An area health department has issued an important update regarding COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing.

Due to a recent Missouri court ruling and subsequent letter from the Attorney General of Missouri to all Missouri local public health departments, the Howard County Public Health Department says it will no longer be calling those county residents testing positive for COVID-19.

Health department officials say, in lieu of a phone call, they will be mailing letters. Individuals are still welcome to call the health department with questions.

You can reach the health department at (660) 248-3100.