The Springfield-Greene County Health Department today announces the first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in Greene County. To protect the patient’s right to privacy, identifying information will not be provided. This case does not represent an example of community spread. As part of the regular practice of disease investigation, the Health Department will notify people who have had contact with the patient. Health Department staff are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to determine any close contacts of that individual who were possibly exposed. If so, health officials will provide guidance to these individuals and monitor them closely for the development of symptoms. “As Governor, I have no greater responsibility than to keep all Missourians healthy and safe,” Governor Mike Parson said. “I know there is growing concern across the state and the nation right now, but I want to assure you that we are taking all steps necessary to protect the people of our state.” Dr. Randall Williams, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, noted the strength of the partnerships and prevention efforts in our community, “The health department here is state of the art. The caring in this community, the hospitals are state of the art,” Williams said at the Springfield press conference announcing the case. “I’m thankful the patient’s doing well—that’s always our north star.” Our prevention messages for individuals continue to be important to combat this illness in our community: wash your hands, avoid large crowds, and stay home if you’re sick, among other prevention actions. Those are available at length on our website health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus It is especially important that those at high risk—individuals 60 and older, those who have a chronic illness and those who are immune-compromised—follow this guidance. “I want to specifically thank our partners who are part of the local public health system. CoxHealth, Jordan Valley Community Health Center and Mercy have never hesitated to step forward and to provide us with the help that we need,” Springfield-Greene County Health Department Director Clay Goddard said. “As we move forward, we’re going to work with great diligence and purpose in making the bold steps that are going to be required to curb this illness in Springfield.” For more information, visit our website at health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus, email coronavirus@springfieldmo.gov, or call 417-874-1211.