Pottawatomie County health officials have reported that the number of active COVID-19 cases in the county now totals 10. On Friday there were nine new cases but 17 recovered cases. No one is hospitalized.

The Health Department reported that 26 people have died since the pandemic began.

Pottawatomie County health officials have reported that the number of active COVID-19 cases in the county now totals 10. On Friday there were nine new cases but 17 recovered cases. No one is hospitalized.The Health Department reported that 26 people have died since the pandemic began.

Active COVID-19 cases in Pottawatomie County are down to ten

The Riley County Health Department has announced that if you live in Riley County and would like to get vaccinated or need to be tested for COVID-19 please mark your calendar for Wednesday, March 3rd.

PLEASE NOTE ... there is a limited supply of vaccines.

The Riley County Health Department has announced that if you live in Riley County and would like to get vaccinated or need to be tested for COVID-19 please mark your calendar for Wednesday, March 3rd.PLEASE NOTE ... there is a limited supply of vaccines.<figure>
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COVID-19 testing and vaccination clinic coming to Leonardville

Major General D. A. Sims said Friday that the prevalence and transmission of the coronavirus has declined in the local area. He stated in an online post that after careful consultation with disease experts, professional analysts and community leaders, he&nbsp; has updated the COVID-19 Order for Fort Riley.

Service members will still be required to wear a mask in any public space or facility, both in and outdoors, on and off the installation. 

The 150-mile travel radius and curfew have been rescinded.&nbsp;

Service members are permitted to dine-in at restaurants and bars including those in Aggieville in Manhattan between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Service members will masks in restaurants and bars unless actively eating or drinking. That includes entering and exiting the facility, sitting at tables and bar tops, using the restroom and during all movement in and around the establishment.&nbsp;

Soldiers are authorized to use off-post gym facilities. They will wear masks while in off-post gyms, even if not required by the individual gym's policy.

The in-home visitor limit has increased from six people up to 10 people while the barracks room visitor limit has from one person up to three people.

Service members will incur a 14-day quarantine when returning from a high risk area as defined by the Centers for Disease Control or the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment.&nbsp;

Sims added that the Fort Riley community has done an excellent job of adapting to changes in day-to-day life, coping with hardship and protecting those who call the Flint Hills home, and there has been a decline in the prevalence and transmission of the virus due to their diligence, discipline and responsibility.

The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley commanding general said it's important to remember the virus has not disappeared and there are possibilities of increased spread from new variants if we let our guard down.&nbsp; Each of the changes is contingent on the continued discipline of Fort Riley Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members, and the virus's impact on the local area. As conditions change, we will modify restrictions and mitigation measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Major General D. A. Sims said Friday that the prevalence and transmission of the coronavirus has declined in the local area. He stated in an online post that after careful consultation with disease experts, professional analysts and community leaders, he&nbsp; has updated the COVID-19 Order for Fort Riley.Service members will still be required to wear a mask in any public space or facility, both in and outdoors, on and off the installation. The 150-mile travel radius and curfew have been rescinded.&nbsp;Service members are permitted to dine-in at restaurants and bars including those in Aggieville in Manhattan between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Service members will masks in restaurants and bars unless actively eating or drinking. That includes entering and exiting the facility, sitting at tables and bar tops, using the restroom and during all movement in and around the establishment.&nbsp;Soldiers are authorized to use off-post gym facilities. They will wear masks while in off-post gyms, even if not required by the individual gym's policy.The in-home visitor limit has increased from six people up to 10 people while the barracks room visitor limit has from one person up to three people.Service members will incur a 14-day quarantine when returning from a high risk area as defined by the Centers for Disease Control or the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment.&nbsp;Sims added that the Fort Riley community has done an excellent job of adapting to changes in day-to-day life, coping with hardship and protecting those who call the Flint Hills home, and there has been a decline in the prevalence and transmission of the virus due to their diligence, discipline and responsibility.The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley commanding general said it's important to remember the virus has not disappeared and there are possibilities of increased spread from new variants if we let our guard down.&nbsp; Each of the changes is contingent on the continued discipline of Fort Riley Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members, and the virus's impact on the local area. As conditions change, we will modify restrictions and mitigation measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Fort Riley modifies some COVID-19 restrictions

Riley County has identified eight new positive coronavirus cases and 12 additional recoveries since the last report on February 24th.&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;

According to the Health Department Starting March 1, Health Order No. 20 will go into effect. Health Order 20 rescinds all parts of Order 19 EXCEPT: masks and face coverings must still be worn in any public space in Riley County. Individuals are also strongly encouraged to maintain social distancing and follow health and safety guidelines from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;

The EOC Command Staff will review the mask ordinance in a month. In the meantime, Riley County residents are encouraged to be vaccinated, social distance when possible, and practice good handwashing.&nbsp;

Riley County has identified eight new positive coronavirus cases and 12 additional recoveries since the last report on February 24th.&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;According to the Health Department Starting March 1, Health Order No. 20 will go into effect. Health Order 20 rescinds all parts of Order 19 EXCEPT: masks and face coverings must still be worn in any public space in Riley County. Individuals are also strongly encouraged to maintain social distancing and follow health and safety guidelines from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;The EOC Command Staff will review the mask ordinance in a month. In the meantime, Riley County residents are encouraged to be vaccinated, social distance when possible, and practice good handwashing.&nbsp;

Eight new COVID-19 cases are reported in Manhattan

(RILEY COUNTY, KS – February 24, 2021)&nbsp; Riley County Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs has issued Health Order No. 20 dropping most COVID-19 restrictions.

The new Local Health Order will go into effect at 11:59 p.m. Sunday February 28.&nbsp;

Health Order 20 rescinds all parts of Order 19 EXCEPT: masks and face coverings must still be worn in any public space in Riley County. &nbsp;A “public space” means any indoor or outdoor space or area that is open to the public; this does not include private residential property or private offices or workspaces that are not open to customers or public visitors. Masks are not required in outdoor public spaces if a distance of 6 ft can be maintained.

The new order will eliminate 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 and will not be limited to just seated customers. You will be able to sit at a bar side by side, dance on a dance floor or walk from table to table.Individuals are also strongly encouraged to maintain social distancing and follow health and safety guidelines from Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;

The mass gathering limit of 50 people and the event request process will both be removed.

“This decision was made after looking at several factors. For the past four weeks the number of cases has continued to decline and we have not seen any new outbreaks. Additionally, there is minimal strain on local and regional health structures. We’ve also been able to ramp up our vaccination efforts”, explained Julie Gibbs, Director of Riley County Health Department. &nbsp;

(RILEY COUNTY, KS – February 24, 2021)&nbsp; Riley County Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs has issued Health Order No. 20 dropping most COVID-19 restrictions.The new Local Health Order will go into effect at 11:59 p.m. Sunday February 28.&nbsp;Health Order 20 rescinds all parts of Order 19 EXCEPT: masks and face coverings must still be worn in any public space in Riley County. &nbsp;A “public space” means any indoor or outdoor space or area that is open to the public; this does not include private residential property or private offices or workspaces that are not open to customers or public visitors. Masks are not required in outdoor public spaces if a distance of 6 ft can be maintained.The new order will eliminate 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 and will not be limited to just seated customers. You will be able to sit at a bar side by side, dance on a dance floor or walk from table to table.Individuals are also strongly encouraged to maintain social distancing and follow health and safety guidelines from Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;The mass gathering limit of 50 people and the event request process will both be removed.“This decision was made after looking at several factors. For the past four weeks the number of cases has continued to decline and we have not seen any new outbreaks. Additionally, there is minimal strain on local and regional health structures. We’ve also been able to ramp up our vaccination efforts”, explained Julie Gibbs, Director of Riley County Health Department. &nbsp;

Riley County Local Health Order 20 Ends most COVID-19 Restrictions

(RILEY COUNTY, KS – February 24, 2021) Riley County has identified nine new positive coronavirus cases and 47 additional recoveries since the last report on February 22, 2021.&nbsp; 

The Health Department reported that the percent of positive cases for the week of February 14 was 3.0%. That translates to 62 of the 2,033 tests performed coming back positive. This is the fourth 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 three positive patients, one of whom is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

(RILEY COUNTY, KS – February 24, 2021) Riley County has identified nine new positive coronavirus cases and 47 additional recoveries since the last report on February 22, 2021.&nbsp; The Health Department reported that the percent of positive cases for the week of February 14 was 3.0%. That translates to 62 of the 2,033 tests performed coming back positive. This is the fourth 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 three positive patients, one of whom is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

Positive COVID-19 case numbers are declining

Geary County Health officials reported on Monday that there has been one more COVID-19 related death in the county. That brings the total since the pandemic began to 25.

There were 10 new positive cases on Monday and 15 recovered cases. The total number of active cases stands at 31, and three people are hospitalized.

Geary County Health officials reported on Monday that there has been one more COVID-19 related death in the county. That brings the total since the pandemic began to 25.There were 10 new positive cases on Monday and 15 recovered cases. The total number of active cases stands at 31, and three people are hospitalized.

Geary County Health confirms one more COVID-19 related death

Pottawatomie County Health officials said Monday that there were 12 active COVID-19 cases in the county. That is down 13 cases.&nbsp;

Fifteen new positive cases were recorded but there were 28 recovered cases.&nbsp; Right now one person is hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County Health officials said Monday that there were 12 active COVID-19 cases in the county. That is down 13 cases.&nbsp;Fifteen new positive cases were recorded but there were 28 recovered cases.&nbsp; Right now one person is hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County sees a drop in active COVID-19 cases

Pottawatomie County officials on Friday confirmed 15 new positive COVID-19 cases and 19 recovered cases. There are 25 active cases in the county. One person is hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County officials note that if you signed up for you vaccine from another provided, not a Pottawatomie County Health Department affiliated clinic, such as a pharmacy contact the Health Department to ask that your name be removed from the list. That allows county officials to ensure that they do not reserve a vaccine for someone who has already received one.

Pottawatomie County officials on Friday confirmed 15 new positive COVID-19 cases and 19 recovered cases. There are 25 active cases in the county. One person is hospitalized.--Pottawatomie County officials note that if you signed up for you vaccine from another provided, not a Pottawatomie County Health Department affiliated clinic, such as a pharmacy contact the Health Department to ask that your name be removed from the list. That allows county officials to ensure that they do not reserve a vaccine for someone who has already received one.

Pottawatomie County updates COVID-19 numbers

Another 350 USD 383 staff members got their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Friday, according to USD 383. District officials thanked the Riley County Health Department for their assistance.

Another 350 USD 383 staff members got their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Friday, according to USD 383. District officials thanked the Riley County Health Department for their assistance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613838862355.jpeg" alt="Photo - USD 383" />
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COVID-19 vaccinations continue

&nbsp;One additional COVID-positive patient has died in Riley County. The Health Department confirmed that the patient was a 76-year-old woman. She tested positive for COVID on February 3 and passed away on Wednesday, February 17, at Via Christi Hospital. Her passing brings the total number of COVID-related deaths in the county to 33.&nbsp;

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

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two&nbsp; positive patients who are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

&nbsp;One additional COVID-positive patient has died in Riley County. The Health Department confirmed that the patient was a 76-year-old woman. She tested positive for COVID on February 3 and passed away on Wednesday, February 17, at Via Christi Hospital. Her passing brings the total number of COVID-related deaths in the county to 33.&nbsp;Riley County has identified ten new positive coronavirus cases and four additional recoveries since the last report on February 17, 2021.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two&nbsp; positive patients who are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

Riley County health confirms one additional COVID-19 dedath

Department of Defense is providing vaccination support in the United States. Major General D.A. Sims confirmed that Fort Riley has been asked to do part of that. "Later this week we will deploy a vaccination support team coming from Second Brigade that will deploy here in the United States to assist in providing increased numbers of vaccinations in a particular part of the country."

Sims added that this involves about 150 people and could go a little larger over time. He noted that this is one of those things in our country where they're able to make a big differencre.

Department of Defense is providing vaccination support in the United States. Major General D.A. Sims confirmed that Fort Riley has been asked to do part of that. "Later this week we will deploy a vaccination support team coming from Second Brigade that will deploy here in the United States to assist in providing increased numbers of vaccinations in a particular part of the country."Sims added that this involves about 150 people and could go a little larger over time. He noted that this is one of those things in our country where they're able to make a big differencre.

Fort Riley contingent of troops will help with COVID-19 vaccination support

Riley County health officials have identified 32 new positive coronavirus cases and 30 additional recoveries since the last report on February 12, 2021. The percent of positive cases for the week of February 7 was 2.6%. That translates to 56 of the 2,121 tests performed coming back positive. This is the third week in a row that Riley County has seen a decrease in the percent of positive cases.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for three positive patients at this time.Two of the positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

This week, the Health Department will continue vaccinating those 65 and older and K-12 teachers throughout the county. It will also be administering “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22nd and January 25th.&nbsp;

Next week due to forecasted warmer temperatures the Health Department will be having vaccine clinics Tuesday through Friday and will be extending hours.&nbsp;

Riley County health officials have identified 32 new positive coronavirus cases and 30 additional recoveries since the last report on February 12, 2021. The percent of positive cases for the week of February 7 was 2.6%. That translates to 56 of the 2,121 tests performed coming back positive. This is the third week in a row that Riley County has seen a decrease in the percent of positive cases.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for three positive patients at this time.Two of the positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;This week, the Health Department will continue vaccinating those 65 and older and K-12 teachers throughout the county. It will also be administering “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22nd and January 25th.&nbsp;Next week due to forecasted warmer temperatures the Health Department will be having vaccine clinics Tuesday through Friday and will be extending hours.&nbsp;

Positive and recovered COVID-19 case numbers are leveling out

Pottawatomie County health officials reported 32 active COVID-19 cases in the county on Friday. That was down eight cases. One person is hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began there have been 1,575 confirmed positive cases and 1,543 recovered cases in the county.

Pottawatomie County health officials reported 32 active COVID-19 cases in the county on Friday. That was down eight cases. One person is hospitalized.Since the pandemic began there have been 1,575 confirmed positive cases and 1,543 recovered cases in the county.

Health officials provide a Pottawatomie County active COVID-19 case update 

Riley County has identified 35 new positive coronavirus cases and 3 additional recoveries since the last report on February 10, 2021.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for three positive patients at this time. Two of the positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

This week, the Health Department continued vaccinating those 65 and older and began administering “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated as part of Phase 1. K-12 teachers and staff in Riley County also began receiving their first vaccine doses on Thursday.&nbsp;

To date, the Health Department has administered 5,858 vaccines. It has received 10,540. Of those doses not yet administered, 3,000 are designated boosters that will begin to be administered today, Friday and throughout next week. 500 of the doses are being used to vaccinate K-12 teachers and staff in Riley County this week and the remaining 1,200 that arrived this week, will be used at the beginning of next week.&nbsp;

Riley County has identified 35 new positive coronavirus cases and 3 additional recoveries since the last report on February 10, 2021.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for three positive patients at this time. Two of the positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;This week, the Health Department continued vaccinating those 65 and older and began administering “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated as part of Phase 1. K-12 teachers and staff in Riley County also began receiving their first vaccine doses on Thursday.&nbsp;To date, the Health Department has administered 5,858 vaccines. It has received 10,540. Of those doses not yet administered, 3,000 are designated boosters that will begin to be administered today, Friday and throughout next week. 500 of the doses are being used to vaccinate K-12 teachers and staff in Riley County this week and the remaining 1,200 that arrived this week, will be used at the beginning of next week.&nbsp;

Riley County health updates the COVID-19 count

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. government researchers found that two masks are better than one in slowing coronavirus spread, but health officials stopped short of recommending that everyone double up.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday reported the results of a lab experiment that spaced two artificial heads 6 feet from each other and checked to see how many coronavirus-sized particles spewed by one were inhaled by the other.

The researchers found that wearing one mask — surgical or cloth — blocked around 40% of the particles coming toward the head that was breathing in. When a cloth mask was worn on top of a surgical mask, about 80% were blocked.

When both the exhaling and inhaling heads were double-masked, more than 95% of the particles were blocked, said the CDC’s Dr. John Brooks.

“The first challenge is to get as many as people as possible masking. And then for those that do mask, to help them get the best benefit out of that mask,” Brooks said.

The study had many limitations: The researchers used one brand of surgical mask and one kind of cloth mask, and it's not clear if results would be the same with every product. But it echoes some earlier research that suggests two masks are better than one.

The CDC also was updating its guidance to address wearing two masks. If done correctly, a cloth mask worn over a surgical mask can tighten the gaps around the mask's edges that can let virus particles in, the CDC said.

The agency also said it was taking down a do-it-yourself page, which went up last year when masks were in short supply and the CDC was encouraging people to take steps to interrupt viral transmission.

Some Americans have already started doubling up. Experts believe that's at least partly out of concern about new strains of coronavirus that have been found to spread more easily than the one that has driven the U.S. epidemic for the past year.

CDC guidance has evolved over the course of the epidemic.

Mask-wearing has long been common in some countries during respiratory outbreaks, especially in parts of Asia, but not in the United States.

When the COVID-19 crisis began and masks disappeared from store shelves, U.S. health officials actively discouraged the general public from wearing them. “Seriously people - STOP BUYING MASKS!” then-Surgeon General Jerome Adams wrote in a tweet almost a year ago.

Two months later, after it became clear that infected people who did not exhibit symptoms could spread the virus, the CDC began recommending people wear masks in public.

Mask-wearing increased and some places enforced mask mandates, but many Americans continue not to wear them. A recent University of California survey suggested that only about half of U.S. adults wear masks when in close contact with people outside their household.

Discussions about double-masking and higher-quality masks are important, said Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases scientist at the University of Toronto.

“But if a significant proportion of your populations isn't wearing a mask in the first place, then you're having the wrong conversation,” he added.

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. government researchers found that two masks are better than one in slowing coronavirus spread, but health officials stopped short of recommending that everyone double up.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday reported the results of a lab experiment that spaced two artificial heads 6 feet from each other and checked to see how many coronavirus-sized particles spewed by one were inhaled by the other.The researchers found that wearing one mask — surgical or cloth — blocked around 40% of the particles coming toward the head that was breathing in. When a cloth mask was worn on top of a surgical mask, about 80% were blocked.When both the exhaling and inhaling heads were double-masked, more than 95% of the particles were blocked, said the CDC’s Dr. John Brooks.“The first challenge is to get as many as people as possible masking. And then for those that do mask, to help them get the best benefit out of that mask,” Brooks said.The study had many limitations: The researchers used one brand of surgical mask and one kind of cloth mask, and it's not clear if results would be the same with every product. But it echoes some earlier research that suggests two masks are better than one.“It works,” Brooks said.The CDC also was updating its guidance to address wearing two masks. If done correctly, a cloth mask worn over a surgical mask can tighten the gaps around the mask's edges that can let virus particles in, the CDC said.The agency also said it was taking down a do-it-yourself page, which went up last year when masks were in short supply and the CDC was encouraging people to take steps to interrupt viral transmission.Some Americans have already started doubling up. Experts believe that's at least partly out of concern about new strains of coronavirus that have been found to spread more easily than the one that has driven the U.S. epidemic for the past year.CDC guidance has evolved over the course of the epidemic.Mask-wearing has long been common in some countries during respiratory outbreaks, especially in parts of Asia, but not in the United States.When the COVID-19 crisis began and masks disappeared from store shelves, U.S. health officials actively discouraged the general public from wearing them. “Seriously people - STOP BUYING MASKS!” then-Surgeon General Jerome Adams wrote in a tweet almost a year ago.Two months later, after it became clear that infected people who did not exhibit symptoms could spread the virus, the CDC began recommending people wear masks in public.Mask-wearing increased and some places enforced mask mandates, but many Americans continue not to wear them. A recent University of California survey suggested that only about half of U.S. adults wear masks when in close contact with people outside their household.Discussions about double-masking and higher-quality masks are important, said Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases scientist at the University of Toronto.“But if a significant proportion of your populations isn't wearing a mask in the first place, then you're having the wrong conversation,” he added.

CDC updates coronavirus face mask guidance

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — A virulent strain of the coronavirus that first appeared in Kansas in a Fort Hays State University athlete hasn’t spread widely among the student’s friends, although wastewater samples in the community have raised concerns, health officials say.

Officials sent a mobile lab to Hays after the variant that is wreaking havoc in the United Kingdom was detected last week during routine testing of athletes at the school, said Dr. Lee Norman, head of the state health department, Tuesday during a webcast with doctors at the University of Kansas Health System.

But he said only one of the 200 contacts or potential contacts of the student-athlete who were tested were positive for COVID-19. Officials are trying to determine whether that person has the same strain as the student-athlete. The results are expected later this week.

“On balance, I think everything came out pretty well,” Norman said. “Of course there is a long time before we can breath a sigh of relief in this particular county. And we are still doing more testing.”

Norman said the variant was uncovered one week after sewage samples tested in Ellis County, where the university is located, showed an uptick in genomic fragments of the virus. The state has been testing sewage samples for months to get a sense for where the virus is spreading.

“It is an early indicator when the wastewater starts up ticking in terms of the amount of viral particles then we can look in a more detailed manner in that community,” he said.

He said the state had doubled its genomic sequencing capability and will be testing about3 50 samples from all over the state every week.

He said the state has been seeing the number of new cases, deaths and hospitalizations fall in recent weeks as the vaccine rollout gets underway. As of Monday, the health department reported that 8% of the state’s population had been vaccinated. Almost 304,000 doses had been administered, or 73% of the 413,000 doses sent to Kansas by the federal government.

But Norman said the real number of vaccinations is actually higher and blamed the problem in part on what he described as a clunky system for inputting data.

“We know that, for example, six counties account for about 100,000 of the doses that have been given,” he said. “And I want to emphasize have been given that are just not recorded in our data systems yet.”

Norman said 82% of residents of skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in the state had received at least their first round of vaccine. He said the federal government had begun shipping vaccines directly to several dozen retail pharmacies in the state this week, although not in large amounts so far.

But he said that for a normal summer, where people could safely attend weddings and other large community gatherings, the amount of vaccine will need to increase dramatically.

With multiple new vaccines on the horizon, that won’t remain a problem indefinitely, said Dr. Steve Stites, the chief medical officer at the University of Kansas Health System.

“If we boil it down, people are mad, people are angry,” Stites said. “But the real problem is there is just not enough vaccine and as we ramp up the next problem is going to be the logistics to give that much vaccine and get it all entered into the database, which we’ve got to clean up.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612878873265.png" alt="Virus variant map image GSAID" />
 <figcaption>Virus variant map image GSAID</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — A virulent strain of the coronavirus that first appeared in Kansas in a Fort Hays State University athlete hasn’t spread widely among the student’s friends, although wastewater samples in the community have raised concerns, health officials say.Officials sent a mobile lab to Hays after the variant that is wreaking havoc in the United Kingdom was detected last week during routine testing of athletes at the school, said Dr. Lee Norman, head of the state health department, Tuesday during a webcast with doctors at the University of Kansas Health System.But he said only one of the 200 contacts or potential contacts of the student-athlete who were tested were positive for COVID-19. Officials are trying to determine whether that person has the same strain as the student-athlete. The results are expected later this week.“On balance, I think everything came out pretty well,” Norman said. “Of course there is a long time before we can breath a sigh of relief in this particular county. And we are still doing more testing.”Norman said the variant was uncovered one week after sewage samples tested in Ellis County, where the university is located, showed an uptick in genomic fragments of the virus. The state has been testing sewage samples for months to get a sense for where the virus is spreading.“It is an early indicator when the wastewater starts up ticking in terms of the amount of viral particles then we can look in a more detailed manner in that community,” he said.He said the state had doubled its genomic sequencing capability and will be testing about3 50 samples from all over the state every week.He said the state has been seeing the number of new cases, deaths and hospitalizations fall in recent weeks as the vaccine rollout gets underway. As of Monday, the health department reported that 8% of the state’s population had been vaccinated. Almost 304,000 doses had been administered, or 73% of the 413,000 doses sent to Kansas by the federal government.But Norman said the real number of vaccinations is actually higher and blamed the problem in part on what he described as a clunky system for inputting data.“We know that, for example, six counties account for about 100,000 of the doses that have been given,” he said. “And I want to emphasize have been given that are just not recorded in our data systems yet.”Norman said 82% of residents of skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in the state had received at least their first round of vaccine. He said the federal government had begun shipping vaccines directly to several dozen retail pharmacies in the state this week, although not in large amounts so far.But he said that for a normal summer, where people could safely attend weddings and other large community gatherings, the amount of vaccine will need to increase dramatically.With multiple new vaccines on the horizon, that won’t remain a problem indefinitely, said Dr. Steve Stites, the chief medical officer at the University of Kansas Health System.“If we boil it down, people are mad, people are angry,” Stites said. “But the real problem is there is just not enough vaccine and as we ramp up the next problem is going to be the logistics to give that much vaccine and get it all entered into the database, which we’ve got to clean up.”

No evidence of wide spread of virus variant so far in Kansas

As on-campus activities resume this week,&nbsp;Kansas State University continues to require face&nbsp;coverings&nbsp;on campuses.&nbsp; As outlined&nbsp; by K-State Today, here is the university's face covering policy:&nbsp;

Everyone — faculty, staff, students, contractors, vendors and visitors — must wear face coverings over their mouths and noses in all indoor and outdoor spaces while you are on university property unless you are alone in your own private office or&nbsp;workspace&nbsp;or are alone outdoors.&nbsp;

This policy also applies if you have previously had COVID-19 or have had the full vaccination series.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/guidance/health/face-covering.html">Learn more about the university face covering policy and enforcement</a>.&nbsp;

If a student is not wearing&nbsp;a&nbsp;face covering, the first response should be a collegial reminder and an offer of a clean face covering, if one is available.&nbsp;Facilities Custodial Services has stocked classrooms with a&nbsp;box of disposable face coverings&nbsp;for the beginning of the semester.&nbsp;

Students who do not comply with the policy on the Manhattan, Polytechnic or Olathe campuses should be reported&nbsp;through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/report/conduct-violation/" target="_blank">the Code of Conduct violation form</a>  so proper disciplinary actions can take place.&nbsp;

The Office of Student Life follows a defined procedure in the event of a violation of the face covering policy.&nbsp;

First offense: Reminder letter sent to the student with information regarding the policy and potential next steps.&nbsp;

Second offense: Administrative hearing with Office of Student Life dean to discuss the policy and any concerns being raised.&nbsp;

Third offense: Student Review Board hearing where the student could face sanctions up to removal from the classroom, university property or temporary loss of student status.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Violations of the face covering policy in Housing and Dining Services  facilities will follow a similar process with Housing staff. Violations occurring in the Housing and Dining Services living environments, on all campuses, will be included when considering violations in the university judicial process. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As on-campus activities resume this week,&nbsp;Kansas State University continues to require face&nbsp;coverings&nbsp;on campuses.&nbsp; As outlined&nbsp; by K-State Today, here is the university's face covering policy:&nbsp;Everyone — faculty, staff, students, contractors, vendors and visitors — must wear face coverings over their mouths and noses in all indoor and outdoor spaces while you are on university property unless you are alone in your own private office or&nbsp;workspace&nbsp;or are alone outdoors.&nbsp;This policy also applies if you have previously had COVID-19 or have had the full vaccination series.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/guidance/health/face-covering.html">Learn more about the university face covering policy and enforcement</a>.&nbsp;If a student is not wearing&nbsp;a&nbsp;face covering, the first response should be a collegial reminder and an offer of a clean face covering, if one is available.&nbsp;Facilities Custodial Services has stocked classrooms with a&nbsp;box of disposable face coverings&nbsp;for the beginning of the semester.&nbsp;Students who do not comply with the policy on the Manhattan, Polytechnic or Olathe campuses should be reported&nbsp;through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/report/conduct-violation/" target="_blank">the Code of Conduct violation form</a>  so proper disciplinary actions can take place.&nbsp;The Office of Student Life follows a defined procedure in the event of a violation of the face covering policy.&nbsp;First offense: Reminder letter sent to the student with information regarding the policy and potential next steps.&nbsp;Second offense: Administrative hearing with Office of Student Life dean to discuss the policy and any concerns being raised.&nbsp;Third offense: Student Review Board hearing where the student could face sanctions up to removal from the classroom, university property or temporary loss of student status.&nbsp;&nbsp;Violations of the face covering policy in Housing and Dining Services  facilities will follow a similar process with Housing staff. Violations occurring in the Housing and Dining Services living environments, on all campuses, will be included when considering violations in the university judicial process. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Face covering policy and procedures are reviewed for K-State

Starting Wednesday, February 10, Stoneybrook Assisted Living &amp; Memory Care residents&nbsp; in Manhattan will begin hosting family members and friends for in-person visits. Due to COVID-19, visitation at assisted living and memory care communities including Stoneybrook has been restricted to essential caregivers since March of 2020.

“This is easily the best announcement I’ve ever had the privilege to make,” said Troy Shaw, Executive Director at Stoneybrook. “Our residents and their families are so excited to be able to visit face-to-face again, and we are delighted to welcome them back into the community.”

The visitation policy change comes after residents and staff members at the community were offered both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. After the second shot, the community waited the recommended 14 days to ensure the vaccine had enough time to be fully effective. Now, the community is preparing to welcome visitors, but there will still be safety precautions in place.

“Our residents and staff were fortunate to have been among the first to receive COVID-19 vaccinations, but we’re still following recommended precautions,” said Shaw. “Our visitation policies include testing visitors for COVID-19 when they arrive, asking them to wear a facemask, practice social distancing and more.”

Visits at the community need to be scheduled in advance and visitors are also required to pass a health screen prior to entering the community.

The COVID-19 vaccine was not mandatory for Stoneybrook residents, but Shaw says seniors did not hesitate to opt-in.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612893072858.jpeg" alt="Photo-Stoneybrook Assisted Living &amp; Memory Care" />
 <figcaption>Photo-Stoneybrook Assisted Living &amp; Memory Care</figcaption>
 </figure>Starting Wednesday, February 10, Stoneybrook Assisted Living &amp; Memory Care residents&nbsp; in Manhattan will begin hosting family members and friends for in-person visits. Due to COVID-19, visitation at assisted living and memory care communities including Stoneybrook has been restricted to essential caregivers since March of 2020.“This is easily the best announcement I’ve ever had the privilege to make,” said Troy Shaw, Executive Director at Stoneybrook. “Our residents and their families are so excited to be able to visit face-to-face again, and we are delighted to welcome them back into the community.”The visitation policy change comes after residents and staff members at the community were offered both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. After the second shot, the community waited the recommended 14 days to ensure the vaccine had enough time to be fully effective. Now, the community is preparing to welcome visitors, but there will still be safety precautions in place.“Our residents and staff were fortunate to have been among the first to receive COVID-19 vaccinations, but we’re still following recommended precautions,” said Shaw. “Our visitation policies include testing visitors for COVID-19 when they arrive, asking them to wear a facemask, practice social distancing and more.”Visits at the community need to be scheduled in advance and visitors are also required to pass a health screen prior to entering the community.The COVID-19 vaccine was not mandatory for Stoneybrook residents, but Shaw says seniors did not hesitate to opt-in.

Visitation policy is changing at Stoneybrook Assisted Living & Memory Care

Health officials confirm that Riley County has identified 23 new positive coronavirus cases and 89 additional recoveries since the last report on February 5, 2021.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for five positive patients at this time. Three of the positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

In the coming weeks, Riley County will look at relaxing some of the restrictions if the downward trend continues. They remind the community to continue wearing masks, social distancing and keep social gatherings small.

Health officials confirm that Riley County has identified 23 new positive coronavirus cases and 89 additional recoveries since the last report on February 5, 2021.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for five positive patients at this time. Three of the positive patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;In the coming weeks, Riley County will look at relaxing some of the restrictions if the downward trend continues. They remind the community to continue wearing masks, social distancing and keep social gatherings small.

Riley County provides a COVID-19 update

Area state legislators and&nbsp; Geary County officials are not in favor of proposed Kansas House Bill 2142. That was clear during a Chamber of Commerce hosted legislative coffee on Saturday.

Trish Giordano, Geary County Commission Chair, told the elected officials the proposed bill would require Kansas counties to reimburse businesses for property taxes if they were shut down or had their capacity limited during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I wanted to hear what you thought about that. I know it's going to be debated on Tuesday, and I think that that would be very detrimental and cause a huge burden on us for sure, and I'm sure many other counties."

State Senator Tom Hawk, Manhattan, who represents a portion of Geary County as part of his district, said he would not support the bill. State Representative Dave Baker said the reality is that there has not been enough research on the measure. "And I don't think in the hearing this next week we'll have enough information to move me from an opponent to a proponent."

Baker noted that he had&nbsp; heard loud and clear from his county commissioners. He said there is a group in Geary County that have no problem calling him from the County ( Offices ), "and telling me how the cows eat the cabbage. And they made that call. " Baker stressed that he would not be supporting the bill.

Hawk also stated the Governor just announced a federal paycheck protection program and that there will be more PPP money coming out. He indicated that five or six billion dollars in federal money has already been invested, and that does not include what the states and counties have paid with their SPARK money. "I don't think it is fair to hang that on the counties to reimburse it, and certainly isn't affordable."

State Senator Jeff Longbine said he agreed with his colleagues. He noted that Phase Two of PPP is open now and applications are available at financial institutions. For second round participation you must demonstrate that your business was down at least 25% for a quarter. "But there are also new provisions for those that weren't in the first round and there are also new provisions for those that are self-employed, sole proprietorships, those type of things, where they can get reimbursement of some wages. I would encourage people to talk to their financial institutions now because that is open."

Area state legislators and&nbsp; Geary County officials are not in favor of proposed Kansas House Bill 2142. That was clear during a Chamber of Commerce hosted legislative coffee on Saturday.Trish Giordano, Geary County Commission Chair, told the elected officials the proposed bill would require Kansas counties to reimburse businesses for property taxes if they were shut down or had their capacity limited during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I wanted to hear what you thought about that. I know it's going to be debated on Tuesday, and I think that that would be very detrimental and cause a huge burden on us for sure, and I'm sure many other counties."State Senator Tom Hawk, Manhattan, who represents a portion of Geary County as part of his district, said he would not support the bill. State Representative Dave Baker said the reality is that there has not been enough research on the measure. "And I don't think in the hearing this next week we'll have enough information to move me from an opponent to a proponent."Baker noted that he had&nbsp; heard loud and clear from his county commissioners. He said there is a group in Geary County that have no problem calling him from the County ( Offices ), "and telling me how the cows eat the cabbage. And they made that call. " Baker stressed that he would not be supporting the bill.Hawk also stated the Governor just announced a federal paycheck protection program and that there will be more PPP money coming out. He indicated that five or six billion dollars in federal money has already been invested, and that does not include what the states and counties have paid with their SPARK money. "I don't think it is fair to hang that on the counties to reimburse it, and certainly isn't affordable."State Senator Jeff Longbine said he agreed with his colleagues. He noted that Phase Two of PPP is open now and applications are available at financial institutions. For second round participation you must demonstrate that your business was down at least 25% for a quarter. "But there are also new provisions for those that weren't in the first round and there are also new provisions for those that are self-employed, sole proprietorships, those type of things, where they can get reimbursement of some wages. I would encourage people to talk to their financial institutions now because that is open."

House bill 2142 is not getting a positive reaction in Geary County

Riley County has identified 15 new positive coronavirus cases and one additional recovery since the last report on February 3, 2021.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for seven positive patients at this time. One of the positive patients is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

While the number of those infected with COVID continues to decrease in Riley County, we remind the community to continue wearing masks, social distancing and keep social gatherings small. The CDC posted information about safer ways to enjoy the Super Bowl this weekend&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=8523dbf2ec&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/small-gatherings.html</a>

This week the Health Department continued vaccinating those 65 and older with severe health conditions and those who are homebound. To date, 4,932 vaccines have been administered by Riley County Health Department, 53 of them to individuals who are homebound.&nbsp;

Riley County will continue to vaccinate those 65 and older with severe health conditions next week and administer second doses to those who qualify.&nbsp;

Riley County has identified 15 new positive coronavirus cases and one additional recovery since the last report on February 3, 2021.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for seven positive patients at this time. One of the positive patients is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;While the number of those infected with COVID continues to decrease in Riley County, we remind the community to continue wearing masks, social distancing and keep social gatherings small. The CDC posted information about safer ways to enjoy the Super Bowl this weekend&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=8523dbf2ec&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/small-gatherings.html</a>This week the Health Department continued vaccinating those 65 and older with severe health conditions and those who are homebound. To date, 4,932 vaccines have been administered by Riley County Health Department, 53 of them to individuals who are homebound.&nbsp;Riley County will continue to vaccinate those 65 and older with severe health conditions next week and administer second doses to those who qualify.&nbsp;

Fifteen new COVID-19 positive cases in Riley Co.

Pottawatomie County officials have reported 41 positive COVID-19 cases since February 1st. There are 24 active cases and have been 44 recoveries during that time.

Pottawatomie County officials have reported 41 positive COVID-19 cases since February 1st. There are 24 active cases and have been 44 recoveries during that time.Two people are hospitalized.

Pottawatomie County updates their COVID-19 numbers

TOPEKA —The state's COVID-19<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas"> case update Friday i</a>ncluded the death of a 6-year-old, according to the Kansas Department of Health.

This is the youngest virus death reported in Kansas. The child died in November and the death certificate was finalized this week, connecting the death to COVID-19.

Due to patient privacy laws, KDHE provided no further details about the death of the child.

According to the KHDE, a COVID-19 death is any person who dies and their death certificate lists COVID-19 or SARS-CO-V-2 as the underlying cause of death or a significant contributing factor to death.

The state's virus death toll topped 4100 Friday with the addition of of 206 additional deaths linked to COVID-19

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;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/2021/2/1612552423695.png" alt="<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE image</a>&nbsp;Friday February 5, 2021" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">KDHE image</a>&nbsp;Friday February 5, 2021</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The state's COVID-19<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas"> case update Friday i</a>ncluded the death of a 6-year-old, according to the Kansas Department of Health.This is the youngest virus death reported in Kansas. The child died in November and the death certificate was finalized this week, connecting the death to COVID-19.Due to patient privacy laws, KDHE provided no further details about the death of the child.According to the KHDE, a COVID-19 death is any person who dies and their death certificate lists COVID-19 or SARS-CO-V-2 as the underlying cause of death or a significant contributing factor to death.The state's virus death toll topped 4100 Friday with the addition of of 206 additional deaths linked to COVID-19<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;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/2021/2/1612551327421.png" alt="Friday February 5, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday February 5, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE reports death of 6-year-old due to COVID-19

Leonardville will be a location for free COVID-19 testing early next week said Riley County Health Officer Julie Gibbs. "We will have staff in Leonardville this upcoming Monday from 10 until noon."

Gibbs added that there will be saliva kits available for symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals free of charge.

Leonardville will be a location for free COVID-19 testing early next week said Riley County Health Officer Julie Gibbs. "We will have staff in Leonardville this upcoming Monday from 10 until noon."Gibbs added that there will be saliva kits available for symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals free of charge.

Coronavirus Update