Long alarmed at recent spike in positive cases

By Neal A. Johnson, UD Editor
Posted 7/8/20

Osage County Health Department Administrator Susan Long is alarmed at the recent spike in positive test results, with six new cases in the last 10 days, bringing the total to 13, with seven …

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Long alarmed at recent spike in positive cases

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Osage County Health Department Administrator Susan Long is alarmed at the recent spike in positive test results, with six new cases in the last 10 days, bringing the total to 13, with seven resolved.

Of four recent cases, two individuals exhibited symptoms and the other two did not. The common theme has been travel outside the county, with most of the new cases falling into this category. Two cases were reported on Tuesday, one community-acquired, the other related to work outside the county.

“Of the four newest cases, three are related to travel, and we suspect the fourth is as well,” said Long, adding she is recommending a quarantine after travel.. “We don’t know the impact the Fourth of July may have on cases at this time.”

Long said she noticed that many people are not observing social-distancing guidelines, and there are fewer people using masks in public places than she would like.

“I’m not seeing people wearing masks at stores and other public places,” she said. “I’m not sure why, but maybe it’s because there are no orders to do it. People may think they’re safer since we went seven weeks without a positive case. Maybe they’re embarrassed and I know that heat plays a role.”

Even with masks, Long said it’s important to remember to keep your distance. “Masks are meant to protect others, but it has to be everyone, not just businesses and emergency personnel,” she said. “Studies show that about 35 percent of people with a positive test have no symptoms.”

Long added she understands that during the summer months, families take time off and many travel for vacation. “I’m very concerned about people coming back from vacation and going straight to work, or taking their kids to daycare,” she said.

At this time, Long is recommending that anyone who travels should self-quarantine for two weeks upon their return.

“I know that’s not what people want to hear, but to protect others from any potential exposure during their travels, it’s a good idea to stay home for two weeks,” said Long. “It’s also a concern that families will return from vacation late in the summer, right before school starts. We need to do our best to keep COVID-19 from spreading.”

Seven of the 11 cases have been resolved, but Long said there have been more contacts involved. Long told commissioners Thursday that her specific concern is that “younger people are being diagnosed with COVID in huge numbers all over the country including here in Missouri."

Therefore, she exhorts young folks going to parties and celebrations to be careful. She said they might be exposing others.

In the overall scheme of things, Long said healthcare is a team effort. “It’s something everyone has to do together as a group,” she added. “Everyone needs to respect others, and do their best.”