The Lafayette County Health Department has confirmed cases seven through 12 of COVID-19 in Lafayette County.

A news release says the seventh case currently is hospitalized in another county. Case numbers eight through 12 are institutionalized individuals under quarantine at the same location in a closed facility.

The Lafayette County Health Department continues to work with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the CDC to identify and contact all people who may have come into contact with the individuals while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information will be provided about the patients.

Recent experience with these newest cases has shown the importance of and the need to strongly re-emphasize the control measures to prevent getting Covid-19. It is absolutely vital that each individual follows several measures:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60-percent alcohol;

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands;

• Stay home if you are sick;

• Cover coughs and sneezes using your elbow or shoulder rather than your hands; and

• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently.

If you suspect you have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, call your healthcare provider to let them know before seeking care. It is critical that your provider is aware you may have COVID-19 prior to your arrival at a healthcare facility, and that you follow all instructions for arriving at a healthcare facility.