All restrictions remain in effect. There are no modifications from the previous orders. While Browning has extended the orders, the Columbia city code requires the order to be ratified by the City Council if in effect for more than 21 days. Council will discuss ratification at the Oct. 5 meeting.
Under Orders 2020-11 and 2020-11(c) the number of new daily cases within Boone County stabilized to a 14-day rolling average of 40. The number of positive cases in the 18-22 age group also decreased by 60.9%. Additionally, the 14-day case rate per 10,000 within Columbia has fallen from a high of 91.4 on Sept. 7 to 38.6 on Sept. 30.
It is also important to note that as of Oct. 1, Boone County hospitals have 71 COVID-19 inpatients, which is the highest number of inpatients during the pandemic. Boone County residents make up roughly 15% of COVID-19 patients at this time, which provides further evidence that current restrictions are providing effective protective health measures for the community.
"The data supports the measures we are keeping in place. We feel that these measures, along with continued education, enforcement and daily evaluation of data, have helped ensure cases don’t rise dramatically and strain local resources" said Browning. "This extension will allow us to focus on ensuring that local resources are adequate to meet the increased need that is likely to occur when restrictions are slowly lifted."
Boone County residents are strongly encouraged take simple steps to protect themselves and the people they care about:
- Wear a mask when you leave home.
- Keep at least 6 feet of distance from anyone you do not live with.
- Keep gatherings small and outside if possible.
- Wash your hands, cover your cough, and keep up your best hygiene and sanitation.
- Stay home if you’re sick.
- Contact your medical provider and seek testing if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been knowingly exposed to the virus through close contact.