At the 2 p.m. update from the Platte County and Kansas City health departments on Thursday, April 2 the numbers of Platte County residents with confirmed COVID-19 infections jumped dramatically over the past two weeks.
At press time, the Platte County Health Department reported 12 cases — five men and seven women. The bulk of cases are made up of patients in their 40s, with no other identifying information supplied.
The Kansas City Health Department reported another 10 Platte County cases within Kansas City North.
The county’s first case was announced Monday, March 23.
City-wide, numbers continue to climb, with the bulk of reported cases still in Jackson County on the Missouri side.
Also on Thursday, the Kansas City Health Department announced the first death in KCMO from the virus.
The Platte County Health Department reiterated the importance of abiding by the “stay at home” order that went into effect last week for all who live and work in Platte County until April 24.
“It is imperative to stay at home unless absolutely necessary and to maintain social distancing (staying six feet away from others),” the health department said in a release. “Remember to wash your hands often, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
“Moreover, if you are sick, isolate yourself at home to prevent the spread of germs and only leave your home to seek medical care. If you experience symptoms such as cough, fever or other respiratory problems, please call your healthcare provider or urgent care clinic to receive guidance and arrange a test if appropriate. Do not go to the emergency room unless you are having trouble breathing and need immediate medical attention.”
SUPPLY DRIVE CONTINUES
Commissioner Dagmar Wood and Park Hill board of education member Todd Fane continue to work to collect personal protective equipment and supplies for local hospitals and first responders.
Wood and Fane are coordinating contributions of items to North Kansas City Hospital, St. Luke’s Health System, Truman Medical Center, health departments and first responders.
“I have been really encouraged by our community’s initiative and willingness to help others during this challenging time,” Wood said. “America is the best place on planet Earth to live, especially at a time when people are creatively filling any gaps to address this threat to our community. Platte Countians are working together at an impressive pace and we will come out on top.”
The officials have put out a call to businesses, churches and school districts to gather supplies.
Medical supply list:
Goggles/eye protection/plastic face shields
Masks, both N-95 masks and regular masks
Nonsterile, disposable isolation gowns
Gloves — nitrile powder free preferred, any accepted
Hand sanitizer
Portable exam tables/stools
Disinfecting cleaning supplies
Sanitizer wipes
Paper towels
Ventilators
Respirators
While outright donations of items are appreciated, Wood and Fane say they understand the items have economic value.
“If needed we will find ways to broker the purchase of significant supplies at fair market value,” the release states. “This will enable us to redeploy lifesaving/protecting supplies and equipment now while keeping your organizations ready to resupply when business resumes.”
For more information or to make a donation reach Fane at 830-0011, fanet@parkhill.k12.mo.us, or Wood at 718-1650, dagmar.wood@co.platte.mo.us.