Howell County Health Department has released that an additional five county residents have now tested positive for COVID-19. This has increased the county-wide case count total to eighteen.
Three of the five new cases reside in the Peace Valley area with the remaining two being West Plains residents. All five of the cases are now on isolation and following public health guidance. Each of the new cases have been linked to the Mountain View outbreak.
The employers of each new case have been notified and are taking action to lessen the likelihood of further spread of the infection. Community exposures are limited to the following locations:
Sunday, May 30th — 2:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m. Walmart West Plains
Wednesday, June 3rd — 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Walmart West Plains
Friday, June 5th — 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cash Saver West Plains
Saturday, June 6th — 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Chapala Restaurant West Plains
Saturday, June 6th — West Plains R-7 graduation ceremony (All individuals seated in the same area of the positive case have been notified of their exposure)
People visiting these locations during the dates and times identified are at LOW risk for contracting COVID-19, but should monitor themselves for symptoms. Anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their health care provider regarding testing and take all necessary precautions to avoid exposing others.
Two of the cases identified have connection to long-term care facilities in West Plains. The health department reports that one of the new cases reported has a connection to West Vue Green House #1.
West Vue is currently working in consultation with HCHD and MODHSS in their ongoing measures to contain the spread. All employees and residents in this unit have been tested and results are pending.
The second, has a connection to Brooke Haven Healthcare in West Plains. Brooke Haven is working with HCHD and MODHSS in their response to the notification. The State Bureau of Long-Term Care is also working in unison with both facilities in their response efforts.
