Health officials in Pottawatomie County reported 51 new positive cases of COVID-19 on Monday.&nbsp; There are now 62 active cases, which is an increase of 40 since last Friday. Twelve tests are pending and 411 people have recovered since the pandemic began. One person is hospitalized.

Health officials in Pottawatomie County reported 51 new positive cases of COVID-19 on Monday.&nbsp; There are now 62 active cases, which is an increase of 40 since last Friday. Twelve tests are pending and 411 people have recovered since the pandemic began. One person is hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County officials update COVID-19 numbers

Riley County has 126 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. There are currently 258 active coronavirus cases in the county. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for six positive patients and one person under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (three positives and one PUI) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Kansas is experiencing a large number of new cases,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Many of the new patients in Riley County are linked to community spread, according to information from contact tracing staff. This means patients do not know where they contracted the virus. I advise all residents to use caution and take the health guidelines seriously.” Additional information about safety practices and health guidelines is available on the CDC’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=53052a5316&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>. Test results have started to come in for the 525 people who participated in the free testing event last week. So far, 92 of those tested were positive. Not all results have been received and contact tracing staff will continue to call all of the people who participated. The positive rate for the county will be calculated and published on Wednesday, to allow for test results from Friday and Saturday to be included. RCHD will offer free testing every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 -7:00 p.m. through the end of the year. No appointment is needed and anyone can participate. Please wear a mask and enter CiCo Park from the Kimball/Candlewood parking lot, then follow the signs to the barns near Pottorf Hall. Testing will be held each Thursday in all weather conditions, but will not be offered the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Thursday, December 31 testing event will be held Wednesday, December 30 instead. For more information about testing, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=73cb80881a&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, contact a health care provider, or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;The Screening Line will not be available Wednesday, November 11 because the health department is closed for Veterans' Day. Riley County Statistics for Monday, November 9, 2020:

There are now seven active outbreaks in Riley County. The Alpha of Clovia 4H Scholarship House was recently added to the list, and no outbreaks have expired since Friday’s report.&nbsp;

Riley County has 126 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. There are currently 258 active coronavirus cases in the county. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for six positive patients and one person under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (three positives and one PUI) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Kansas is experiencing a large number of new cases,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Many of the new patients in Riley County are linked to community spread, according to information from contact tracing staff. This means patients do not know where they contracted the virus. I advise all residents to use caution and take the health guidelines seriously.” Additional information about safety practices and health guidelines is available on the CDC’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=53052a5316&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>. Test results have started to come in for the 525 people who participated in the free testing event last week. So far, 92 of those tested were positive. Not all results have been received and contact tracing staff will continue to call all of the people who participated. The positive rate for the county will be calculated and published on Wednesday, to allow for test results from Friday and Saturday to be included. RCHD will offer free testing every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 -7:00 p.m. through the end of the year. No appointment is needed and anyone can participate. Please wear a mask and enter CiCo Park from the Kimball/Candlewood parking lot, then follow the signs to the barns near Pottorf Hall. Testing will be held each Thursday in all weather conditions, but will not be offered the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Thursday, December 31 testing event will be held Wednesday, December 30 instead. For more information about testing, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=73cb80881a&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, contact a health care provider, or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;The Screening Line will not be available Wednesday, November 11 because the health department is closed for Veterans' Day. Riley County Statistics for Monday, November 9, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,523</li><li>Total active: 258</li><li>Total recovered: 2,253</li><li>Total deaths: 12</li><li>Total negative test results: 21,226</li>
 </ul>There are now seven active outbreaks in Riley County. The Alpha of Clovia 4H Scholarship House was recently added to the list, and no outbreaks have expired since Friday’s report.&nbsp;By Vivienne UccelloPublic Information OfficerRiley County Emergency Operations Center

Riley County health reports 126 new positive COVID-19 cases

Dirty Dawg Saloon in Aggieville must close per court order after multiple violations of the most recent local health order.

Friday, a Riley County District Court Judge granted the county’s application for a restraining order against Dirty Dawg Saloon. Starting at 10:00 a.m. today, Saturday, November 7th, the restraining order goes into effect and the bar must close until the defendants take action to comply with Local Health Order No. 18.

Over several weeks, violations of the local health order were documented through reports and body camera footage from Riley County Police Officers. The violations included overcrowding, open dance floors, and staying open past midnight.

According to the Judge’s orders the dance floor must be closed and customers must be prohibited from drinking unless seated at tables. The defendants must also take action to comply with City of Manhattan Municipal Code Sec. 22-71(b) and require customers and employees to wear face masks.

“We will continue to work with businesses to communicate the need for safety protocols,” Riley County Health Officer Julie Gibbs said. “Ultimately, we will do what is necessary to protect the health of our community.”

Similar action will be taken against other establishments in violation of local health orders. For more information about Local Health Order 18 and Riley County’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, visit the Riley County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=b662354e6b&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, follow RCHD on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2094d22980&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">/RileyCountyHealthDepartment/</a>&nbsp;and Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2120dd5e27&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">@RileyCoHealth</a>.

Dirty Dawg Saloon in Aggieville must close per court order after multiple violations of the most recent local health order.Friday, a Riley County District Court Judge granted the county’s application for a restraining order against Dirty Dawg Saloon. Starting at 10:00 a.m. today, Saturday, November 7th, the restraining order goes into effect and the bar must close until the defendants take action to comply with Local Health Order No. 18.Over several weeks, violations of the local health order were documented through reports and body camera footage from Riley County Police Officers. The violations included overcrowding, open dance floors, and staying open past midnight.According to the Judge’s orders the dance floor must be closed and customers must be prohibited from drinking unless seated at tables. The defendants must also take action to comply with City of Manhattan Municipal Code Sec. 22-71(b) and require customers and employees to wear face masks.“We will continue to work with businesses to communicate the need for safety protocols,” Riley County Health Officer Julie Gibbs said. “Ultimately, we will do what is necessary to protect the health of our community.”Similar action will be taken against other establishments in violation of local health orders. For more information about Local Health Order 18 and Riley County’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, visit the Riley County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=b662354e6b&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, follow RCHD on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2094d22980&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">/RileyCountyHealthDepartment/</a>&nbsp;and Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2120dd5e27&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">@RileyCoHealth</a>.

Court orders an Aggieville saloon to close

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/06/hospitals-near-breaking-point-as-covid-19-patients-multiply/">Kansas Reflector</a>

As Steve Stites, the chief
 medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, tried to 
get the message out Friday that hospital resources are more scarce than 
previously thought, he began to pound his desk.

Kansas City area hospitals
 are approaching the point where they will have to choose they provide 
care to, he said, because there isn’t enough staff to care for the 
continuously rising number of COVID-19 patients. Hospitals have had to 
refuse transfers of COVID-19 patients from the state’s rural areas, he 
said, which also have run out of space.

“At our institution, now, 
COVID is the leading admission diagnosis,” Stites said. “I mean, a year 
ago, there was nothing. And now it is the leading reason to come in the 
hospital.”

He began to emphasis his 
words with the drumming of his fist: “Not cancer, not heart attack, not 
heart failure, not COPD or emphysema. The No. 1 reason is COVID. Well, 
that’s a big change for us. And we’re headed right smack into the cold 
and other flu season, etc. We know this is always when hospital capacity
 is stretched. It’s not unusual for us to be full this time of the year.
 But now we’ve got 10 to 15% more patients from just one disease.”

Health officials from 
private and public entities, local and state, have struggled for months 
to get more of the public to take preventative measures seriously. The 
consequences are dire.

The Kansas Department for 
Health and Environment on Friday said 79 deaths and 5,418 new infections
 had been reported since its last update, two days ago.

KDHE’s online dashboard 
shows 33% of intensive care unit beds remain available across the state,
 including 36% in Kansas City. But health officials say the actual 
number of available beds is much lower because hospitals lack the staff 
to care for more patients.

At one point this week, 
there were 32 empty ICU beds at 11 Kansas City area hospitals, but KU 
Health said the number that could actually be staffed was just 22. 
Stites said within the KU Health System there were 277 patients 
hospitalized for COVID-19 as of Monday. By Friday, the number was 318 
“and climbing.”

Hospital officials are 
looking to delay surgeries and extend workloads for nurses in 
anticipation that the pandemic will continue to get exponentially worse.

David Wild, vice president
 of performance improvement for KU Health, said it wasn’t clear how long
 it would take before hospitals no longer have the resources to treat 
new patients.

“Is it tomorrow? No, I don’t think so,” Wild said. “Could it be? Well, maybe. But it’s more likely weeks.”

In a separate briefing, 
Shawnee County health officials sounded similar alarms about 
overstressed hospitals and uncontrolled community transmission of 
COVID-19.

Gianfranco Pezzino, the 
Shawnee County health officer, said the past two weeks have been the 
worst of the pandemic to date. Last week, the county saw a 70.4% 
increase in cases and the percent that tested positive nearly doubled, 
from 5.4% to 10.7%, exceeding all previous marks. There were so many new
 cases, health officials are unable to do contact tracing for some of 
them. Of the new infections, health officials have no idea how 82% 
acquired their infections.

Topeka hospitals were at 81.7% capacity, Pezzino said, but actual space was far less because of staffing limitations.

“I can tell you today 
there was a hospital with only one ICU bed available,” Pezzino said. “I 
don’t know you, but that gives me chills. It’s just like being one car 
wreck away on I-70 from a major crisis, because you don’t have ICU beds 
or acute care beds to put patients.”

He stressed the importance
 to consider not just mass gatherings but a multitude of other ways the 
virus is commonly spread: sleepovers, birthday parties, weddings, 
funerals, Halloween, family reunions, tailgate parties, car shows, 
business meetings, trade conventions, sports events.

“You get the idea,” he 
said. “Every situation that brings two or three people, or you know a 
certain number of people, together is a risk for the transmission.”

He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers continue to get worse, and that “it doesn’t need to be like this.”

“It will depend in large 
part, once again, on the extent to which his community and its leaders 
are willing to make some more sacrifices now to prevent more problems in
 the future,” Pezzino said.

Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604690551401.png" alt="Steve Stites, the chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, says the number of COVID-19 patients who need to be hospitalized has increased exponentially, putting hospitals in the Kansas City area in danger of not being able to treat patients. (Screenshot from virtual news briefing/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Stites, the chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, says the number of COVID-19 patients who need to be hospitalized has increased exponentially, putting hospitals in the Kansas City area in danger of not being able to treat patients. (Screenshot from virtual news briefing/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/06/hospitals-near-breaking-point-as-covid-19-patients-multiply/">Kansas Reflector</a>As Steve Stites, the chief
 medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, tried to 
get the message out Friday that hospital resources are more scarce than 
previously thought, he began to pound his desk.Kansas City area hospitals
 are approaching the point where they will have to choose they provide 
care to, he said, because there isn’t enough staff to care for the 
continuously rising number of COVID-19 patients. Hospitals have had to 
refuse transfers of COVID-19 patients from the state’s rural areas, he 
said, which also have run out of space.“At our institution, now, 
COVID is the leading admission diagnosis,” Stites said. “I mean, a year 
ago, there was nothing. And now it is the leading reason to come in the 
hospital.”He began to emphasis his 
words with the drumming of his fist: “Not cancer, not heart attack, not 
heart failure, not COPD or emphysema. The No. 1 reason is COVID. Well, 
that’s a big change for us. And we’re headed right smack into the cold 
and other flu season, etc. We know this is always when hospital capacity
 is stretched. It’s not unusual for us to be full this time of the year.
 But now we’ve got 10 to 15% more patients from just one disease.”Health officials from 
private and public entities, local and state, have struggled for months 
to get more of the public to take preventative measures seriously. The 
consequences are dire.The Kansas Department for 
Health and Environment on Friday said 79 deaths and 5,418 new infections
 had been reported since its last update, two days ago.KDHE’s online dashboard 
shows 33% of intensive care unit beds remain available across the state,
 including 36% in Kansas City. But health officials say the actual 
number of available beds is much lower because hospitals lack the staff 
to care for more patients.At one point this week, 
there were 32 empty ICU beds at 11 Kansas City area hospitals, but KU 
Health said the number that could actually be staffed was just 22. 
Stites said within the KU Health System there were 277 patients 
hospitalized for COVID-19 as of Monday. By Friday, the number was 318 
“and climbing.”Hospital officials are 
looking to delay surgeries and extend workloads for nurses in 
anticipation that the pandemic will continue to get exponentially worse.David Wild, vice president
 of performance improvement for KU Health, said it wasn’t clear how long
 it would take before hospitals no longer have the resources to treat 
new patients.“Is it tomorrow? No, I don’t think so,” Wild said. “Could it be? Well, maybe. But it’s more likely weeks.”In a separate briefing, 
Shawnee County health officials sounded similar alarms about 
overstressed hospitals and uncontrolled community transmission of 
COVID-19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604690610487.png" alt="Gianfranco Pezzino, the Shawnee County health officer, said the potential for the pandemic to worsen depends on the community’s willingness to make some sacrifices. (Screenshot from virtual briefing/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gianfranco Pezzino, the Shawnee County health officer, said the potential for the pandemic to worsen depends on the community’s willingness to make some sacrifices. (Screenshot from virtual briefing/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Gianfranco Pezzino, the 
Shawnee County health officer, said the past two weeks have been the 
worst of the pandemic to date. Last week, the county saw a 70.4% 
increase in cases and the percent that tested positive nearly doubled, 
from 5.4% to 10.7%, exceeding all previous marks. There were so many new
 cases, health officials are unable to do contact tracing for some of 
them. Of the new infections, health officials have no idea how 82% 
acquired their infections.Topeka hospitals were at 81.7% capacity, Pezzino said, but actual space was far less because of staffing limitations.“I can tell you today 
there was a hospital with only one ICU bed available,” Pezzino said. “I 
don’t know you, but that gives me chills. It’s just like being one car 
wreck away on I-70 from a major crisis, because you don’t have ICU beds 
or acute care beds to put patients.”He stressed the importance
 to consider not just mass gatherings but a multitude of other ways the 
virus is commonly spread: sleepovers, birthday parties, weddings, 
funerals, Halloween, family reunions, tailgate parties, car shows, 
business meetings, trade conventions, sports events.“You get the idea,” he 
said. “Every situation that brings two or three people, or you know a 
certain number of people, together is a risk for the transmission.”He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers continue to get worse, and that “it doesn’t need to be like this.”“It will depend in large 
part, once again, on the extent to which his community and its leaders 
are willing to make some more sacrifices now to prevent more problems in
 the future,” Pezzino said.Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.

Kan. hospitals near breaking point as COVID-19 patients multiply

Riley County has 86 new positive cases and 39 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Of the new cases, 59% &nbsp;are patients between the ages of 18-24. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for four positive patients and four persons under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (one positive and three PUIs) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Cases are expected to continue increasing as we enter the winter flu season,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Please consider altering your usual holiday plans to keep safety at the forefront this year. Some examples of low-risk activities for Thanksgiving include having a dinner with only members of your household, having a virtual dinner with extended family and friends, or shopping online rather than in person for Black Friday.” Additional information about safety practices and health guidelines for holiday celebrations is available on the CDC’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=6daff6fc94&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>. “If you are planning to travel for the holidays, please consider getting tested the week before and the week after your visit,” said Gibbs. “Anyone who is experiencing symptoms should stay home.” A total of 525 people participated in the free testing event at CiCo park yesterday. RCHD will offer free testing every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 -7:00 p.m. through the end of the year. No appointment is needed and anyone can participate. Please wear a mask and enter CiCo Park from the Kimball/Candlewood parking lot, then follow the signs to the barns near Pottorf Hall. Testing will be held each Thursday in all weather conditions, but will not be offered the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Thursday, December 31 testing event will be held Wednesday, December 30 instead. To get more information about testing, please contact a health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Friday, November 6, 2020:

Riley County has 86 new positive cases and 39 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Of the new cases, 59% &nbsp;are patients between the ages of 18-24. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for four positive patients and four persons under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (one positive and three PUIs) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Cases are expected to continue increasing as we enter the winter flu season,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Please consider altering your usual holiday plans to keep safety at the forefront this year. Some examples of low-risk activities for Thanksgiving include having a dinner with only members of your household, having a virtual dinner with extended family and friends, or shopping online rather than in person for Black Friday.” Additional information about safety practices and health guidelines for holiday celebrations is available on the CDC’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=6daff6fc94&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>. “If you are planning to travel for the holidays, please consider getting tested the week before and the week after your visit,” said Gibbs. “Anyone who is experiencing symptoms should stay home.” A total of 525 people participated in the free testing event at CiCo park yesterday. RCHD will offer free testing every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 -7:00 p.m. through the end of the year. No appointment is needed and anyone can participate. Please wear a mask and enter CiCo Park from the Kimball/Candlewood parking lot, then follow the signs to the barns near Pottorf Hall. Testing will be held each Thursday in all weather conditions, but will not be offered the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Thursday, December 31 testing event will be held Wednesday, December 30 instead. To get more information about testing, please contact a health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Friday, November 6, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,397</li><li>Total active: 192</li><li>Total recovered: 2,193</li><li>Total deaths: 12</li><li>Total negative test results: 20,815</li>
 </ul>

Positive case numbers increase in Riley County

By Crystal Malchose, PIO Pottawatomie County

This is an informational feature supported by the Pottawatomie County Commission to assist in providing educational information regarding the COVID-19 virus to citizens.&nbsp;

We have lived with the COVID-19 pandemic for ¾ of a year now.&nbsp; As we enter flu season it is important to remember the importance of continuing the mitigation techniques shared since the pandemic began.

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;WASH your hands often, at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water.&nbsp; Use sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SANITIZE frequently touched/used surfaces; this includes cell phones, keyboards, computer mouse, tablets, etc.

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maintain a physical distance of at least six feet from non-household members.&nbsp; Whether indoors or outdoors, it is important to practice this physical distancing.&nbsp; (Don’t “social’ distance!&nbsp; Stay in contact with friends, families, co-workers!&nbsp; That’s important too.)

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MASK up.&nbsp; The masks do&nbsp;not&nbsp;prevent you from getting COVID-19, the flu, or other contagious diseases.&nbsp; They do, however, prevent other people from catching certain diseases from you.&nbsp; The masks are only effective if they cover your mouth&nbsp;and&nbsp;nose.&nbsp;

5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;STAY HOME if you are showing symptoms of being sick.&nbsp; It may be a cold, it may be allergies, but it may be something worse.

6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you have symptoms, have been exposed to a COVID-19 positive person, or have any questions about your underlying medical conditions and the flu or COVID.

By Crystal Malchose, PIO Pottawatomie CountyThis is an informational feature supported by the Pottawatomie County Commission to assist in providing educational information regarding the COVID-19 virus to citizens.&nbsp;REVIEW:We have lived with the COVID-19 pandemic for ¾ of a year now.&nbsp; As we enter flu season it is important to remember the importance of continuing the mitigation techniques shared since the pandemic began.1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;WASH your hands often, at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water.&nbsp; Use sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SANITIZE frequently touched/used surfaces; this includes cell phones, keyboards, computer mouse, tablets, etc.3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maintain a physical distance of at least six feet from non-household members.&nbsp; Whether indoors or outdoors, it is important to practice this physical distancing.&nbsp; (Don’t “social’ distance!&nbsp; Stay in contact with friends, families, co-workers!&nbsp; That’s important too.)4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MASK up.&nbsp; The masks do&nbsp;not&nbsp;prevent you from getting COVID-19, the flu, or other contagious diseases.&nbsp; They do, however, prevent other people from catching certain diseases from you.&nbsp; The masks are only effective if they cover your mouth&nbsp;and&nbsp;nose.&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;STAY HOME if you are showing symptoms of being sick.&nbsp; It may be a cold, it may be allergies, but it may be something worse.6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you have symptoms, have been exposed to a COVID-19 positive person, or have any questions about your underlying medical conditions and the flu or COVID.

COVID Corner

Not feeling well? Here's what you need to know:

Not feeling well? Here's what you need to know:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604534666280.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Is it COVID-19, a cold, the flu, or allergies? Symptom need-to-knows

Pottawatomie County officials released a report on Wednesday showing 16 new positive COVID-19 cases. There were also 17 recovered cases.&nbsp; Right now in Pottawatomie County there are 22 active cases.&nbsp;

Since the pandemic began there have been 422 positive cases in the county, 400 people have recovered and 20 tests are pending. Two people are currently hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County officials released a report on Wednesday showing 16 new positive COVID-19 cases. There were also 17 recovered cases.&nbsp; Right now in Pottawatomie County there are 22 active cases.&nbsp;Since the pandemic began there have been 422 positive cases in the county, 400 people have recovered and 20 tests are pending. Two people are currently hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County releases COVID-19 numbers

&nbsp;Riley County has 60 new positive cases and 59 additional recoveries since Monday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 5 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. “It is critical that we all do our part to slow the spread, especially going into the holiday and flu seasons,” said RCHD Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Renee Lucas. RCHD is planning to offer free testing every Thursday through the end of the year, except the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Location details are being finalized, but two time slots will be available each Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The next free, drive-up testing will be offered at CiCo Park in Manhattan on November 5. &nbsp;Everyone is welcome to participate. Please enter the park from the Kimball/Candlewood entrance and drive to the 4H barns near Pottorf Hall for testing. This is the same route used for the monthly Harvesters food distribution. Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Wednesday, November 4, 2020:

&nbsp;Riley County has 60 new positive cases and 59 additional recoveries since Monday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 5 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. “It is critical that we all do our part to slow the spread, especially going into the holiday and flu seasons,” said RCHD Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Renee Lucas. RCHD is planning to offer free testing every Thursday through the end of the year, except the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Location details are being finalized, but two time slots will be available each Thursday: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The next free, drive-up testing will be offered at CiCo Park in Manhattan on November 5. &nbsp;Everyone is welcome to participate. Please enter the park from the Kimball/Candlewood entrance and drive to the 4H barns near Pottorf Hall for testing. This is the same route used for the monthly Harvesters food distribution. Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Wednesday, November 4, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,311</li><li>Total active: 145</li><li>Total recovered: 2,154</li><li>Total deaths: 12</li><li>Total negative test results: 20,213</li>
 </ul>

More new COVID-19 cases and more recoveries are  being reported

&nbsp;An 88 year-old Riley County woman died at Via Christi hospital on Friday. She tested positive for COVID-19 on October 23. The patient was a resident of Leonardville Nursing Home, which has been identified as a new area of outbreak in the county. All staff and residents of the nursing home are being tested regularly in accordance with KDHE guidelines. &nbsp; The Health Department reported that Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 4 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;An 88 year-old Riley County woman died at Via Christi hospital on Friday. She tested positive for COVID-19 on October 23. The patient was a resident of Leonardville Nursing Home, which has been identified as a new area of outbreak in the county. All staff and residents of the nursing home are being tested regularly in accordance with KDHE guidelines. &nbsp; The Health Department reported that Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 4 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County records 12th COVID-19 related death

By ANNE CHRISTIANSEN-BULLERS KUMC News

KANSAS CITY - The struggle to breathe is well-documented symptom for those battling COVID-19, so how is the disease best treated for those with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma?

A study to address that question, along with other research related to lung issues, is being supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/" target="_blank">American Lung Association</a>&nbsp;and its research arm, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/airways-clinical-research-centers" target="_blank">Airways Clinical Research Centers Network&nbsp;</a>(ACRC).

The University of Kansas Medical Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/acrc-expands">recently expanded its position&nbsp;</a>in the ACRC from member to consortium hub, which gives KU Medical Center the responsibility to mentor and lead other universities in its group.

<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/internal-medicine/clinical-divisions/pulmonary-critical-care-and-sleep-medicine/faculty/mario-castro-md.html" target="_blank">Mario Castro</a>, MD, MPH, division chief for pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will act as principal investigator. He brings this role with him from a previous position at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

The ACRC is the nation's largest not-for-profit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease. Its member centers have advanced research in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

"The ACRC Network is an incredibly valuable resource in pulmonology research," Castro said. "The network has answered some of the most important clinical questions we need to manage our patients with asthma, COPD and chronic cough. Now we are leveraging this expertise to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic."

KU Medical Center will be one of nine hub leaders for the ACRC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/about-our-research/covid19-action-initiative" target="_blank">COVID-19 Action Initiative</a>, a $25 million project from the American Lung Association. The initiative's goals are to:

American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer said the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the importance of ongoing lung disease research championed by the ACRC. "Clinical research allows us to advance scientific knowledge from the lab to the patient's bedside swiftly, directly impacting patient care," he said.

A second major ACRC initiative, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/lung-health-study" target="_blank">Lung Health Cohort Study</a>&nbsp;of millennials (ages 25-35 years old), will examine the effect of environmental exposures on respiratory health in young people. These environmental exposures will include urgent, timely and relevant factors, such as COVID-19 and vaping.

Castro said KU Medical Center is honored to play a role in the initiative, which is funded by a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.

"Often, when we think of breathing problems, we focus on the very young or the very old," Castro said. "The Lung Health Cohort Study provides an opportunity to research exposure risk within a young person's environment, so that all generations can benefit moving forward."

"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence."

Locally, KU Medical Center is teaming up with Children's Mercy Kansas City for a clinical trial to be conducted by the ACRC. The trial, called "Improving&nbsp;Medication&nbsp;Adherence with&nbsp;Telehealthcare Medication Therapy Management to&nbsp;Change&nbsp;Health Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults with Asthma," goes by the acronym MATCH and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Participants will include 300 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-30) who have a difficult time controlling their asthma.

All participants in the clinical trial will receive sensors that attach to their corticosteroid inhalers and a software application for their smartphone or computer.

When the medication is taken, the sensors relay information to the software so the clinical trial participant and the trial administrator can review it. With that data, both can see how well the participant is sticking to the medication plan.

Some participants will get extra support to adhere to their medication plan. In addition to the sensors and software, these participants will have video consultations with a pharmacist trained in medication therapy management. These telehealth visits will offer the participant periodic feedback and encouragement.

The clinical trial will measure which group has fewer asthma flare-ups. It also will figure out the cost-benefit analysis of the telehealth consultations.

"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence," Castro said. "Being able to test that hypothesis as well as measure its costs - especially against the costs associated with an emergency-room visit or hospitalization - could provide insight into a new approach to this common chronic disease, especially in these days of the pandemic where telehealth provides definite advantages to patient care."

In April 2020, the number of member institutions within ACRC nearly doubled, from 22 sites to 39. Universities within the current KU Medical Center consortium hub include the university itself as well as:

"As our nation faces the COVID-19 public health crisis, this framework of the ACRC is needed today more than ever," ALA's Wimmer said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603750350464.jpeg" alt="The University of Kansas Medical Center will take a leadership role in the Airways Clinical Research Centers Network (ACRC), the research arm of the American Lung Association." />
 <figcaption>The University of Kansas Medical Center will take a leadership role in the Airways Clinical Research Centers Network (ACRC), the research arm of the American Lung Association.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANNE CHRISTIANSEN-BULLERS KUMC NewsKANSAS CITY - The struggle to breathe is well-documented symptom for those battling COVID-19, so how is the disease best treated for those with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma?A study to address that question, along with other research related to lung issues, is being supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/" target="_blank">American Lung Association</a>&nbsp;and its research arm, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/airways-clinical-research-centers" target="_blank">Airways Clinical Research Centers Network&nbsp;</a>(ACRC).The University of Kansas Medical Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/acrc-expands">recently expanded its position&nbsp;</a>in the ACRC from member to consortium hub, which gives KU Medical Center the responsibility to mentor and lead other universities in its group.<h2>Importance of ACRC Network</h2><a href="http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/internal-medicine/clinical-divisions/pulmonary-critical-care-and-sleep-medicine/faculty/mario-castro-md.html" target="_blank">Mario Castro</a>, MD, MPH, division chief for pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will act as principal investigator. He brings this role with him from a previous position at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.The ACRC is the nation's largest not-for-profit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease. Its member centers have advanced research in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."The ACRC Network is an incredibly valuable resource in pulmonology research," Castro said. "The network has answered some of the most important clinical questions we need to manage our patients with asthma, COPD and chronic cough. Now we are leveraging this expertise to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic."<h2>COVID-19 Action Initiative</h2>KU Medical Center will be one of nine hub leaders for the ACRC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/about-our-research/covid19-action-initiative" target="_blank">COVID-19 Action Initiative</a>, a $25 million project from the American Lung Association. The initiative's goals are to:<ul>
 <li>Expand respiratory research</li><li>Fund grants for coronavirus vaccines and other prevention measures</li><li>Provide additional grants for research evaluating the effects of COVID-19 on patients with chronic lung disease</li><li>Enhance key public health measures through education and advocacy</li>
 </ul>American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer said the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the importance of ongoing lung disease research championed by the ACRC. "Clinical research allows us to advance scientific knowledge from the lab to the patient's bedside swiftly, directly impacting patient care," he said.<h2>Millennial Lung Health Cohort Study</h2>A second major ACRC initiative, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/lung-health-study" target="_blank">Lung Health Cohort Study</a>&nbsp;of millennials (ages 25-35 years old), will examine the effect of environmental exposures on respiratory health in young people. These environmental exposures will include urgent, timely and relevant factors, such as COVID-19 and vaping.Castro said KU Medical Center is honored to play a role in the initiative, which is funded by a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health."Often, when we think of breathing problems, we focus on the very young or the very old," Castro said. "The Lung Health Cohort Study provides an opportunity to research exposure risk within a young person's environment, so that all generations can benefit moving forward."<h2>Clinical trial for those with asthma</h2><figure>
 <img src="http://www.kumc.edu/Images/news/Castro,%20M%20Pulmonary%20Disease.jpg" alt="Mario Castro" />
 <figcaption>Mario Castro</figcaption>
 </figure>"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence."Locally, KU Medical Center is teaming up with Children's Mercy Kansas City for a clinical trial to be conducted by the ACRC. The trial, called "Improving&nbsp;Medication&nbsp;Adherence with&nbsp;Telehealthcare Medication Therapy Management to&nbsp;Change&nbsp;Health Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults with Asthma," goes by the acronym MATCH and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.Participants will include 300 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-30) who have a difficult time controlling their asthma.All participants in the clinical trial will receive sensors that attach to their corticosteroid inhalers and a software application for their smartphone or computer.When the medication is taken, the sensors relay information to the software so the clinical trial participant and the trial administrator can review it. With that data, both can see how well the participant is sticking to the medication plan.Some participants will get extra support to adhere to their medication plan. In addition to the sensors and software, these participants will have video consultations with a pharmacist trained in medication therapy management. These telehealth visits will offer the participant periodic feedback and encouragement.The clinical trial will measure which group has fewer asthma flare-ups. It also will figure out the cost-benefit analysis of the telehealth consultations."We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence," Castro said. "Being able to test that hypothesis as well as measure its costs - especially against the costs associated with an emergency-room visit or hospitalization - could provide insight into a new approach to this common chronic disease, especially in these days of the pandemic where telehealth provides definite advantages to patient care."<h2>About the ACRC expansion</h2>In April 2020, the number of member institutions within ACRC nearly doubled, from 22 sites to 39. Universities within the current KU Medical Center consortium hub include the university itself as well as:<ul>
 <li>Vanderbilt University</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Madison</li><li>Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina</li>
 </ul>"As our nation faces the COVID-19 public health crisis, this framework of the ACRC is needed today more than ever," ALA's Wimmer said.

KUMC selected for COVID-19, lung health research

Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 10 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Guidance about how to celebrate Halloween safely is posted on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=348b09661f&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=98c53524f1&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>. Limiting close contact with people outside your household and finding alternate ways to celebrate will help limit your exposure to the virus. “We’re seeing an increase in case totals, but Riley County numbers are lower than other areas in the state,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “We’ve been able to approach the pandemic with a unified front and we’re fortunate to have an Emergency Operations Center in the county. &nbsp;I’m grateful for the teamwork and leadership shown by the Unified Command, K-State, local school districts, elected officials, and for the hard work and support from the public. We will get through this if we continue to work together; the fight is far from over.” Riley County Statistics for Friday, October 30, 2020:

Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification.

Riley County currently has four active outbreaks. The public outbreak at the Smith House has expired and no new outbreaks have been identified since the last report. Three additional cases have been associated with the October 17 wedding in Manhattan, bringing the total to 40 active cases for that outbreak. “Event permits are still required for gatherings of more than 50 people,” said Julie Gibbs. “We want people to be able to celebrate occasions and host events, and we’ll educate you about precautions to put in place in order to help keep those events safe. It is up to each individual to take action and follow those guidelines.”

Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 10 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Guidance about how to celebrate Halloween safely is posted on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=348b09661f&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=98c53524f1&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>. Limiting close contact with people outside your household and finding alternate ways to celebrate will help limit your exposure to the virus. “We’re seeing an increase in case totals, but Riley County numbers are lower than other areas in the state,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “We’ve been able to approach the pandemic with a unified front and we’re fortunate to have an Emergency Operations Center in the county. &nbsp;I’m grateful for the teamwork and leadership shown by the Unified Command, K-State, local school districts, elected officials, and for the hard work and support from the public. We will get through this if we continue to work together; the fight is far from over.” Riley County Statistics for Friday, October 30, 2020:<ol>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,214</li><li>Total active: 127</li><li>Total recovered: 2,076</li><li>Total deaths: 11</li><li>Total negative test results: 19,251</li>
 </ol>Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification.Riley County currently has four active outbreaks. The public outbreak at the Smith House has expired and no new outbreaks have been identified since the last report. Three additional cases have been associated with the October 17 wedding in Manhattan, bringing the total to 40 active cases for that outbreak. “Event permits are still required for gatherings of more than 50 people,” said Julie Gibbs. “We want people to be able to celebrate occasions and host events, and we’ll educate you about precautions to put in place in order to help keep those events safe. It is up to each individual to take action and follow those guidelines.”

Riley County records more positive COVID-19 cases

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

$65M approved for more COVID-19 testing in Kansas

Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 37 additional recoveries since Monday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 2 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. "Riley County is in a good position right now" said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. "Many areas in Kansas have seen large increases in case numbers in recent weeks, but the safety measures we have in place locally have helped keep our numbers low. I commend the community for all the hard work and effort they've put in. We'll get through this if we continue to work together, wear masks, and keep our distance. Getting flu shots this year will also help you stay healthy and relieve pressure on the medical community." Offering access to testing is also a powerful tool for slowing the spread of the virus. Riley County is offering the next free testing event on Thursday, November 5th, at Pottorf Hall in Manhattan’s CiCo Park. Anyone is welcome to drive up and get tested during the two time slots: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. You do not have to be a resident of Manhattan or Riley County to participate. No appointments are necessary and the standard nasal swab PCR test will be administered. “The line moves pretty quickly and the test only takes a few moments,” said Gibbs. “With the last few free testing events, we’ve seen roughly 5% of tests come back positive. Results take 2 to 3 days and contact tracing staff will call you to follow up.” Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Monday, October 28, 2020:

Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 37 additional recoveries since Monday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 2 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. "Riley County is in a good position right now" said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. "Many areas in Kansas have seen large increases in case numbers in recent weeks, but the safety measures we have in place locally have helped keep our numbers low. I commend the community for all the hard work and effort they've put in. We'll get through this if we continue to work together, wear masks, and keep our distance. Getting flu shots this year will also help you stay healthy and relieve pressure on the medical community." Offering access to testing is also a powerful tool for slowing the spread of the virus. Riley County is offering the next free testing event on Thursday, November 5th, at Pottorf Hall in Manhattan’s CiCo Park. Anyone is welcome to drive up and get tested during the two time slots: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. You do not have to be a resident of Manhattan or Riley County to participate. No appointments are necessary and the standard nasal swab PCR test will be administered. “The line moves pretty quickly and the test only takes a few moments,” said Gibbs. “With the last few free testing events, we’ve seen roughly 5% of tests come back positive. Results take 2 to 3 days and contact tracing staff will call you to follow up.” Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Monday, October 28, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,177</li><li>Total active: 100</li><li>Total recovered: 2,066</li><li>Total deaths: 11</li><li>Total negative test results: 17,484</li>
 </ul>

New positive and recovered COVIXD-19 case numbers equal

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 3,369 to a total of 82,045 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1007, an increase of&nbsp; 31.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 3,369 to a total of 82,045 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1007, an increase of&nbsp; 31.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603905113410.png" alt="Wednesday Oct. 28, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Oct. 28, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicare will cover the yet-to-be approved coronavirus vaccine free for older people under a policy change expected to be announced shortly, a senior Trump administration official said Tuesday.

The coming announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aims to align the time-consuming process for securing Medicare coverage of a new vaccine, drug or treatment with the rapid campaign to have a coronavirus vaccine ready for initial distribution once it is ready, possibly as early as the end of the year.

It’s questionable under normal circumstances if Medicare can pay for a drug that receives emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, as expected for the eventual coronavirus vaccine. Emergency use designation is a step short of full approval.

The administration official said Medicare’s announcement will try to resolve several legal technicalities that could conceivably get in the way of delivering free vaccines to millions of seniors, a high-risk group for COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The official spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss a pending regulation.

President Donald Trump and lawmakers of both parties in Congress have spelled out their intention that all Americans will be able to get the vaccine for free. But the official said a series of potential legal obstacles that could get in the way of Medicare payment never got unscrambled.

Earlier this month, Medicare administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/seema-verma">Seema Verma</a>&nbsp;said her agency was close to resolving the issue.

“I think we’ve figured out a path forward,” Verma said at the HLTH conference, a forum for innovators. “It was very clear that Congress wants to make sure that Medicare beneficiaries have this vaccine and that there isn’t any cost-sharing.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3988cd848c818b3e7317df306b926cc">$1.8 trillion CARES Act</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress in March called for free vaccination for all Americans, from seniors covered by Medicare to families with employer-sponsored health insurance.

A White House-backed initiative called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/756e5b743058701c4a2ebefd0af1ade4">“Operation Warp Speed”</a>&nbsp;is pushing to have a vaccine ready for distribution in the coming months. The government is spending billions of dollars to manufacture vaccines even before they receive FDA approval, thereby cutting the timeline for delivery. Officials at the FDA have committed that the program will not interfere with their own science-based decisions. Vaccines that don’t meet the test for approval would be discarded.

States have already begun submitting their plans for vaccine distribution to the federal government.

Initially, it’s expected vaccines will go to people in high-risk groups such as medical personnel, frontline workers and nursing home residents and staff. Older people are also high on the priority list because their risks of serious illness and death from the coronavirus — which has&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html" target="_blank">killed more than 225,000 people</a>&nbsp;in the United States — are much higher. It could be well into next year before a vaccine is widely available.

Medicare’s impending announcement was first reported by Politico.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicare will cover the yet-to-be approved coronavirus vaccine free for older people under a policy change expected to be announced shortly, a senior Trump administration official said Tuesday.The coming announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aims to align the time-consuming process for securing Medicare coverage of a new vaccine, drug or treatment with the rapid campaign to have a coronavirus vaccine ready for initial distribution once it is ready, possibly as early as the end of the year.It’s questionable under normal circumstances if Medicare can pay for a drug that receives emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, as expected for the eventual coronavirus vaccine. Emergency use designation is a step short of full approval.The administration official said Medicare’s announcement will try to resolve several legal technicalities that could conceivably get in the way of delivering free vaccines to millions of seniors, a high-risk group for COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The official spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss a pending regulation.President Donald Trump and lawmakers of both parties in Congress have spelled out their intention that all Americans will be able to get the vaccine for free. But the official said a series of potential legal obstacles that could get in the way of Medicare payment never got unscrambled.Earlier this month, Medicare administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/seema-verma">Seema Verma</a>&nbsp;said her agency was close to resolving the issue.“I think we’ve figured out a path forward,” Verma said at the HLTH conference, a forum for innovators. “It was very clear that Congress wants to make sure that Medicare beneficiaries have this vaccine and that there isn’t any cost-sharing.”“Stay tuned,” she added.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3988cd848c818b3e7317df306b926cc">$1.8 trillion CARES Act</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress in March called for free vaccination for all Americans, from seniors covered by Medicare to families with employer-sponsored health insurance.A White House-backed initiative called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/756e5b743058701c4a2ebefd0af1ade4">“Operation Warp Speed”</a>&nbsp;is pushing to have a vaccine ready for distribution in the coming months. The government is spending billions of dollars to manufacture vaccines even before they receive FDA approval, thereby cutting the timeline for delivery. Officials at the FDA have committed that the program will not interfere with their own science-based decisions. Vaccines that don’t meet the test for approval would be discarded.States have already begun submitting their plans for vaccine distribution to the federal government.Initially, it’s expected vaccines will go to people in high-risk groups such as medical personnel, frontline workers and nursing home residents and staff. Older people are also high on the priority list because their risks of serious illness and death from the coronavirus — which has&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html" target="_blank">killed more than 225,000 people</a>&nbsp;in the United States — are much higher. It could be well into next year before a vaccine is widely available.Medicare’s impending announcement was first reported by Politico.

Medicare finalizing coverage policy for coronavirus vaccine

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.

Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.

Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.

&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.

The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.

“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

Kansas City sees record number of virus deaths 

Riley County has 29 new positive cases and 11 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 1 positive patient at this time. The patient has symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Monday, October 26, 2020:

Riley County has seven active outbreaks at this time. No new outbreaks have been declared since the last report.&nbsp;

Riley County has 29 new positive cases and 11 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 1 positive patient at this time. The patient has symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their health care provider or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Riley County Statistics for Monday, October 26, 2020:<ol>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,140</li><li>Total active: 100</li><li>Total recovered: 2,029</li><li>Total deaths: 11</li><li>Total negative tests: 17,028</li>
 </ol>Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification.Riley County has seven active outbreaks at this time. No new outbreaks have been declared since the last report.&nbsp;

Riley County health provides COVID-19 update

Geary County Commissioners Charles Stimatze and Brad Scholz have announced via social media that they have tested positive for COVID-19.

On Thursday Stimatze stated that out of precaution he took the initiative to get tested after finding out he was in close contact with others who tested positive. Stimatze confirmed that his test also came back positive."I have had no symptoms but will quarantine until I am cleared."

Scholz said he tested positive for COVID-19,  but the only problems were a sore throat and headache.  He noted that the Health Department indicated that they would contact everyone he had been in contact with the three previous days. On Thursday he posted, "Have spent most of the day on the phone so I don't see my getting  behind in my work being an issue."

Geary County Commissioners Charles Stimatze and Brad Scholz have announced via social media that they have tested positive for COVID-19.On Thursday Stimatze stated that out of precaution he took the initiative to get tested after finding out he was in close contact with others who tested positive. Stimatze confirmed that his test also came back positive."I have had no symptoms but will quarantine until I am cleared."Scholz said he tested positive for COVID-19, but the only problems were a sore throat and headache. He noted that the Health Department indicated that they would contact everyone he had been in contact with the three previous days. On Thursday he posted, "Have spent most of the day on the phone so I don't see my getting behind in my work being an issue."

Two members of the Geary County Commission test positive for COVID-19

WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.

The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.

Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.

The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.

“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.

The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.

Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.

Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.

So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603450089080.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.___

FDA approves the first drug for treating COVID-19

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.

For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.

The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.

The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.

It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.

The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.

An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.

The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.

In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.

“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.

The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.

The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591480312815.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.___

CDC redefines COVID-19 close contact, adds brief encounters

Eleven new positive COVID-19 cases were reported Monday in Pottawatomie County by the Health Department. There were seven recovered cases. Twelve tests are pending and no one is hospitalized.&nbsp;

The Pottawatomie County Health Department will conduct drive-thru flu shot clinics on Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 27 and 28. On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the clinic will run from 3:30 to 4 p.m. in the Onaga school parking lot. On Wednesday, oct. 28, it will go from 3:30 - 6p.m. in Wamego in the parking lot next to the soccer and ball diamonds at the Recreation Complex at U.S. Highway 24 and Balderson Blvd.

Eleven new positive COVID-19 cases were reported Monday in Pottawatomie County by the Health Department. There were seven recovered cases. Twelve tests are pending and no one is hospitalized.&nbsp;The Pottawatomie County Health Department will conduct drive-thru flu shot clinics on Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 27 and 28. On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the clinic will run from 3:30 to 4 p.m. in the Onaga school parking lot. On Wednesday, oct. 28, it will go from 3:30 - 6p.m. in Wamego in the parking lot next to the soccer and ball diamonds at the Recreation Complex at U.S. Highway 24 and Balderson Blvd.The St. Marys clinic has been cancelled.

New COVID-19 numbers are updated for Pottawatomie County

&nbsp;The Riley State Bank in the City of Riley has been declared a new area of outbreak. Six cases have been identified at that location, with the most recent positive tests taking place on October 14. A public outbreak is declared when five or more cases can be linked to spread at a specific location and time period.&nbsp; RCHD staff talked with Bank President Mike Hagenmaier.&nbsp;The bank's lobby has been closed since last week and will potentially reopen next week. The bank's drive thru is open for normal business and night drop 8am-6pm. There are currently 10 active updates in Riley County. The Alpha Delta Pi outbreak expired Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;The Riley State Bank in the City of Riley has been declared a new area of outbreak. Six cases have been identified at that location, with the most recent positive tests taking place on October 14. A public outbreak is declared when five or more cases can be linked to spread at a specific location and time period.&nbsp; RCHD staff talked with Bank President Mike Hagenmaier.&nbsp;The bank's lobby has been closed since last week and will potentially reopen next week. The bank's drive thru is open for normal business and night drop 8am-6pm. There are currently 10 active updates in Riley County. The Alpha Delta Pi outbreak expired Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New COVID-19 outbreak occurs in Riley County

Riley County has 10 new positive cases and 45 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Riley County Statistics for Monday, October 19, 2020:

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is not caring for any COVID-19 patients at this time. The percent positive rate fell to 5.9% for the week of October 11. This rate compares the number of positive tests to the total number of tests performed for Riley County residents and is one indication of how the virus is spreading in the community. The percent positive rate has been declining since Riley County hit a high point of 34.5% positive the week of August 23.

Riley County has 10 new positive cases and 45 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Riley County Statistics for Monday, October 19, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,045</li><li>Total active: 72</li><li>Total recovered: 1,962</li><li>Total deaths: 11</li>
 </ul>Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is not caring for any COVID-19 patients at this time. The percent positive rate fell to 5.9% for the week of October 11. This rate compares the number of positive tests to the total number of tests performed for Riley County residents and is one indication of how the virus is spreading in the community. The percent positive rate has been declining since Riley County hit a high point of 34.5% positive the week of August 23.

Riley County health reports the latest COVID-19 numbers

The Riley County Health Department was notified of the eleventh COVID-related death in the county. The patient passed away in his home in Manhattan at the age of 67. No further details will be released about the patient. Riley County has 31 new positive cases and 14 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 2 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Riley County Statistics for Friday, October 16, 2020:

Anyone who would like to be tested for COVID-19 is welcome to participate in the free testing events in City Park weekend. This evening, drive-up testing will be available from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. On Saturday, free testing is available from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Please wear a mask and enter the park from Fremont Street, near Wefald Pavilion. No appointment or doctor’s referral is necessary and participants will be notified of test results as soon as they are received. Typically, results take 2-4 days to process. There are currently 10 active outbreaks in Riley County. No new outbreaks have been identified since the last report. Three outbreaks passed the 28 day period without a new case and have been declared expired: Homestead Assisted Living, Gamma Phi Beta, and Sigma Kappa. An outbreak is declared released or expired when 28 days have passed without a new positive case. See a PDF of outbreak information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=a0e01fa709&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19543/10-16-public-outbreak-information</a>

*Please note, some ages have been updated after patient information was verified. Category totals have changed since last reported on Monday, October 12. The column at the right represents the 31 new cases in Riley County.



The Riley County Health Department was notified of the eleventh COVID-related death in the county. The patient passed away in his home in Manhattan at the age of 67. No further details will be released about the patient. Riley County has 31 new positive cases and 14 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 2 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Riley County Statistics for Friday, October 16, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,035</li><li>Total active: 107</li><li>Total recovered: 1,917</li><li>Total deaths: 11</li>
 </ul>Anyone who would like to be tested for COVID-19 is welcome to participate in the free testing events in City Park weekend. This evening, drive-up testing will be available from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. On Saturday, free testing is available from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Please wear a mask and enter the park from Fremont Street, near Wefald Pavilion. No appointment or doctor’s referral is necessary and participants will be notified of test results as soon as they are received. Typically, results take 2-4 days to process. There are currently 10 active outbreaks in Riley County. No new outbreaks have been identified since the last report. Three outbreaks passed the 28 day period without a new case and have been declared expired: Homestead Assisted Living, Gamma Phi Beta, and Sigma Kappa. An outbreak is declared released or expired when 28 days have passed without a new positive case. See a PDF of outbreak information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=a0e01fa709&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19543/10-16-public-outbreak-information</a>*Please note, some ages have been updated after patient information was verified. Category totals have changed since last reported on Monday, October 12. The column at the right represents the 31 new cases in Riley County.

Coronavirus Update