LIBERTY – Clay County’s stay-home order ends at noon Sunday, May 3.

The decision is based on key factors, county information states, includng data showing the county’s rate of new cases is consistently low and has continued to remain flat over the last several weeks. Also, Clay County jurisdictional data – the number of cases and deaths, hospital capacities, etc. – along with the modeling trends for the peak of COVID-19 in Missouri, give confidence that the county can begin the gradual process of reopening. Also, access to COVID-19 testing in Clay County has improved.

“Previously, testing was very limited, with only hospitals, physician’s clinics and some urgent care clinics having the ability to test for COVID-19 in our jurisdiction,” Public Health Durector Gary E. Zaborac said. “However, today, our health center opened its free, drive-through testing clinic, and it is fully operational and running smoothly. We are also expecting other testing clinic opportunities to become available in our area in the coming days, which will expand our abilities further. This remains a critical piece in our effort to safely reopen our communities.”

A plan for phasing in the first phase of community recovery and reopening is being developed in line with guidance from Gov. Mike Parson’s “Show Me Strong” Recovery Plan for the state. It is planned for release by the middle of next week.

Plans will include detailed guidance for safely and gradually allowing businesses to reopen, events to resume and assist individuals in the reopening of our communities.

Updates will be on the health center’s website and in social media.