As of Monday evening, Osage County Health Department Nurse Kim Sallin reported the total number of positive cases at 858, with 130 still active, warning that numbers are likely to increase dramatically in the coming weeks due to rapid testing at schools.

“We could see a big shift because the schools do not have access to our system and many of their test results have not yet been entered,” Sallin explained.

Hardest-hit throughout the COVID pandemic has been Fatima R-3, which as of press time had reported 40 positive cases among students in grades 7-12, with two current, and 38 in quarantine. Among elementary students, there have been 11 positive COVID cases, with six current and 63 in quarantine. As noted above, staff has been hit hard, with 36 positive cases to date, 17 of which are current, with 31 in quarantine.

Sallin estimated another 15 teachers had tested positive at Fatima through rapid testing, with two employees at the preschool testing positive, which forced quarantine of the entire facility. Those numbers are not reflected in Fatima’s COVID dashboard results on the school’s website.

Another 10 positive cases have been reported at Westphalia Hills Nursing Home, with one positive case reported at General Baptist Nursing Home in Linn.

“Everyone is working very hard to contain the spread at these facilities,” said Sallin.

Sallin said the majority of current cases are contacts to a known positive case. “This strain seems to be highly contagious so prevention is the best way to avoid infection,” she added.

Sallin noted that in recent weeks there was a way to get out of quarantine early.

“The idea was that if a person had a positive antibody (blood) test but was negative with a nose swab, they could return to school or work,” said Sallin. “However, according to the Department of Health and Senior Services, that isn’t the case, which means if you are quarantined, you must complete the full 14 days.”

In addition to a higher number of COVID cases, Sallin is concerned about an increase in flu and strep cases. “It’s normal for this time of year, and as we head into winter, there will be more indoor activities, so it’s important that everyone do their best to maintain proper social distance and wear a mask,” she said. “Masks are not just for COVID. You don’t want to wind up fighting the flu and the coronavirus at the same time.”

The bottom line, Sallin said, is to use common sense and be mindful of others.

“Each of us plays a part in preventing the spread of COVID19,” she said. “Wash your hands. Keep your distance from those outside of your household. Wear a mask. Avoid large gatherings.”

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