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In Friday Update, Local Health Officials Detail Delay In Testing

Springfield-Greene County Health Department Director Clay Goddard
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Springfield-Greene County Health Department Director Clay Goddard
Springfield-Greene County Health Department Director Clay Goddard
Credit Facebook
Springfield-Greene County Health Department Director Clay Goddard

A person who had been identified as having COVID-19 in Christian County Wednesday actually lives on the other side of the border—in Greene County.  That means Greene County now has seven confirmed cases of COVID-19, and Christian County has one.

At a press briefing Friday, Springfield-Greene County Health department director, Clay Goddard, said, as of noon Friday, 238 people had been tested at a drive-through testing site that opened Monday in Springfield.  None of those results is known yet.  According to Goddard, they're being told it takes six to 10 days for test results to come back.  He said when they have results, they will release the numbers.  The testing site is only for patients who have been referred by a healthcare professional.

In the meantime, he continues asking those who traveled for spring break to stay at home for two weeks in case they were exposed to the coronavirus.  But he said the request is largely geared toward those who spent time in large groups and in areas that have several confirmed COVID-19 cases.  "We are asking that people use their best judgment in keeping themselves, their families and their coworkers safe."

Goddard also encouraged citizens to support local businesses that are impacted by measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.  He suggested buying gift cards at local restaurants that have had to close to dine-in customers.  He called gift cards “no-interest loans” for businesses.

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Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.