Riley County has 3 new COVID-19 positive patients, for a cumulative total of 74. The Health Department said the new patients are a 21 year-old man, 90 year-old woman, and a 95 year-old woman associated with an outbreak at the Leonardville Nursing Home. There are now a total of 5 positive cases associated with that location. All residents and employees of the facility have been tested. Roughly two-thirds of the 150 test results have been received and staff are waiting for notification about the remaining tests.
The Riley County Health Department has been working alongside the Leonardville facility, with assistance from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, to investigate, test, trace contacts, and isolate all positive cases there.
“The facility has been taking every precaution, from limiting access to visitors to monitoring of staff and residents for symptoms, and following recommendations from both the health department and CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) for several months.” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs.
There are 12 active cases in Riley County, with 59 recovered, and 3 fatalities.
Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan has 1 positive patient on a ventilator, and 2 Persons Under Investigation at this time. A PUI is a person who has symptoms of COVID-19 and is waiting for test results.
“This outbreak underscores the importance of collaboration and open communication between partners, and serves as a reminder that COVID-19 is still a pressing issue in Riley County and should continue to be taken very seriously,” said Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Andrew Adams. “We will continue to work closely with the Leonardville Nursing Home, and all other long-term care facilities, to keep Riley County healthy.”