Press release from the Barton County Health Department...
Over the course of the last several days, a serious situation has developed in Barton County concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. The Barton County Health Department, in an effort to inform and warn the general public, feels that a special press release is required to address the situation.
The Health Department has seen a dramatic increase of positive coronavirus cases. In the last six days, we have recorded 131 positive cases. This is an unprecedented number for Barton County.
Each case requires investigation and follow-up, further consuming county resources. It is evident the virus has become community spread.
Because of limited personnel and other services provided by our department, it has become evident we will need to streamline some services. We will be limiting outreach services and may be restricting other services such as flu vaccination and other testing services to certain days and times. WIC services will continue as normal. The new schedule of services will be available next Monday afternoon.
As always, the health and safety of the citizens of Barton County is paramount. We are doing our utmost to make efficient use of the resources available. We expect this trend will continue and will deal with the situation as it develops.
This is a very serious and sometimes deadly virus. We strongly encourage the public to take this pandemic seriously by practicing social distancing and staying home if at all possible.