Jefferson City pastor tests positive for COVID-19

The News Tribune is offering this article free to all readers because it includes information important to public safety and health.

A Jefferson City church is adjusting its service schedule after one of its pastors tested positive for COVID-19.

Ryan Mortenson, a pastor at First Assembly of God, said while he could not give specific details, the church will have one weekly service, online only, at 10 a.m. the next three Sundays.

This is the second time this year the church has had to adjust services due to a COVID-19 case, after a church member tested positive in June.

Based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the Cole County Health Department provided recommendations to businesses and other organizations about how to conduct activities after earlier COVID-19 rules were loosened.

For faith-based organizations, those recommendations include cleaning frequently touched surfaces, making sure hand-sanitizing products are readily available, and implementing social-distancing measures that include reduced activities and canceling large gatherings.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea, according to the CDC.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services offers a 24-hour COVID-19 information hotline at 877-435-8411.

Upcoming Events