Second COVID death reported in local nursing home outbreak

The director of the Stoddard County Health Center, Ben Godwin, has confirmed the second COVID-19 related death in Stoddard County.

“At approximately 5 p.m. last night (May 19) Stoddard County officials received word of the second death stemming from the Crowley Ridge Care Center outbreak,” said Godwin. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of those lost.”

Godwin went on to say everything that can be done to prevent situations such as the one at Crowley Ridge Care Center is being done.

Additionally a case of COVID-19 not related to the nursing home situation was confirmed Tuesday afternoon bringing the total number of active cases outside the nursing home to two. This brings the total for the county to 65 with 28 recovered, 36 active (including the nursing home) and two deaths.

“We ask that all citizens of Stoddard County please continue to practice safe distancing at all times,” said Godwin. “Do your best to avoid any unnecessary contact with others. This is not only to protact you and your loved ones, but to protect all citizens of Stoddard County.”

Godwin also praised the citizens of the county for their efforts.

“We would like to praise the citizens of our county as we only have two active cases at the moment, outside the nursing home,” said Godwin.”Considering the extent of this virus in the areas surrounding Stoddard, we feel this is a good indication that our safety practices are working. Please keep up the good work. Be safe,be smart and be responsible.”

The Stoddard County Health Center confirmed one additional case of COVID-19 Tuesday afternoon. This brings the total number of confirmed cases in Stoddard County to 65. With the new case there are 36 active cases, 28 recovered and one death.