By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Saline County will keep its mask mandate in effect for at least one more week.

That was the consensus of the county commissioners during their meeting this morning. 

During his COVID-19 report to the commissioners, County Health Department Director Jason Tiller recommended that the mask mandate continue. A component that was built into the mask mandate when it was adopted was that the commissioners review the the county's COVID-19 situation every two weeks and upon that review decide to rescind the mandate or do nothing and keep it in place for another two weeks. 

Commissioner Robert Vidricksen noted that even if the commissioners voted today to repeal the mask mandate, the City of Salina would still have a mask resolution in place. He also noted that the state has a mask order in place, though the commission could vote to opt out of the state order.

"I agree with Commissioner Vidricksen. The city is really driving this bus. When I voted for the mask ordinance and made it 3-2, my reasonings were two things. One was to stay consistent with the city. I didn't see that there was any reason for the rural areas to be different than the city areas as far as law enforcement. And then second of all, my third vote was also predicated on my worry that we were overwhelming the hospital. That is obviously not happening. I'm not saying that it couldn't take an uptick, but that's why I was in support of this," Commissioner Monte Shadwick said. "I agree with Commissioner Vidricksen. There's no reason for us to vote today, or next week, if the city hasn't done anything."

During his presentation, Tiller noted that COVID-19 cases and deaths in the United States continue to trend downward, although he noted a rise in some states. That decrease is reflected in the state numbers, as well as those of Saline County.

"Erradication is certainly not likely, but we are still trending in the right direction," Tiller said.

For the two-week update, 44 new cases were reported, bringing the county total to 6,061. Additionally one new COVID-19 related death was reported and Salina Regional Health Center reported one COVID-19 inpatient.

"Due to the lack of continued demand at the testing site that was at the Church of the Cross, that site has been closed down by the state," Tiller told the commissioners. "There are other places still if someone is looking to get tested they can either call their primary care provider or go to that website <a href="http://gogettested.com/kansas">gogettested.com/kansas</a> and be able to find a site and contact information for a place to get tested."

Tiller said that the county is now registering and vaccinating all phases of the vaccine plan. 

"You can either go to the vaccinatesalinecountyks.com website to register. There are also other places such as Dillons Pharmacy, B&amp;K, Key Rexall, the hospital, I believe, is receiving some this week. There is continued widespread availability of vaccine for those who want it," Tiller said.

He also said that people who wanted to get vaccinated could go to <a href="http://vaccinefinder.org">vaccinefinder.org</a> and find a location offering vaccinations.

According to Tiller, 33 to 34 percent of the adults in the county will be vaccinated by the end of this week. 

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSaline County will keep its mask mandate in effect for at least one more week.That was the consensus of the county commissioners during their meeting this morning. During his COVID-19 report to the commissioners, County Health Department Director Jason Tiller recommended that the mask mandate continue. A component that was built into the mask mandate when it was adopted was that the commissioners review the the county's COVID-19 situation every two weeks and upon that review decide to rescind the mandate or do nothing and keep it in place for another two weeks. Commissioner Robert Vidricksen noted that even if the commissioners voted today to repeal the mask mandate, the City of Salina would still have a mask resolution in place. He also noted that the state has a mask order in place, though the commission could vote to opt out of the state order."I agree with Commissioner Vidricksen. The city is really driving this bus. When I voted for the mask ordinance and made it 3-2, my reasonings were two things. One was to stay consistent with the city. I didn't see that there was any reason for the rural areas to be different than the city areas as far as law enforcement. And then second of all, my third vote was also predicated on my worry that we were overwhelming the hospital. That is obviously not happening. I'm not saying that it couldn't take an uptick, but that's why I was in support of this," Commissioner Monte Shadwick said. "I agree with Commissioner Vidricksen. There's no reason for us to vote today, or next week, if the city hasn't done anything."During his presentation, Tiller noted that COVID-19 cases and deaths in the United States continue to trend downward, although he noted a rise in some states. That decrease is reflected in the state numbers, as well as those of Saline County."Erradication is certainly not likely, but we are still trending in the right direction," Tiller said.For the two-week update, 44 new cases were reported, bringing the county total to 6,061. Additionally one new COVID-19 related death was reported and Salina Regional Health Center reported one COVID-19 inpatient."Due to the lack of continued demand at the testing site that was at the Church of the Cross, that site has been closed down by the state," Tiller told the commissioners. "There are other places still if someone is looking to get tested they can either call their primary care provider or go to that website <a href="http://gogettested.com/kansas">gogettested.com/kansas</a> and be able to find a site and contact information for a place to get tested."Tiller said that the county is now registering and vaccinating all phases of the vaccine plan. "You can either go to the vaccinatesalinecountyks.com website to register. There are also other places such as Dillons Pharmacy, B&amp;K, Key Rexall, the hospital, I believe, is receiving some this week. There is continued widespread availability of vaccine for those who want it," Tiller said.He also said that people who wanted to get vaccinated could go to <a href="http://vaccinefinder.org">vaccinefinder.org</a> and find a location offering vaccinations.According to Tiller, 33 to 34 percent of the adults in the county will be vaccinated by the end of this week.

Saline County mask mandate to remain in place for one week

ABILENE -- Patients, guests, and visitors entering Memorial Hospital will be required to complete a COVID-19 screening beginning Monday.

 The screening will consist of three automated steps: a temperature check, answer one question regarding exposure and symptoms, and then a sticker will be printed, and the person will be asked to wear the sticker in order to verify they have been screened.

Employees at Memorial Health System are already completing a very similar automated screening daily, before they report to their work areas.

“Even though the mask mandate has been lifted in Dickinson County, we are required by the CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) Conditions of Participation to implement a process to screen every person who enters our building,” Carolyn Mikesell, health system director of quality, explained. “We will have a person at the front entrance to assist people with the automated kiosk. We want to make this as easy as possible for everyone.”

Those visiting the health system should also know that even though the mask mandate has been lifted, masks are still required inside of the Memorial Hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591924561712.jpeg" alt="Abilene's Memorial Hospital. Photo courtesy Memorial Health System" />
 <figcaption>Abilene's Memorial Hospital. Photo courtesy Memorial Health System</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE -- Patients, guests, and visitors entering Memorial Hospital will be required to complete a COVID-19 screening beginning Monday. The screening will consist of three automated steps: a temperature check, answer one question regarding exposure and symptoms, and then a sticker will be printed, and the person will be asked to wear the sticker in order to verify they have been screened.Employees at Memorial Health System are already completing a very similar automated screening daily, before they report to their work areas.“Even though the mask mandate has been lifted in Dickinson County, we are required by the CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) Conditions of Participation to implement a process to screen every person who enters our building,” Carolyn Mikesell, health system director of quality, explained. “We will have a person at the front entrance to assist people with the automated kiosk. We want to make this as easy as possible for everyone.”Those visiting the health system should also know that even though the mask mandate has been lifted, masks are still required inside of the Memorial Hospital.

Memorial Hospital begins screening at main entrance; masks still required

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.

We are happy to share that no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 22 update and thrilled to share that Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that for the first time in just over a year, they currently have zero patients hospitalized battling COVID-19.

There have been 10 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 24, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,051.

The Health Department staff are now&nbsp;actively monitoring 99 cases,&nbsp;marking the first time since August that fewer than 100 people were being monitored.&nbsp;At least 5,844 people have recovered,&nbsp;but sadly&nbsp;108 members of our community have lost their lives to this deadly virus. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0014yTme_9xMsE8LqpR12WNu3uHRgpkUDeIkkWFyYdBsNqTzy3EnpAUl3xuPRWTh0UwNNzzzOLPkolmF_GfeJTUrPaz4KPfjnrrpODBBBVU23QCV4UJ1J8MNXh6wwOH0hKuZjRkSJos0x3K3Ux1QUQBsRDOaMjdtvzd&amp;c=0fJtX4uso51S2E6u-IA6rNbiQdkHvcylJvFpYxGzLcdgG717RlrXUA==&amp;ch=fj48dtSOPlvoOyqLfpIqAphMtRNuJuCihtekXcUY_rHTGLXvoim5Hg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 300,927 cases and 4,881 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;

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

2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;

3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;

4. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.

5. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0014yTme_9xMsE8LqpR12WNu3uHRgpkUDeIkkWFyYdBsNqTzy3EnpAUl3xuPRWTh0UwzcrXxKwulzSvuQbXm3DiZgz6Hqic5sOUWv-irDzMSPkPvFqnpeJ4hb0j5zTf6fKobP5OM248zCSEgPGahz-rLXpZ98or7VeX&amp;c=0fJtX4uso51S2E6u-IA6rNbiQdkHvcylJvFpYxGzLcdgG717RlrXUA==&amp;ch=fj48dtSOPlvoOyqLfpIqAphMtRNuJuCihtekXcUY_rHTGLXvoim5Hg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0014yTme_9xMsE8LqpR12WNu3uHRgpkUDeIkkWFyYdBsNqTzy3EnpAUl3xuPRWTh0Uwh9KknQvQKAwL9blJHca2HfSPnpAz7OBvTLhrBZ5QOws1mjlqdnFjYapW2x1GYA5x7BMoeHtvrBA=&amp;c=0fJtX4uso51S2E6u-IA6rNbiQdkHvcylJvFpYxGzLcdgG717RlrXUA==&amp;ch=fj48dtSOPlvoOyqLfpIqAphMtRNuJuCihtekXcUY_rHTGLXvoim5Hg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616795349347.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.We are happy to share that no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 22 update and thrilled to share that Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that for the first time in just over a year, they currently have zero patients hospitalized battling COVID-19. There have been 10 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 24, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,051. The Health Department staff are now&nbsp;actively monitoring 99 cases,&nbsp;marking the first time since August that fewer than 100 people were being monitored.&nbsp;At least 5,844 people have recovered,&nbsp;but sadly&nbsp;108 members of our community have lost their lives to this deadly virus. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0014yTme_9xMsE8LqpR12WNu3uHRgpkUDeIkkWFyYdBsNqTzy3EnpAUl3xuPRWTh0UwNNzzzOLPkolmF_GfeJTUrPaz4KPfjnrrpODBBBVU23QCV4UJ1J8MNXh6wwOH0hKuZjRkSJos0x3K3Ux1QUQBsRDOaMjdtvzd&amp;c=0fJtX4uso51S2E6u-IA6rNbiQdkHvcylJvFpYxGzLcdgG717RlrXUA==&amp;ch=fj48dtSOPlvoOyqLfpIqAphMtRNuJuCihtekXcUY_rHTGLXvoim5Hg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 300,927 cases and 4,881 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp; 1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.5. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0014yTme_9xMsE8LqpR12WNu3uHRgpkUDeIkkWFyYdBsNqTzy3EnpAUl3xuPRWTh0UwzcrXxKwulzSvuQbXm3DiZgz6Hqic5sOUWv-irDzMSPkPvFqnpeJ4hb0j5zTf6fKobP5OM248zCSEgPGahz-rLXpZ98or7VeX&amp;c=0fJtX4uso51S2E6u-IA6rNbiQdkHvcylJvFpYxGzLcdgG717RlrXUA==&amp;ch=fj48dtSOPlvoOyqLfpIqAphMtRNuJuCihtekXcUY_rHTGLXvoim5Hg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0014yTme_9xMsE8LqpR12WNu3uHRgpkUDeIkkWFyYdBsNqTzy3EnpAUl3xuPRWTh0Uwh9KknQvQKAwL9blJHca2HfSPnpAz7OBvTLhrBZ5QOws1mjlqdnFjYapW2x1GYA5x7BMoeHtvrBA=&amp;c=0fJtX4uso51S2E6u-IA6rNbiQdkHvcylJvFpYxGzLcdgG717RlrXUA==&amp;ch=fj48dtSOPlvoOyqLfpIqAphMtRNuJuCihtekXcUY_rHTGLXvoim5Hg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County: 10 new COVID-19 cases; 5,844 of 6,051 recovered

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.

We are happy to share that no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 22 update and Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have one patient hospitalized battling COVID-19.

There have been two new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 22, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,041.

The Health Department staff are now&nbsp;actively monitoring 115 cases.&nbsp;At least 5,818 people have recovered,&nbsp;but sadly 108 members of our community have lost their lives to this deadly virus. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016oEc80OMb1AqynqaJl1WDLzc5MWY8YrC7v9Khy7i6GmWrKefsE9pbxoTGU57_GfPbGnK8CcTNyF4K-rVAZ1Zn0X-wfxnqjsDRyRfzs7zcPYcKemBZZdyi0BwIryghnnI7Mef9gniRg5R4FAVKdLhrT1GEkm9ceiu&amp;c=9_qIRDUELCxqxER2JgkCBZbwEoJhn3zAFq2gWnKIj-e5JQM1EY-ptg==&amp;ch=2oWmJZqPGLnMJ0H4v_7YTV7ujrPnNBeey0Btm44W9tliR3XbRVUNug==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 300,927 cases and 4,881 deaths statewide.

5. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016oEc80OMb1AqynqaJl1WDLzc5MWY8YrC7v9Khy7i6GmWrKefsE9pbxoTGU57_GfPezV80dZSI-ToR0C9u82ayDoTpPQ-f3BOyPcu69n7xC0M0fvgimXhCdR6YHM_6w0_OtHOX3p7cXQW5VJt9-AeW8jWd8GJDvQn&amp;c=9_qIRDUELCxqxER2JgkCBZbwEoJhn3zAFq2gWnKIj-e5JQM1EY-ptg==&amp;ch=2oWmJZqPGLnMJ0H4v_7YTV7ujrPnNBeey0Btm44W9tliR3XbRVUNug==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016oEc80OMb1AqynqaJl1WDLzc5MWY8YrC7v9Khy7i6GmWrKefsE9pbxoTGU57_GfP7YqRH7mhnLw5lNQUXKstpLqgd0YfE0DkjYmyQfRVEysx7QmDpM0e9cgLllITY-AvvjmBzVsmPAo=&amp;c=9_qIRDUELCxqxER2JgkCBZbwEoJhn3zAFq2gWnKIj-e5JQM1EY-ptg==&amp;ch=2oWmJZqPGLnMJ0H4v_7YTV7ujrPnNBeey0Btm44W9tliR3XbRVUNug==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616622572110.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.We are happy to share that no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 22 update and Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have one patient hospitalized battling COVID-19. There have been two new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 22, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,041. The Health Department staff are now&nbsp;actively monitoring 115 cases.&nbsp;At least 5,818 people have recovered,&nbsp;but sadly 108 members of our community have lost their lives to this deadly virus. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016oEc80OMb1AqynqaJl1WDLzc5MWY8YrC7v9Khy7i6GmWrKefsE9pbxoTGU57_GfPbGnK8CcTNyF4K-rVAZ1Zn0X-wfxnqjsDRyRfzs7zcPYcKemBZZdyi0BwIryghnnI7Mef9gniRg5R4FAVKdLhrT1GEkm9ceiu&amp;c=9_qIRDUELCxqxER2JgkCBZbwEoJhn3zAFq2gWnKIj-e5JQM1EY-ptg==&amp;ch=2oWmJZqPGLnMJ0H4v_7YTV7ujrPnNBeey0Btm44W9tliR3XbRVUNug==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 300,927 cases and 4,881 deaths statewide.Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp; 1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.5. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016oEc80OMb1AqynqaJl1WDLzc5MWY8YrC7v9Khy7i6GmWrKefsE9pbxoTGU57_GfPezV80dZSI-ToR0C9u82ayDoTpPQ-f3BOyPcu69n7xC0M0fvgimXhCdR6YHM_6w0_OtHOX3p7cXQW5VJt9-AeW8jWd8GJDvQn&amp;c=9_qIRDUELCxqxER2JgkCBZbwEoJhn3zAFq2gWnKIj-e5JQM1EY-ptg==&amp;ch=2oWmJZqPGLnMJ0H4v_7YTV7ujrPnNBeey0Btm44W9tliR3XbRVUNug==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016oEc80OMb1AqynqaJl1WDLzc5MWY8YrC7v9Khy7i6GmWrKefsE9pbxoTGU57_GfP7YqRH7mhnLw5lNQUXKstpLqgd0YfE0DkjYmyQfRVEysx7QmDpM0e9cgLllITY-AvvjmBzVsmPAo=&amp;c=9_qIRDUELCxqxER2JgkCBZbwEoJhn3zAFq2gWnKIj-e5JQM1EY-ptg==&amp;ch=2oWmJZqPGLnMJ0H4v_7YTV7ujrPnNBeey0Btm44W9tliR3XbRVUNug==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County reports 2 new COVID-19 cases; 5,818 of 6,041 recovered

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.

We are sad to share that one additional death due to COVID-19 has been reported since our March 19 update, bringing the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus to 108. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have one patient who requires hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been 11 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 19, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,039.

The Health Department staff are now&nbsp;actively monitoring 134 cases.&nbsp;At least 5,797 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LUTbQ9gISpTeLu0pSs-2eRQw9DwFNvJgJd9P7D2ThNSMRfWdqyO-_En8duuDNupSv_nEXmiSv-6vAEYEQi9DcfRULrdYhhQNylaTOWDxnBG5_ICbxUY1bH4PqQKwGr9OIPACi6I02CsOmGf_dhKeKMYFBHgr2Qb_&amp;c=DggaGVb60xzYYlr4V_x-hWcjIhsnG4gYNOeefaVZ8f5bO3JtPX9ISQ==&amp;ch=s-UyVWCZc6qU9b4Mg2JtKAE24M1d-tcq5hJYGmMus8L_208Mf8bicA==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 300,125 cases and 4,850 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;

3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;

4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;

5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.

6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LUTbQ9gISpTeLu0pSs-2eRQw9DwFNvJgJd9P7D2ThNSMRfWdqyO-_En8duuDNupS4CiAC_IGGDdnu--Qb_ufbkMakF34N-ZoYJxCVIwKQ0ea5CDJk6iX0xj-29TWazH5LdhEXhNv9p-FvzTNPicqdPO92IqVE3gk&amp;c=DggaGVb60xzYYlr4V_x-hWcjIhsnG4gYNOeefaVZ8f5bO3JtPX9ISQ==&amp;ch=s-UyVWCZc6qU9b4Mg2JtKAE24M1d-tcq5hJYGmMus8L_208Mf8bicA==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LUTbQ9gISpTeLu0pSs-2eRQw9DwFNvJgJd9P7D2ThNSMRfWdqyO-_En8duuDNupSI4QZS_SS-KUPTgpZoRVK73-1NoVSt1wJLocGftkgFZzK5osDq37-1OdFO3IWaaAupBDRQiFaIzU=&amp;c=DggaGVb60xzYYlr4V_x-hWcjIhsnG4gYNOeefaVZ8f5bO3JtPX9ISQ==&amp;ch=s-UyVWCZc6qU9b4Mg2JtKAE24M1d-tcq5hJYGmMus8L_208Mf8bicA==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616449329415.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.We are sad to share that one additional death due to COVID-19 has been reported since our March 19 update, bringing the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus to 108. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have one patient who requires hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been 11 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 19, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,039. The Health Department staff are now&nbsp;actively monitoring 134 cases.&nbsp;At least 5,797 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LUTbQ9gISpTeLu0pSs-2eRQw9DwFNvJgJd9P7D2ThNSMRfWdqyO-_En8duuDNupSv_nEXmiSv-6vAEYEQi9DcfRULrdYhhQNylaTOWDxnBG5_ICbxUY1bH4PqQKwGr9OIPACi6I02CsOmGf_dhKeKMYFBHgr2Qb_&amp;c=DggaGVb60xzYYlr4V_x-hWcjIhsnG4gYNOeefaVZ8f5bO3JtPX9ISQ==&amp;ch=s-UyVWCZc6qU9b4Mg2JtKAE24M1d-tcq5hJYGmMus8L_208Mf8bicA==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 300,125 cases and 4,850 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LUTbQ9gISpTeLu0pSs-2eRQw9DwFNvJgJd9P7D2ThNSMRfWdqyO-_En8duuDNupS4CiAC_IGGDdnu--Qb_ufbkMakF34N-ZoYJxCVIwKQ0ea5CDJk6iX0xj-29TWazH5LdhEXhNv9p-FvzTNPicqdPO92IqVE3gk&amp;c=DggaGVb60xzYYlr4V_x-hWcjIhsnG4gYNOeefaVZ8f5bO3JtPX9ISQ==&amp;ch=s-UyVWCZc6qU9b4Mg2JtKAE24M1d-tcq5hJYGmMus8L_208Mf8bicA==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LUTbQ9gISpTeLu0pSs-2eRQw9DwFNvJgJd9P7D2ThNSMRfWdqyO-_En8duuDNupSI4QZS_SS-KUPTgpZoRVK73-1NoVSt1wJLocGftkgFZzK5osDq37-1OdFO3IWaaAupBDRQiFaIzU=&amp;c=DggaGVb60xzYYlr4V_x-hWcjIhsnG4gYNOeefaVZ8f5bO3JtPX9ISQ==&amp;ch=s-UyVWCZc6qU9b4Mg2JtKAE24M1d-tcq5hJYGmMus8L_208Mf8bicA==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County: 1 new COVID-19 death; 11 new cases

Here is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday:

Thankfully, no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 10 update; the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus is 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have three patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been four new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 17, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,028.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 161 cases. At least 5,760 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sCdNxBueUEDrh70-6EowsvidE0U570Bq7vrzLeuy4zjO5uLi3T0kTjNYL2iqOAyj2XiYds0Dxgn_1GAlpEXs6NVmuldMCM04l2tFblu5h27ihyhBhEPzw0RyelSYtotrLQIvkcKVmHpyORUKRpHe-6IH3-lv50sK&amp;c=uMYgNqP5xCJf1Jlt0bL0H3XqttJi37uL2zh6SHg1LqSf_a8YbOHy7g==&amp;ch=_q72FsHyXP_pN9NYKMaAP3ufCl5WHvKCUXWEalJlAtdYgemuvj4Mwg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 299,510 cases and 4,842 deaths statewide.

2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sCdNxBueUEDrh70-6EowsvidE0U570Bq7vrzLeuy4zjO5uLi3T0kTjNYL2iqOAyjIlR7rP0lyGt-x2Wlt1iCyb9upxle3rqUIK15Jb4qnDkaJTrNSidofZW0inbzOqlhVohnYc_1egVg4yS27y8kdKFkJKb9ed7A&amp;c=uMYgNqP5xCJf1Jlt0bL0H3XqttJi37uL2zh6SHg1LqSf_a8YbOHy7g==&amp;ch=_q72FsHyXP_pN9NYKMaAP3ufCl5WHvKCUXWEalJlAtdYgemuvj4Mwg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sCdNxBueUEDrh70-6EowsvidE0U570Bq7vrzLeuy4zjO5uLi3T0kTjNYL2iqOAyjqyiOQ0ZRGYF8qUnVz2n97zcmWlfzsEvaExNjVQWgYNE23jNqPLngM-nxvF_LmkNr9un6Dhi5b-w=&amp;c=uMYgNqP5xCJf1Jlt0bL0H3XqttJi37uL2zh6SHg1LqSf_a8YbOHy7g==&amp;ch=_q72FsHyXP_pN9NYKMaAP3ufCl5WHvKCUXWEalJlAtdYgemuvj4Mwg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616189861595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday:Thankfully, no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 10 update; the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus is 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have three patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been four new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 17, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,028. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 161 cases. At least 5,760 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sCdNxBueUEDrh70-6EowsvidE0U570Bq7vrzLeuy4zjO5uLi3T0kTjNYL2iqOAyj2XiYds0Dxgn_1GAlpEXs6NVmuldMCM04l2tFblu5h27ihyhBhEPzw0RyelSYtotrLQIvkcKVmHpyORUKRpHe-6IH3-lv50sK&amp;c=uMYgNqP5xCJf1Jlt0bL0H3XqttJi37uL2zh6SHg1LqSf_a8YbOHy7g==&amp;ch=_q72FsHyXP_pN9NYKMaAP3ufCl5WHvKCUXWEalJlAtdYgemuvj4Mwg==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 299,510 cases and 4,842 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sCdNxBueUEDrh70-6EowsvidE0U570Bq7vrzLeuy4zjO5uLi3T0kTjNYL2iqOAyjIlR7rP0lyGt-x2Wlt1iCyb9upxle3rqUIK15Jb4qnDkaJTrNSidofZW0inbzOqlhVohnYc_1egVg4yS27y8kdKFkJKb9ed7A&amp;c=uMYgNqP5xCJf1Jlt0bL0H3XqttJi37uL2zh6SHg1LqSf_a8YbOHy7g==&amp;ch=_q72FsHyXP_pN9NYKMaAP3ufCl5WHvKCUXWEalJlAtdYgemuvj4Mwg==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sCdNxBueUEDrh70-6EowsvidE0U570Bq7vrzLeuy4zjO5uLi3T0kTjNYL2iqOAyjqyiOQ0ZRGYF8qUnVz2n97zcmWlfzsEvaExNjVQWgYNE23jNqPLngM-nxvF_LmkNr9un6Dhi5b-w=&amp;c=uMYgNqP5xCJf1Jlt0bL0H3XqttJi37uL2zh6SHg1LqSf_a8YbOHy7g==&amp;ch=_q72FsHyXP_pN9NYKMaAP3ufCl5WHvKCUXWEalJlAtdYgemuvj4Mwg==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County reports 4 new COVID-19 cases; 5,760 of 6,028 recovered

Great news from Clay County! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Clay-County-Kansas-Emergency-Management-269636773101267/">Clay County Kansas Emergency Management</a> Facebook page:

Great news from Clay County! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Clay-County-Kansas-Emergency-Management-269636773101267/">Clay County Kansas Emergency Management</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D4036572516407655%26id%3D269636773101267&width=500&show_text=true&height=493&appId" width="500" height="493" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Clay County reports COVID-19 numbers remain the same

There have been seven new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 15, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,024.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 157 cases. At least 5,760 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZa_rZLExDg319g9E5zv0pIIuXpZ6AHN38gcRoPikk-_pbCfAtR1Z2yUn4Cr1Ql9qq08JiWh5SM6U_d8IB4LCKYligbR50xDug&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 298,904 cases and 4,837 deaths statewide.

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZGjDpwQT7KO13gdNp3oMZaIz1u7M5gDCyAvlWIOz8cMurPaPSNKs3tC4m8sgBDlw3kWVQ9GdqJ_G2V9uwyARAWI3eQWEthvT-&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZVVSMbwHxD0DPv8ImTBcHsB3TDX8L84uW0Px2PFIIw-OwGEUu9j5_uSKmm0o3DAnXgsiD5WMLeKA=&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616019080102.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.Thankfully, no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 10 update; the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus is 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have three patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been seven new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 15, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,024. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 157 cases. At least 5,760 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZa_rZLExDg319g9E5zv0pIIuXpZ6AHN38gcRoPikk-_pbCfAtR1Z2yUn4Cr1Ql9qq08JiWh5SM6U_d8IB4LCKYligbR50xDug&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 298,904 cases and 4,837 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZGjDpwQT7KO13gdNp3oMZaIz1u7M5gDCyAvlWIOz8cMurPaPSNKs3tC4m8sgBDlw3kWVQ9GdqJ_G2V9uwyARAWI3eQWEthvT-&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZVVSMbwHxD0DPv8ImTBcHsB3TDX8L84uW0Px2PFIIw-OwGEUu9j5_uSKmm0o3DAnXgsiD5WMLeKA=&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County reports 7 new COVID-19 cases; 5,760 of 6,024 recovered

Following is today's Saline County Health Department's Vax Facts information.

NOW REGISTERING FOR PHASE 1, 2, 3, &amp; 4 Vaccinating Phase 1 &amp; 2

Governor Laura Kelly announced the state will move to Phase 3 and 4 of Kansas’ COVID-19 vaccination plan on March 22, 2021. With this move, individuals between ages 16 and 64 with a preexisting medical condition and other non-healthcare workers in critical infrastructure will be eligible for vaccination.

Saline County is currently finishing out those who registered under Phase 2 and expect to move to Phases 3 &amp; 4 as soon as possible. While Phases 3 and 4 include the 16- to 64-year-old population, Saline County is currently receiving the Moderna vaccine, which is only approved for those 18 and older.

Pfizer is the only vaccine currently on the market approved for those under 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you believe you are an eligible member of an eligible population and have not yet registered, please do so immediately.

If you have already registered, please do not register again.

Due to the effectiveness of the vaccines, the Saline County Health officer expects to allow the current public health order to expire on March 21 at 11:59.

The best vaccine for you is the first one offered to you.

Dillon’s pharmacy is actively taking vaccination registrations, and other pharmacies are anticipating being able to offer the same soon.

You are encouraged to sign up on as many lists as possible to get the vaccine as soon as possible.

If you receive a vaccine elsewhere, please contact us to have your name removed from the registry. You will need to get both your first and second vaccines from the same organization.

Vaccine supply remains the primary barrier to vaccinating our community.

Unfortunately, due to the state allocation process, local staff members cannot tell you when you can expect a vaccine at the time of your registration. Please be patient, and someone will call you as soon as we have a vaccine available for you.

You can track KDHE's weekly vaccination allocation to each county on the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001weNaxJyytNzxWqQqSAlS1Mme8bZXKidZcd6Ml-tmit-dzoOHG9s0vmGhPLjhtpVIwDQRILs7QmBD-L7OpjZ_HFnoWjf0oM4tu_1s5o0I47l8Q2oPwiiMi7_8EZl1srCyH7jCtrmkmNLd1JUN9eN8I7SHMHvcrLsYw-fdPRc5k6M=&amp;c=2Yms4XVKiKG_DK1QCjo23W5WRsjh6fWAovhOpx4CIm-pWzfSd_xMfw==&amp;ch=6QYvb-vylvGG4aL73lNkv_JVI4PSOJO9-Rfgo3s49emu-pIqpcvFaA==" target="_blank">KansasVaccine.gov data page.</a>

Those without access to the internet can register via phone or by visiting the Salina Senior Services Center.

Please remember to be cordial with the medical personnel who are working tirelessly to serve the Saline County Community.

Following is today's Saline County Health Department's Vax Facts information.NOW REGISTERING FOR PHASE 1, 2, 3, &amp; 4 Vaccinating Phase 1 &amp; 2Governor Laura Kelly announced the state will move to Phase 3 and 4 of Kansas’ COVID-19 vaccination plan on March 22, 2021. With this move, individuals between ages 16 and 64 with a preexisting medical condition and other non-healthcare workers in critical infrastructure will be eligible for vaccination.Saline County is currently finishing out those who registered under Phase 2 and expect to move to Phases 3 &amp; 4 as soon as possible. While Phases 3 and 4 include the 16- to 64-year-old population, Saline County is currently receiving the Moderna vaccine, which is only approved for those 18 and older. Pfizer is the only vaccine currently on the market approved for those under 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you believe you are an eligible member of an eligible population and have not yet registered, please do so immediately.If you have already registered, please do not register again.Due to the effectiveness of the vaccines, the Saline County Health officer expects to allow the current public health order to expire on March 21 at 11:59.The best vaccine for you is the first one offered to you. Dillon’s pharmacy is actively taking vaccination registrations, and other pharmacies are anticipating being able to offer the same soon. You are encouraged to sign up on as many lists as possible to get the vaccine as soon as possible. If you receive a vaccine elsewhere, please contact us to have your name removed from the registry. You will need to get both your first and second vaccines from the same organization.Vaccine supply remains the primary barrier to vaccinating our community. Unfortunately, due to the state allocation process, local staff members cannot tell you when you can expect a vaccine at the time of your registration. Please be patient, and someone will call you as soon as we have a vaccine available for you. You can track KDHE's weekly vaccination allocation to each county on the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001weNaxJyytNzxWqQqSAlS1Mme8bZXKidZcd6Ml-tmit-dzoOHG9s0vmGhPLjhtpVIwDQRILs7QmBD-L7OpjZ_HFnoWjf0oM4tu_1s5o0I47l8Q2oPwiiMi7_8EZl1srCyH7jCtrmkmNLd1JUN9eN8I7SHMHvcrLsYw-fdPRc5k6M=&amp;c=2Yms4XVKiKG_DK1QCjo23W5WRsjh6fWAovhOpx4CIm-pWzfSd_xMfw==&amp;ch=6QYvb-vylvGG4aL73lNkv_JVI4PSOJO9-Rfgo3s49emu-pIqpcvFaA==" target="_blank">KansasVaccine.gov data page.</a>Those without access to the internet can register via phone or by visiting the Salina Senior Services Center. Please remember to be cordial with the medical personnel who are working tirelessly to serve the Saline County Community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613516312548.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Saline County Vax Facts: Now registering for phases 3 and 4, too

Saline County's COVID-19 related public health order that has placed limits on gatherings will be allowed to expire, however, the county's mask mandate will remain in place for another two weeks.

The public health order that became effective Feb. 22 is set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday.

Saline County Health Department Director Jason Tiller this morning told Saline County Commissioners that it was his opinion that the public health order could be allowed to expire.

"My opinion is that with the continuing to decrease numbers, also that we did not see any kind of increases after raising those limits to capacities three weeks ago, with the deaths lower, the hospitalizations lower, I think at this point the best thing is to let the public health order expire at that time," Tiller said during this morning's Saline County Commission meeting. 

Tiller reported that national, state, and local COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to trend downward.

"We have only had 66 new cases in the last two weeks. Which is a huge improvement to look at when even just two to three months ago, that might have been a single daily count of new cases. And thankfully we've only had one new death in the last two weeks as well," Tiller said during his review of the county's COVID-19 situation prior to his report concerning the public health order.

Tiller also noted that more people will be eligible to be vaccinated in the coming weeks.

"By then end of this week, we expect to have vaccinated 11,000 or more people that live and work in the county. And that will be about 25 percent of the adult population. Right now we're still working on finishing up those Phase 2 priorities. And based off the governor's announcement yesterday of Phase 3 and Phase 4 jointly beginning on March 22, we are starting registration for those phases," Tiller said in his review of the county's COVID-19 situation prior to his report concerning the public health order. 

Tiller told commissioners that the 500 doses of the single-shot Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine that the county received are being used for home-bound persons, homeless and hard-to-reach persons, and those in congregant settings.

"That has taken a significant amount of planning to be able to accomplish that at this point with our partners, but I think we're on a pretty good track to be able to have all of that used up," Tiller said of the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine.

Although variant cases of COVID-19 are on the rise, none have yet to be reported in Saline County, he said.

Tiller is still recommending, however, that the county's mask mandate remain in place.

"We have talked with our partners and have come up with some recommendations about when to consider either loosening or removing the mask order," Tiller told commissioners.

Those recommendations include the following.

●A target of 70 percent of the adult population being vaccinated

●Reaching a point where overall vaccine demand is satisfied

"To drop everything at one time I think would be a mistake. If we let the (public health) order expire, we continue to vaccinate people, and as you have seen, more people will be eligible next week, so we'll be able to vaccinate more people and it will just put us in a better position without the mass gathering order. And then when the county commission decides to take some sort of action on the mask order, we will be in a much better position to not see any type of undue consequence from throwing the gates open all at one time," Tiller said.

At the conclusion of Tiller's presentation, the commissioners took no action concerning the mask mandate, so it will remain in place for another two weeks.

In other COVID-19 related business, the commissioners voted 5-0 to approve a request from Michelle Barkley, emergency management director, to redeclare a state of local public health emergency connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. The declaration allows Saline County to submit resource requests to the State of Kansas, continue emergency sheltering, and track expenditures for reimbursement, according to information from the county.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSaline County's COVID-19 related public health order that has placed limits on gatherings will be allowed to expire, however, the county's mask mandate will remain in place for another two weeks.The public health order that became effective Feb. 22 is set to expire at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday.Saline County Health Department Director Jason Tiller this morning told Saline County Commissioners that it was his opinion that the public health order could be allowed to expire."My opinion is that with the continuing to decrease numbers, also that we did not see any kind of increases after raising those limits to capacities three weeks ago, with the deaths lower, the hospitalizations lower, I think at this point the best thing is to let the public health order expire at that time," Tiller said during this morning's Saline County Commission meeting. Tiller reported that national, state, and local COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to trend downward."We have only had 66 new cases in the last two weeks. Which is a huge improvement to look at when even just two to three months ago, that might have been a single daily count of new cases. And thankfully we've only had one new death in the last two weeks as well," Tiller said during his review of the county's COVID-19 situation prior to his report concerning the public health order.Tiller also noted that more people will be eligible to be vaccinated in the coming weeks."By then end of this week, we expect to have vaccinated 11,000 or more people that live and work in the county. And that will be about 25 percent of the adult population. Right now we're still working on finishing up those Phase 2 priorities. And based off the governor's announcement yesterday of Phase 3 and Phase 4 jointly beginning on March 22, we are starting registration for those phases," Tiller said in his review of the county's COVID-19 situation prior to his report concerning the public health order. Tiller told commissioners that the 500 doses of the single-shot Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine that the county received are being used for home-bound persons, homeless and hard-to-reach persons, and those in congregant settings."That has taken a significant amount of planning to be able to accomplish that at this point with our partners, but I think we're on a pretty good track to be able to have all of that used up," Tiller said of the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine.Although variant cases of COVID-19 are on the rise, none have yet to be reported in Saline County, he said.Tiller is still recommending, however, that the county's mask mandate remain in place."We have talked with our partners and have come up with some recommendations about when to consider either loosening or removing the mask order," Tiller told commissioners.Those recommendations include the following.●A target of 70 percent of the adult population being vaccinated●Multiple days without new cases●Reaching a point where overall vaccine demand is satisfied"To drop everything at one time I think would be a mistake. If we let the (public health) order expire, we continue to vaccinate people, and as you have seen, more people will be eligible next week, so we'll be able to vaccinate more people and it will just put us in a better position without the mass gathering order. And then when the county commission decides to take some sort of action on the mask order, we will be in a much better position to not see any type of undue consequence from throwing the gates open all at one time," Tiller said.At the conclusion of Tiller's presentation, the commissioners took no action concerning the mask mandate, so it will remain in place for another two weeks.In other COVID-19 related business, the commissioners voted 5-0 to approve a request from Michelle Barkley, emergency management director, to redeclare a state of local public health emergency connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. The declaration allows Saline County to submit resource requests to the State of Kansas, continue emergency sheltering, and track expenditures for reimbursement, according to information from the county.

Public health order being allowed to expire; mask mandate remains

Here is Monday's COVID-19 update from Saline County:

There have been eight new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 12, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,017.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 165 cases. At least 5,745 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001J12seHydRdHUIE0fcL9v9nbPiOacQ7GrWXah5MC8IUkrGLHKE1z9rfwsngbqzDkVgLEwBb5r11bHl7xjZ02swX6Yp6DOZsw2eGU8TIdzvxJybejuXzhYoqpi1FGLqUHaREtTVtG4jzZOxh4-RgQScxn59-mbI2t6&amp;c=Me9TjGUGAafqrav5rZl9yabIDhKDY_XQwzGYiloUJu1U5_gm_-tz4A==&amp;ch=1muF2U6l_lSsJZ77SNe1fMIvGJUtxBVoF8nC0AD9nR7FAAVTI8NujA==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 298,218 cases and 4,835 deaths statewide.

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001J12seHydRdHUIE0fcL9v9nbPiOacQ7GrWXah5MC8IUkrGLHKE1z9rfwsngbqzDkV0RNjfOaxi2WVhachpMnNlADiyvQQioZ0cWNTScZiDvQGO8PsZxpr2E6WkfiikUShkpjcWdwsGBCyqPjM7MiDmW030fcyYu3q&amp;c=Me9TjGUGAafqrav5rZl9yabIDhKDY_XQwzGYiloUJu1U5_gm_-tz4A==&amp;ch=1muF2U6l_lSsJZ77SNe1fMIvGJUtxBVoF8nC0AD9nR7FAAVTI8NujA==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001J12seHydRdHUIE0fcL9v9nbPiOacQ7GrWXah5MC8IUkrGLHKE1z9rfwsngbqzDkV_HtodR4I-79ug3IJp6521sElMJkC7De4C9Guazq2NfsqZKAUOA6DIDAY2NHAcT08V6qn36lPu6c=&amp;c=Me9TjGUGAafqrav5rZl9yabIDhKDY_XQwzGYiloUJu1U5_gm_-tz4A==&amp;ch=1muF2U6l_lSsJZ77SNe1fMIvGJUtxBVoF8nC0AD9nR7FAAVTI8NujA==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Here is Monday's COVID-19 update from Saline County:Thankfully, no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 10 update; the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus is 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have three patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been eight new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 12, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,017. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 165 cases. At least 5,745 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001J12seHydRdHUIE0fcL9v9nbPiOacQ7GrWXah5MC8IUkrGLHKE1z9rfwsngbqzDkVgLEwBb5r11bHl7xjZ02swX6Yp6DOZsw2eGU8TIdzvxJybejuXzhYoqpi1FGLqUHaREtTVtG4jzZOxh4-RgQScxn59-mbI2t6&amp;c=Me9TjGUGAafqrav5rZl9yabIDhKDY_XQwzGYiloUJu1U5_gm_-tz4A==&amp;ch=1muF2U6l_lSsJZ77SNe1fMIvGJUtxBVoF8nC0AD9nR7FAAVTI8NujA==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 298,218 cases and 4,835 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001J12seHydRdHUIE0fcL9v9nbPiOacQ7GrWXah5MC8IUkrGLHKE1z9rfwsngbqzDkV0RNjfOaxi2WVhachpMnNlADiyvQQioZ0cWNTScZiDvQGO8PsZxpr2E6WkfiikUShkpjcWdwsGBCyqPjM7MiDmW030fcyYu3q&amp;c=Me9TjGUGAafqrav5rZl9yabIDhKDY_XQwzGYiloUJu1U5_gm_-tz4A==&amp;ch=1muF2U6l_lSsJZ77SNe1fMIvGJUtxBVoF8nC0AD9nR7FAAVTI8NujA==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001J12seHydRdHUIE0fcL9v9nbPiOacQ7GrWXah5MC8IUkrGLHKE1z9rfwsngbqzDkV_HtodR4I-79ug3IJp6521sElMJkC7De4C9Guazq2NfsqZKAUOA6DIDAY2NHAcT08V6qn36lPu6c=&amp;c=Me9TjGUGAafqrav5rZl9yabIDhKDY_XQwzGYiloUJu1U5_gm_-tz4A==&amp;ch=1muF2U6l_lSsJZ77SNe1fMIvGJUtxBVoF8nC0AD9nR7FAAVTI8NujA==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County: 8 new COVID-19 cases; 5,745 of 6,017 recovered

Saline County has reported 12 new confirmed COVID-19 cases since Wednesday, pushing the overall county total above 6,000 for the pandemic.

According to the county's updated COVID-19 Dashboard, the 6,009 confirmed cases have been recorded. Additionally, the county has reported no new COVID-19-related deaths.

COVID-19 data from the county dashboard

To see all of the data on the Saline County dashboard, click on one of the following links.

Saline County has reported 12 new confirmed COVID-19 cases since Wednesday, pushing the overall county total above 6,000 for the pandemic.According to the county's updated COVID-19 Dashboard, the 6,009 confirmed cases have been recorded. Additionally, the county has reported no new COVID-19-related deaths.COVID-19 data from the county dashboardActive cases: 185Recovered cases: 5,717Deaths: 107To see all of the data on the Saline County dashboard, click on one of the following links.●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>

Saline County reports 12 new COVID-19 cases since Wednesday

Following is the information from Thursday's Saline County Health Department Vax Facts.

We are still scheduling vaccinations for Phase 2 populations. In preparation for Phase 3, we will now begin taking registrations for:

●those aged 16 to 64 with severe medical risks,

●all vaccinated persons prioritized in Phases 1 and 2.

The decision to move into Phase 3 will be determined at the State level.

If you believe you are an eligible member of a Phase 2 or Phase 3 population and have not yet registered, please do so immediately.

If you have already registered, please do not register again.

Vaccinated persons with exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not required to quarantine if they meet all of the following criteria:

●Are fully vaccinated (i.e., ≥2 weeks following receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose series, or ≥2 weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine). 

●Are within 6 months following receipt of the last dose in the series. 

●Have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposure

Persons who do not meet all 3 of the above criteria should continue to follow current quarantine guidance after exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.

As an exception to the above guidance vaccinated inpatients and residents in healthcare settings should continue to quarantine following exposure&nbsp;to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19; outpatients should be cared for using appropriate transmission-based precautions. This exception is due to the unknown vaccine effectiveness in this population, the higher risk of severe disease and death, and challenges with social distancing in healthcare settings.

If the exposed person becomes symptomatic, they should be tested via PCR or antigen test. If they had natural disease recently, meaning they had COVID-19 disease in the last few months, an antigen test within the first 5 to 7 days from symptom onset (depending on the EUA for the test they are using) is preferred. Receiving the vaccine does not affect the results of a PCR or antigen test, only an antibody test.&nbsp;



In conjunction with new&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JUPH-l8NBROkNf0pqlUVqWSdN6GLkgQ27NcyXamJzhxelOPuiaDqMKGnawS3byv8clW-LqGmNgn511wveznpCY-o5tsG8mEMmIiv0xO5q2NP_6a9VO_kP2E9wvzCq6LnuE2nwc6YzZpfojHBZIJFKqoHVDcrT9tMQQEszSUWPXRhgJksdsvWdpPuOeBWYjYwkZHRGqpOkWAlxpLrPIkZ-92-gqH7BwNuqrHNwD1mPtV7d9OMqlS-09d2RTC3pvOxDAHaPxES5C6nBSUil7TeUUm0fXDDXxXJBHDaUygNr5klbNXCBZBLi03AhqvaZLGZuRZQYDfQWKwS1-eFKzg155wkAF474i3gcs2jeWnv5-DNXDXf1Ipe_fNFxkrUGsc1rj0pBwUb2KolsYfyIL30G5aYKWZlvl9f&amp;c=St29mapyT750XLg5wF56nLHg62GVW92Pc8KDp07_UZpDtVh_2kvwtw==&amp;ch=RcXuPtsmAdsRLRNomLfett2LxMgzExOsLIjXZm6AE_cYrcGCvMOeuQ==" target="_blank">CDC</a>&nbsp;guidance, KDHE is issuing similar guidance. Two weeks after completing the COVID-19 vaccination, Kansans may gather in private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or distancing. Also, fully vaccinated Kansans may gather in private homes with unvaccinated people, as long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.

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

●Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol&nbsp;&nbsp;

The best vaccine for you is the first one offered to you.

Dillon’s pharmacy is actively taking <a href="https://www.dillons.com/i/coronavirus-update/vaccine">vaccination registrations</a> and other pharmacies are anticipating being able to offer the same in the near future.

You are encouraged to sign up on as many lists as possible to get the vaccine as soon as possible.

If you receive a vaccine elsewhere please contact us to have your name removed from the registry. You will need to get both your first and second vaccines from the same organization.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone living or working in licensed congregate settings and other special care or congregate environments.

●Licensed congregate settings are facilities licensed by the state or local government, that provide housing or care arrangements and where social distancing is not possible; they provide a form of social service or healthcare (or healthcare-associated) service.

●Settings included in this phase are monitored by the state or the local government, or house vulnerable populations under care, e.g. in-home care and retirement facilities.

-Proximity, i.e., residents and staff are less than 6ft away from one another;

-Type of contact, i.e., exposure to droplets, shared surfaces, common items;

-Duration, i.e., average interactions last more than 10 min;

-Potentially high number of contacts and, sometimes, difficulties to implement protective measures.

-Homeless shelters and other homeless housing settings and dwelling places;

-Congregate childcare institutions, adult and child protective services;

-Emergency shelters or safe houses for victims of domestic violence;

-Corrections facilities, including jails and juvenile justice facilities;

-Behavioral Health institutions (including mental health institutions) and residential treatment centers;

-Adult care homes, residents and staff in home plus facilities not covered in phase 1;

-Home care givers (paid or unpaid), personal care aides.

​Workers providing critical services who are at a higher risk of being infected, because their jobs require consistent and close contact with a large number of individuals.

●Critical workers are those necessary to maintain systems, assets and activities that are vital to the state (or national) security, the economy, or public health, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security;

●Risk is associated with the likelihood of infecting oneself or spreading COVID. Factors that increase risk include proximity, type of contact, duration of contacts and challenges to implement protective measures;

●Settings that provide a critical service and have recorded high transmission rates or become clusters in the past are usually high risk.

-Firefighters, police officers, first responders, correction officers;

-Grocery store workers and food services;

-K-12 and childcare workers, including teachers, custodians, drivers and other staff;

-Food processing, including meat processing plants;

-Large-scale aviation manufacturing plants;

●Workers in the following industries, if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties:

-Retail, warehouses and sales outlets;

-Supply of critical services or materials for the COVID response (e.g. PPE);

Senior citizens remain the priority Phase 2 population and continue to be allotted the majority of the unrestricted vaccine doses as we work to distribute vaccines throughout our community.

Vaccine supply remains the primary barrier to vaccinating our community.

Unfortunately due to the state allocation process local staff members are unable to tell you when you can expect a vaccine at the time of your registration. Please be patient and someone will call you as soon as we have vaccine available for you.

You can track KDHE's weekly vaccination allocation to each county on the&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasvaccine.gov/">KansasVaccine.gov</a>&nbsp;data page.

Those without access to the internet can register via phone or by visiting the Salina Senior Services Center.

Following is the information from Thursday's Saline County Health Department Vax Facts.We are still scheduling vaccinations for Phase 2 populations. In preparation for Phase 3, we will now begin taking registrations for:●those aged 16 to 64 with severe medical risks,●all critical workers, and●all vaccinated persons prioritized in Phases 1 and 2. The decision to move into Phase 3 will be determined at the State level.

If you believe you are an eligible member of a Phase 2 or Phase 3 population and have not yet registered, please do so immediately.If you have already registered, please do not register again.Quarantine following vaccinationVaccinated persons with exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not required to quarantine if they meet all of the following criteria:●Are fully vaccinated (i.e., ≥2 weeks following receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose series, or ≥2 weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine). ●Are within 6 months following receipt of the last dose in the series. ●Have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposurePersons who do not meet all 3 of the above criteria should continue to follow current quarantine guidance after exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. As an exception to the above guidance vaccinated inpatients and residents in healthcare settings should continue to quarantine following exposure&nbsp;to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19; outpatients should be cared for using appropriate transmission-based precautions. This exception is due to the unknown vaccine effectiveness in this population, the higher risk of severe disease and death, and challenges with social distancing in healthcare settings. If the exposed person becomes symptomatic, they should be tested via PCR or antigen test. If they had natural disease recently, meaning they had COVID-19 disease in the last few months, an antigen test within the first 5 to 7 days from symptom onset (depending on the EUA for the test they are using) is preferred. Receiving the vaccine does not affect the results of a PCR or antigen test, only an antibody test.&nbsp;

Masking following vaccinationIn conjunction with new&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JUPH-l8NBROkNf0pqlUVqWSdN6GLkgQ27NcyXamJzhxelOPuiaDqMKGnawS3byv8clW-LqGmNgn511wveznpCY-o5tsG8mEMmIiv0xO5q2NP_6a9VO_kP2E9wvzCq6LnuE2nwc6YzZpfojHBZIJFKqoHVDcrT9tMQQEszSUWPXRhgJksdsvWdpPuOeBWYjYwkZHRGqpOkWAlxpLrPIkZ-92-gqH7BwNuqrHNwD1mPtV7d9OMqlS-09d2RTC3pvOxDAHaPxES5C6nBSUil7TeUUm0fXDDXxXJBHDaUygNr5klbNXCBZBLi03AhqvaZLGZuRZQYDfQWKwS1-eFKzg155wkAF474i3gcs2jeWnv5-DNXDXf1Ipe_fNFxkrUGsc1rj0pBwUb2KolsYfyIL30G5aYKWZlvl9f&amp;c=St29mapyT750XLg5wF56nLHg62GVW92Pc8KDp07_UZpDtVh_2kvwtw==&amp;ch=RcXuPtsmAdsRLRNomLfett2LxMgzExOsLIjXZm6AE_cYrcGCvMOeuQ==" target="_blank">CDC</a>&nbsp;guidance, KDHE is issuing similar guidance. Two weeks after completing the COVID-19 vaccination, Kansans may gather in private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or distancing. Also, fully vaccinated Kansans may gather in private homes with unvaccinated people, as long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.While private home guidance has changed for those who are fully vaccinated, public health measures still apply to everyone in public settings, including those who have been vaccinated.●Wear a mask●Stay at least 6 feet away from others●Avoid crowds●Avoid poorly ventilated spaces●Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615504993139.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615505013602.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The best vaccine for you is the first one offered to you. Dillon’s pharmacy is actively taking <a href="https://www.dillons.com/i/coronavirus-update/vaccine">vaccination registrations</a> and other pharmacies are anticipating being able to offer the same in the near future. You are encouraged to sign up on as many lists as possible to get the vaccine as soon as possible. If you receive a vaccine elsewhere please contact us to have your name removed from the registry. You will need to get both your first and second vaccines from the same organization.&nbsp;&nbsp;Phase 2 populationsAnyone living or working in licensed congregate settings and other special care or congregate environments.●Licensed congregate settings are facilities licensed by the state or local government, that provide housing or care arrangements and where social distancing is not possible; they provide a form of social service or healthcare (or healthcare-associated) service.●Settings included in this phase are monitored by the state or the local government, or house vulnerable populations under care, e.g. in-home care and retirement facilities.●Risk is increased because of:-Proximity, i.e., residents and staff are less than 6ft away from one another;-Type of contact, i.e., exposure to droplets, shared surfaces, common items;-Duration, i.e., average interactions last more than 10 min;-Potentially high number of contacts and, sometimes, difficulties to implement protective measures.●Examples include:-Homeless shelters and other homeless housing settings and dwelling places;-Congregate childcare institutions, adult and child protective services;-Emergency shelters or safe houses for victims of domestic violence;-Corrections facilities, including jails and juvenile justice facilities;-Behavioral Health institutions (including mental health institutions) and residential treatment centers;-Adult care homes, residents and staff in home plus facilities not covered in phase 1;-Senior living homes;-Home care givers (paid or unpaid), personal care aides.High-contact critical workers​Workers providing critical services who are at a higher risk of being infected, because their jobs require consistent and close contact with a large number of individuals.●Critical workers are those necessary to maintain systems, assets and activities that are vital to the state (or national) security, the economy, or public health, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security;●Risk is associated with the likelihood of infecting oneself or spreading COVID. Factors that increase risk include proximity, type of contact, duration of contacts and challenges to implement protective measures;●Settings that provide a critical service and have recorded high transmission rates or become clusters in the past are usually high risk.●Examples include:-Firefighters, police officers, first responders, correction officers;-Grocery store workers and food services;-K-12 and childcare workers, including teachers, custodians, drivers and other staff;-Food processing, including meat processing plants;-Large-scale aviation manufacturing plants;-Transportation workers.●Workers in the following industries, if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties:-Retail, warehouses and sales outlets;-Agriculture;-Supply of critical services or materials for the COVID response (e.g. PPE);-The U.S. Postal Service;-Department of Motor Vehicles.Senior citizens remain the priority Phase 2 population and continue to be allotted the majority of the unrestricted vaccine doses as we work to distribute vaccines throughout our community.Vaccine supply remains the primary barrier to vaccinating our community.Unfortunately due to the state allocation process local staff members are unable to tell you when you can expect a vaccine at the time of your registration. Please be patient and someone will call you as soon as we have vaccine available for you.You can track KDHE's weekly vaccination allocation to each county on the&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasvaccine.gov/">KansasVaccine.gov</a>&nbsp;data page.Those without access to the internet can register via phone or by visiting the Salina Senior Services Center.Please remember to be cordial with the medical personnel who are working tirelessly to serve the Saline County Community.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613516312548.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

SC Vax Facts: Now registering for Phase 1 through Phase 3

Following is Wednesday's COVID-19 update from Saline County.

Sadly, one additional death due to COVID-19 has been reported since our March 8 update; this brings the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus to 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have two patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been 17 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 8, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,997.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 196 cases. At least 5,694 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00162AfJhHKlrb_ikY09gIUrT2ZQghpKg-_3cq72YnPg1UVTlU1iwIC9Et1cdhJDytCrKQ-ZWvb3gkWaJEggFJ2gi2aC40QCClww0jfUleYJj46kyQDDJsmzKHM4gm_tD5QYxTy9igtOvTzdkOBVt9gee18l2qkb0v5&amp;c=z20QEmFdUOrcRdZimEkTcKyP--ND7jQfRR8QNJoL6c1B-ftsx2XU0A==&amp;ch=LLpKVLPT1tcpO9ZfMuXu9KosU1rdz15UUHmdVTacyddXXDTrmZXgzw==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 297,229 cases and 4,851 deaths statewide.

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00162AfJhHKlrb_ikY09gIUrT2ZQghpKg-_3cq72YnPg1UVTlU1iwIC9Et1cdhJDytCeJOlyHYt05PxyNc87drOA-02mTX5miDgFvlLOb15AaggPxoddMwNwVVEXIC1dWDB-8blX9-BAKAy_W-GEV97C0C2FAThy0zS&amp;c=z20QEmFdUOrcRdZimEkTcKyP--ND7jQfRR8QNJoL6c1B-ftsx2XU0A==&amp;ch=LLpKVLPT1tcpO9ZfMuXu9KosU1rdz15UUHmdVTacyddXXDTrmZXgzw==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00162AfJhHKlrb_ikY09gIUrT2ZQghpKg-_3cq72YnPg1UVTlU1iwIC9Et1cdhJDytChUqp3oiL8SmPy5YC-UV5gFohfJP-OPq5TTDFg0G0gU6Xbk0uOdK2xoQK4jmK4yFIZhJJXZqnLQ0=&amp;c=z20QEmFdUOrcRdZimEkTcKyP--ND7jQfRR8QNJoL6c1B-ftsx2XU0A==&amp;ch=LLpKVLPT1tcpO9ZfMuXu9KosU1rdz15UUHmdVTacyddXXDTrmZXgzw==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615416186910.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is Wednesday's COVID-19 update from Saline County.Sadly, one additional death due to COVID-19 has been reported since our March 8 update; this brings the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus to 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have two patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been 17 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 8, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 5,997. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 196 cases. At least 5,694 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00162AfJhHKlrb_ikY09gIUrT2ZQghpKg-_3cq72YnPg1UVTlU1iwIC9Et1cdhJDytCrKQ-ZWvb3gkWaJEggFJ2gi2aC40QCClww0jfUleYJj46kyQDDJsmzKHM4gm_tD5QYxTy9igtOvTzdkOBVt9gee18l2qkb0v5&amp;c=z20QEmFdUOrcRdZimEkTcKyP--ND7jQfRR8QNJoL6c1B-ftsx2XU0A==&amp;ch=LLpKVLPT1tcpO9ZfMuXu9KosU1rdz15UUHmdVTacyddXXDTrmZXgzw==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 297,229 cases and 4,851 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00162AfJhHKlrb_ikY09gIUrT2ZQghpKg-_3cq72YnPg1UVTlU1iwIC9Et1cdhJDytCeJOlyHYt05PxyNc87drOA-02mTX5miDgFvlLOb15AaggPxoddMwNwVVEXIC1dWDB-8blX9-BAKAy_W-GEV97C0C2FAThy0zS&amp;c=z20QEmFdUOrcRdZimEkTcKyP--ND7jQfRR8QNJoL6c1B-ftsx2XU0A==&amp;ch=LLpKVLPT1tcpO9ZfMuXu9KosU1rdz15UUHmdVTacyddXXDTrmZXgzw==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00162AfJhHKlrb_ikY09gIUrT2ZQghpKg-_3cq72YnPg1UVTlU1iwIC9Et1cdhJDytChUqp3oiL8SmPy5YC-UV5gFohfJP-OPq5TTDFg0G0gU6Xbk0uOdK2xoQK4jmK4yFIZhJJXZqnLQ0=&amp;c=z20QEmFdUOrcRdZimEkTcKyP--ND7jQfRR8QNJoL6c1B-ftsx2XU0A==&amp;ch=LLpKVLPT1tcpO9ZfMuXu9KosU1rdz15UUHmdVTacyddXXDTrmZXgzw==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County reports 1 additional death, 17 new COVID-19 cases

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

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

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

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

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

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

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

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

Coronavirus Update