In their weekly report issued last Friday, county officials confirmed another COVID-19 death. A 63-year-old female from Pacific died in July due to the virus, according to the report.

That brings Franklin County to a total of 181 confirmed and 32 probable deaths.

There were 206 new cases reported last week (compared to 42 the first week in July) and an additional 69 probable cases. These confirmed cases include two from both Beaufort and Leslie and nine new cases in the Gerald area. Seven

Gerald males, ages 30, 39, 39, 48, 59, 60 and 64 tested positive for the virus. Two women, ages 22 and 32 also tested positive.

There were only less than 166 new cases reported in the county for all of May. Less than 120 new cases were reported in June.

Positive cases in long-term care facilities held steady at four. Hospitalizations in the county rose to 12.

The 14 day new case average was at 28.0 last week, up from 20.64 the prior week.

According to a WalletHub study, Missouri ranks 38 for vaccination rates, 43 in positive testing rates, 46 in hospitalization rates and 47 in death rate.

COVID-19 vaccinations are still available Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Franklin County Health Department, 414 East Main Street, Union. All three COVID-19 vaccines are available at this time. You may call 636-583-7374 or 636-583-7301 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are accepted. Masks are required for in-building services.

Vaccines will also be offered at ECC’s Learning Center Aug. 18, from 1-4 p.m., Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 1 from noon to 4 p.m. and Sept. 29 from noon to 4 p.m.