I know, I know — we’re all getting a bit tired of COVID-19 talk (and spin). Never fear, friends, this will be my last piece regarding Missouri’s stats post-reopen, barring some significant change. But given the tongue-clucking from many quarters over states reopening, I thought it important to keep an eye on the numbers in the days and weeks following it, just to sort through what’s actually happening now that we’re no longer on lockdown (and not rely solely on media spin.)

So, to the point — where does Missouri stand six weeks post-reopen? Pretty much right where it’s always stood. As of the morning of June 15th, (per Worldometers), Missouri has 16,428 total cases (remaining 29th in total cases among the states and Washington D.C.) and 895 deaths (remaining 22nd.)  In terms of cases per million persons, Missouri ranks 41st. In terms of deaths per million, it ranks 27th. (Having moved down one position since May 31st in both of those categories.) The State again ranks 24th in total tests and 44th in terms of tests per million persons (having moved up 2 spots).

In terms of hospitalizations, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services site shows 595, as of June 9th.  And though news reports on the radio this morning referenced a slight uptick in hospitalizations, as of June 12th, the numbers were noted to be decreasing. (The peak was 984 on May 5th.) And while my previous article on Missouri’s stats noted a two-day uptick in reported deaths, that appears to have been an anomaly. There have been 110 additional COVID-19 deaths reported since June 1st (an average of roughly 8 per day).

I referenced this in my article from last night, but that wild and crazy pool party at the Lake of the Ozarks over Memorial Day Weekend (we’re now three weeks past it) has not resulted in an outbreak as a scandalized media posited would happen. One case was announced shortly after, involving an individual thought to have already been infected at the time of the event. One additional case has now been reported. So, that’s two cases total reported in connection with the event, one of which was not from the event. (Let’s hear it for sun, chlorine, and booze!)

In short, for the month of June, Missouri is averaging a daily increase in reported cases (PCR, not serological/antibody) of 1.4%, in reported deaths of .9%, and in daily testing of 3%. (Note the testing increase relative to new cases.)

Yes, the virus is still here. No, we’re not drowning in it, despite having largely reopened six weeks ago.