Missouri health officials say local officials lead virus fight
By The Associated Press
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) Three of Missouri s top health officials said Friday that trusted local leaders and community representatives must be the primary influencers in the state s efforts to reduce a surge in COVID-19 cases.
During a virtual news conference, Robert Knodell, acting director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, said the state continues to have a strong relationship with federal health experts but they all believe local health department workers and community representatives are the best avenue for persuading residents to be vaccinated.