July 17, 2020

COVID-19 Cluster Associated with Local Gathering

During an investigation of multiple positive COVID-19 cases, the Linn County Health Department discovered that several individuals attended the same party. The party took place on July 11th in rural Garnett, Kansas. The party did not have a specified guest list so identifying those who were in attendance and potentially exposed to COVID-19, has been challenging.

Through the case investigation process, the Linn County Health Department has received reports that several residents from Linn, Miami and Anderson County were in attendance.

This statement is being released so that individuals who attended the party are aware of the possible exposure. It is imperative that any individuals who were in attendance to this party quarantine at home through July 25, 2020 and monitor for any symptoms. After being exposed to someone with COVID-19, it can take up to 14 days to develop symptoms. If symptoms appear, individuals are instructed to contact their primary care provider. If they do not have a primary care provider, contact the local health department for further recommendations.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of spreading COVID-19 at events and gatherings increases as the gathering size increases, and the ability to physically distance and utilize prevention strategies, decreases.

Please visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s COVID-19 resource center at: https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/ for more information.