The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced on Wednesday that it has launched a 24/7 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, hotline. Staffed with medical professionals, the hotline can be reached by calling 877-435-8411.
“It is important to know what to do if you have concerns about an illness during this outbreak,” said DHSS Director Dr. Randall Williams in a statement. “For those who may be at risk for COVID-19, we encourage them to utilize this hotline or call their health care provider or local public health agency to inform them of their travel history and symptoms. They’ll be instructed on how to receive care without exposing others to the possible illness.”
Get a fresh take on the day’s top news
Subscribe to the St. Louis Daily newsletter for a smart, succinct guide to local news from award-winning journalists Sarah Fenske and Ryan Krull.
Missouri has tested 46 people for COVID-19; there has been only one positive case, a young woman from St. Louis County who was recently traveling in Italy. Governor Mike Parson announced on March 7 that the woman is under quarantine.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, health officials are advising Missourians to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; to use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol; to avoid touching their nose, mouth, and eyes; to cover when they sneeze or cough; to distance themselves from sick people; and to stay at home when they themselves feel sick.
COVID-19 symptoms include fever and trouble breathing. For more information, visit the state’s COVID-19 site or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For more on everything we know about COVID-19, see our story here. To learn more about the criteria for being tested, see our story here.
