First positive COVID-19 case in Butler County confirmed

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. — A Butler County resident has tested positive for coronavirus, marking the county’s first confirmed case.

On Tuesday Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center said it’s working with the Butler County Health Department regarding a former inpatient, who is the first Butler County resident to test positive for COVID-19.

“This person traveled within the U.S. before developing symptoms. The patient was treated and discharged home last week pending their results. The patient has now recovered and has been released from mandatory isolation,” said a news release from Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

The Butler County Health Department and Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center are working together to

help identify and contact anyone who has had close contact with the patient in order to monitor them

for symptoms and contain the spread.

“Poplar Bluff has come together as a community to support the preventive measures necessary to slow the spread of coronavirus. With the community doing their part, we will flatten the

curve.”

The hospital’s news release said it understood the frustrations brought on by its strict visitor policy and the public’s understanding is appreciated during this time. The safety and well-being of its patients, employees and community is the hospital’s greatest concern and priority, it said.

“We have witnessed the public’s dedication to social distancing, and their support for healthcare

workers, and it makes us even more proud to be your community hospital.” said Bryan Bateman, CEO at

Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, “We will continue to provide the absolute best care possible as

this pandemic evolves. I’m proud of our team and the work they do each day.”