Staff Reports

The first COVID-19-related death has been confirmed in Bailey County.
During his weekly address, Muleshoe Police Chief Gary McHone said an 87-year-old individual with underlying health conditions died of COVID-19 complications.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family,” he added.
The death marks the first for Bailey County since it began experiencing confirmed COVID-19 activity in early June.
The latest numbers released show there have since been 108 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 86 recoveries. As of Tuesday, there were 21 active cases within the county.
McHone noted that so far, there have been 495 COVID-19 tests administered.
No hot spots have been pinpointed, but as the case counts continue to grow, he said, “it’s imperative” for citizens to help stop the spread.
He encouraged people to wear masks in public as they visit the grocery stores or if they’ll be among a larger number of people. He also encouraged people to frequently sanitize their hands.
With Fourth of July festivities around the corner, he noted, the city will be taking precautions so citizens can have a good time while staying safe.
Those interested in keeping up with any virus-related activity in Muleshoe and/or Bailey County are encouraged to follow the Muleshoe/Bailey County Emergency Mgmt. page on Facebook. McHone’s addresses to citizens will be posted there weekly (on Thursdays) in addition to the daily COVID-19 numbers.