Pottawatomie County health officials said this past week that FEMA helps the public tell fact from fiction, and rumors from truth regarding the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can stop the spread of rumors by finding trusted sources of information, sharing information only from trusted sources, and discouraging others from sharing information from unverified sources.&nbsp;

You can find trusted sources on the Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus Page.&nbsp;

There are five things you can do to avoid a coronavirus scam. They include ignoring offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Hang up on robocalls, watch out for phishing emails and text messages by not clicking on links in emails or texts that you did not expect, research before you donate and stay in the know.

Pottawatomie County health officials said this past week that FEMA helps the public tell fact from fiction, and rumors from truth regarding the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can stop the spread of rumors by finding trusted sources of information, sharing information only from trusted sources, and discouraging others from sharing information from unverified sources.&nbsp;You can find trusted sources on the Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus Page.&nbsp;There are five things you can do to avoid a coronavirus scam. They include ignoring offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Hang up on robocalls, watch out for phishing emails and text messages by not clicking on links in emails or texts that you did not expect, research before you donate and stay in the know.

Avoid coronavirus scams

The Pottawatomie County Health Department released a community COVID-19 update.&nbsp;

Since the last report, there have been 18 new positive Coronavirus cases in Pottawatomie County, bringing the total for the pandemic to 1,832. There were also three new recoveries, bringing the total of recoveries to 1,815.&nbsp;

There is currently no one hospitalized for Coronavirus in Pottawatomie County.&nbsp;

The Pottawatomie County Health Department released a community COVID-19 update.&nbsp;Since the last report, there have been 18 new positive Coronavirus cases in Pottawatomie County, bringing the total for the pandemic to 1,832. There were also three new recoveries, bringing the total of recoveries to 1,815.&nbsp;There is currently no one hospitalized for Coronavirus in Pottawatomie County.&nbsp;

Pottawatomie County COVID-19 Update

There are two active COVID-19 cases in Pottawatomie County and no one is hospitalized. Those numbers were reported by&nbsp; the Health Department on Wednesday. 

COVID-19 Vaccine signups:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup" target="_blank">https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup</a>&nbsp;or if you would like assistance, call 785-457-1432.&nbsp; If you would like to confirm your name is on the list, please call, or e-mail&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pio@pottcounty.org" target="_blank">pio@pottcounty.org</a>.

There are two active COVID-19 cases in Pottawatomie County and no one is hospitalized. Those numbers were reported by&nbsp; the Health Department on Wednesday. COVID-19 Vaccine signups:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup" target="_blank">https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup</a>&nbsp;or if you would like assistance, call 785-457-1432.&nbsp; If you would like to confirm your name is on the list, please call, or e-mail&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pio@pottcounty.org" target="_blank">pio@pottcounty.org</a>.

Pottawatomie County reports two active COVID-19 cases

Riley County health officials have identified 6 new positive coronavirus cases and 10 additional recoveries from COVID-19&nbsp; since the last report on Monday.&nbsp; The percent of positive cases for the week of March 14th was 1.8%. That translates to 32 of the 1,767 tests performed coming back positive. This is the eighth week in a row that Riley County has seen the percent of positive cases below 5%.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. No COVID-positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

Riley County health officials have identified 6 new positive coronavirus cases and 10 additional recoveries from COVID-19&nbsp; since the last report on Monday.&nbsp; The percent of positive cases for the week of March 14th was 1.8%. That translates to 32 of the 1,767 tests performed coming back positive. This is the eighth week in a row that Riley County has seen the percent of positive cases below 5%.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. No COVID-positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

Riley County health provides the COVID-19 update on case numbers

VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System which includes the Richard J, Seitz Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Junction City will provide the 2nd Dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine to local Junction City and Manhattan area Veterans enrolled in VA Health Care on Saturday, March 27th at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

In partnership with the C.L. Opera House, this VA follow up clinic is for those Veterans provided the initial Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine on the 27th of February. Veterans have already been scheduled into their appointment slots and are reminded to arrive on time.

Joe and Sheila Markley, directors of the CL Hooper Opera House share, “We are thrilled the Opera House is being used to distribute the COVID Vaccine. While we may have been closed for live shows, it is so good to be open and helping our community in this way. Great work is being done here through the County Health Department and the VA. What a wonderful opportunity this has been to give back to the community.”

VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System which includes the Richard J, Seitz Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Junction City will provide the 2nd Dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine to local Junction City and Manhattan area Veterans enrolled in VA Health Care on Saturday, March 27th at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.In partnership with the C.L. Opera House, this VA follow up clinic is for those Veterans provided the initial Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine on the 27th of February. Veterans have already been scheduled into their appointment slots and are reminded to arrive on time.Joe and Sheila Markley, directors of the CL Hooper Opera House share, “We are thrilled the Opera House is being used to distribute the COVID Vaccine. While we may have been closed for live shows, it is so good to be open and helping our community in this way. Great work is being done here through the County Health Department and the VA. What a wonderful opportunity this has been to give back to the community.”

Veterans in VA Health Care can receive second dose of COVID-19 vaccine

One additional COVID-positive patient has died in Riley County. The patient was a 97-year-old female. She tested positive on January 4th and passed away on March 15th. Her passing brings the total number of COVID-related deaths in the county to 36.&nbsp;

Riley County has identified 17 new positive coronavirus cases and 15 additional recoveries since the last report on March 17, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One additional COVID-positive patient has died in Riley County. The patient was a 97-year-old female. She tested positive on January 4th and passed away on March 15th. Her passing brings the total number of COVID-related deaths in the county to 36.&nbsp;Riley County has identified 17 new positive coronavirus cases and 15 additional recoveries since the last report on March 17, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. No COVID-positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

Riley County health officials confirm one more COVID-19 related death

Pottawatomie County health officials report that while they are eligible to move into Phases 3 and 4 for COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday they still have more qualified people signed up for the vaccine, than actual vaccine.&nbsp;

Clinics will continue to be scheduled as they receive vaccine, and work to make appointments as efficiently as possible.

Pottawatomie County health officials report that while they are eligible to move into Phases 3 and 4 for COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday they still have more qualified people signed up for the vaccine, than actual vaccine.&nbsp;Clinics will continue to be scheduled as they receive vaccine, and work to make appointments as efficiently as possible.

Pottawatomie County will work to schedule COVID-19 vaccination clinics as vaccine is received

In the past, those eligible to receive a vaccine were assigned a one-hour window to be vaccinated. The new software will allow individuals to choose a thirty-minute window that best fits with their schedule on a specified day. Only those who have registered with Riley County will be notified of available appointments. Notifications of appointment eligibility and instructions will be sent via Everbridge. Only those individuals who receive a notification will be able to schedule an appointment. If you can't make your appointment, your name will remain on the list, and we will contact you for future clinics.&nbsp;

Notifications for second doses will make use of the same scheduling process. If you received your first dose from the Riley County Health Department and have not been notified for the second dose, please feel free to contact the health department for more information.&nbsp;

Individuals without internet access can call 785-565-6560 for assistance.

Beginning next week Riley County, in accordance with KDHE, will begin vaccinating those in Phase 3 and 4. For a breakdown of phases, please refer to this link&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=4f40dfaa01&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/Faq.aspx?QID=798</a>

In the past, those eligible to receive a vaccine were assigned a one-hour window to be vaccinated. The new software will allow individuals to choose a thirty-minute window that best fits with their schedule on a specified day. Only those who have registered with Riley County will be notified of available appointments. Notifications of appointment eligibility and instructions will be sent via Everbridge. Only those individuals who receive a notification will be able to schedule an appointment. If you can't make your appointment, your name will remain on the list, and we will contact you for future clinics.&nbsp;Notifications for second doses will make use of the same scheduling process. If you received your first dose from the Riley County Health Department and have not been notified for the second dose, please feel free to contact the health department for more information.&nbsp;Individuals without internet access can call 785-565-6560 for assistance.Beginning next week Riley County, in accordance with KDHE, will begin vaccinating those in Phase 3 and 4. For a breakdown of phases, please refer to this link&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=4f40dfaa01&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/Faq.aspx?QID=798</a>

Riley County rolls out new COVID-19 vaccination program

Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Commanding General, has issued an update to the COVID-19 General Order. The Army said via social media that the order is effective 17 March and available at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/.../all.../coronavirus-information</a>.

<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank"></a>Major changes include the following exceptions to the Fort Riley Mask policy: (1) outside when social distancing of 6 feet can be maintained; (2) when physically executing a graded event of an APFT or ACFT; (3) when working outside or operating machinery in situations where mask usage could increase heat-related or safety concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Commanding General, has issued an update to the COVID-19 General Order. The Army said via social media that the order is effective 17 March and available at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/.../all.../coronavirus-information</a>.<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank"></a>Major changes include the following exceptions to the Fort Riley Mask policy: (1) outside when social distancing of 6 feet can be maintained; (2) when physically executing a graded event of an APFT or ACFT; (3) when working outside or operating machinery in situations where mask usage could increase heat-related or safety concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley has an update to the COVID-19 general order

This week, the Riley County Health Departmemnt is administering first doses to those who fall into Phase 2&nbsp; and administering“boosters”, second doses to individuals who were vaccinated on or before February 17th.&nbsp;

Beginning next week Riley County, in accordance with KDHE will begin vaccinating those in Phase 3 and 4. If you would like to be vaccinated please be sure to register with Riley County at:<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=dbd37f84e0&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/159b322fb56f404aa194e5503540f127</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

This week, the Riley County Health Departmemnt is administering first doses to those who fall into Phase 2&nbsp; and administering“boosters”, second doses to individuals who were vaccinated on or before February 17th.&nbsp;Beginning next week Riley County, in accordance with KDHE will begin vaccinating those in Phase 3 and 4. If you would like to be vaccinated please be sure to register with Riley County at:<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=dbd37f84e0&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/159b322fb56f404aa194e5503540f127</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County health continues vaccination updates

Manhattan City Commissioners have voted to extend the face mask requirement for the City during the coronavirus pandemic until May 16. An amended ordinance was approved Tuesday night.

The face mask requirement had initially been scheduled to expire on April 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615984896927.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Manhattan City Commissioners have voted to extend the face mask requirement for the City during the coronavirus pandemic until May 16. An amended ordinance was approved Tuesday night.The face mask requirement had initially been scheduled to expire on April 1.

Manhattan will continue to have a face mask mandate

Riley County health officials have identified 19 new positive coronavirus cases and 16 additional recoveries since the last report on Monday.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is not caring for any positive patients.&nbsp;

Riley County health officials have identified 19 new positive coronavirus cases and 16 additional recoveries since the last report on Monday.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is not caring for any positive patients.&nbsp;

COVID-19 numbers are released by the Riley County Health Department

There are now two active COVID-19 cases in Pottawatomie County. County officials no one is hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began thee have been 1,799 confirmed positive cases and 1,797 recovered cases. There have been 27 COVID-19 related deaths.

There are now two active COVID-19 cases in Pottawatomie County. County officials no one is hospitalized.Since the pandemic began thee have been 1,799 confirmed positive cases and 1,797 recovered cases. There have been 27 COVID-19 related deaths.

Small number of active COVID-19 cases are reported in Pottawatomie County

&nbsp;Riley County health officials confirm that two additional COVID-positive patients have died in Riley County. The patients were two women, ages 69 and 80 years old. The 69-year-old woman tested positive on January 7th and passed away on March 10th. The other woman tested positive on January 19th and also passed away on March 10th. Their passing brings the total number of COVID-related deaths in the county to 35.&nbsp; Riley County has identified nine new positive coronavirus cases and 14 additional recoveries since the last report on March 10th, 2021. &nbsp; Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients. No COVID-positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp; As the weather warms up and families enjoy spring break, the Riley County Health Department encourages individuals to continue to wear masks, practice social distancing and avoid crowds.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;Riley County health officials confirm that two additional COVID-positive patients have died in Riley County. The patients were two women, ages 69 and 80 years old. The 69-year-old woman tested positive on January 7th and passed away on March 10th. The other woman tested positive on January 19th and also passed away on March 10th. Their passing brings the total number of COVID-related deaths in the county to 35.&nbsp; Riley County has identified nine new positive coronavirus cases and 14 additional recoveries since the last report on March 10th, 2021. &nbsp; Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients. No COVID-positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp; As the weather warms up and families enjoy spring break, the Riley County Health Department encourages individuals to continue to wear masks, practice social distancing and avoid crowds.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Health officials confirm two more COVID-19 related deaths

Pottawatomie County health officials report that there are now six active COVID-19 cases in that county. That is down two from their last report.&nbsp; One person is hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began there have been 1,790 confirmed positive cases, 1,784 recovered cases and COVID-19 related deaths that have been reported in Pottawatomie County.

Pottawatomie County health officials report that there are now six active COVID-19 cases in that county. That is down two from their last report.&nbsp; One person is hospitalized.Since the pandemic began there have been 1,790 confirmed positive cases, 1,784 recovered cases and COVID-19 related deaths that have been reported in Pottawatomie County.

Covid-19 numbers are updated for Pottawatomie County

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 778 to a total of 297,229, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4,851, an increase of 35.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 778 to a total of 297,229, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4,851, an increase of 35.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615399528241.png" alt="Wednesday March 10, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday March 10, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

TOPEKA – In conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance issued Monday for those who have been vaccinated, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing similar guidance in Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.

Two weeks after Kansans receive their completed vaccination (two weeks after the second dose for Pfizer and Moderna, two weeks after the single dose for Johnson &amp; Johnson), Kansans may begin to gather in their private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or social distancing.

The guidance also allows for vaccinated people to gather in private homes with unvaccinated people so long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.

“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”

While private home guidance has changed for those who are fully vaccinated, public health measures in public still apply to everyone, including those vaccinated.

“Thank you for continuing to keep your fellow Kansans safe,” Dr. Norman said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610057767019.png" alt="“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”" />
 <figcaption>“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – In conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance issued Monday for those who have been vaccinated, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing similar guidance in Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In conjunction with new <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCgov</a> guidance, KDHE is issuing similar guidance. Two weeks after completing the vaccination, KSans may gather in private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, w/out masks or distancing. Complete details: <a href="https://t.co/UsDjFE3CTe">https://t.co/UsDjFE3CTe</a> <a href="https://t.co/d68H3HCxaV">pic.twitter.com/d68H3HCxaV</a>&mdash; KDHE (@KDHE) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDHE/status/1369702030831390722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Two weeks after Kansans receive their completed vaccination (two weeks after the second dose for Pfizer and Moderna, two weeks after the single dose for Johnson &amp; Johnson), Kansans may begin to gather in their private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or social distancing.The guidance also allows for vaccinated people to gather in private homes with unvaccinated people so long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”While private home guidance has changed for those who are fully vaccinated, public health measures in public still apply to everyone, including those vaccinated.<ul>
 <li>Wear a mask</li><li>Stay at least 6 feet away from others</li><li>Avoid crowds</li><li>Avoid poorly ventilated spaces</li><li>Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol</li>
 </ul>“Thank you for continuing to keep your fellow Kansans safe,” Dr. Norman said.

KDHE guidance for Kansans who are vaccinated

Riley County has identified 15 new positive coronavirus cases and 43 additional recoveries since the last report on March 3, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. No COVID positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

This week, RCHD will administer first doses to those who fall into Phase 2 on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday “boosters”, second doses, will be administered to individuals who were vaccinated on or before February 12th.&nbsp;

This week, the Health Department will work to complete Phase 2 as mandated by the state. This phase includes those who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.&nbsp;

Riley County has identified 15 new positive coronavirus cases and 43 additional recoveries since the last report on March 3, 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. No COVID positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;Vaccination Updates:&nbsp;This week, RCHD will administer first doses to those who fall into Phase 2 on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday “boosters”, second doses, will be administered to individuals who were vaccinated on or before February 12th.&nbsp;This week, the Health Department will work to complete Phase 2 as mandated by the state. This phase includes those who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.&nbsp;

Riley County health updates COVID-19 numbers

COVID-19 Vaccine sign-ups:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup" target="_blank">https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup</a>&nbsp;or if you’d like assistance, call 785-457-1432.&nbsp; If you would like to confirm your name is on the list, please call, or e-mail&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pio@pottcounty.org" target="_blank">pio@pottcounty.org</a>.

According to health officials, Pottawatomie&nbsp;County&nbsp;is now advancing to other qualified persons in Phase 2.&nbsp; If you are 65 or older and have not yet been vaccinated, you may still sign-up.&nbsp; In addition, if you work in a congregate setting (new priority), or are a high-contact critical worker (see definitions below) and have not yet signed-up, please do so now.&nbsp; If you are a business that qualifies for Phase 2, please contact the Health Department with the number of employees interested.

The&nbsp;Pottawatomie&nbsp;County&nbsp;Health Department, Wamego Health Center, and Community Health Care system are reaching out to businesses that may qualify to see if they are interested.&nbsp; Licensed Childcare Providers and Centers that are interested should contact the&nbsp;Pottawatomie&nbsp;County&nbsp;Health Department at 785-457-3719.&nbsp; 

They&nbsp; are unable to move to Phase 3 until every&nbsp;county&nbsp;in Kansas is ready.&nbsp; Therefore it is important to get all those who qualify, and want the vaccine, from Phases 1 and 2, to sign-up now.

COVID-19 Vaccine sign-ups:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup" target="_blank">https://pottcounty.govbuilt.com/vaccinesignup</a>&nbsp;or if you’d like assistance, call 785-457-1432.&nbsp; If you would like to confirm your name is on the list, please call, or e-mail&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pio@pottcounty.org" target="_blank">pio@pottcounty.org</a>.According to health officials, Pottawatomie&nbsp;County&nbsp;is now advancing to other qualified persons in Phase 2.&nbsp; If you are 65 or older and have not yet been vaccinated, you may still sign-up.&nbsp; In addition, if you work in a congregate setting (new priority), or are a high-contact critical worker (see definitions below) and have not yet signed-up, please do so now.&nbsp; If you are a business that qualifies for Phase 2, please contact the Health Department with the number of employees interested.The&nbsp;Pottawatomie&nbsp;County&nbsp;Health Department, Wamego Health Center, and Community Health Care system are reaching out to businesses that may qualify to see if they are interested.&nbsp; Licensed Childcare Providers and Centers that are interested should contact the&nbsp;Pottawatomie&nbsp;County&nbsp;Health Department at 785-457-3719.&nbsp; They&nbsp; are unable to move to Phase 3 until every&nbsp;county&nbsp;in Kansas is ready.&nbsp; Therefore it is important to get all those who qualify, and want the vaccine, from Phases 1 and 2, to sign-up now.

Pottawatomie County provides COVID-19 vaccine sign-up information

Pottawatomie County officials reported on Friday that there were 10 active COVID-19 cases in the county, up two from the last report on March3rd. No one is hospitalized.&nbsp;

Pottawatomie County officials reported on Friday that there were 10 active COVID-19 cases in the county, up two from the last report on March3rd. No one is hospitalized.&nbsp;

There are 10 active COVID-19 cases in Pottawatomie County

RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 3, 2021) Riley County health has identified 27&nbsp;new positive coronavirus cases and 16&nbsp;additional recoveries since the last report on March 1. The percent of positive cases for the week of February 21st was 2.2%. That translates to 42 of the 1,922 tests performed coming back positive. This is the fifth week in a row that Riley County has seen the percent of positive cases below 5%.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients, one of whom is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

This week, RCHD will administer “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22 and February 4th. If you were not notified this week they will be reaching out next week.&nbsp;

Next week, the Health Department will work to complete Phase 2 as mandated by the state. This phase includes those who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 3, 2021) Riley County health has identified 27&nbsp;new positive coronavirus cases and 16&nbsp;additional recoveries since the last report on March 1. The percent of positive cases for the week of February 21st was 2.2%. That translates to 42 of the 1,922 tests performed coming back positive. This is the fifth week in a row that Riley County has seen the percent of positive cases below 5%.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients, one of whom is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;This week, RCHD will administer “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22 and February 4th. If you were not notified this week they will be reaching out next week.&nbsp;Next week, the Health Department will work to complete Phase 2 as mandated by the state. This phase includes those who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.&nbsp;

Riley County health provides a COVID-19 update

Riley County Health Department officials have learned that they will not be able to move to Phase 3 of the vaccination priority schedule this week as originally planned. Instead, the county will remain in Phase 2 and administer only booster doses of the vaccine this week.

Kansas Department of Health and Education (KDHE) informed the Riley County Health Department in an email that the statewide vaccination plan's details cannot be adjusted to accommodate each county's needs as initially stated. Furthermore, no county can move to Phase 3 until other Kansas counties are also ready to move to Phase 3. KDHE informed RCHD that moving to Phase 3 before other counties would result in vaccine shipments being halted. Riley County will instead remain in Phase 2 and continue to vaccinate people according to state guidelines, which prioritize high-contact critical workers before people with severe health conditions.&nbsp;

"From the beginning, Riley County Health Department prioritized two groups – those without whom the community truly cannot function, such as firefighters and water treatment plant operators, and those most at risk of serious illness and death," said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. "We vaccinated health care workers and first responders and the elderly with serious health conditions first, followed by others over 65, as those are the population that makes up the overwhelming majority of deaths in this pandemic."

Phase 2 includes the following individuals:

Congregate settings include but are not limited to the following:

Beginning immediately when registering for a vaccine in Riley County, each person will be asked to notate if they are an essential worker, per the state's definition. Those who already registered do not need to register again. Riley County will notify essential workers based on age.&nbsp;

As a result of this change, the Health Department has had to withdraw its offer to share 400 doses with Pottawatomie County to vaccinate their 65 and older population.

"We feel strongly that it is right to vaccinate those at greatest risk of serious illness or death ahead of people whose jobs can be conducted remotely, or where there are multiple sources for the same service. It has been our understanding all along that under Kansas' Home Rule doctrine, counties had the latitude to apply KDHE's guidance as it best fits our individual county's situation. However, we will follow KDHE's directive and reprioritize the order in which we are vaccinating residents of Riley County", said Riley County Health Department Director Julie Gibbs.&nbsp;

Riley County Health Department officials have learned that they will not be able to move to Phase 3 of the vaccination priority schedule this week as originally planned. Instead, the county will remain in Phase 2 and administer only booster doses of the vaccine this week.Kansas Department of Health and Education (KDHE) informed the Riley County Health Department in an email that the statewide vaccination plan's details cannot be adjusted to accommodate each county's needs as initially stated. Furthermore, no county can move to Phase 3 until other Kansas counties are also ready to move to Phase 3. KDHE informed RCHD that moving to Phase 3 before other counties would result in vaccine shipments being halted. Riley County will instead remain in Phase 2 and continue to vaccinate people according to state guidelines, which prioritize high-contact critical workers before people with severe health conditions.&nbsp;"From the beginning, Riley County Health Department prioritized two groups – those without whom the community truly cannot function, such as firefighters and water treatment plant operators, and those most at risk of serious illness and death," said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. "We vaccinated health care workers and first responders and the elderly with serious health conditions first, followed by others over 65, as those are the population that makes up the overwhelming majority of deaths in this pandemic."Phase 2 includes the following individuals:High-contact critical workers:<ul>
 <li>Grocery store workers and food services</li><li>Food processing, including meat processing plants</li><li>Large-scale aviation manufacturing plants</li><li>Workers in the following industries, if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties:Retail, warehouses, and sales outletsAgricultureSupply of critical services or materials for the COVID response (e.g., personal protective equipment (PPE)The U.S. Postal ServiceDepartment of Motor Vehicles</li><li>Retail, warehouses, and sales outlets</li><li>Agriculture</li><li>Supply of critical services or materials for the COVID response (e.g., personal protective equipment (PPE)</li><li>The U.S. Postal Service</li><li>Department of Motor Vehicles</li>
 </ul>Congregate settings include but are not limited to the following:<ul>
 <li>Congregate childcare institutions, adult and child protective services</li><li>Corrections facilities, including jails and juvenile justice facilities</li><li>Adult care homes, residents, and staff in home plus facilities not covered in Phase 1</li><li>Home caregivers (paid or unpaid), personal care aides</li>
 </ul>Beginning immediately when registering for a vaccine in Riley County, each person will be asked to notate if they are an essential worker, per the state's definition. Those who already registered do not need to register again. Riley County will notify essential workers based on age.&nbsp;As a result of this change, the Health Department has had to withdraw its offer to share 400 doses with Pottawatomie County to vaccinate their 65 and older population."We feel strongly that it is right to vaccinate those at greatest risk of serious illness or death ahead of people whose jobs can be conducted remotely, or where there are multiple sources for the same service. It has been our understanding all along that under Kansas' Home Rule doctrine, counties had the latitude to apply KDHE's guidance as it best fits our individual county's situation. However, we will follow KDHE's directive and reprioritize the order in which we are vaccinating residents of Riley County", said Riley County Health Department Director Julie Gibbs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County must delay Phase 3 vaccinations

(RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 1, 2021) Riley County health has identified four new positive coronavirus cases and 57 additional recoveries since the last report on February 26.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. There are no positive patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

This week, the Health Department will administer “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22 and February 4.&nbsp;

(RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 1, 2021) Riley County health has identified four new positive coronavirus cases and 57 additional recoveries since the last report on February 26.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient. There are no positive patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;This week, the Health Department will administer “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22 and February 4.&nbsp;<ul>
 
 </ul>

Positive COVID-19 case numbers go down 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.

<a href="https://www.gogettested.com/kansas">Click here </a>for testing locations in Kansas.

Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.

“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.

After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.

The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.

“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”

U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.

“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”

But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.

L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.

President Joe Biden has promised to revamp the nation’s testing system by investing billions more in supplies and government coordination. But with demand falling fast, the country may soon have a glut of unused supplies. The U.S. will be able to conduct nearly 1 billion monthly tests by June, according to projections from researchers at Arizona State University. That’s more than 25 times the country’s current rate of about 40 million tests reported per month.

With more than 150 million new vaccine doses due for delivery by late March, testing is likely to fall further as local governments shift staff and resources to giving shots.

“You have to pick your battles here,” said Dr. Jeffrey Engel of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. “Everyone would agree that if you have one public health nurse, you’re going to use that person for vaccination, not testing.”

Some experts say the country must double down on testing to avoid flare-ups from coronavirus variants that have taken hold in the U.K., South Africa and other places.

“We need to use testing to continue the downward trend,” said Dr. Jonathan Quick of the Rockefeller Foundation, which has been advising Biden officials. “We need to have it there to catch surges from the variants.”

Last week, Minnesota began urging families to get tested every two weeks through the end of the school year as more students return to the classroom.

“To protect this progress, we need to use all the tools at our disposal,” said Dan Huff, an assistant state health commissioner.

But some of the most vocal testing proponents are less worried about the declines in screening. From a public health viewpoint, testing is effective if it helps to quickly find the infected, trace their contacts and isolate them to stop the spread. In most parts of the U.S., that never happened.

Over the holiday season, many Americans still had to wait days to receive test results, rendering them largely useless. That’s led to testing fatigue and dwindling interest, said Dr. Michael Mina of Harvard University.

“It doesn’t exactly give you a lot of gratifying, immediate feedback,” Mina said. “So people’s willingness or interest in getting tested starts to go down.”

Still, U.S. test manufacturers continue ramping up production, with another 110 million rapid and home-based tests expected to hit the market next month.

Government officials long assumed this growing arsenal of cheap, 15-minute tests would be used to regularly screen millions of students and teachers as in-person classes resume. But recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t emphasize testing, describing it as an “additional layer” of protection, behind basic measures like masking and social distancing.

Even without strong federal backing, educational leaders say testing programs will be important for marshaling public confidence needed to fully reopen schools, including in the fall when cases are expected to rise again.

“Schools have asked themselves, justifiably, ‘Is the juice worth the squeeze to set up a big testing effort?’” said Mike Magee, CEO of Chiefs for Change, a nonprofit that advises districts in more than 25 states. “Our message to the school systems we work with is: ‘Yes, you need to stand up comprehensive testing because you’re going to need it.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591208066312.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.<a href="https://www.gogettested.com/kansas">Click here </a>for testing locations in Kansas.Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.President Joe Biden has promised to revamp the nation’s testing system by investing billions more in supplies and government coordination. But with demand falling fast, the country may soon have a glut of unused supplies. The U.S. will be able to conduct nearly 1 billion monthly tests by June, according to projections from researchers at Arizona State University. That’s more than 25 times the country’s current rate of about 40 million tests reported per month.With more than 150 million new vaccine doses due for delivery by late March, testing is likely to fall further as local governments shift staff and resources to giving shots.“You have to pick your battles here,” said Dr. Jeffrey Engel of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. “Everyone would agree that if you have one public health nurse, you’re going to use that person for vaccination, not testing.”Some experts say the country must double down on testing to avoid flare-ups from coronavirus variants that have taken hold in the U.K., South Africa and other places.“We need to use testing to continue the downward trend,” said Dr. Jonathan Quick of the Rockefeller Foundation, which has been advising Biden officials. “We need to have it there to catch surges from the variants.”Last week, Minnesota began urging families to get tested every two weeks through the end of the school year as more students return to the classroom.“To protect this progress, we need to use all the tools at our disposal,” said Dan Huff, an assistant state health commissioner.But some of the most vocal testing proponents are less worried about the declines in screening. From a public health viewpoint, testing is effective if it helps to quickly find the infected, trace their contacts and isolate them to stop the spread. In most parts of the U.S., that never happened.Over the holiday season, many Americans still had to wait days to receive test results, rendering them largely useless. That’s led to testing fatigue and dwindling interest, said Dr. Michael Mina of Harvard University.“It doesn’t exactly give you a lot of gratifying, immediate feedback,” Mina said. “So people’s willingness or interest in getting tested starts to go down.”Still, U.S. test manufacturers continue ramping up production, with another 110 million rapid and home-based tests expected to hit the market next month.Government officials long assumed this growing arsenal of cheap, 15-minute tests would be used to regularly screen millions of students and teachers as in-person classes resume. But recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t emphasize testing, describing it as an “additional layer” of protection, behind basic measures like masking and social distancing.Even without strong federal backing, educational leaders say testing programs will be important for marshaling public confidence needed to fully reopen schools, including in the fall when cases are expected to rise again.“Schools have asked themselves, justifiably, ‘Is the juice worth the squeeze to set up a big testing effort?’” said Mike Magee, CEO of Chiefs for Change, a nonprofit that advises districts in more than 25 states. “Our message to the school systems we work with is: ‘Yes, you need to stand up comprehensive testing because you’re going to need it.’”___

Plunging demand for COVID-19 tests may leave US exposed

Many of the COVID-19 restrictions in Riley County were dropped as of 11:59 p.m. Sunday. There is a new local health order which rescinds all parts of an earlier order except masks and face coverings, which must still be worn in any public space in the county. However they're not required in outdoor public spaces if a distance of six feet cannot be maintained.

The new order makes changes ranging from eliminating social distancing requirements inside businesses including bars or restaurants, no plexiglass and no table separation. Restaurants and bars will not be required to close at midnight, not be limited to just seated customers, and the mass gathering limit of 50 people along with the event request process are both being removed.

Dennis Cook, Aggieville Business Association Executive Director, said for everybody the changes signal we're on the good side of&nbsp; the pandemic. "The numbers are way down, the trends are down, the people in the hospital are down" Cook added the numbers say we're ready to move on. "This effects everybody on how they can get out and move around. It does especially effect Aggieville. "

Cook noted that restrictions that are being removed or loosened were predominantly aimed at the more late night businesses. "Instead of being able to stay open until two o'clock in the morning they were shutting it down two hours early. They closed dance floors. They had a bunch of restrictions that made it hard for businesses, bars that are in more of an entertainment district to function."

Cook noted that there were no restrictions on the big businesses and the businesses in Aggieville would like to be restricted only to the extent of what was put in place for those larger businesses. There was no reason to categorize Aggieville differently.

Cook hopes the changes will help some "very local businesses, keep them going." He feels there can be a return to normal operations.

Social distancing will still be strongly encouraged and the public is also encouraged to follow health and safety guidelines from Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Many of the COVID-19 restrictions in Riley County were dropped as of 11:59 p.m. Sunday. There is a new local health order which rescinds all parts of an earlier order except masks and face coverings, which must still be worn in any public space in the county. However they're not required in outdoor public spaces if a distance of six feet cannot be maintained.The new order makes changes ranging from eliminating social distancing requirements inside businesses including bars or restaurants, no plexiglass and no table separation. Restaurants and bars will not be required to close at midnight, not be limited to just seated customers, and the mass gathering limit of 50 people along with the event request process are both being removed.Dennis Cook, Aggieville Business Association Executive Director, said for everybody the changes signal we're on the good side of&nbsp; the pandemic. "The numbers are way down, the trends are down, the people in the hospital are down" Cook added the numbers say we're ready to move on. "This effects everybody on how they can get out and move around. It does especially effect Aggieville. "Cook noted that restrictions that are being removed or loosened were predominantly aimed at the more late night businesses. "Instead of being able to stay open until two o'clock in the morning they were shutting it down two hours early. They closed dance floors. They had a bunch of restrictions that made it hard for businesses, bars that are in more of an entertainment district to function."Cook noted that there were no restrictions on the big businesses and the businesses in Aggieville would like to be restricted only to the extent of what was put in place for those larger businesses. There was no reason to categorize Aggieville differently.Cook hopes the changes will help some "very local businesses, keep them going." He feels there can be a return to normal operations.Social distancing will still be strongly encouraged and the public is also encouraged to follow health and safety guidelines from Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Coronavirus Update