Officials share plans for sportsplex, discuss success of face masks

JACKSON, Tenn. — The number of positive COVID-19 cases in Madison County hasn’t changed in four days, but health officials want to remind you just how new the coronavirus is.

“As we work through this pandemic, and learn things through the pandemic, you’re going to see guidance change,” said Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department Director Kim Tedford.

Guidance such as wearing a mask. At first the CDC didn’t suggest wearing them, but now they are highly encouraged anywhere you can’t social distance.

“Masks, I still believe, are key to our continued success and opening businesses,” said Madison County Mayor Jimmy Harris. “I think we’ve done a pretty good job so far, I just want to encourage everyone to keep doing it.”

Jackson-Madison County General Hospital is currently treating five positive COVID-19 patients. Three of them are from Madison County, and only one of them is on a ventilator.

The city is also planning to start having tournaments at the West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex on June 19.

“We’re continuing and working with our morning group and with our sportsplex director to have some very specific guidelines for our teams,” said City of Jackson Mayor Scott Conger.

And as a reminder, there is still a limit on social gatherings of 10 or fewer people.

Additionally, Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department will once again distribute free washable, reusable cloth face masks on Thursday, May 21.

Masks will be available for pick-up at the Jackson Fairgrounds between 8:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. while supplies last. Participants must enter the site on Magnolia Street.

They will not distribute masks at the Jackson-Madison County Regional Health Department or at The WIC Center on Thursday.

Please call the health department at (731) 423-3020 if you have questions.