while in public.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Stay home if you are sick.
Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19. If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, call your health care provider for medical advice.
For more information, visit the DHSS website at www.health.mo.govcoronavirus or the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. A statewide COVID-19 hotline also operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 877-435-8411
