NewsCoronavirus

Actions

Gov. Parson ‘feels healthy’ after COVID-19 diagnosis

Gov-Mike-Parson-COVID-19
Posted at 2:58 PM, Sep 24, 2020
and last updated 2020-09-24 15:58:24-04

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said Thursday he “feels healthy” while his wife, Teresa, continues to experience only mild symptoms after both tested positive for COVID-19.

State officials announced Wednesday that the governor and first lady tested positive for the virus, which has killed more than 2,000 Missouri residents during the last six months.

The Parsons are in isolation.

Gov. Parson “will continue to fulfill his duties from the Governor's Mansion for the next 10 days and participate virtually in scheduled events, calls, and interviews,” he said Thursday in a statement.

The governor’s staff, security detail and staff at the governor’s mansion also have been tested as a precaution and are awaiting results.

Any other staff who have had close contact with the Parsons will be working remotely for the time being, while additional contact tracing is underway.

The governor and first lady made several appearances across the state, including one in Kansas City for a ceremonial crime bill signing Monday in Kansas City and another at the opening of a new golf course in the Lake of the Ozarks region on Tuesday.

Gov. Parson also appeared Monday in Carthage and Tuesday in Springfield, Cape Girardeau and Charleston.

Parson has been a staunch opponent of mask mandates, choosing instead to advocate repeatedly for “personal responsibility,” and was photographed at several stops without a mask on mask or in close proximity to unmasked individuals.

Teresa joined Gov. Parson at many of his visits across the state.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and Cole County Health Department area spearheading contact tracing efforts.

Staff who have not had close contact with the governor or first lady are permitted to continue working at the office.

“Governor Parson reminds all Missourians to social distance, wear a mask, and wash your hands frequently,” his office said in a statement. “If you are sick or experience COVID-19 symptoms, please contact your physician and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others.”