Four more COVID-19 cases reported at William Woods University

Since Thursday, five students at William Woods University have received presumptive positive tests for COVID-19.

In an online update, William Woods confirmed at least three of the students had been in close contact with the original case - an undergraduate student who recently underwent testing at University of Missouri Health Care in Columbia.

The university is working with the Callaway County Health Department to identify others the students might have come in contact with. Students still on campus are asked to remain sheltered in place in their rooms.

As of 9 p.m. Friday, there were 73 confirmed cases in Missouri, including three deaths. Anyone who believes they have COVID-19 symptoms is directed to call the Missouri COVID-19 hotline at 1-877-435-8411.

Campus officially closed Friday as the university scrambled to limit the spread of the disease, a global pandemic that has already infected thousands of Americans and caused daily life for many to grind to a halt.

On Saturday, the U.S. Small Business Administration approved a request from the state of Missouri for assistance through its disaster loan program. Missouri businesses and nonprofits severely impacted by COVID-19 can now apply for low-interest disaster loans.

In Callaway County, schools have closed, events have been canceled and many churches have moved to virtual worship services.

After the first William Woods student tested positive, Callaway County and every incorporated city in the county issued state of emergency declarations in response to the pandemic.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, individuals are advised to avoid social gatherings of more than ten people, avoid eating or drinking in restaurants, bars or food courts unless through the use of drive-thru, pickup or delivery and not visit nursing homes, long-term care facilities, retirement homes or assisted living homes.

In addition, local health authorities suggest disinfecting surfaces and frequently used items, washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, staying home if sick and coughing and sneezing into your elbow.