Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.

Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NCAA cancels remaining winter and spring championships: <a href="https://t.co/qzKAS4McEI">https://t.co/qzKAS4McEI</a> <a href="https://t.co/G6XreZx35E">pic.twitter.com/G6XreZx35E</a>&mdash; NCAA (@NCAA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCAA/status/1238197201928667136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

NCAA cancels March Madness, all winter and spring championships

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is urging consumers to use caution against scams involving COVID-19.

“In any unsettled times, whether it be the aftermath of a devastating storm or in this case the spread of a new virus, there are those who choose to take advantage of the public’s apprehension and uncertainty,” Schmidt said in a news release Thursday. “With all the discussion and disruption in reaction to COVID-19, Kansans should be particularly vigilant for scammers and should know that our office is here to help if needed.”

Kansans should be on alert for scams related to the COVID-19 virus, more commonly known as the coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan province of China and has now spread to the United States. These scams could include bogus products advertised as coronavirus prevention measures or treatments as well as bogus charities purporting to raise money for coronavirus research or to support coronavirus patients. Schmidt said his office has received reports of these sorts of scams circulating in Kansas.

Any Kansans who have problems with scams may file a complaint with the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division at<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call (800) 432-2310 for more information.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas AG Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas AG Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is urging consumers to use caution against scams involving COVID-19.“In any unsettled times, whether it be the aftermath of a devastating storm or in this case the spread of a new virus, there are those who choose to take advantage of the public’s apprehension and uncertainty,” Schmidt said in a news release Thursday. “With all the discussion and disruption in reaction to COVID-19, Kansans should be particularly vigilant for scammers and should know that our office is here to help if needed.”Kansans should be on alert for scams related to the COVID-19 virus, more commonly known as the coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan province of China and has now spread to the United States. These scams could include bogus products advertised as coronavirus prevention measures or treatments as well as bogus charities purporting to raise money for coronavirus research or to support coronavirus patients. Schmidt said his office has received reports of these sorts of scams circulating in Kansas.Any Kansans who have problems with scams may file a complaint with the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division at<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call (800) 432-2310 for more information.&nbsp;

Kansas AG warns against coronavirus scams

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is shutting the Capitol and all House and Senate office buildings to the public until April in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. The House and Senate sergeants at arms said in a statement the closure will begin at 5 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. Lawmakers, aides, journalists and official visitors will be allowed into the buildings. 

The statement says officials are acting “out of concern for the health and safety" of congressional employees and the public. The officials say they're responding to the advice of District of Columbia health officials and of Congress' own doctors. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.

WASHINGTON (AP) — House lawmakers are expressing alarm after a private briefing on Capitol Hill with public health officials. Lawmakers are particularly frustrated that U.S. officials have tested relatively few patients suspected to be infected. 

“We’re basically, in my opinion, flying blind," said Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev. Others described the meeting as heated, testy with many lawmakers leaving flooded with graver concerns about the administration's response.

“We should be exuding confidence nationally,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. “The confusion is damaging.”

The House is expected to vote later Thursday on a multibillion-dollar aid package. It aims to provide free testing for the coronavirus, paid sick leave and strengthened unemployment insurance. Congress has decided to shut the Capitol to the public until April. And White House tours have been temporarily suspended.&nbsp;

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is shutting the Capitol and all House and Senate office buildings to the public until April in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. The House and Senate sergeants at arms said in a statement the closure will begin at 5 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. Lawmakers, aides, journalists and official visitors will be allowed into the buildings. The statement says officials are acting “out of concern for the health and safety" of congressional employees and the public. The officials say they're responding to the advice of District of Columbia health officials and of Congress' own doctors. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.------------WASHINGTON (AP) — House lawmakers are expressing alarm after a private briefing on Capitol Hill with public health officials. Lawmakers are particularly frustrated that U.S. officials have tested relatively few patients suspected to be infected. “We’re basically, in my opinion, flying blind," said Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev. Others described the meeting as heated, testy with many lawmakers leaving flooded with graver concerns about the administration's response.“We should be exuding confidence nationally,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. “The confusion is damaging.”The House is expected to vote later Thursday on a multibillion-dollar aid package. It aims to provide free testing for the coronavirus, paid sick leave and strengthened unemployment insurance. Congress has decided to shut the Capitol to the public until April. And White House tours have been temporarily suspended.&nbsp;

White House tours suspended and Capitol to close to public

Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers released the following statement early Thursday&nbsp;

Currently, much of the K-State community is dispersed throughout the nation and globe during spring break. When everyone returns to campus the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus will increase. With careful planning and guidance from public health officials, there are prudent steps we can take to mitigate this risk and protect our campus and local communities.

The concept of social distancing has been shown to slow a disease outbreak during times of concern with pandemics. This means we reduce the number of times and places that people gather in large numbers or spend extensive time together. By slowing the spread of the disease, medical facilities are better able to handle the demand, which saves lives in the long run.

In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after spring break, we are taking these immediate steps:

These social distancing steps are admittedly inconvenient but have proven to be effective in other locations and will help safeguard the greater good for all. I know each of us will act responsibly to help us protect the entire K-State family and the local communities that are home to our campuses. We can meet this challenge with the strength and resiliency our university has demonstrated for over 150 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Please check our website on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">coronavirus disease (COVID-19)</a>&nbsp;for the latest information. If you have a specific question please email&nbsp;covid19@ksu.edu.

Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers released the following statement early Thursday&nbsp;Dear K-State Community:Currently, much of the K-State community is dispersed throughout the nation and globe during spring break. When everyone returns to campus the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus will increase. With careful planning and guidance from public health officials, there are prudent steps we can take to mitigate this risk and protect our campus and local communities.The concept of social distancing has been shown to slow a disease outbreak during times of concern with pandemics. This means we reduce the number of times and places that people gather in large numbers or spend extensive time together. By slowing the spread of the disease, medical facilities are better able to handle the demand, which saves lives in the long run.In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after spring break, we are taking these immediate steps:<ol>
 <li>K-State will suspend in-person classes at all campuses the week March 16-20.&nbsp;Online classes will be held as scheduled.&nbsp;During this time students are strongly encouraged to travel home or remain at home and spend the week there, if possible. For those who cannot go home, our campuses will remain open and services will be available such as student health, residence halls and dining halls. The situation may change very rapidly, based on what we’ve seen in other areas.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Beginning March 23, classes will be taught remotely (not in person) until further notice.&nbsp;The suspension of classes March 16-20 provides time for faculty members to prepare to move classes online or to teach through other alternative methods. While completing classes remotely, students are strongly encouraged to remain at their permanent homes away from campus, unless they cannot return home due to travel restrictions, financial burden, or lack of reliable internet access. We are working to accommodate learning that typically takes place in laboratories and other in-person situations. Our success will depend on the creativity and resourcefulness of our students and faculty, in which we have great faith. &nbsp;We will provide at least one week’s notice before in-person classes resume, per Kansas Board of Regents guidance.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Telecommuting may be an option for some employees.&nbsp;We have published&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/faq.html#telecommute">initial guidance for relaxed policies</a>&nbsp;and ask unit heads to determine who may be eligible to work off-campus.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Visitors are urged to postpone campus visits during this time.&nbsp;We strongly encourage visitors to reschedule planned trips to our campuses and recommend postponing previously scheduled visits. Please keep in mind that international travelers arriving from CDC-designated Level 3 countries are subject to a 14-day quarantine period.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Veterinary medicine students who are involved in clinical rotations or clinical work will receive further guidance from the College of Veterinary Medicine.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Polytechnic students who are involved in flight training or the maintenance program will receive further guidance from the College of Technology and Aviation.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Large campus community events (more than 100 people) will be handled on a case-by-case basis.&nbsp;We strongly encourage campus units to cancel events with more than 100 persons between now and March 30, please be prepared for the situation to change rapidly. Student events occurring between now and March 30 should be postponed or moved to another format. Athletic events will follow Big 12 guidance.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li><a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/travel.html">Travel policies</a>&nbsp;have not changed at this time.&nbsp; All university-sponsored international travel is banned to CDC warning level 3 or U.S. State Department Travel Advisory level 4 countries. There are no mandated restrictions for university-affiliated or sponsored domestic travel at this time, but we ask you to consider the potential risks for you and others and the possibility of trip disruption. As conditions evolve, further restrictions may be added.</li>
 </ol>These social distancing steps are admittedly inconvenient but have proven to be effective in other locations and will help safeguard the greater good for all. I know each of us will act responsibly to help us protect the entire K-State family and the local communities that are home to our campuses. We can meet this challenge with the strength and resiliency our university has demonstrated for over 150 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please check our website on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">coronavirus disease (COVID-19)</a>&nbsp;for the latest information. If you have a specific question please email&nbsp;covid19@ksu.edu.

K-State suspends in-person classes starting March 16

KANSAS CITY —Due to rising concerns over coronavirus, organizers&nbsp; made the difficult decision early Thursday to cancel the 2020 Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade, according the parade web site.

"For 48 years, the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for families, businesses, organizations and so many more. But, with the rapid developments that have occurred over the last 24 hours including the announcement from the World Health Organization and the President’s address to the nation, we feel that the most responsible thing we can do is cancel the parade.

We will spend the next 24 hours regrouping and discussing the plan for moving forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584013193851.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Due to rising concerns over coronavirus, organizers&nbsp; made the difficult decision early Thursday to cancel the 2020 Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade, according the parade web site."For 48 years, the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for families, businesses, organizations and so many more. But, with the rapid developments that have occurred over the last 24 hours including the announcement from the World Health Organization and the President’s address to the nation, we feel that the most responsible thing we can do is cancel the parade.We will spend the next 24 hours regrouping and discussing the plan for moving forward."

Organizers cancel Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade over coronavirus

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is suspending all travel between the U.S. and Europe for 30 days beginning Friday as he seeks to combat a viral pandemic.

Trump made the announcement in an Oval Office address to the nation, blaming the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the “foreign virus” and saying U.S. clusters were “seeded” by European travelers.

“We made a lifesaving move with early action on China,” Trump said. “Now we must take the same action with Europe.”

Trump said the restrictions won’t apply to the United Kingdom and the U.S. would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier.

Trump said he was also directing agencies to provide unspecified financial relief for “for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus,” and asked Congress to take action to extend it.

Trump said the U.S. will will defer tax payments for some individual and business filers for three months to lessen the impacts of the virus outbreak. He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm.

“This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”

Trump also reiterated his call on Congress to pass a cut to the federal payroll tax in order to stimulate the economy.

Trump said “we are marshaling the full power” of the government and private sector to protect the American people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583975573611.png" alt="President Trump during Wednesday's Oval Office address -White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during Wednesday's Oval Office address -White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is suspending all travel between the U.S. and Europe for 30 days beginning Friday as he seeks to combat a viral pandemic.Trump made the announcement in an Oval Office address to the nation, blaming the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the “foreign virus” and saying U.S. clusters were “seeded” by European travelers.“We made a lifesaving move with early action on China,” Trump said. “Now we must take the same action with Europe.”Trump said the restrictions won’t apply to the United Kingdom and the U.S. would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier.Trump said he was also directing agencies to provide unspecified financial relief for “for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus,” and asked Congress to take action to extend it.Trump said the U.S. will will defer tax payments for some individual and business filers for three months to lessen the impacts of the virus outbreak. He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm.“This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”Trump also reiterated his call on Congress to pass a cut to the federal payroll tax in order to stimulate the economy.Trump said “we are marshaling the full power” of the government and private sector to protect the American people.

Coronavirus battle: Trump suspends travel between US and Europe

A message from University of Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer to students, faculty and staff

KU leaders have been closely monitoring the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.ku.edu/">COVID-19</a>. We know that some members of the Jayhawk community have been in areas with reported cases, and we don’t expect to be immune from this virus. We have a strong team that is assessing conditions regionally and across the nation and is making recommendations guided by the following principles:

Delayed Resumption of In-person Classes Until March 23

To help protect the health of all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19,&nbsp;the resumption of in-person classes will be delayed until March 23.

Next week, March 16-22, we ask that faculty prepare to transition their course content, including lectures, to online instructional platforms, such as Blackboard. Every KU course already has an existing Blackboard shell available for faculty to start the process. Beginning the week of March 23, courses will be taught remotely using online tools. We anticipate needing to stay online for several weeks, however, our team will reassess the need to continue remote-only instruction each week, starting March 28.&nbsp;There will be no schedule change to courses already online.

This approach limits in-person exposure after spring break to align with the estimated COVID-19 incubation period, and allows faculty members a modest amount of time to prepare and begin the transition to online instruction. It also keeps the university functioning and helps students continue toward their educational goals.

We understand moving instruction to a solely online format will be a heavy lift for some faculty. Resources are available so no faculty member needs to make this online transition alone. KU Information Technology’s Ed Tech team, Center for Teaching Excellence, Center for Online and Distance Learning, and Office of Faculty Development and Mentoring are engaged in this process and will be available with guidance, instruction and tutorials. The team has created a new site —&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;— that provides guidance for those who are new to Blackboard, as well as next steps for faculty who are ready to do more. Individual guidance will also be available. Instructors and staff are encouraged to use Skype or Zoom to interact with students for office hours or appointments.

Faculty and instructional staff:&nbsp;You can get help to start online adaptation of courses by contacting KU IT Educational Technology Support,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itedtech@ku.edu">itedtech@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-2600. The team will assess each faculty member’s situation and either assist with Blackboard migration or refer instructors to more specialized consulting available through the Center for Online and Distance Learning.

Students:&nbsp;In the days ahead, look for a message from your instructors about what you might expect for your courses. If online learning is new to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/guide">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;for a basic guide and resources to get you started. Instructors and advisors may also use tech tools, such as Skype or Zoom as an alternative for in-person meetings or office hours.

While we move courses online, it is important to know we are keeping campus open and operating normally so we can continue to provide services to students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders.

All KU Student Housing buildings (residence halls, scholarship halls, apartments) and KU Dining venues will be open. We are encouraging students to stay home as they work on their courses. We recognize some students may need to remain on campus because they are prevented from returning home due to travel restrictions, or they need access to computers and reliable Internet service needed to complete work.

Students,&nbsp;do not return to campus if:

If any of these apply, be sure to inform your instructors of your situation.

Faculty and staff are expected to report to work unless:

Supervisors should exercise judgement and flexibility when considering requests for alternate work schedules or to telecommute, which includes requests from student employees and consideration of required staffing levels.

We notice that many national meetings have already been canceled. Out of an abundance of caution,&nbsp;all university sponsored domestic and international business-related travel and attendance at meetings, conferences, etc., is to be discontinued, effective immediately.&nbsp;Business-related travel in and around Kansas and Missouri is excluded from this restriction. Please do not make new plans for business travel during the next 60 days. Under extreme circumstances, exemptions to the travel restriction will be considered in advance by the provost or her designee. Travel appeals should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Travel%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.

Human Resource Management is preparing concise information to share with you about a variety of topics, including time-off policies, contingency preparations, remote work opportunities and more, which will be posted on the web soon. You should feel free to contact the office directly,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hrdept@ku.edu">hrdept@ku.edu</a>, or 785-864-4946.

Interviewing Prospective Employees/Students

Spring is an important time to hire new faculty and staff as well as to engage with prospective graduate students. We encourage faculty and staff to use Skype, as much as possible, to limit in-person contact and travel as you conduct interviews. Please reach out to KU IT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itcsc@ku.edu">itcsc@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-8080, if you need assistance with these technologies.

Effective immediately, university sponsored events will be limited to no more than 50 participants. Mission-critical exemptions to the attendance limit must be approved by the provost or her designee. Appeals should be sent in advance to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Event%20Attendance%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.

The Centers for Disease Control has yet to provide guidance on maximum event size, although it offers important&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html">advice to planners</a>. When an event is taking place, planners should communicate to visitors and participants the importance of exercising their personal discretion. Please advise individuals not to attend if they fall into a category recommended for quarantine, they have underlying chronic health conditions, or they are sick. Our Public Health Planning Events Workgroup is continuing to develop plans and will provide more detailed guidance soon.

Please be sure to take care of yourself. Each of us plays an important role in maintaining our personal health, which in turn helps protect our broader community. Please continue to follow CDC recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19 shared earlier by&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>. Taking action that aims to limit exposure of Jayhawks to the virus will help ensure our collective health and safety. Employees who are sick and who lack sufficient paid time off, should contact HR about the potential for using shared leave.

Our Public Health Planning Team continues to evaluate many other important questions, and we will be able to provide answers for those matters in the days ahead. This website will help keep you current.

This is a challenging time for our campus, our families and our community, and it is a time that may require additional bold measures. It will take all of us working together to ensure we emerge stronger. It also will require us to, fundamentally, be empathetic to each other, understanding we are all working through this evolving situation together. We’re confident we have the talent, the resources and the heart to rise to this challenge.

A message from University of Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer to students, faculty and staff<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Due to coronavirus concerns, KU is delaying the resumption of in-person classes following spring break. Starting Monday, March 23, all classes will be held online until further notice. Details at <a href="https://t.co/raPttxxz8z">https://t.co/raPttxxz8z</a>.&mdash; The University of Kansas (@UnivOfKansas) <a href="https://twitter.com/UnivOfKansas/status/1237921278532694016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>KU leaders have been closely monitoring the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.ku.edu/">COVID-19</a>. We know that some members of the Jayhawk community have been in areas with reported cases, and we don’t expect to be immune from this virus. We have a strong team that is assessing conditions regionally and across the nation and is making recommendations guided by the following principles:<ol>
 <li>Keep KU open so it can provide services to the fullest extent possible given unprecedented circumstances.</li><li>Maintain continuity of operations that support the academic and research missions of the university.</li><li>Prevent the spread of the disease at KU and beyond.</li><li>Protect members of the KU community through self-quarantine and social distancing, especially the three groups at greatest risk:those who may have been exposed,those who have chronic health challenges,those who are currently sick.</li><li>those who may have been exposed,</li><li>those who have chronic health challenges,</li><li>those who are currently sick.</li><li>Encourage all members of the KU community to be informed and practice healthy behaviors by following CDC recommendations.</li><li>Protect equity for our most vulnerable employees and students, as much as possible, as we respond to the situation.</li><li>Respond with agility to the fluid and changing nature of the situation.</li><li>Provide clear communications to all members of the KU community.</li><li>Provide exceptions for mission-critical activities on a case-by-case basis.</li>
 </ol><h2>Delayed Resumption of In-person Classes Until March 23</h2>To help protect the health of all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19,&nbsp;the resumption of in-person classes will be delayed until March 23.Next week, March 16-22, we ask that faculty prepare to transition their course content, including lectures, to online instructional platforms, such as Blackboard. Every KU course already has an existing Blackboard shell available for faculty to start the process. Beginning the week of March 23, courses will be taught remotely using online tools. We anticipate needing to stay online for several weeks, however, our team will reassess the need to continue remote-only instruction each week, starting March 28.&nbsp;There will be no schedule change to courses already online.This approach limits in-person exposure after spring break to align with the estimated COVID-19 incubation period, and allows faculty members a modest amount of time to prepare and begin the transition to online instruction. It also keeps the university functioning and helps students continue toward their educational goals.We understand moving instruction to a solely online format will be a heavy lift for some faculty. Resources are available so no faculty member needs to make this online transition alone. KU Information Technology’s Ed Tech team, Center for Teaching Excellence, Center for Online and Distance Learning, and Office of Faculty Development and Mentoring are engaged in this process and will be available with guidance, instruction and tutorials. The team has created a new site —&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;— that provides guidance for those who are new to Blackboard, as well as next steps for faculty who are ready to do more. Individual guidance will also be available. Instructors and staff are encouraged to use Skype or Zoom to interact with students for office hours or appointments.Faculty and instructional staff:&nbsp;You can get help to start online adaptation of courses by contacting KU IT Educational Technology Support,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itedtech@ku.edu">itedtech@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-2600. The team will assess each faculty member’s situation and either assist with Blackboard migration or refer instructors to more specialized consulting available through the Center for Online and Distance Learning.Students:&nbsp;In the days ahead, look for a message from your instructors about what you might expect for your courses. If online learning is new to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/guide">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;for a basic guide and resources to get you started. Instructors and advisors may also use tech tools, such as Skype or Zoom as an alternative for in-person meetings or office hours.<h2>Campus Remains Open</h2>While we move courses online, it is important to know we are keeping campus open and operating normally so we can continue to provide services to students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders.All KU Student Housing buildings (residence halls, scholarship halls, apartments) and KU Dining venues will be open. We are encouraging students to stay home as they work on their courses. We recognize some students may need to remain on campus because they are prevented from returning home due to travel restrictions, or they need access to computers and reliable Internet service needed to complete work.Students,&nbsp;do not return to campus if:<ol>
 <li>You are sick.</li><li>You have a chronic health condition that puts you at greater risk of the effects of COVID-19.</li><li>You have traveled internationally or domestically to areas with outbreaks, or have potentially been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If this is the case, please self-isolate or quarantine yourself for 14 days and call your healthcare provider for guidance.</li>
 </ol>If any of these apply, be sure to inform your instructors of your situation.Faculty and staff are expected to report to work unless:<ol>
 <li>You have been advised to self-isolate or quarantine because of travel or potential exposure.</li><li>You have chronic health conditions or are in another at-risk group considered more susceptible to COVID-19.</li><li>You are sick.</li>
 </ol>Supervisors should exercise judgement and flexibility when considering requests for alternate work schedules or to telecommute, which includes requests from student employees and consideration of required staffing levels.<h2>University Sponsored Travel</h2>We notice that many national meetings have already been canceled. Out of an abundance of caution,&nbsp;all university sponsored domestic and international business-related travel and attendance at meetings, conferences, etc., is to be discontinued, effective immediately.&nbsp;Business-related travel in and around Kansas and Missouri is excluded from this restriction. Please do not make new plans for business travel during the next 60 days. Under extreme circumstances, exemptions to the travel restriction will be considered in advance by the provost or her designee. Travel appeals should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Travel%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.<h2>Human Resource Management</h2>Human Resource Management is preparing concise information to share with you about a variety of topics, including time-off policies, contingency preparations, remote work opportunities and more, which will be posted on the web soon. You should feel free to contact the office directly,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hrdept@ku.edu">hrdept@ku.edu</a>, or 785-864-4946.<h2>Interviewing Prospective Employees/Students</h2>Spring is an important time to hire new faculty and staff as well as to engage with prospective graduate students. We encourage faculty and staff to use Skype, as much as possible, to limit in-person contact and travel as you conduct interviews. Please reach out to KU IT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itcsc@ku.edu">itcsc@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-8080, if you need assistance with these technologies.<h2>Events and Outreach</h2>Effective immediately, university sponsored events will be limited to no more than 50 participants. Mission-critical exemptions to the attendance limit must be approved by the provost or her designee. Appeals should be sent in advance to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Event%20Attendance%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.The Centers for Disease Control has yet to provide guidance on maximum event size, although it offers important&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html">advice to planners</a>. When an event is taking place, planners should communicate to visitors and participants the importance of exercising their personal discretion. Please advise individuals not to attend if they fall into a category recommended for quarantine, they have underlying chronic health conditions, or they are sick. Our Public Health Planning Events Workgroup is continuing to develop plans and will provide more detailed guidance soon.<h2>Stay Healthy</h2>Please be sure to take care of yourself. Each of us plays an important role in maintaining our personal health, which in turn helps protect our broader community. Please continue to follow CDC recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19 shared earlier by&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>. Taking action that aims to limit exposure of Jayhawks to the virus will help ensure our collective health and safety. Employees who are sick and who lack sufficient paid time off, should contact HR about the potential for using shared leave.Our Public Health Planning Team continues to evaluate many other important questions, and we will be able to provide answers for those matters in the days ahead. This website will help keep you current.This is a challenging time for our campus, our families and our community, and it is a time that may require additional bold measures. It will take all of us working together to ensure we emerge stronger. It also will require us to, fundamentally, be empathetic to each other, understanding we are all working through this evolving situation together. We’re confident we have the talent, the resources and the heart to rise to this challenge.Thank you to the&nbsp;

Chancellor: KU will hold all classes online until further notice

MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended its season “until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas.

Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the team confirmed the presumptive positive test.

MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended its season “until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas.Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the team confirmed the presumptive positive test.

NBA suspends season until further notice, over coronavirus

The University of Kansas Hospital says it has admitted a patient with COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus.

The patient is in a specially-equipped area to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients, staff, physicians and visitors, according to a news release.

The hospital will hold a news conference at noon Monday to answer questions about the protocols for care but said in a statement it would not provide any details about the patient’s identity.

Over the weekend, Kansas health officials announced that a Johnson County woman was the state’s first case of the new coronavirus. She appears to have contracted her illness while traveling in the northeast United States. More than 80 other people in Kansas are being monitored for the infection because they have traveled to countries where the virus is spreading rapidly.

It is unclear if the patient admitted to KU is the woman confirmed to have the new coronavirus over the weekend.

People who are experiencing symptoms – which include fever, coughing and shortness of breath – should contact their local health department. Most cases of the new coronavirus are mild, and patients can self-isolate at home. More serious cases can require hospitalization.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">COVID-19 Update <a href="https://t.co/UgRtmYfmNY">https://t.co/UgRtmYfmNY</a>&mdash; KU Hospital News (@KUHospitalNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUHospitalNews/status/1237060461977190401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The University of Kansas Hospital says it has admitted a patient with COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus.The patient is in a specially-equipped area to prevent the spread of the virus to other patients, staff, physicians and visitors, according to a news release.The hospital will hold a news conference at noon Monday to answer questions about the protocols for care but said in a statement it would not provide any details about the patient’s identity.Over the weekend, Kansas health officials announced that a Johnson County woman was the state’s first case of the new coronavirus. She appears to have contracted her illness while traveling in the northeast United States. More than 80 other people in Kansas are being monitored for the infection because they have traveled to countries where the virus is spreading rapidly.It is unclear if the patient admitted to KU is the woman confirmed to have the new coronavirus over the weekend.People who are experiencing symptoms – which include fever, coughing and shortness of breath – should contact their local health department. Most cases of the new coronavirus are mild, and patients can self-isolate at home. More serious cases can require hospitalization.

🎥 University of Kansas Hospital in KC admits cononavirus patient

TOPEKA —Officials confirmed Saturday that a Kansas City-area woman is the first case of coronavirus in Kansas.&nbsp;

The state is prepared, but knows everyone has questions. If you have questions about coronavirus disease, the state has a phone bank open to help.

Give the KDHE a call at 866-534-3463, email: COVID-19@ks.gov or check the COVID-19 Online Resource<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm"> Center here.</a>

The phone bank is open Sunday March 8, from 9 a.m - 5 p.m. 

You can also find answers in the COVID-19 <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">Online Resource Center:&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583681783905.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Officials confirmed Saturday that a Kansas City-area woman is the first case of coronavirus in Kansas.&nbsp;The state is prepared, but knows everyone has questions. If you have questions about coronavirus disease, the state has a phone bank open to help. Give the KDHE a call at 866-534-3463, email: COVID-19@ks.gov or check the COVID-19 Online Resource<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm"> Center here.</a>The phone bank is open Sunday March 8, from 9 a.m - 5 p.m. You can also find answers in the COVID-19 <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">Online Resource Center:&nbsp;</a>

KDHE hotline will answer questions on coronavirus

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City-area woman who recently traveled to the Northeast is the first case of coronavirus in Kansas, officials confirmed Saturday.

Gov. Laura Kelly and health officials said the woman, who's under 50, is isolating herself at home after seeing her doctor over the common symptoms of the new coronavirus, including a cough, slight fever and shortness of breath. She lives in Johnson County, the state's most populous county.

“The patient's doing well, by the way,” said Lee Norman, secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Mary Beverly, the interim director of Johnson County’s health department, said the woman reported feeling ill Sunday, started wearing a mask and was tested Monday or Tuesday. Beverly said the woman’s family members are likely to be the only people at risk of being infected by the new virus that causes COVID-19.

Health officials declined to provide more information about the woman or her travels, saying they want to protect her privacy.

“This individual everything right,” Beverly told reporters. “They used a mask and then self-isolated. They notified their physician before going into the doctor’s office so that others would not be infected.”

Beverly said health officials don’t know whether the woman came directly into contact with someone with coronavirus but “she traveled to a region of the United States where we knew we had some positive cases.”

The Kansas announcement came as Florida reported two coronavirus deaths, the first outside the West Coast. The total U.S. death toll reached 19.

The number of U.S. coronavirus cases swelled to 400, with cases in about half of the states.&nbsp;Indiana,&nbsp;Minnesota,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pennsylvania&nbsp;also recently reported their first cases.

The confirmation of the first Kansas case came four days after the state's health department launched an online resource center on coronavirus and three days after Kelly and the department's top administrator said the state was prepared for an outbreak.

Norman had said the state was monitoring up to a dozen people a day as possible coronavirus cases.

He said the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is providing the state with a list of people who’ve traveled to China, where the new virus originated, or South Korea, which also has seen an outbreak. He added that about 80 people are on the list, with some dropping off as they pass the 14-day contagious period and others being added.

Health officials had said Kansas was at lower risk of a coronavirus outbreak than other states because of its lower population density. Johnson County is home to sprawling Kansas City suburbs, but Beverly said its health department does not believe that public events must be canceled or schools, closed.

“No one should panic over this new virus or this confirmed case. Kansas still is considered at low risk for the spread of the virus,” Kelly said.

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is confirming its first presumptive-positive case of COVID-19 in Kansas. 

According to a media release from the agency, the possible case was identified Saturday with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories. KHEL, which is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to perform COVID-19 testing, found presumptive-positive results&nbsp;this afternoon. These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as positive unless determined otherwise.

“Kansas has been prepared for positive cases of novel coronavirus and will continue to work alongside local and federal public health partners in addressing the potential spread of the virus,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “It is our main priority to keep Kansans healthy and safe. We want Kansans educated on all aspects related to COVID-19.”

The case is located in&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;County and the patient is currently&nbsp;in home isolation, following the guidance of the CDC.&nbsp;KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while&nbsp;they were&nbsp;infectious, and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patient is a&nbsp;female under the age of 50 years&nbsp;old. No other information will be provided about the patient.

“We continue to monitor the situation closely. In the meantime, the general public can help. Please practice proper public health hygiene,” Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of KDHE, said. “Wash your hands and stay home if you’re sick.”

On March 4, Governor Kelly announced the administration’s robust, comprehensive preparedness plan in the event of a positive test result.

Under Governor Kelly’s direction, KDHE and KDEM are:

The 2019 novel coronavirus infections initially were diagnosed in Wuhan City, China and have been reported in 60 locations internationally, including the United States. There are a number of unknowns with the virus, including how long people are considered contagious. KDHE, along with our community partners, continues to investigate this illness. Treatment for individuals with confirmed cases is supportive care.

If you have recently traveled to China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel, or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today, Saturday, March 7 from 6-8 p.m. and on Sunday, March 8 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598227559&amp;sdata=2t%2F9EUVxo%2BX8fSolCPS2k9G8hrrHBAFu2X2lbdCUhlE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp; and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598237514&amp;sdata=pvqUjQVD010B8AxL4N80C20zRIYuVeGxWIg%2BhqBLUMA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp;.

This situation is constantly evolving and changing. For the most up-to-date information, please use the following links from KDHE and the CDC:

For more information, go the <a href="https://t.co/hpn3S2UrTY?amp=1">KDHE website.</a>

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City-area woman who recently traveled to the Northeast is the first case of coronavirus in Kansas, officials confirmed Saturday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F138039994194618%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Gov. Laura Kelly and health officials said the woman, who's under 50, is isolating herself at home after seeing her doctor over the common symptoms of the new coronavirus, including a cough, slight fever and shortness of breath. She lives in Johnson County, the state's most populous county.“The patient's doing well, by the way,” said Lee Norman, secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.Mary Beverly, the interim director of Johnson County’s health department, said the woman reported feeling ill Sunday, started wearing a mask and was tested Monday or Tuesday. Beverly said the woman’s family members are likely to be the only people at risk of being infected by the new virus that causes COVID-19.Health officials declined to provide more information about the woman or her travels, saying they want to protect her privacy.“This individual everything right,” Beverly told reporters. “They used a mask and then self-isolated. They notified their physician before going into the doctor’s office so that others would not be infected.”Beverly said health officials don’t know whether the woman came directly into contact with someone with coronavirus but “she traveled to a region of the United States where we knew we had some positive cases.”The Kansas announcement came as Florida reported two coronavirus deaths, the first outside the West Coast. The total U.S. death toll reached 19.The number of U.S. coronavirus cases swelled to 400, with cases in about half of the states.&nbsp;Indiana,&nbsp;Minnesota,&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pennsylvania&nbsp;also recently reported their first cases.The confirmation of the first Kansas case came four days after the state's health department launched an online resource center on coronavirus and three days after Kelly and the department's top administrator said the state was prepared for an outbreak.Norman had said the state was monitoring up to a dozen people a day as possible coronavirus cases.He said the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is providing the state with a list of people who’ve traveled to China, where the new virus originated, or South Korea, which also has seen an outbreak. He added that about 80 people are on the list, with some dropping off as they pass the 14-day contagious period and others being added.Health officials had said Kansas was at lower risk of a coronavirus outbreak than other states because of its lower population density. Johnson County is home to sprawling Kansas City suburbs, but Beverly said its health department does not believe that public events must be canceled or schools, closed.“No one should panic over this new virus or this confirmed case. Kansas still is considered at low risk for the spread of the virus,” Kelly said.----------------TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is confirming its first presumptive-positive case of COVID-19 in Kansas. According to a media release from the agency, the possible case was identified Saturday with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories. KHEL, which is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to perform COVID-19 testing, found presumptive-positive results&nbsp;this afternoon. These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as positive unless determined otherwise.“Kansas has been prepared for positive cases of novel coronavirus and will continue to work alongside local and federal public health partners in addressing the potential spread of the virus,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “It is our main priority to keep Kansans healthy and safe. We want Kansans educated on all aspects related to COVID-19.”The case is located in&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;County and the patient is currently&nbsp;in home isolation, following the guidance of the CDC.&nbsp;KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while&nbsp;they were&nbsp;infectious, and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patient is a&nbsp;female under the age of 50 years&nbsp;old. No other information will be provided about the patient.“We continue to monitor the situation closely. In the meantime, the general public can help. Please practice proper public health hygiene,” Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of KDHE, said. “Wash your hands and stay home if you’re sick.”On March 4, Governor Kelly announced the administration’s robust, comprehensive preparedness plan in the event of a positive test result.Under Governor Kelly’s direction, KDHE and KDEM are:<ol>
 <li>in constant communication with local hospitals and health departments, coordinating with local, state and federal public health partners;</li><li>preparing for emergency management situations on a regular basis, with&nbsp;staff who have&nbsp;decades of experience in developing responses and preventative measures for any situation;</li><li>continuing&nbsp;to work with federal, state and local partners to maintain awareness of national and international COVID-19 trends and strategies.</li>
 </ol>The 2019 novel coronavirus infections initially were diagnosed in Wuhan City, China and have been reported in 60 locations internationally, including the United States. There are a number of unknowns with the virus, including how long people are considered contagious. KDHE, along with our community partners, continues to investigate this illness. Treatment for individuals with confirmed cases is supportive care.If you have recently traveled to China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel, or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today, Saturday, March 7 from 6-8 p.m. and on Sunday, March 8 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598227559&amp;sdata=2t%2F9EUVxo%2BX8fSolCPS2k9G8hrrHBAFu2X2lbdCUhlE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp; and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598237514&amp;sdata=pvqUjQVD010B8AxL4N80C20zRIYuVeGxWIg%2BhqBLUMA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp;.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESThis situation is constantly evolving and changing. For the most up-to-date information, please use the following links from KDHE and the CDC:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598237514&amp;sdata=ZVIqq%2BZDbUV3Njfd8KG%2Flt8z1JmehLegoT9sDqT5jho%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Fdownload%2FNovel_coronavirus_FAQ.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598237514&amp;sdata=2MeWFzSffzo7iATIRGxrGaszXlrkElj9pmX0AQiG0ps%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 FAQs</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FCOVID-19_Toolkit.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598247471&amp;sdata=S4e%2FJNKopIRjyEXMbRC%2BMU3gu5YMe44%2BCrONyfN0SQc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 Toolkit</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FCOVID-19_Hospital_Prep_Assessment_Tool.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598247471&amp;sdata=WNRQA5vGlTZVkoBVwAGjcM3Bi3Q74HoieIVK4wqlJCc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 Hospital Preparedness Assessment Tool</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FHealthcare_Checklist_for_trans_and_arrival_of_patients.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598257429&amp;sdata=Us%2BLHNMFSzqWJiaVqE9PrKQ0evRXXBGkLWbxAnuuL64%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 Healthcare Professional Preparedness Checklist for Transport and Arrival of Patients Potentially Infected with COVID-19</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FInterim_Guidance_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598257429&amp;sdata=UeSERNh2sON%2F%2FneuyPMwZCAP5xLZjF6IleM3YKHh%2FWY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Interim Guidance for Child Care Facilities Licensed by the KDHE</a></li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-nCoV%2Fsummary.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598267386&amp;sdata=0eikC5VTnkgo63N2kD8MXkPuOOj4hxMefKI5BpAMQIo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598267386&amp;sdata=IaIbxhhEO4xeFhDwfdoXBkATyMwG24z23%2BGxnh60B%2Bg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">What you should know</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fsymptoms.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598267386&amp;sdata=yLgUilj6RG7Uw%2FHQk356Fu0BQvjKSIO0IKw0Qb9rx48%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Symptoms</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fprevention-treatment.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598277341&amp;sdata=tCLD%2FRxLpU0L2oupxA%2FCAoUYBfE2DO0ENGGl%2BzRsHV0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Ftravelers%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C83b6d4128192410d151408d7c2eee3fd%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637192203598277341&amp;sdata=uxb0zmOWsCvt5KEtkZoZUZLWmW3ev1BclCfGjSs9Lxw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Specific guidelines for travelers</a></li>
 </ol>For more information, go the <a href="https://t.co/hpn3S2UrTY?amp=1">KDHE website.</a>

🎥 Update: First coronavirus case reported in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Friday signed an $8.3 billion measure to help tackle the coronavirus outbreak that has killed 12 people in the U.S. and infected more than 200.

The legislation provides federal public health agencies with money for vaccines, tests and potential treatments and helps state and local governments prepare and respond to the threat. The rapid spread of the virus has rocked financial markets, interrupted travel and threatens to affect everyday life in the United States.

Trump had planned to sign the bill during a visit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Vice President Mike Pence said late Thursday on his trip to Washington state, where 11 of the victims have died. But the White House said Friday that Trump would no longer visit the agency because he “does not want to interfere with the CDC’s mission to protect the health and welfare of their people and the agency.”

The Senate passed the $8.3 billion measure Thursday to help tackle the outbreak in hopes of reassuring a fearful public and accelerating the government’s response to the virus. Its rapid spread is threatening to upend everyday life in the U.S. and across the globe.

The money would pay for a multifaceted attack on a virus that is spreading more widely every day, sending financial markets spiraling again Thursday, disrupting travel and potentially threatening the U.S. economy’s decade-long expansion.

Thursday’s sweeping 96-1 vote sends the bill to the White House for President Donald Trump’s signature. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., cast the sole “no” vote. The House passed the bill Wednesday by a 415-2 vote.

The plan would more than triple the $2.5 billion amount outlined by the White House 10 days ago. The Trump proposal was immediately discarded by members of Congress from both parties. Instead, the bipartisan leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations committees negotiated the increased figure and other provisions of the legislation in a burst of bipartisan cooperation that’s common on the panel but increasingly rare elsewhere in Washington.

“In situations like this, I believe no expense should be spared to protect the American people, and in crafting this package none was,” said Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby, R-Ala. “It’s an aggressive plan, a vigorous plan that has received an overwhelming positive reaction.”

Trump was sure to sign the measure, which has almost universal support. It is intended to project confidence and calm as anxiety builds over the impact of the virus, which has claimed 12 lives in the U.S.

“The American people are looking for leadership and want assurance that their government is up to the task of protecting their health and safety,” said Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.

The impact of the outbreak continues to mount. The British government is considering suspending Parliament for five months in hope of limiting the spread of the virus in the United Kingdom.

The legislation would provide federal public health agencies money for vaccines, tests and potential treatments, including $300 million to deliver such drugs to those who need it. More than $2 billion would go to help federal, state and local governments prepare for and respond to the coronavirus threat. An additional $1.3 billion would be used to help fight the virus overseas. There’s also funding to subsidize $7 billion in small business loans.

Other dollars would be directed to help local officials prepare for the potential worsening of the outbreak and subsidize treatment by community health centers. Medicare rules would be loosened to enable remote “telehealth” consultations whereby sick people could to get treatment without visiting a doctor.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., whose state is at the center of the crisis, praised the bill because it “will increase access for public lab testing, help pay for isolation and quarantine, help pay for sanitizing in public areas, better track the virus and those who might come into contact with it, help labs who are trying to identify hot spots, and limit exposure.”

The legislation contains a hard-won compromise that aims to protect against potential price gouging by drug manufacturers for vaccines and other medicines developed with taxpayer funds. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar would have the power to make sure commercial prices are reasonable. Azar is a former drug industry lobbyist.

Democrats said other steps may be needed if the outbreak continues to worsen.

“This may be a first step because we have issues that relate to unemployment insurance for people who are put out of work.” Pelosi said as she signed the bill to send it to Trump.

“We have only about 27% of people in this country who have paid sick days. So if they have to go home what is going to happen to them and their families?” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.

DeLauro said Pence responded that he would raise the issue with the president.

The bill seeks to restore $136 million that the Department of Health and Human Services cut from other accounts such as heating subsidies for the poor to battle the virus.

The legislation comes as carping over the administration’s response to the outbreak is quieting down. Lawmakers in both parties had faulted a shortage of tests for the virus and contrasting messages from Trump and his subordinates. In an interview with Sean Hannity of Fox News on Wednesday, Trump downplayed the lethality of the virus, saying the World Health Organization’s updated estimate of a 3.4% death rate in coronavirus cases is “a false number.”

“Now you’re starting to see rapid deployment of tests, which makes me feel better, quite honestly,” said Rep. Raul Ruiz, D-Calif., a doctor. “I think their communications are a little better. As long as the president doesn’t contradict the experts and the scientists who know what they’re doing, things will get better.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583505238700.png" alt="President Trump during Friday's signing at the White House -Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during Friday's signing at the White House -Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Friday signed an $8.3 billion measure to help tackle the coronavirus outbreak that has killed 12 people in the U.S. and infected more than 200.The legislation provides federal public health agencies with money for vaccines, tests and potential treatments and helps state and local governments prepare and respond to the threat. The rapid spread of the virus has rocked financial markets, interrupted travel and threatens to affect everyday life in the United States.Trump had planned to sign the bill during a visit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Vice President Mike Pence said late Thursday on his trip to Washington state, where 11 of the victims have died. But the White House said Friday that Trump would no longer visit the agency because he “does not want to interfere with the CDC’s mission to protect the health and welfare of their people and the agency.”The Senate passed the $8.3 billion measure Thursday to help tackle the outbreak in hopes of reassuring a fearful public and accelerating the government’s response to the virus. Its rapid spread is threatening to upend everyday life in the U.S. and across the globe.The money would pay for a multifaceted attack on a virus that is spreading more widely every day, sending financial markets spiraling again Thursday, disrupting travel and potentially threatening the U.S. economy’s decade-long expansion.Thursday’s sweeping 96-1 vote sends the bill to the White House for President Donald Trump’s signature. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., cast the sole “no” vote. The House passed the bill Wednesday by a 415-2 vote.The plan would more than triple the $2.5 billion amount outlined by the White House 10 days ago. The Trump proposal was immediately discarded by members of Congress from both parties. Instead, the bipartisan leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations committees negotiated the increased figure and other provisions of the legislation in a burst of bipartisan cooperation that’s common on the panel but increasingly rare elsewhere in Washington.“In situations like this, I believe no expense should be spared to protect the American people, and in crafting this package none was,” said Appropriations Committee Chairman Richard Shelby, R-Ala. “It’s an aggressive plan, a vigorous plan that has received an overwhelming positive reaction.”Trump was sure to sign the measure, which has almost universal support. It is intended to project confidence and calm as anxiety builds over the impact of the virus, which has claimed 12 lives in the U.S.“The American people are looking for leadership and want assurance that their government is up to the task of protecting their health and safety,” said Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.The impact of the outbreak continues to mount. The British government is considering suspending Parliament for five months in hope of limiting the spread of the virus in the United Kingdom.The legislation would provide federal public health agencies money for vaccines, tests and potential treatments, including $300 million to deliver such drugs to those who need it. More than $2 billion would go to help federal, state and local governments prepare for and respond to the coronavirus threat. An additional $1.3 billion would be used to help fight the virus overseas. There’s also funding to subsidize $7 billion in small business loans.Other dollars would be directed to help local officials prepare for the potential worsening of the outbreak and subsidize treatment by community health centers. Medicare rules would be loosened to enable remote “telehealth” consultations whereby sick people could to get treatment without visiting a doctor.Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., whose state is at the center of the crisis, praised the bill because it “will increase access for public lab testing, help pay for isolation and quarantine, help pay for sanitizing in public areas, better track the virus and those who might come into contact with it, help labs who are trying to identify hot spots, and limit exposure.”The legislation contains a hard-won compromise that aims to protect against potential price gouging by drug manufacturers for vaccines and other medicines developed with taxpayer funds. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar would have the power to make sure commercial prices are reasonable. Azar is a former drug industry lobbyist.Democrats said other steps may be needed if the outbreak continues to worsen.“This may be a first step because we have issues that relate to unemployment insurance for people who are put out of work.” Pelosi said as she signed the bill to send it to Trump.“We have only about 27% of people in this country who have paid sick days. So if they have to go home what is going to happen to them and their families?” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.DeLauro said Pence responded that he would raise the issue with the president.The bill seeks to restore $136 million that the Department of Health and Human Services cut from other accounts such as heating subsidies for the poor to battle the virus.The legislation comes as carping over the administration’s response to the outbreak is quieting down. Lawmakers in both parties had faulted a shortage of tests for the virus and contrasting messages from Trump and his subordinates. In an interview with Sean Hannity of Fox News on Wednesday, Trump downplayed the lethality of the virus, saying the World Health Organization’s updated estimate of a 3.4% death rate in coronavirus cases is “a false number.”“Now you’re starting to see rapid deployment of tests, which makes me feel better, quite honestly,” said Rep. Raul Ruiz, D-Calif., a doctor. “I think their communications are a little better. As long as the president doesn’t contradict the experts and the scientists who know what they’re doing, things will get better.”

Trump signs $8.3B bill to combat coronavirus outbreak 

Governor Laura Kelly, along with Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Secretary Dr. Lee Norman and Kansas Adjutant General Lee Tafanelli, director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM, today outlined a robust, comprehensive preparedness plan for COVID-19, also known as novel coronavirus.

"There are no confirmed cases in Kansas, but we are prepared," Kelly said. "Currently, in Kansas, the overall risk of the virus is low, but that does not mean we can rest easy. We take this situation seriously. We can and will remain ready to respond swiftly and effectively, should the virus spread to Kansas."

The Kelly administration is working closely with federal, state and local partners to maintain awareness of national and international trends related to the virus. KDHE currently is working on Kansas-specific guidance, based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, to help local communities continue their preparedness efforts.

Under Governor Kelly's direction, KDHE and KDEM are:

"The health and safety of every Kansan is our top priority and we are utilizing every tool at our disposal to continue monitoring the situation and ensure that we are ready to respond should that be necessary," Kelly said. "The best way to protect yourself, your family and your friends against contracting the virus is to use good hygiene practices like washing your hands, coughing into your sleeve, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and stay home if you're not feeling well. It's simple, but effective."

Kansas has tested a few suspected cases of coronavirus, with no positive results as of today.

"Our KDHE lab now has the capability to test for cases of COVID-19, which will expedite the test results," Dr. Norman said. "That means our state can respond quickly and effectively. Make no mistake -- our team is experienced. They are highly trained and prepared to keep Kansans safe."

The Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories facility, in Topeka, was one of the first in the country to be certified by the CDC to test for COVID-19.&nbsp;When there is a Person Under Investigation, KDHE coordinates with the local health department and other stakeholders such as hospitals and clinicians to help coordinate sample collection and shipping to the KDHE Lab, which cuts the testing time for suspected cases down from days to hours. &nbsp;

The adjutant general outlined KDEM's preparedness efforts as part of a coordinated state response.

"We stand ready to support county emergency managers for resources and technical assistance when needed," Tafanelli said. "We have been coordinating, planning and participating in briefings with local, state and federal partners on a daily basis. We stand ready to respond."

Symptoms may include fever, cough, shortness of breath. These symptoms can develop 2-14 days after exposure. The symptoms can range from mild to severe – and in rare cases, have resulted in death.

If you have recently traveled to areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE phone hotline number.

KDHE HOTLINE NUMBER:&nbsp;1-866-534-3463&nbsp;(1-866-KDHEINF)

There is no current vaccine for COVID-19. However, there are ways to&nbsp;prevent&nbsp;the spread of this disease.

Governor Laura Kelly, along with Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Secretary Dr. Lee Norman and Kansas Adjutant General Lee Tafanelli, director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management (KDEM, today outlined a robust, comprehensive preparedness plan for COVID-19, also known as novel coronavirus.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Scenes from today’s press conference with ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovLauraKelly</a>⁩ &amp; ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/KansasEmergency?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KansasEmergency</a>⁩. Watch the conference on Gov. Kelly’s Facebook page to learn more about statewide <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/preparedness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#preparedness</a> efforts for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://t.co/2LVrtcljSo">pic.twitter.com/2LVrtcljSo</a>&mdash; KDHE (@KDHE) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDHE/status/1235325100557299719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"There are no confirmed cases in Kansas, but we are prepared," Kelly said. "Currently, in Kansas, the overall risk of the virus is low, but that does not mean we can rest easy. We take this situation seriously. We can and will remain ready to respond swiftly and effectively, should the virus spread to Kansas."The Kelly administration is working closely with federal, state and local partners to maintain awareness of national and international trends related to the virus. KDHE currently is working on Kansas-specific guidance, based on information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, to help local communities continue their preparedness efforts.Under Governor Kelly's direction, KDHE and KDEM are:<ol>
 <li>in constant communication with local hospitals and health departments, coordinating with local, state and federal public health partners;</li><li>preparing for emergency management situations on a regular basis, with&nbsp;staff who have&nbsp;decades of experience in developing responses and preventative measures for any situation;</li><li>continuing&nbsp;to work with federal, state and local partners to maintain awareness of national and international COVID-19 trends and strategies.</li>
 </ol>"The health and safety of every Kansan is our top priority and we are utilizing every tool at our disposal to continue monitoring the situation and ensure that we are ready to respond should that be necessary," Kelly said. "The best way to protect yourself, your family and your friends against contracting the virus is to use good hygiene practices like washing your hands, coughing into your sleeve, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and stay home if you're not feeling well. It's simple, but effective."Kansas has tested a few suspected cases of coronavirus, with no positive results as of today."Our KDHE lab now has the capability to test for cases of COVID-19, which will expedite the test results," Dr. Norman said. "That means our state can respond quickly and effectively. Make no mistake -- our team is experienced. They are highly trained and prepared to keep Kansans safe."The Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories facility, in Topeka, was one of the first in the country to be certified by the CDC to test for COVID-19.&nbsp;When there is a Person Under Investigation, KDHE coordinates with the local health department and other stakeholders such as hospitals and clinicians to help coordinate sample collection and shipping to the KDHE Lab, which cuts the testing time for suspected cases down from days to hours. &nbsp;The adjutant general outlined KDEM's preparedness efforts as part of a coordinated state response."We stand ready to support county emergency managers for resources and technical assistance when needed," Tafanelli said. "We have been coordinating, planning and participating in briefings with local, state and federal partners on a daily basis. We stand ready to respond."SYMPTOMSSymptoms may include fever, cough, shortness of breath. These symptoms can develop 2-14 days after exposure. The symptoms can range from mild to severe – and in rare cases, have resulted in death.If you have recently traveled to areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE phone hotline number.KDHE HOTLINE NUMBER:&nbsp;1-866-534-3463&nbsp;(1-866-KDHEINF)PREVENTIONThere is no current vaccine for COVID-19. However, there are ways to&nbsp;prevent&nbsp;the spread of this disease.<ol>
 <li>Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds</li><li>Cough into your sleeve and sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash</li><li>Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using regular household cleaning products</li><li>Stay home when you are sick</li>
 </ol>ADDITIONAL RESOURCESThis situation is constantly evolving and changing. For the most up-to-date information, please use the following links from KDHE and the CDC:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656705406&amp;sdata=9AAVYzCNpsOCE%2FWt1X8ttMtvsumWNbgB8V%2B8nCaO3tI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Fdownload%2FNovel_coronavirus_FAQ.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656715343&amp;sdata=a1O2Nl0DpZnj3hrzoAlg0BhGAG4fZE%2FbJZgLs6NGeFw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 FAQs</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FCOVID-19_Toolkit.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656715343&amp;sdata=5opZMpBMhkmGijyQ3Qihl3ZWUIZ3LPeusmnspGkrs94%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 Toolkit</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FCOVID-19_Hospital_Prep_Assessment_Tool.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656715343&amp;sdata=jggBLyF5ejG5EGbSLvUeSNr%2FfFyMkiXFrKgSm%2B4spYY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 Hospital Preparedness Assessment Tool</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FHealthcare_Checklist_for_trans_and_arrival_of_patients.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656725327&amp;sdata=mCG4WkiQ9%2FexENIKuXwoyzvuRSqopEAPeqYi4Wmbg%2Fg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">COVID-19 Healthcare Professional Preparedness Checklist for Transport and Arrival of Patients Potentially Infected with COVID-19</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FInterim_Guidance_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656725327&amp;sdata=HeKRbrDzqJWzggXUsIEKl21elx7XmpU%2FlQgrcrgsKHg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Interim Guidance for Child Care Facilities Licensed by the KDHE</a></li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-nCoV%2Fsummary.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656735279&amp;sdata=SyrJkxwcDdXbpBu8erHufy2WVW5bPVO55Dt1qD0gHwg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656735279&amp;sdata=pr8CQdrx1bX4dCRVJHXpZhrLn3iRngJpRWylZU%2FMdPQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">What you should know</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fsymptoms.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656745211&amp;sdata=raGAITzh6VEfEFw9ifYbnIBNEs9u4Wbasi5qqloxT4g%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Symptoms</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fabout%2Fprevention-treatment.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656745211&amp;sdata=v6a9V2qKs1GC6rjTgRYOoLi6%2Bkf%2BojTlPR2w9iFnbjs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Ftravelers%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C86810cdd385f44be68e608d7c088b32c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637189565656745211&amp;sdata=Cix%2BSYHo2Oe6nHWTbfBiQNMD1nVegSjqJBPWAbVyJxU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Specific guidelines for travelers</a></li>
 </ol>

Governor: Kan. prepared for Coronavirus, can now test for virus 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Tuesday formally announced the launch of the agency’s <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">online resource center</a> for Kansans to learn more about COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, get answers to commonly asked questions about the virus and review other helpful information. The site is part of KDHE’s ongoing efforts to inform Kansans about the latest COVID-19 news and correct misinformation about the virus.

“The best thing Kansans can do is be informed,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “COVID-19 is a new virus and, as a result, many people have questions about it and how to keep their families safe. The COVID-19 resource center will provide a centralized location for Kansans to go to learn the most up-to-date information.”

The public can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303794120&amp;sdata=ONVhZgK4SWX0ks%2BSufTr5AnvJPJkwLFHUT%2BQF9wkzDc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the virus. The site contains detailed information, answers to frequently asked questions and updated videos from Secretary Norman. Information will also be shared on KDHE’s social media channels.

“KDHE is working closely with local and federal authorities to ensure that every effort is made to keep Kansans safe and healthy,” Norman said. “In addition to educating yourself about the virus, the public can also take precautions to prevent the spread of it by doing simple things like washing your hands, practicing good hygiene techniques and staying home if you’re sick. This is the best defense to COVID-19.”

The 2019 novel coronavirus infections were initially diagnosed in Wuhan City, China and have now been reported in 60 locations internationally, including cases in the United States.&nbsp;KDHE, along with its community partners, continue to investigate this illness.

If you have recently traveled to areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.

For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">here </a>

at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=fwnjjuUbRxXb2sL4b4iZzLikkIlMuZcHPIx1Y6ZYvdA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=rYvh%2FeufH1CQeznk9UcprNdO4kD0mVJs2hvigGTAZ50%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583198146602.jpeg" alt="Coronavirus&nbsp; -CDC image" />
 <figcaption>Coronavirus&nbsp; -CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Tuesday formally announced the launch of the agency’s <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">online resource center</a> for Kansans to learn more about COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, get answers to commonly asked questions about the virus and review other helpful information. The site is part of KDHE’s ongoing efforts to inform Kansans about the latest COVID-19 news and correct misinformation about the virus.“The best thing Kansans can do is be informed,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “COVID-19 is a new virus and, as a result, many people have questions about it and how to keep their families safe. The COVID-19 resource center will provide a centralized location for Kansans to go to learn the most up-to-date information.”The public can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303794120&amp;sdata=ONVhZgK4SWX0ks%2BSufTr5AnvJPJkwLFHUT%2BQF9wkzDc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the virus. The site contains detailed information, answers to frequently asked questions and updated videos from Secretary Norman. Information will also be shared on KDHE’s social media channels.“KDHE is working closely with local and federal authorities to ensure that every effort is made to keep Kansans safe and healthy,” Norman said. “In addition to educating yourself about the virus, the public can also take precautions to prevent the spread of it by doing simple things like washing your hands, practicing good hygiene techniques and staying home if you’re sick. This is the best defense to COVID-19.”The 2019 novel coronavirus infections were initially diagnosed in Wuhan City, China and have now been reported in 60 locations internationally, including cases in the United States.&nbsp;KDHE, along with its community partners, continue to investigate this illness.If you have recently traveled to areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">here </a>at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=fwnjjuUbRxXb2sL4b4iZzLikkIlMuZcHPIx1Y6ZYvdA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=rYvh%2FeufH1CQeznk9UcprNdO4kD0mVJs2hvigGTAZ50%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.###

KDHE launches Coronavirus online resource center

LAWRENCE —University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod announced Monday the university is suspending all travel to China,&nbsp;Iran, South Korea and Italy in line with CDC guidelines.&nbsp;

In a statement to faculty and staff, Girod wrote, "As the circumstances surrounding the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) evolve, I would like to update you on how the university is monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and refining strategies to keep our community healthy.

First, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Kansas or on any University of Kansas campus. At this time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people in the United States will have little immediate risk of exposure to this virus.

However, it is important to note that global circumstances suggest it is likely this virus will cause a pandemic. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and the risk assessment will be updated. At this time, the CDC emphasizes that everyday preventive measures such as handwashing can help prevent the spread of disease.

For updates, we recommend you visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC’s coronavirus page</a>. Information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>&nbsp;and our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/coronavirus-updates">International Affairs</a>&nbsp;office.

Earlier this year, both the Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center campus emergency management teams turned their attention to the emerging coronavirus situation and began regular monitoring and planning. These campus teams continue to meet at regular intervals and are in constant contact with national, state and local health officials, as well as colleagues at other universities.

In addition to monitoring developments, these groups continue to plan for potential scenarios that could affect our campuses in the weeks ahead. While COVID-19 is distinct in many ways, it should be noted that KU and its partners have longstanding processes in place for this type of public health situation.

The Lawrence campus emergency management team and the Office of International Programs at KU Medical Center continue to review university-sponsored travel decisions, including suspension and reinstatement of out-bound and inbound programming for faculty, staff and students.

On January 31, in light of the U.S. Department of State issuing a&nbsp;Level 4: Do Not Travel warning to China, the university issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://chancellor.ku.edu/news/2020/jan31">restriction</a>&nbsp;on institution-related travel to China for faculty, staff and students.

Last week, in accordance with&nbsp;<a href="http://policy.ku.edu/international-programs/travel-to-high-risk-locations">university policy</a>, KU began the process of suspending study abroad in countries classified as&nbsp;Warning Level 3: Avoid Non-Essential Travel&nbsp;by the CDC, which includes China, Iran, South Korea, and Italy.

As of today, the university will suspend all institution-related travel to and from countries or regions with a&nbsp;Level 3&nbsp;advisory from the CDC or a&nbsp;Level 4&nbsp;advisory from the U.S. Department of State due to COVID-19.

Additionally, it is crucial that all Lawrence campus-sponsored international and domestic out-of-state travel be registered in advance, per guidelines and best practices. For international travel, employees should complete our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/2">International Travel</a>&nbsp;form. For domestic-out-of-state travel, Lawrence campus employees should contact their Shared Service Center prior to travel. Students traveling internationally on university-affiliated activities must register through the&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>.

Additionally, visiting scholars should be registered in advance of their visit via our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/3">KU Visitor Registration</a>&nbsp;form.

Collectively, these processes will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support on and off campus as circumstances evolve.

For questions related to travel, contact our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/">KU International Affairs Office</a>&nbsp;in Lawrence, the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>&nbsp;at KU Medical Center, or the&nbsp;<a href="https://gos.ku.edu/">Office of Global Operations and Security</a>.

With Spring Break approaching, we encourage you to be thoughtful about personal travel. Specifically, we strongly encourage you to reconsider any personal international travel you may have planned. The reality is, there are two circumstances you need to consider if you travel: 1) you might become ill, and 2) as countries evaluate travel into and out of their regions, limitations and bans are being put into effect, often with little or no warning.

If you do plan to travel internationally for personal reasons, we appreciate you registering with KU ahead of time. Again, this will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support as circumstances evolve.

Students can register via our&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>. Lawrence campus employees can send an email summarizing their planned travel to the&nbsp;<a href="mailto:adminfin@ku.edu">Administration and Finance</a>&nbsp;unit, while KU Medical Center students and employees should contact the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>.

If you travel to areas that are experiencing community spread or in countries with Level 3 or Level 4 advisories, you are encouraged to contact your personal primary care provider to determine whether a self-quarantine is necessary upon your return.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583199779683.png" alt="Chancellor Doug Girod-photo University of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Chancellor Doug Girod-photo University of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE —University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod announced Monday the university is suspending all travel to China,&nbsp;Iran, South Korea and Italy in line with CDC guidelines.&nbsp;In a statement to faculty and staff, Girod wrote, "As the circumstances surrounding the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) evolve, I would like to update you on how the university is monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and refining strategies to keep our community healthy.First, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Kansas or on any University of Kansas campus. At this time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people in the United States will have little immediate risk of exposure to this virus.However, it is important to note that global circumstances suggest it is likely this virus will cause a pandemic. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and the risk assessment will be updated. At this time, the CDC emphasizes that everyday preventive measures such as handwashing can help prevent the spread of disease.For updates, we recommend you visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC’s coronavirus page</a>. Information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>&nbsp;and our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/coronavirus-updates">International Affairs</a>&nbsp;office.Planning and monitoringEarlier this year, both the Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center campus emergency management teams turned their attention to the emerging coronavirus situation and began regular monitoring and planning. These campus teams continue to meet at regular intervals and are in constant contact with national, state and local health officials, as well as colleagues at other universities.In addition to monitoring developments, these groups continue to plan for potential scenarios that could affect our campuses in the weeks ahead. While COVID-19 is distinct in many ways, it should be noted that KU and its partners have longstanding processes in place for this type of public health situation.Institution-related travelThe Lawrence campus emergency management team and the Office of International Programs at KU Medical Center continue to review university-sponsored travel decisions, including suspension and reinstatement of out-bound and inbound programming for faculty, staff and students.On January 31, in light of the U.S. Department of State issuing a&nbsp;Level 4: Do Not Travel warning to China, the university issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://chancellor.ku.edu/news/2020/jan31">restriction</a>&nbsp;on institution-related travel to China for faculty, staff and students.Last week, in accordance with&nbsp;<a href="http://policy.ku.edu/international-programs/travel-to-high-risk-locations">university policy</a>, KU began the process of suspending study abroad in countries classified as&nbsp;Warning Level 3: Avoid Non-Essential Travel&nbsp;by the CDC, which includes China, Iran, South Korea, and Italy.As of today, the university will suspend all institution-related travel to and from countries or regions with a&nbsp;Level 3&nbsp;advisory from the CDC or a&nbsp;Level 4&nbsp;advisory from the U.S. Department of State due to COVID-19.Additionally, it is crucial that all Lawrence campus-sponsored international and domestic out-of-state travel be registered in advance, per guidelines and best practices. For international travel, employees should complete our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/2">International Travel</a>&nbsp;form. For domestic-out-of-state travel, Lawrence campus employees should contact their Shared Service Center prior to travel. Students traveling internationally on university-affiliated activities must register through the&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>.Additionally, visiting scholars should be registered in advance of their visit via our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/3">KU Visitor Registration</a>&nbsp;form.Collectively, these processes will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support on and off campus as circumstances evolve.For questions related to travel, contact our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/">KU International Affairs Office</a>&nbsp;in Lawrence, the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>&nbsp;at KU Medical Center, or the&nbsp;<a href="https://gos.ku.edu/">Office of Global Operations and Security</a>.Personal travelWith Spring Break approaching, we encourage you to be thoughtful about personal travel. Specifically, we strongly encourage you to reconsider any personal international travel you may have planned. The reality is, there are two circumstances you need to consider if you travel: 1) you might become ill, and 2) as countries evaluate travel into and out of their regions, limitations and bans are being put into effect, often with little or no warning.If you do plan to travel internationally for personal reasons, we appreciate you registering with KU ahead of time. Again, this will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support as circumstances evolve.Students can register via our&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>. Lawrence campus employees can send an email summarizing their planned travel to the&nbsp;<a href="mailto:adminfin@ku.edu">Administration and Finance</a>&nbsp;unit, while KU Medical Center students and employees should contact the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>.If you travel to areas that are experiencing community spread or in countries with Level 3 or Level 4 advisories, you are encouraged to contact your personal primary care provider to determine whether a self-quarantine is necessary upon your return.

KU suspends university travel to 4 countries over coronavirus

TOPEKA —With recent, widespread media coverage surrounding COVID-19 – commonly known as the coronavirus – Governor Laura Kelly shared what the state is doing&nbsp; to protect Kansans’ health and well-being.&nbsp;

The state of Kansas currently has no COVID-19 cases and the second person under investigation (PUI) did not test positive for the virus, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. 

The KDHE did not release the location or identifying information regarding the patient.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>

TOPEKA —With recent, widespread media coverage surrounding COVID-19 – commonly known as the coronavirus – Governor Laura Kelly shared what the state is doing&nbsp; to protect Kansans’ health and well-being.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With recent, widespread media coverage surrounding COVID-19 – commonly known as the coronavirus – it’s important to share what we are doing here at home to protect Kansans’ health and well-being. Please watch this video to learn more about our efforts. <a href="https://t.co/SFHizXaGgS">pic.twitter.com/SFHizXaGgS</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1233596020900143104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 29, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The state of Kansas currently has no COVID-19 cases and the second person under investigation (PUI) did not test positive for the virus, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The KDHE did not release the location or identifying information regarding the patient.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>Click an item for more details:<ol>
 <li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/Novel_coronavirus_FAQ.pdf">Frequently Asked Questions – COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus)</a></li><li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/College_Fact_Sheet.pdf">College and University Fact Sheet</a></li><li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/toolkit/COVID-19_Toolkit.pdf">COVID-19 Toolkit</a>&nbsp;- Full Document</li>
 </ol>

🎥 Governor shares what state is doing in Coronavirus fight

DECATUR COUNTY —Authorities in northwest Kansas are alerting residents that meth could be contaminated with a virus — and to bring it into their office for testing.

According to a social media warning from the Decatur County Sheriff's office in Oberlin, "If you have recently purchased meth locally, it may be contaminated with the Coronavirus.

"Please take it to the Sheriff's Office or Police Department and they will test it for free. If you're not comfortable going into an office, please contact any officer and they'll test your meth in the privacy of your home. Please spread the word!"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582827978726.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DECATUR COUNTY —Authorities in northwest Kansas are alerting residents that meth could be contaminated with a virus — and to bring it into their office for testing.According to a social media warning from the Decatur County Sheriff's office in Oberlin, "If you have recently purchased meth locally, it may be contaminated with the Coronavirus."Please take it to the Sheriff's Office or Police Department and they will test it for free. If you're not comfortable going into an office, please contact any officer and they'll test your meth in the privacy of your home. Please spread the word!"

NW Kan. sheriff: We will test your meth for Coronavirus

Topeka, Kan. —The state of Kansas currently has no Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and no Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) for the virus.

The Kansas Department of Health was notified<a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6"> that a map of </a>Coronavirus&nbsp;cases by John Hopkins University identified 36 cases in Kansas.

According to the KDHE, these cases actually represent the cases from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and were inaccurately placed on the map.

The KDHE reached out to John Hopkins to correct the map and they did.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>

People in the United States commonly get infected with human coronaviruses and there are four types that are the most common. These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is the newly identified COVID-19 first detected in Wujan, China.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582718908755.png" alt="Updated map <a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6">from John Hopkins University</a>" />
 <figcaption>Updated map <a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6">from John Hopkins University</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka, Kan. —The state of Kansas currently has no Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and no Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) for the virus.The Kansas Department of Health was notified<a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6"> that a map of </a>Coronavirus&nbsp;cases by John Hopkins University identified 36 cases in Kansas. According to the KDHE, these cases actually represent the cases from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and were inaccurately placed on the map.The KDHE reached out to John Hopkins to correct the map and they did.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There is currently no reported community spread of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in the US. People should follow everyday measures to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, such as staying home when sick and washing hands with soap and water. Stay informed; visit <a href="https://t.co/1ifchVyxUM">https://t.co/1ifchVyxUM</a>.&mdash; CDC (@CDCgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov/status/1232431332220784640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>People in the United States commonly get infected with human coronaviruses and there are four types that are the most common. These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is the newly identified COVID-19 first detected in Wujan, China.<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>