City of Joplin records first “presumptive positive” case of coronavirus

The city of Joplin is reporting its first presumptive positive case of the coronavirus. Read the full press release below:

The Joplin Health Department today announces the first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 in an adult in the city of Joplin. In consultation with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, this is considered a case and therefore will be investigated as such.

To protect the patient’s right to privacy, identifying information will not be provided.  As part of the regular practice of disease investigation, the Health Department will notify people who have had contact with the patient. This does not appear to be a travel-related case.

The Joplin Health Department staff are working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to determine any close contacts of this individual who were possibly exposed. If exposed, health officials will provide guidance to these individuals and monitor them closely for the development of symptoms.