Western Kentucky red-zone counties closures and updates

Changes taking place due to red zone COVID-19 positive cases in western Kentucky

McCracken, Calloway, Marshall, and Hickman counties are in the red zone for COVID-19 meaning they have 25 or more average daily cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents. Today, the Purchase Health Department (PDHD) reported 37 new cases in McCracken County, Marshall County reported 11 new cases, Calloway County reported 16 new cases on 10/29, and Hickman County reported 2 new cases on October 29. 

For these reasons, western Kentucky businesses and school districts are changing operating procedures and teaching instructions.

The McCracken County Public Library is returning to curbside service. The library said the decision was made to return to curbside service in keeping with recommendations from Governor Beshear. Curbside services will begin October 31and will remain curbside through at least November 6. At this time, the library will assess the county’s COVID-19 status. 

Curbside will be available: Saturday 10 am to 5 pm; Sunday 1 pm to 5 pm; Monday through Friday 10 am to 7 pm. With curbside service, library patrons can place items on hold and have them brought to their vehicles by the library staff. The news release further stated that the library will also offer curbside printing for documents. 

Paducah Public Schools will continue with in-person instruction. In the news release today, the school district said though the county is in the red zone, the incidence of infection and related quarantines for Paducah students, faculty and staff has decreased as of late. 

The district intends to make these types of decisions on a weekly basis. Families should get prepared for virtual learning. As always, if you’re running a fever or have been around anyone that’s tested positive for COVID-19, stay home. 

Murray-Calloway County Hospital is limiting visitors due to the surge in positive COVID-19 cases. Calloway is one of 68 counties in the red zone in Kentucky. Starting Monday, the hospital will allow one visitor per person during the hours of 4 pm to 6 pm daily. 

In their news release, the hospital said the policy change is being made based on the state’s recommendations and the hospital will reevaluate the status each Thursday based on the rate of incidence. 

Murray Independent and Calloway County Schools will transition to NTI until November 13. Both school districts will go to non-traditional instruction due to the increase in COVID-19 increases. 

Starting November 2, all extra-curricular activities will be suspended in both school districts. Starting Wednesday November 4, all students in both districts will transition to online learning only. On November 13, both school districts will reassess the status. 

Murray Independent School District Superintendent Coy Samons says preschool and head start centers in the district will remain online through November 30. The school district will continue to provide meals to children ages 0-18. More information is available on their website.