McDonald County COVID-19 total increases to 473 after 235 added in one day

Only a few hours after announcing a startling jump in COVID-19 cases from 238 to 434, McDonald County health officials added 39 more to the list putting the total at 473.

"We are focusing on contacting these individuals and will give more updates when time permits, the Health Department said in an afternoon news release.

County officials are urging residents to avoid social gatherings.