Springfield resident tests presumptive positive, Parson details how state is handling Co-Vid 19

During a press conference earlier this evening in Springfield, Gov. Mike Parson announced Missouri has a second presumptive positive test for the Covid-19 coronavirus.

A Springfield resident in the 20s age bracket, tested positive in a travel-related situation. So far, Parson noted, both tests have been travel-related and not spread through the community. The person had been to Austria

The test has been sent to the Center for Disease Control for confirmation.








"As governor, I have no greater responsibility than to keep all Missourians healthy and safe. We are taking all steps necessary to protect the people of this state."

So far, 73 people have been tested, Parson said, with 71 tests returning negative. At this point, the state has the capacity to test approximately 1,000 people. Missouri has received $13 million in federal emergency funding.

"We knew this was coming," Parson said and we are taking every precaution we can.

Precautionary measures at the state level have included having the Veterans Commission restrict access to all veterans' homes and the Missouri Department of Corrections is no longer allowing visitors at any of its facilities.

Parson said he has been in daily contact with Vice President Mike Pence, who is heading the federal coronavirus task force, other governors, and with city, county and emergency personnel throughout the state.

The governor said Missourians need to do their part by practicing good hygiene "and if you are told to self-quarantine, it is very important to follow those instructions."

No state of emergency has been declared for Missouri, Parson said, adding that he will continue to "evaluate the situation."

(The screenshot at the top and the accompanying video are from KOLR in Springfield)