The number of new COVID-19 cases in Jasper county has skyrocketed over the past two-weeks. The county department of health has reported an over 50 percent increase in new cases since December 27th. The department has recorded 924 new cases in that same period from late December through today. A record 137 new cases were reported last Thursday. The county is averaging almost 80 new COVID cases per day, that is about twice the number of new, daily cases per day. As of Saturday, Jasper county is reporting 445 active cases and 104 COVID-19 related deaths. The Missouri state health department offers free testing for all residents on Friday, January 22nd, from 9 AM until 1 PM. It’s taking place at Access Family Care on S. Maiden Lane. To register and for more information, visit health.mo.gov/communitytest