Butler County resident positive for COVID-19

Butler County has had a resident test positive for COVID-19, according to a release shortly after 11 a.m. by the Butler County Health Department. This is the first COVID-19 diagnosis among Butler County residents.

No additional information was released in the notification, which went out via the health department's app.

Surrounding counties have reported multiple positive cases in recent days, including two individuals, one from Dunklin County and one from Reynolds County, who are being treated at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center is working with the Butler County Health Department regarding a former inpatient who is the first Butler County resident to test positive for coronavirus, PBRMC officials announced in a release at 11:15 a.m.

"This person traveled within the U.S. before developing symptoms. The patient was treated and discharged home last week pending their results. The patient has now recovered and has been released from mandatory isolation," officials said.

The Butler County Health Department and Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center are working together to help identify and contact anyone who has had close contact with the patient in order to monitor them for symptoms and contain the spread.

"The good news? Poplar Bluff has come together as a community to support the preventive measures necessary to slow the spread of coronavirus. With the community doing their part, we will flatten the curve," the hospital reported. "Please note, we understand the frustrations brought on by our strict visitor policy. We appreciate your understanding during this time. The safety and well-being of our patients, employees and our community is our greatest concern and priority."

“We have witnessed the public’s dedication to social distancing, and their support for health care workers, and it makes us even more proud to be your community hospital.” said Bryan Bateman, CEO at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, “We will continue to provide the absolute best care possible as this pandemic evolves. I’m proud of our team and the work they do each day.”

Thoughtful and organized preparation for COVID-19 in the community has been underway for several weeks, including retraining staff, adjusting processes in line with new CDC guidance, confirming supplies and planning for patient surges, the hospital reports.

"Our team understands the appropriate use of personal protective equipment and we are fully prepared and have adequate supplies on hand at this time," they said.

More information about this will updated at www.darnews.com as it becomes available.