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KSMU is dedicated to broadcasting critically important information as our community experiences the COVID-19 pandemic. Below, you'll find our ongoing coverage.

Average Age Of COVID-19 Deaths In Greene County Fell In August

KSMU Archives

Springfield-Greene County Health Department data show that the age of those who died from COVID-19 in August decreased to an all-time low of 62 years.  That compares to the previous low of 66 in July, “highlighting the impact of the Delta variant on people of all ages,” the health department said in a news release.

There were 52 fatalities due to COVID-19 in August.  The youngest was in their 20s, and the oldest was in their 80s.

Health department director, Katie Towns, said increased case counts, hospitalizations and deaths are the result of people choosing not to get vaccinated.

As of Friday morning, 47.33 percent of Greene County residents 12 and older had been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, but Towns said, as of August 31, nearly 53 percent had had one dose. 

Hospitalizations and case numbers continue to drop.  The seven-day average of daily cases was 77, and the number of patients in Springfield hospitals was 144 compared to a high of 271 on July 23.  Sixty-seven of those hospitalized were in critical care.

Towns is worried that, unless more people get vaccinated, the county will see more cases of serious illness caused by COVID-19.

Find out where to get a vaccine at vaccine417.com or call (417) 874-1211.

Data for August 1-31 (provided by the Springfield-Greene County Health Department)

Number of new COVID-19 cases:

  • 3,457 cases compared to 5,938 in July

Difference in seven-day average: 

  • The seven- day average on August 31 was 76, down from 176 on July 30. 

Difference in hospitalizations: 

  • 144 individuals were treated for COVID-19 in Springfield hospitals on August 31, down from 265 on July 30.

COVID-19 deaths:

*This number represents confirmed COVID-19 deaths that occurred in August. This number could change based on delayed reports.

  • 53 deaths occurred in the month of August compared to 75 in July

Average age of death:

  • 62 years compared to 66 years in July

Number of vaccine doses administered among Greene County residents: 

  • 19,095 doses compared to 21,445 in July

                     

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.