Still no positive COVID-19 cases in Butler County

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is housing the Emergency Operations Center while Missouri is under a state of emergency.

DAR/Michael Shine

Butler County has yet to see a positive case of the COVID-19 coronavirus, health department emergency planner Emily Goodin told those in attendance at Wednesday’s emergency operations center briefing in Poplar Bluff.

Nine people have been tested so far in the county, Goodin said, with five tests coming back negative. Four tests are awaiting results - two at the state laboratory and two at the private Quest Diagnostics lab.

Testing, Goodin said, is available locally.

If you feel sick, “just go to your primary care provider first, and if they think you need testing, they will send you over to the hospital,” she said.

The testing procedure, Goodin reported, has changed a bit. Throat cultures no longer are necessary, and testing will be done by nasal swab only.

“I know there are a lot of rumors out there, but there are no positives in our county,” reiterated Butler County Emergency Management Director Robbie Myers.

Myers said it’s important not to speculate without proper information.

“I see no reason not to trust the process that’s in place,” he said.

Myers also said local faith-based organizations are working on a feeding program, and when the details are figured out, they will be announced.

Gregory Kirk, executive director of the United Gospel Rescue Mission, reported his facility will continue to provide shelter for those in need, however, dining room service has been suspended.

“We’ve closed our on-site feeding,” he said, “but we will remain open for to-go orders. If anyone needs meals, we’re ready and able to help.”

Local daycares, Goodin said, continue to operate as usual, but she is urging them to use special precautions.

In addition, she recommends parents keep their children at home, if possible.

“Parents working from home are urged to keep their kids at home instead of at daycare,” she emphasized.

In addition, Goodin said, the health department is “preaching social distancing,” with federal guidelines now recommending no gatherings of more than 10 people and keeping at least six feet away from others.