Double-digit increases of positive COVID-19 cases and two COVID-19-related deaths were reported in several area counties on Wednesday, September 23.

According to health-department officials, 21 new positive cases were confirmed in Pettis County, raising its total to 1,052. Two deaths were reported- one on Tuesday and one on Wednesday, upping the total to 18 since the beginning of the pandemic. With 835 positive patients recovered and 18 deaths, there are 199 active cases, including five persons hospitalized.

Saline County added 18 positive cases, increasing its total to 728. With 12 deaths and 611 positive patients recovered, there are 105 active cases, including three persons hospitalized.

Sixteen new positive cases were reported in Lafayette County, increasing its total to 480. Due to eight deaths and 328 active patients recovered, there are 144 active cases.

Cooper County’s total of positive cases increased by 11 to 419. With 348 positive patients recovered and three deaths, 68 active cases remain.

Three new positive cases were reported in Howard County, increasing its total to 263. With 225 positive patients recovered and one death, there are 37 active cases, including two persons hospitalized.

Chariton County reported one new positive case, raising its total to 72. With 62 positive patients released from public health isolation as recovered, there are 10 active cases.

An update was not available from Carroll County.