COVID-19 cases are decreasing across Missouri — but not in these three counties

Though COVID-19 cases continue to decline across Missouri, three counties are seeing a rise in cases.

Bates, Henry and Vernon counties have seen a 38% increase in cases, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The spike in cases has not affected hospitalizations in the region.

In Missouri, 49% of the population has been fully vaccinated. But in Bates, Henry and Vernon counties, the percentage is much lower.

In Bates County, about 35% of the population has been fully vaccinated. In Henry County, that number is 39%. And in Vernon County, it’s 30%. Health officials have continually said that the vaccine is the best tool to defeat the pandemic.

Forty-three people have died of COVID-19 in Bates County since the start of the pandemic; 49 people have died in Henry County; and 64 people have died in Vernon County. Across Missouri, 11,950 people have died from COVID-19.

BATES, HENRY & VERNON COUNTIES: COVID-19 cases in Bates, Henry and Vernon Counties are elevated to 59, 83 and 106 respectively in the past 14 days. In contrast, cases in most areas of Missouri have decreased. pic.twitter.com/WiL1q5ZwVB

— Mo Health & Sr Srvcs (@HealthyLivingMo) October 21, 2021