Gov. Parson expects worst of COVID-19 pandemic to continue for months

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Gov. Mike Parson said Monday that he thinks the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic could last 60 to 90 more days in Missouri.

You can watch a replay of the news conference in the media player below.

"I think we’ve got to all realize that this is gonna be long term," Parson said. "I don’t want to give false hope to anybody.”

The governor said he considers the 60 to 90-day window a "best-case scenario."

Parson said he hopes the state can have better data by mid-April that can inform decisions.

Parson gave those answers in response to questions posed by reporters after he and select state department leaders gave remarks during his daily COVID-19 briefing.

Parson said different models show different time periods for the peak of COVID-19, which has infected more than 1,000 people statewide and caused 13 deaths.

The news conference also highlighted work by the Department of Social Services to provide more food and medical benefits to those who qualify. Jennifer Tidball, the department's acting director, said families who receive food stamps will start to see extra benefits this week.

Tidball also said the state has increased the income level to qualify for Medicaid.

Tidball said the state is working on a plan to get meals to students on free and reduced-price lunches while schools are closed.

At least 133 people around the area have tested positive for novel coronavirus in Mid-Missouri.

Check back for more on this developing story.