(COLUMBIA, MO) - Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) Director Stephanie Browning has issued Public Health Orders 2020-13 and 2020-13(c). These orders are an additional extension of the previous orders, 2020-11/2020-11(c) and 2020-12/2020-12(c), and are set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 3, unless otherwise extended, rescinded or modified. All restrictions remain in effect. There are no modifications from the previous orders.
Cases have remained relatively stable during Orders 2020-12 and 2020-12(c). New daily cases increased slightly with the 14 day rolling average increasing from 40 to 42. However, there has been an upward trend in hospitalizations, indicating increased severity of disease. On Oct. 16, there were 80 COVID-19 inpatients in Boone County hospitals, which is the highest number of inpatients during the pandemic. Nearly 80% of these patients come from surrounding counties where restrictions are not in place, thus providing further support for extending the Order and helping to reduce the burden on our local healthcare system.
"The data continues to support keeping the measures that are currently in place. Given the increasing number of hospitalizations and a return to in-seat classes for CPS elementary schools, it is necessary to extend the current Order to ensure local resources can meet the demand that will likely occur in the coming weeks," said Browning.
PHHS will continue to monitor and analyze the latest COVID-19 data available. Public health experts across the country warn of increased cases as we move into the winter season and people begin gathering indoors more often. It’s imperative to be diligent about mitigation efforts during this time. Boone County residents must take simple steps to protect themselves and the people they care about in order slow the spread of COVID-19. This includes:
- Wearing a mask when you leave home. Masks are required in the City of Columbia when social distancing is not possible.
- Keeping at least 6 feet of distance from anyone you do not live with.
- Keeping gatherings small and outside if possible.
- Washing your hands, covering your cough, and keeping up your best hygiene and sanitation.
- Staying home if you’re sick.
- Contacting your medical provider and seeking testing if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been knowingly exposed to the virus through close contact.
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