Day: July 9, 2020

Vernon County Health Department has confirmed 2 new positive cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) bringing our total confirmed cases to 28. One case is related to out of state exposure. Both cases are symptomatic, and are isolated at home.

The case investigation and contact tracing has been completed. The Vernon County Health Dept staff has contacted anyone who was listed as a close contact to the positive cases. Those contacts will be quarantined at home.

Low Risk Community Exposure Consists of:
July 2, 2020 – Wal-Mart 10:30-11:00
Woods 12:00-12:30
July 3, 2020 – DQ 1:00-1:30
Iguana Azul Mexican Restaurant 5:00-6:00
July 4, 2020 – Farmer’s Market 9:00-9:30

Please continue to monitor your health. If you develop any symptoms contact your primary care provider or urgent care for further evaluation and testing. Symptoms include:
• Cough
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Sore throat
• New loss of taste or smell

Individuals should continue to practice social distancing, clean/disinfect any high touched surfaces, wash their hands with soap and water routinely, use hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available and avoid touching your face (especially eyes, nose & mouth). It is up to each and every one of us to stop the spread of this disease.

CALL before going to a clinic, urgent care, or ER if you feel you need to be evaluated

Close Contact means: 6 ft or less for 15 minutes or more with a positive case

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control has announced the arrest of Brian K. Hansen, 47, of Nevada, Missouri, on July 7, 2020, for statutory sodomy and providing pornography to a minor. The arrest was the result of an investigation conducted by members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control.

On July 8, 2020, the Vernon County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Hansen with five counts of statutory sodomy and one count of providing pornography to a minor. Bond was set at $500,000 cash only. This investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.

The charges filed are mere accusation and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence.