Health department announces potential COVID-19 community exposure at Sportsplex, Shawnee complex

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center and the City of Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department are notifying the public of potential community exposure from a COVID-19 positive case.

“While performing contact tracing on a positive case reported to the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center, we have determined that individuals that attended activities at the Cape Girardeau Sportsplex on the following dates at the specified times may have been exposed,” said Maria Davis, health educator for the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center in a news release issued late Saturday.

These dates include: 10:15a.m. – 12:15 p.m. June 23-24; 8:15 a.m.-noon June 25; 7:30 a.m.-11:45 a.m. June 27. Further exposure may have occurred at the Shawnee Sports Complex from 5:30 p.m.-10:45 p.m. June 23.

“We strongly encourage anyone who was at the Sportsplex during this time period to closely monitor themselves for signs and symptoms due to the potential exposure,” Davis said. “We also strongly encourage the use of facemasks or coverings by all those potentially exposed when outside of their home in public and while at work.”

Anyone who develops any symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19, they should self-isolate immediately and contact their primary care physician to determine the need for testing, Davis said.

“We are working closely with the Parks and Recreation Department, and feel confident that they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their patrons,” Davis said. “This is yet another reminder for all of us to interact with our environment carefully. When we go out in public, we need to practice physical distancing and wear a mask. If someone is sick or thinks they may be sick, they need to stay home.”

For further information individuals may contact the Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center at 573-450-9546.