Ordinance No. 2020/01-COVID-19
April 6, 2020

ANDREW COUNTY ORDINANCE ON EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC

An ordinance of emergency management in response to COVID-19 pandemic that jeopardizes the safety and welfare of the inhabitants of Andrew County, Missouri.

WHEREAS, the Honorable Governor of the State of Missouri enacted Executive Order 20-02 pursuant to the authority granted under section 44.100 and 44.110, RSMo., to protect the safety and welfare of the inhabitant of the State of Missouri in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic on or about March 13, 2020;


WHEREAS, the reasons the Honorable Governor of the State of Missouri enacted Executive Order 20-02 were detailed in that Order, including the COVID-19 pandemic endangering the safety and welfare of the inhabitants of the State of Missouri, is hereby adopted as part of this Ordinance as if fully set forth herein;


WHEREAS, Randall W. Williams, MD, FACOG, Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services, finding it necessary to protect public health and prevent the further spread of COVID-19, pursuant to the authority granted under section 192.020, RSMo, and 19 CSR 20-20.040 enacted an order to go into effect on March 21, 2020 and again on April 6, 2020, ordering all citizens to stay at home;


WHEREAS, the Director’s Orders dated March 21, 2020 and April 6, 2020 are adopted as part of this Ordinance as if fully set forth herein;

WHEREAS, Andrew County, Missouri, is recognized as a third (3rd) class county within the State of Missouri pursuant to sections 46.123, 48.010, and 48.020, RSMo., as well as Article Six (6) of the Missouri Constitution, as a legal subdivision of the State of Missouri;


WHEREAS, Andrew County, Missouri, is a county without a charter form of government with governing authority to adopt ordinances or resolutions relating to affairs regarding emergency management, specifically relating to the actual occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster of major proportions within the county that jeopardizes the safety and welfare of the inhabitant within the County pursuant to authority of section 49.650, RsMO.;


WHEREAS, Andrew County, Missouri, enacts this Ordinance narrowly tailored to protect the safety and welfare of inhabitants of Andrew County, Missouri; and


WHEREAS, Andrew County, Missouri, authorizes the Andrew County Sheriff, or his deputy officers, to enforce the provisions of this Ordinance subject to the laws of the State of Missouri


WHEREAS, the COVID-19 virus spreads between people who are in close contact with one another through respiratory droplets, and


WHEREAS, as numerous cases of COVID-19 illness and evidence of community transmission have been identified in jurisdictions bordering Andrew County, and


WHEREAS, the Andrew County Health Department does endorse, support and are actively participating in this order, and


WHEREAS, the proclamation declaring a State of Emergency currently in effect authorizes the Presiding Commissioner to take all necessary action to protect Andrew County residents;


NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED BY THIS HONORABLE COMMISSION OF ANDREW COUNTY, MISSOURI, AS FOLLOWS:


Section 1.


That to the maximum extent possible, citizens of Andrew County, Missouri, stay at home by remaining within their respective properties, and avoiding contact with people whom they do not reside, and avoiding public places except when necessary to attend work or school or to obtain food, supplies, and medical treatment.


Section 2.


Any intentional gathering of more than (10) people in a single space or room is prohibited. Nothing in this Order prohibits the gathering of members of a household or residence of individuals who reside in such residence.


Section 3.


That for the purposes of this Ordinance the term “Essential Businesses” shall mean businesses or organizations performing functions identified in the “Guidance on Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce: Ensuring Community and National Resilience COVID-19 Response” Version 2.0 (March 28, 2020), and subsequent versions that may be issued.


Section 4.


That due to unique characteristics and risks associated with transmission dynamics, the likely spread of COVID-19 based on factors of social distancing, the clinical severity of COVID-19, the lack of vaccine or antivirals as treatment options, crowd density, the inability to ensure social distancing to prevent close contact among members of the public, the following shall apply within Andrew County, Missouri for the duration of this order.

  1. Non-essential business. Businesses which are not Essential Businesses, as defined herein, shall be prohibited from operating.
  2. Essential businesses. Businesses which are Essential Businesses, as defined herein, shall make reasonable efforts to perform only activities that qualify the business as an Essential Business and other activities that materially support the activities that qualify the business as an Essential Business. Essential Businesses shall make further reasonable efforts to require people to remain separated by physical space of at least six (6) feet.
  3. Gas stations and Convenience stores. No more than ten (10) people including employees, vendors, and customers may be on the retail sales floor or any un-walled area connected to the retail sales floor, of a gas station or convenience store at any one time. All persons shall maintain 6 foot separation.
  4. Salons, tattoo parlors, and close-contact services. No business or person shall provide services that require contact between a person providing the service and the customer, unless the service is for necessary medical treatment that has been ordered by a physician and deemed essential. Such services that shall not be provided include, but are not limited to, hair salon services, nail salon services, tattooing, and massage services. 
  5. Animal/Pet Services No business or person shall provide services that require contact between a person and customers animal/pet unless the service is for necessary medical treatment that has been ordered by a veterinarian and deemed essential. Such services that shall not be provided include, but are not limited to, grooming, play dates, and group activities. This shall not prohibit boarding services specifically designated for essential personnel’s pets, businesses who remain open to offer this service shall not provide any other non-essential services.


Section 5.


Every person in Andrew County, Missouri, shall avoid eating or drinking within restaurants, bars, or food courts; provided, however, that the use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery is allowed throughout the duration of this Ordinance.


Section 6.


People shall not visit nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes, or assisted living homes unless to provide critical assistance.


Section 7.


All places of public amusement, whether indoors or outdoors, including but not limited to, locations with amusement rides, carnivals, swimming pools, museums, fairs, children’s play centers, roller skating rinks, playgrounds (including school district and play structures in public parks), country clubs, golf clubs, social clubs, fitness centers, and athletic clubs shall be closed to the public.


Section 8.


All public parks and outdoor recreation areas are encouraged to remain open. Because playgrounds may increase the spread of COVID-19, all playgrounds shall be closed with appropriate notices posted.


Section 9.


This Ordinance does not prohibit schools from providing child care and Food and Nutritional Services for those children that qualify. Teachers and staff may enter the building as long as they follow directives of this Ordinance.


Section 10.


This Ordinance does not prohibit people from visiting grocery stores, merchants, gas stations, parks, banks, government, or their place of employment, so long as necessary precautions are taken and maintained to reduce transmission of COVID-19, including maintaining at least six (6) feet of distance between all individuals that are not family members.


Section 11.


For offices and workplaces that remain open, individuals shall practice good hygiene and, where feasible, work from home to achieve optimum isolation from COVID-19. The more that people reduce their public contact, the sooner COVID-19 will be contained and the sooner this Ordinance will expire.


Section 12.


The Andrew County Sheriff, and/or his deputy law enforcement officers, the personnel of the Andrew County Sheriff’s Office, the Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney, the personnel of the Andrew County Prosecuting Attorney’s offices, Andrew County Health Department personnel, and any other county employee or agent shall be immune from personal liability for enforcing the provisions of this Ordinance subject to the laws of the State of Missouri.


Section 13.


A violation of this Ordinance shall be punished by a fine not to exceed five-hundred dollars and zero cents ($500.00) per day of violation. For purposes of calculating the penalty for violating this Ordinance, a month constitutes thirty (30) days.


Section 14.


This Ordinance shall immediately be in full force and effect on the date of its passage by the Honorable Andrew County Commission.


Section 15.


This Ordinance will remain in effect until further notice.


SO ORDERED, PASSED, AND ADOPTED BY UNANIMOUS DECISION THIS 6TH DAY OF APRIL 6, 2020, AT 11:00 A.M.


Honorable Bob Caldwell, Presiding Commissioner


Honorable Gary Bauman West District Commissioner


Honorable Fritz Hegeman, East District Commissioner


Honorable Sarah Miller

Clerk

Andrew County, Missouri


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What to Know About Immunizations for Children and Adults

June 24, 2025
Vaccines are an important part of public health, but many people still have questions about what is available and when certain shots are needed. Whether you're a parent preparing for school enrollment or an adult wanting to stay on top of your health, understanding local immunization options can help you make informed decisions. At the Andrew County Health Department, we provide a variety of immunizations for residents of all ages. These services are designed to make it easier for families and individuals to stay up to date with recommended vaccines. What Vaccines Are Offered? The department offers immunizations for both children and adults. These may include vaccines that are required for school, as well as those that are recommended seasonally or for specific age groups. Some examples include: Childhood vaccines such as DTaP, MMR, polio, and varicella Teen and adult vaccines including Tdap, meningitis, and HPV Seasonal vaccines such as influenza (flu) and COVID-19 Other vaccines based on CDC guidelines and local availability To see which vaccines are currently being offered, or to find out if you are eligible for a specific shot, it's best to contact the department directly. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged to help reduce wait times. Who Can Receive Vaccines? Immunizations are available to all residents of Andrew County. The health department works with the Missouri Department of Health and other programs to offer vaccines for children and adults, sometimes at reduced or no cost depending on the situation. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may still be able to receive certain vaccines through federal programs like the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Children entering school or daycare often need to show proof of certain vaccines. The health department can help guide families through what is required and when booster shots may be needed. Adults may also benefit from updated vaccines, especially if they are in contact with young children, have certain health conditions, or simply have not received boosters in several years. What to Expect During Your Visit Vaccines are given by trained staff in a clean and safe environment. During your visit, you may be asked to provide some background health information, especially if you are receiving multiple vaccines at once. If you have a vaccination record, it’s a good idea to bring it with you. This helps the nurse know what you’ve already received and what might still be recommended based on your age or medical history. For children, the health department staff is familiar with working with all age groups and does their best to make the process as comfortable as possible. Why Vaccinations Matter While everyone’s health needs are different, vaccines are one tool that public health agencies use to help reduce the risk of certain illnesses in the community. Keeping up with recommended vaccines may help protect not just yourself, but also those around you. It’s important to note that immunization decisions should always be discussed with your healthcare provider. The information provided by the health department is intended to help you make educated choices and stay informed about what is available in your area. How to Learn More If you are unsure whether you or your child needs a vaccine, or if you want to ask questions before scheduling an appointment, the Andrew County Health Department is available to assist. You can visit the Nurses Corner section on their website or call the office during business hours to speak with a team member. The office is located at 106 N. 5th Street in Savannah and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. For personal medical concerns, please speak with your licensed healthcare provider.

What Services Does Your Local Health Department Provide?

June 18, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what your local health department actually does, you’re not alone. Many people think public health services are only about shots and restaurant inspections, but there’s a lot more happening behind the scenes. At the Andrew County Health Department, we offer a variety of services to support the health and safety of our community. Whether you’re starting a family, planning for school vaccinations, working in food service, or just want to better understand your health, there’s probably a service here that applies to your life. Immunizations for All Ages One of the most well-known services we provide is immunization. From childhood vaccines to adult boosters, our team can help you stay up to date. This includes routine school-required vaccines, flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and travel-related immunizations. Some vaccines may be available at a reduced cost or through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program for those who qualify. If you have questions about which immunizations are available or whether you’re eligible for assistance, our team is here to help. Preventive Screenings We also offer several health screenings. These services are not for diagnosis, but they can help identify changes in your health that you may want to bring to your healthcare provider. Examples of screenings we offer include: Blood pressure Cholesterol Blood sugar Vision and hearing HIV and certain STIs Tuberculosis Screenings are confidential, and our staff works with care to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the process. WIC Nutrition Support If you’re pregnant, have recently had a baby, or are caring for a child under age five, you may be eligible for the WIC program. WIC stands for Women, Infants, and Children. It provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and supplemental food packages at no cost to families who qualify. Our WIC staff can also help connect you with other health resources and make sure you are getting the support you need. Eligibility is based on income and other factors, and you do not have to be on Medicaid to qualify. Environmental Health & Food Safety Public health isn’t just about personal wellness. We also help protect the broader community through environmental health programs. This includes inspecting restaurants, child care centers, and other food establishments. We check for cleanliness, food handling procedures, and compliance with state health regulations. Our team also helps review food plans for new businesses and provides training to food handlers. If you operate or plan to open a food-related business in Andrew County, we can walk you through the safety steps you’ll need to follow. Need a certified copy of a birth or death certificate? We can help with that too. You can request these records by mail or in person at our office in Savannah. Requirements vary slightly depending on the document, so it’s a good idea to review the process online before visiting. Child Care Consultation If you run a child care facility or work with children, we offer consultation services that can help improve the health and safety of your program. These services include guidance on nutrition, wellness practices, breastfeeding, tobacco prevention, and other child-focused health priorities. We support providers with tools and resources that meet state guidelines and help foster a safe environment for children in care. Emergency Preparedness Resources Public health also plays a key role during emergencies. We provide educational materials and planning guides for everything from tornadoes to power outages and infectious disease outbreaks. While we can’t prevent every disaster, having a plan in place can make a big difference in how your household handles it. You’ll find checklists, contact info, and more in the Emergency Preparedness section of our site. The Andrew County Health Department is here to serve the community with education, preventive resources, and public health protections. If you’re unsure about whether we offer something or need help finding a service, we encourage you to reach out directly or explore the different areas of our website. We’re located in Savannah and open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This blog is for educational purposes only and does not offer medical advice. For specific health concerns or decisions, please consult a licensed healthcare provider.

Understanding the Importance of Routine Health Screenings

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When was the last time you had a health screening? If you’re like many people, it might have been a while. Life gets busy, and unless something feels wrong, it’s easy to put routine checkups on the back burner. But screenings are one way to stay informed about your health before any symptoms appear. At the Andrew County Health Department, we provide a range of screenings to help community members stay aware of potential health risks. While we don’t diagnose or treat conditions, we do offer testing and education that can help you follow up with your provider if needed. What Is a Routine Screening? A routine screening is a simple test that checks for common health conditions. These are not meant to confirm a diagnosis, but instead to detect early signs of issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or elevated blood sugar. Catching these signs early may help you decide when to talk to your primary care provider or seek further care. Screenings can also include checks for vision and hearing, as well as testing for infections such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These types of screenings are confidential and handled with care by trained professionals. What Screenings Are Available? At our department, we offer several screenings as part of our public health services. While availability may vary, some of the screenings typically offered include: Blood pressure checks Cholesterol testing Blood sugar testing Vision and hearing screening HIV and STI testing Tuberculosis (TB) testing These services are designed to help you stay informed about possible health changes. If any result indicates the need for further attention, we can provide a referral to a healthcare provider or specialist in your area. Why Are Screenings Important? Health screenings can serve as a first step in learning more about what’s going on inside your body. Sometimes, common conditions do not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Screenings may detect changes before you feel anything unusual, which is why they are often recommended on a regular basis. Again, these screenings are not diagnostic. They don’t replace a visit to your doctor or confirm any medical condition. But they may give you helpful information to bring with you to a healthcare visit. Who Can Use These Services? Our screening services are available to all Andrew County residents, and many are provided at little or no cost. You do not always need to have health insurance to receive a screening. We aim to make these services as accessible as possible so that everyone has the opportunity to learn more about their health. Whether you are looking to get a checkup for peace of mind or you were recently advised to monitor certain health factors, we’re here to support you with clear information and useful tools.