For both middle and high school sports, USD 305 winter practices and competitions are starting as scheduled. However, as approved by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Board, there will be no spectators at the beginning of the season.

No-spectator events include fine arts, athletics, performing arts and any event where people gather to observe students’ performance or competition between Dec. 1 – Jan. 28. The district will reassess locally to determine next steps after Jan. 29.&nbsp;

Schools are working to provide alternative opportunities for viewing such as livestreaming and social media. More information about this will be available through coaches.

The winter moratorium will be longer this year, extending from Dec. 23 until after the winter break. Practices can resume on Jan. 4 and competitions on Jan. 8.

USD 305 will continue to work with the Saline County Health Department to monitor community status. Please help us protect education and opportunities for our students by remaining vigilant in practicing safety precautions such as

•Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand&nbsp;sanitizer.

•Maintain social distancing of six feet.

•Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue (and throw the tissue in the trash) or upper sleeve.

•Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

•Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

•Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others.

For both middle and high school sports, USD 305 winter practices and competitions are starting as scheduled. However, as approved by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Board, there will be no spectators at the beginning of the season.No-spectator events include fine arts, athletics, performing arts and any event where people gather to observe students’ performance or competition between Dec. 1 – Jan. 28. The district will reassess locally to determine next steps after Jan. 29.&nbsp;Schools are working to provide alternative opportunities for viewing such as livestreaming and social media. More information about this will be available through coaches.The winter moratorium will be longer this year, extending from Dec. 23 until after the winter break. Practices can resume on Jan. 4 and competitions on Jan. 8.USD 305 will continue to work with the Saline County Health Department to monitor community status. Please help us protect education and opportunities for our students by remaining vigilant in practicing safety precautions such as•Wear a mask properly.•Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand&nbsp;sanitizer.•Maintain social distancing of six feet.•Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue (and throw the tissue in the trash) or upper sleeve.•Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.•Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.•Stay home while you are sick and avoid contact with others.

USD 305 winter sports to start on time, but without spectators

HOLTON, KAN. (AP) —&nbsp;Small rural hospitals in&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;and&nbsp;Missouri&nbsp;are increasingly spending hours searching for facilities they can transfer patients to because they are struggling to cope with the surge in coronavirus cases.

As the region's hospitals fill up with COVID-19 patients, smaller hospitals like the one in Holton, Kansas, are finding it difficult to treat patients who don't have the disease but still need care.

“People don’t just stop having heart attacks or those sorts of things,” said Carrie Saia, CEO of the hospital in Holton, which is about 30 miles north of Topeka, Kansas. “I just worry that we’re going to be so consumed that we’re not really able to care for some emergency that comes in.”

The urban and rural health care systems in Missouri and Kansas are intertwined, with smaller hospitals identifying which patients need more advanced care and transferring them to larger facilities in bigger cities, the Kansas City Star reported. But lately, smaller hospitals have been spending hours searching for beds for their patients in larger facilities in places such as Wichita, Kansas City, St. Louis and Springfield, Missouri.

When COVID-19 patients stress the capacity of smaller hospitals, it makes it harder to care for patients with heart attacks, strokes or other serious conditions.

“Those patients, when they come through our doors, honestly that’s a little more scary than COVID,” said Valarie Davis who is the administrator of Mercy’s smaller hospitals in Cassville and Aurora, Missouri. “We have to get them somewhere as quick as we possibly can.”

And rural hospital administrators increasingly worry about how the surge in patients is affecting their nurses and doctors.

“I’ve had one of the nurses literally break down right in front of me because of her concern for one of the patients, which is a wonderful thing but it takes a toll on the staff,” said Dennis Franks, CEO of the 25-bed Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute, Kansas. “They’re working a lot.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606685988313.png" alt="Holton Community Hospital is 30 miles north of Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Holton Community Hospital is 30 miles north of Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>HOLTON, KAN. (AP) —&nbsp;Small rural hospitals in&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;and&nbsp;Missouri&nbsp;are increasingly spending hours searching for facilities they can transfer patients to because they are struggling to cope with the surge in coronavirus cases.As the region's hospitals fill up with COVID-19 patients, smaller hospitals like the one in Holton, Kansas, are finding it difficult to treat patients who don't have the disease but still need care.“People don’t just stop having heart attacks or those sorts of things,” said Carrie Saia, CEO of the hospital in Holton, which is about 30 miles north of Topeka, Kansas. “I just worry that we’re going to be so consumed that we’re not really able to care for some emergency that comes in.”The urban and rural health care systems in Missouri and Kansas are intertwined, with smaller hospitals identifying which patients need more advanced care and transferring them to larger facilities in bigger cities, the Kansas City Star reported. But lately, smaller hospitals have been spending hours searching for beds for their patients in larger facilities in places such as Wichita, Kansas City, St. Louis and Springfield, Missouri.When COVID-19 patients stress the capacity of smaller hospitals, it makes it harder to care for patients with heart attacks, strokes or other serious conditions.“Those patients, when they come through our doors, honestly that’s a little more scary than COVID,” said Valarie Davis who is the administrator of Mercy’s smaller hospitals in Cassville and Aurora, Missouri. “We have to get them somewhere as quick as we possibly can.”And rural hospital administrators increasingly worry about how the surge in patients is affecting their nurses and doctors.“I’ve had one of the nurses literally break down right in front of me because of her concern for one of the patients, which is a wonderful thing but it takes a toll on the staff,” said Dennis Franks, CEO of the 25-bed Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute, Kansas. “They’re working a lot.”

Surge in virus cases stresses rural hospitals across Kansas

Saline County this afternoon issued the following statement concerning mass gatherings and mask mandates in the county.

Actions have recently been taken by the governing bodies of Saline County and the City of Salina to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community.&nbsp; The Saline County Public Health Order limiting mass gatherings went into effect on Sunday, November 22nd.&nbsp; Both the City and County made changes to the mask mandate earlier this week that will go into effect this coming Saturday, November 28th.

The Public Health Order limits gatherings to 15 individuals or less in any indoor space.&nbsp; The order also limits the hours that a bar or restaurant can be open to the public.&nbsp; Bars and restaurants may not open to the public before 5:00 a.m. and must close by 12:00 midnight.&nbsp; There are certain types of establishments named in the order that have exceptions to the gathering limit, depending on the type of business.&nbsp;&nbsp; It is important to note that this order is not about shutting down businesses, it is about limiting large group gatherings.&nbsp; Several of the hundreds of cases that the Health Department has seen over the past few weeks are the result of gatherings, spreading COVID-19 further in our community.&nbsp; A list of common questions about the order as well as the order can be found on the county website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

The most recent amendments to the mask mandate for both the City of Salina and Saline County include the following changes:

●The definition of “room” was added to define a room as a part or division of a building enclosed by full-height walls, floors, and ceiling.

●Language was updated to read that if you are in a public space, regardless if you can distance yourself from others or not, you must wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose.

●An additional exemption was added for persons who are in a room with no other persons present.

Saline County’s Mask Mandate Resolution can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>. City of Salina’s Mask Ordinance can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ks.us/featured/?FeedID=5801">http://salina.ks.us/featured/?FeedID=5801</a>.

Both the Public Health Order and Mask Mandate can be legally enforced through issuances of citations by a law enforcement officer.&nbsp; The goal is to educate and encourage following both the mass gathering limitations and mask mandates, and not to issue citations.&nbsp;

To report&nbsp;active&nbsp;violations of mass gatherings, please call the non-emergency dispatch phone number 785-826-7210.&nbsp; For general complaints or general questions of either the mass gatherings or mask mandates, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:facemasks@salina.org" target="_blank">facemasks@salina.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We need everyone to follow the proven public health guidance to stop the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; Please:

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

●Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.

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

●By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).

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

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

Saline County this afternoon issued the following statement concerning mass gatherings and mask mandates in the county.Actions have recently been taken by the governing bodies of Saline County and the City of Salina to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community.&nbsp; The Saline County Public Health Order limiting mass gatherings went into effect on Sunday, November 22nd.&nbsp; Both the City and County made changes to the mask mandate earlier this week that will go into effect this coming Saturday, November 28th.The Public Health Order limits gatherings to 15 individuals or less in any indoor space.&nbsp; The order also limits the hours that a bar or restaurant can be open to the public.&nbsp; Bars and restaurants may not open to the public before 5:00 a.m. and must close by 12:00 midnight.&nbsp; There are certain types of establishments named in the order that have exceptions to the gathering limit, depending on the type of business.&nbsp;&nbsp; It is important to note that this order is not about shutting down businesses, it is about limiting large group gatherings.&nbsp; Several of the hundreds of cases that the Health Department has seen over the past few weeks are the result of gatherings, spreading COVID-19 further in our community.&nbsp; A list of common questions about the order as well as the order can be found on the county website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;The most recent amendments to the mask mandate for both the City of Salina and Saline County include the following changes:●The definition of “room” was added to define a room as a part or division of a building enclosed by full-height walls, floors, and ceiling.●Language was updated to read that if you are in a public space, regardless if you can distance yourself from others or not, you must wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose.●An additional exemption was added for persons who are in a room with no other persons present.Saline County’s Mask Mandate Resolution can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>. City of Salina’s Mask Ordinance can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ks.us/featured/?FeedID=5801">http://salina.ks.us/featured/?FeedID=5801</a>.Both the Public Health Order and Mask Mandate can be legally enforced through issuances of citations by a law enforcement officer.&nbsp; The goal is to educate and encourage following both the mass gathering limitations and mask mandates, and not to issue citations.&nbsp;To report&nbsp;active&nbsp;violations of mass gatherings, please call the non-emergency dispatch phone number 785-826-7210.&nbsp; For general complaints or general questions of either the mass gatherings or mask mandates, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:facemasks@salina.org" target="_blank">facemasks@salina.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;We need everyone to follow the proven public health guidance to stop the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; Please:●Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water.&nbsp; Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.●Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution.&nbsp; You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.●By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).●Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.●Stay home if you are sick.&nbsp; Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.

County reviews mass gatherings and mask mandates

BEIJING (AP) — China says it has detected the coronavirus on packages of imported frozen food, but how valid are its claims and how serious is the threat to public health?

Frozen shrimp imported from an Ecuadorian company was banned for one week on Tuesday in a continuing series of such temporary bans.

While experts say the virus can survive for a time on cardboard and plastic containers, it remains unclear how serious a risk that poses. Like so many issues surrounding the pandemic, the matter has swiftly become politicized.

China has rejected complaints from the U.S. and others, saying it is putting people’s lives first. Experts say they generally don’t consider the presence of the virus on packaging to be a significant health risk.

A look at the issue and some of the conclusions so far:

Packaging first became a major issue with outbreaks in China linked to wholesale food markets, including one in June on the outskirts of Beijing. That prompted the removal of smoked salmon from supermarket shelves and has snowballed into multiple cases nationwide involving chicken, beef and seafood from nearly two dozen countries. At some supermarkets, imported meat now comes with a sticker declaring it to be virus-free.

Infections among freight handlers have also placed suspicion on packaging. Person-to-person transmission hasn’t been ruled out, however, and China has yet to release evidence that packaging was indeed the route of infection.

Trading partners, including the U.S., New Zealand, Canada and the EU, say they’re unclear on China’s methodology and have seen no solid evidence that their products carried the virus. The U.S. has questioned whether China’s crackdown is scientifically based and suggested the bans may amount to an unfair trade barrier.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian called the U.S. accusations “totally groundless and unreasonable.” China’s measures are “necessary following the spirit of putting people’s lives first and protecting people’s health,” he said last week.

In a statement to The Associated Press, the World Health Organization said cases of live viruses being found on packaging appear to be “rare and isolated.” While the virus can “survive a long time under cold storage conditions,” there is no evidence of people contracting COVID-19 from consuming food, it said.

The virus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 is overwhelmingly transmitted through respiratory droplets and smaller sized particles passed through the air, underscoring the importance of mask-wearing.

Yet the virus can also be present on surfaces, and public health officials have urged people to wash their hands carefully and avoid physical contact with others. In general, the colder and dryer that conditions are, the longer the virus can survive on surfaces.

Wiping down countertops, handrails and other surfaces is a common way to ensure safety. Some people have also gone to the extreme of disinfecting packages brought into their homes, both by themselves or by delivery services.

Virus traces found on packaging can be infectious or non-infectious. The extremely sensitive tests being used can detect both active viruses and their remnants, without being able to distinguish between them, said Timothy Newsome, a virologist at the University of Sydney.

“It is possible and may represent some risk, but it’s certainly at the lower end of risk for transmission,” he said. “We know low temperatures do stabilize the virus. Nonetheless, I think things which have been transported and surface transmission — there’s a low risk of it.”

A positive test “doesn’t indicate infectious virus, just that some signal from the virus is present on that surface,” said Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health.

“I’ve seen no convincing data that SARS-CoV-2 on food packaging poses a significant risk for infection,” he said.

BEIJING (AP) — China says it has detected the coronavirus on packages of imported frozen food, but how valid are its claims and how serious is the threat to public health?Frozen shrimp imported from an Ecuadorian company was banned for one week on Tuesday in a continuing series of such temporary bans.While experts say the virus can survive for a time on cardboard and plastic containers, it remains unclear how serious a risk that poses. Like so many issues surrounding the pandemic, the matter has swiftly become politicized.China has rejected complaints from the U.S. and others, saying it is putting people’s lives first. Experts say they generally don’t consider the presence of the virus on packaging to be a significant health risk.A look at the issue and some of the conclusions so far:CHINA’S CRACKDOWNPackaging first became a major issue with outbreaks in China linked to wholesale food markets, including one in June on the outskirts of Beijing. That prompted the removal of smoked salmon from supermarket shelves and has snowballed into multiple cases nationwide involving chicken, beef and seafood from nearly two dozen countries. At some supermarkets, imported meat now comes with a sticker declaring it to be virus-free.Infections among freight handlers have also placed suspicion on packaging. Person-to-person transmission hasn’t been ruled out, however, and China has yet to release evidence that packaging was indeed the route of infection.OVERSEAS COMPLAINTSTrading partners, including the U.S., New Zealand, Canada and the EU, say they’re unclear on China’s methodology and have seen no solid evidence that their products carried the virus. The U.S. has questioned whether China’s crackdown is scientifically based and suggested the bans may amount to an unfair trade barrier.Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian called the U.S. accusations “totally groundless and unreasonable.” China’s measures are “necessary following the spirit of putting people’s lives first and protecting people’s health,” he said last week.In a statement to The Associated Press, the World Health Organization said cases of live viruses being found on packaging appear to be “rare and isolated.” While the virus can “survive a long time under cold storage conditions,” there is no evidence of people contracting COVID-19 from consuming food, it said.SURFACE TRANSMISSIONThe virus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 is overwhelmingly transmitted through respiratory droplets and smaller sized particles passed through the air, underscoring the importance of mask-wearing.Yet the virus can also be present on surfaces, and public health officials have urged people to wash their hands carefully and avoid physical contact with others. In general, the colder and dryer that conditions are, the longer the virus can survive on surfaces.Wiping down countertops, handrails and other surfaces is a common way to ensure safety. Some people have also gone to the extreme of disinfecting packages brought into their homes, both by themselves or by delivery services.WHAT EXPERTS SAYVirus traces found on packaging can be infectious or non-infectious. The extremely sensitive tests being used can detect both active viruses and their remnants, without being able to distinguish between them, said Timothy Newsome, a virologist at the University of Sydney.“It is possible and may represent some risk, but it’s certainly at the lower end of risk for transmission,” he said. “We know low temperatures do stabilize the virus. Nonetheless, I think things which have been transported and surface transmission — there’s a low risk of it.”A positive test “doesn’t indicate infectious virus, just that some signal from the virus is present on that surface,” said Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health.“I’ve seen no convincing data that SARS-CoV-2 on food packaging poses a significant risk for infection,” he said.___

China claims coronavirus found on frozen foods

The Smoky Hill Museum remains open to the public, but reservations are now strongly recommended to guarantee entrance times. 

In light of the Saline County Public Health Order, there will be a limit to the number of people entering the museum. As an exhibit hall, the museum does fall under an exemption to allow more than 15 people in the galleries at one time. The museum has set that limit at 50 people.

Reservations, made through the museum website, <a href="http://smokyhillmuseum.org">smokyhillmuseum.org</a>, or via phone, 785-309-5776, are highly recommended to guarantee entrance times. Reservations can also be made on-site at the museum, but there may be a waiting period. Visitors may reserve up to 15 slots every 20 minutes to assure that no more than 50 people are in the museum’s galleries at any one time.

“City Staff is working hard to maintain a safe environment for visitors. With these new limits along with people wearing masks, we hope to give our visitors as full an experience as possible,” said Museum Director Susan Hawksworth.

In addition to the limited capacity, the museum will not be holding its annual Holiday Open House. Holiday craft kits will be available to pick up and take home Dec. 5-19 during regular museum hours – Tuesdays through Friday’s 11 a.m.–4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

The museum is also suspending guided tours while this order is in place. Groups may still visit, but are limited to 15 people.

●Masks are required&nbsp;while you are in the museum. If you don’t bring a mask, you may have one from Smoky Hill Museum.

●Follow&nbsp;social distancing&nbsp;rules and keep 6 feet between your group and other visitors, staff and volunteers.

●Please keep your children with you at all times.

●Use your elbow or a tissue when you sneeze or cough.

●Wash and/or sanitize your hands frequently.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574873241936.jpeg" alt="Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Smoky Hill Museum remains open to the public, but reservations are now strongly recommended to guarantee entrance times. In light of the Saline County Public Health Order, there will be a limit to the number of people entering the museum. As an exhibit hall, the museum does fall under an exemption to allow more than 15 people in the galleries at one time. The museum has set that limit at 50 people.Reservations, made through the museum website, <a href="http://smokyhillmuseum.org">smokyhillmuseum.org</a>, or via phone, 785-309-5776, are highly recommended to guarantee entrance times. Reservations can also be made on-site at the museum, but there may be a waiting period. Visitors may reserve up to 15 slots every 20 minutes to assure that no more than 50 people are in the museum’s galleries at any one time.“City Staff is working hard to maintain a safe environment for visitors. With these new limits along with people wearing masks, we hope to give our visitors as full an experience as possible,” said Museum Director Susan Hawksworth.In addition to the limited capacity, the museum will not be holding its annual Holiday Open House. Holiday craft kits will be available to pick up and take home Dec. 5-19 during regular museum hours – Tuesdays through Friday’s 11 a.m.–4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m.The museum is also suspending guided tours while this order is in place. Groups may still visit, but are limited to 15 people.Other protocols for visitors include:●Masks are required&nbsp;while you are in the museum. If you don’t bring a mask, you may have one from Smoky Hill Museum.●Follow&nbsp;social distancing&nbsp;rules and keep 6 feet between your group and other visitors, staff and volunteers.●Please keep your children with you at all times.●Use your elbow or a tissue when you sneeze or cough.●Don’t touch your face.●Touch as few surfaces as possible.●Wash and/or sanitize your hands frequently.

Reservations are encouraged to visit Smoky Hill Museum

MINNEAPOLIS -- During a meeting Monday, the Ottawa County Commission adopted a resolution establishing an ordinance requiring the wearing of face coverings and social distancing in public spaces.

The ordinance took effect at 12:01 a.m. today.

The resolution indicates when face coverings are to be worn. Additionally, the ordinance establishes that people, businesses, organizations, and non-profits violating the ordinance are guilty of a misdemeanor and sets fines of $25 for a first violation to $100 for third and subsequent violations.

Following is a copy of the approved resolution, as provided on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OttawaCountyHealth">Ottawa County Health Department</a> Facebook page.

MINNEAPOLIS -- During a meeting Monday, the Ottawa County Commission adopted a resolution establishing an ordinance requiring the wearing of face coverings and social distancing in public spaces.The ordinance took effect at 12:01 a.m. today.The resolution indicates when face coverings are to be worn. Additionally, the ordinance establishes that people, businesses, organizations, and non-profits violating the ordinance are guilty of a misdemeanor and sets fines of $25 for a first violation to $100 for third and subsequent violations.Following is a copy of the approved resolution, as provided on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OttawaCountyHealth">Ottawa County Health Department</a> Facebook page.<figure>
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Ottawa County adopts face covering ordinance

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Salina City Commissioners dealt with several COVID-19 related issues during their regular meeting this afternoon.

The meeting itself was a product of pandemic life as commissioners met via Zoom. Citizens were allowed to comment via Zoom or could simply watch the proceedings via the city's YouTube channel. The change in meeting format was a result of the county's recent public health order regarding COVID-19. The commission will continue to meet via Zoom until further notice.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/46682045-45df-46f2-9bc5-e1f6eec9dc0f">New county public health order puts restrictions on indoor gatherings</a>

City Manager Mike Schrage updated the commissioners concerning the county's public health order that was issued Friday. Schrage told commissioners that there wasn't necessarily any action that they needed to take in regard to the health order, however he reminded them that they could "take separate and distinct action" as it pertains to the city if they didn't agree with something in the county's order.

"That's kind of in contradiction to the motion you passed a week ago acknowledging the role of the health department and the county commission. It certainly could create a lot of disconnect and possible confusion between what we might do and what the county might do. I think our intention all along has been to be as coordinated as possible between the city and the county," he said.

Schrage reminded commissioners that the Uniform Public Offense Code, which the city typically adopts annually, includes a violation that addresses failing to abide by a health order.

"So we already have by way of our adoption of the UPOC sufficient provisions in our code to make whatever gets adopted as a health order a city code violation," he said.

Commissioners also considered revising the city's ordinance requiring the wearing of masks or face coverings in public spaces. Schrage noted that during the commission meeting a week ago, commissioners directed city staff to prepare an amendment to the ordinance for consideration this week.

"The gist of it was that you tasked staff with preparing an amendment for your consideration to clarify that facemasks should be worn in indoor public spaces regardless of social distancing when another person is present," Schrage said. 

"So essentially, the only change that this ordinance as it is presented to you currently makes is it eliminates any references to 'when social distancing can't be maintained'," he continued. "If you're in an indoor space and there's more than one person present in that space, the expectation is that you wear a mask unless you qualify for one of the exemptions stated in the ordinance."

After listening to public comment, the commissioners heard both the first and second readings of the ordinance and approved it unanimously. It will take effect as soon as it is published in the official county newspaper -- the Salina Journal -- which Schrage thought could be as early as this weekend. He said the city would notify the commissioners and the public as soon as a publication date is known.

For a draft copy of the ordinance approved, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=456106&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here</a>.

During the discussion on the ordinance, it was noted that Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC) receives COVID-19 patients from a number of area counties, some of which have no mask mandates. Commissioners discussed sending a letter to other counties in the area stressing the importance of mask mandates and other health issues that might limit the spread of COVID-19 in order to potentially lessen the patient load on SRHC. City staff was directed to draft such a letter.

Additionally, commissioners unanimously approved closing the Salina Fieldhouse on a temporary basis, given the recent county public health order, until such time as it is safe to reopen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606189579240.png" alt="Salina City Commissioners conducted their regular meeting today/tonight via Zoom." />
 <figcaption>Salina City Commissioners conducted their regular meeting today/tonight via Zoom.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSalina City Commissioners dealt with several COVID-19 related issues during their regular meeting this afternoon.The meeting itself was a product of pandemic life as commissioners met via Zoom. Citizens were allowed to comment via Zoom or could simply watch the proceedings via the city's YouTube channel. The change in meeting format was a result of the county's recent public health order regarding COVID-19. The commission will continue to meet via Zoom until further notice.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/46682045-45df-46f2-9bc5-e1f6eec9dc0f">New county public health order puts restrictions on indoor gatherings</a>City Manager Mike Schrage updated the commissioners concerning the county's public health order that was issued Friday. Schrage told commissioners that there wasn't necessarily any action that they needed to take in regard to the health order, however he reminded them that they could "take separate and distinct action" as it pertains to the city if they didn't agree with something in the county's order."That's kind of in contradiction to the motion you passed a week ago acknowledging the role of the health department and the county commission. It certainly could create a lot of disconnect and possible confusion between what we might do and what the county might do. I think our intention all along has been to be as coordinated as possible between the city and the county," he said.Schrage reminded commissioners that the Uniform Public Offense Code, which the city typically adopts annually, includes a violation that addresses failing to abide by a health order."So we already have by way of our adoption of the UPOC sufficient provisions in our code to make whatever gets adopted as a health order a city code violation," he said.Commissioners also considered revising the city's ordinance requiring the wearing of masks or face coverings in public spaces. Schrage noted that during the commission meeting a week ago, commissioners directed city staff to prepare an amendment to the ordinance for consideration this week."The gist of it was that you tasked staff with preparing an amendment for your consideration to clarify that facemasks should be worn in indoor public spaces regardless of social distancing when another person is present," Schrage said. "So essentially, the only change that this ordinance as it is presented to you currently makes is it eliminates any references to 'when social distancing can't be maintained'," he continued. "If you're in an indoor space and there's more than one person present in that space, the expectation is that you wear a mask unless you qualify for one of the exemptions stated in the ordinance."After listening to public comment, the commissioners heard both the first and second readings of the ordinance and approved it unanimously. It will take effect as soon as it is published in the official county newspaper -- the Salina Journal -- which Schrage thought could be as early as this weekend. He said the city would notify the commissioners and the public as soon as a publication date is known.For a draft copy of the ordinance approved, <a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=456106&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here</a>.During the discussion on the ordinance, it was noted that Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC) receives COVID-19 patients from a number of area counties, some of which have no mask mandates. Commissioners discussed sending a letter to other counties in the area stressing the importance of mask mandates and other health issues that might limit the spread of COVID-19 in order to potentially lessen the patient load on SRHC. City staff was directed to draft such a letter.Additionally, commissioners unanimously approved closing the Salina Fieldhouse on a temporary basis, given the recent county public health order, until such time as it is safe to reopen.

City updates face coverings ordinance, closes fieldhouse

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 68 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 1,316.

Of that total, 770 cases have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, and seven of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department noted.

Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.

• New cases since last public release: 68

• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 44

• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 5

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 68 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 1,316.Of that total, 770 cases have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, and seven of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department noted.Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.• New cases since last public release: 68• Asymptomatic: 39• Cases with unknown exposure: 610• Cases 60 years old and above: 393• Cases 50-59 years old: 185• Cases 40-49 years old: 172• Cases 30-39 years old: 163• Cases 18-29 years old: 274• Cases under 18 years old: 129• Female cases: 702• Male cases: 614• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 44• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 5• Deaths: 9

McPherson County reports 68 new cases of COVID-19 since Friday

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

We have received notification of 144 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County since our last update on Friday, November 20th.&nbsp; The total for the County is now 2,146 with 505 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,621 that have recovered, and a total of 17 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center notified us that they have 31 hospitalized COVID-19 patients.&nbsp; Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●Mobile Device Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>

●Desktop Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>

The Saline County Board of County Commissioners met in a special public meeting today and voted to adopt a Public Health Order.&nbsp; This order went into effect at 12:01 am on Sunday, November 22nd.&nbsp; The Public Health Order limits gatherings within indoor spaces to 15 individuals or less, with exceptions for certain establishments and activities.&nbsp; The order can be found on the County website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.

Cases continue to rise rapidly and the Health Department is experiencing delays in the ability to quickly contact new positive cases to begin investigations and contact tracing.&nbsp; We have enlisted assistance from KDHE to assist with contact tracing as well as hired additional staff.&nbsp; Please be aware that if you or someone you know has been tested, they may receive a call from KDHE Epidemiologists as they help us manage our case load.&nbsp; If you are not sure if it is a real call, ask for their callback number and then please call the Saline County Health Department and we can confirm that it is a legitimate investigator.

If you have been tested for COVID-19, you need to isolate at home until your test results are back.&nbsp; Those that are notified of a positive COVID-19 test you should:

●Isolate for at minimum 10 days from symptom onset and be 72 hours fever free and have a significant improvement in symptoms.

●Close Contacts are defined as those persons within 6 feet or less for 10 minutes or more, two days before the positive cases’ symptom onset date.

●Close Contacts need to quarantine for two weeks from their last contact date unless living in the same household, and then it would be two weeks past the positive case’s isolation release date.

●If after several days, the Health Department has not reached out to a close contact, the Health Department may not have been notified of the contact exposure and you will need to notify the Health Department; but please be patient and continue to quarantine until then.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 142,059 cases and 1,456 deaths statewide. This information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.&nbsp;

●A shelter site, at no cost to an individual, is available for those who cannot isolate or quarantine in their homes and who have tested positive for COVID-19, those individuals who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive, and those living and working in at-risk congregate settings.&nbsp; This shelter does provide for housing, meals, laundry, and cleaning service so individuals are provided a safe shelter to avoid exposing their household to the COVID-19 virus and help stop the spread of the virus.&nbsp; For more information or to request this service, please contact your local Emergency Management Department at 785-714-0389 or 785-819-0263 if you need shelter outside of your home.

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

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606172925320.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.We have received notification of 144 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County since our last update on Friday, November 20th.&nbsp; The total for the County is now 2,146 with 505 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,621 that have recovered, and a total of 17 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center notified us that they have 31 hospitalized COVID-19 patients.&nbsp; Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>●Desktop Users:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>The Saline County Board of County Commissioners met in a special public meeting today and voted to adopt a Public Health Order.&nbsp; This order went into effect at 12:01 am on Sunday, November 22nd.&nbsp; The Public Health Order limits gatherings within indoor spaces to 15 individuals or less, with exceptions for certain establishments and activities.&nbsp; The order can be found on the County website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>.Cases continue to rise rapidly and the Health Department is experiencing delays in the ability to quickly contact new positive cases to begin investigations and contact tracing.&nbsp; We have enlisted assistance from KDHE to assist with contact tracing as well as hired additional staff.&nbsp; Please be aware that if you or someone you know has been tested, they may receive a call from KDHE Epidemiologists as they help us manage our case load.&nbsp; If you are not sure if it is a real call, ask for their callback number and then please call the Saline County Health Department and we can confirm that it is a legitimate investigator.If you have been tested for COVID-19, you need to isolate at home until your test results are back.&nbsp; Those that are notified of a positive COVID-19 test you should:●Isolate for at minimum 10 days from symptom onset and be 72 hours fever free and have a significant improvement in symptoms.●Close Contacts are defined as those persons within 6 feet or less for 10 minutes or more, two days before the positive cases’ symptom onset date.●Close Contacts need to quarantine for two weeks from their last contact date unless living in the same household, and then it would be two weeks past the positive case’s isolation release date.●If after several days, the Health Department has not reached out to a close contact, the Health Department may not have been notified of the contact exposure and you will need to notify the Health Department; but please be patient and continue to quarantine until then.●Stay home if you are sick.&nbsp; Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 142,059 cases and 1,456 deaths statewide. This information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.&nbsp;Announcements:●A shelter site, at no cost to an individual, is available for those who cannot isolate or quarantine in their homes and who have tested positive for COVID-19, those individuals who have been exposed to someone who has tested positive, and those living and working in at-risk congregate settings.&nbsp; This shelter does provide for housing, meals, laundry, and cleaning service so individuals are provided a safe shelter to avoid exposing their household to the COVID-19 virus and help stop the spread of the virus.&nbsp; For more information or to request this service, please contact your local Emergency Management Department at 785-714-0389 or 785-819-0263 if you need shelter outside of your home.Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do.&nbsp; Please:<ol>
 <li>Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water.&nbsp; Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.</li><li>Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.</li><li>Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution.&nbsp; You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.</li><li>By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 15 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;</li><li>Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.</li><li>Stay home if you are sick.&nbsp; Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.</li>
 </ol>Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County reports 144 new COVID-19 cases; 1,621 of 2,146 recovered

LONDON (AP) — Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca said Monday that late-stage trials showed its coronavirus vaccine was up to 90% effective, giving public health officials hope they may soon have access to a vaccine that is cheaper and easier to distribute than some of its rivals.

The results are based on interim analysis of trials in the U.K. and Brazil of a vaccine developed by Oxford University and manufactured by AstraZeneca. No hospitalizations or severe cases of COVID-19 were reported in those receiving the vaccine.

AstraZeneca is the third major drug company to report late-stage results for a potential COVID-19 vaccine as the world anxiously waits for scientific breakthroughs that will bring an end to a pandemic that has wrought economic devastation and resulted in nearly 1.4 million confirmed deaths.

Pfizer and Moderna last week reported preliminary results from late-stage trials showing their vaccines were almost 95% effective. But, unlike its rivals, the AstraZeneca vaccine doesn’t have to be stored at ultra-cold temperatures, making it easier to distribute, especially in developing countries.

“I think these are really exciting results,” Dr. Andrew Pollard, chief investigator for the trial, said during a news conference. “Because the vaccine can be stored at fridge temperatures, it can be distributed around the world using the normal immunization distribution system. And so our goal … to make sure that we have a vaccine that was accessible everywhere, I think we’ve actually managed to do that.”

The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is also cheaper. AstraZeneca, which has pledged it won’t make a profit on the vaccine during the pandemic, has reached agreements with governments and international health organizations that put its cost at about $2.50 a dose. Pfizer’s vaccine costs about $20 a dose, while Moderna’s is $15 to $25, based on agreements the companies have struck to supply their vaccines to the U.S. government.

All three vaccines must be approved by regulators before they can be widely distributed.

Oxford researchers and AstraZeneca stressed that they aren’t competing with other projects, and that multiple vaccines will be needed to reach enough of the world’s population and end the pandemic.

“We’re not thinking about vaccinations working in terms of one person at a time. We have to think about vaccinating communities, populations, reducing transmission within those populations, so that we really get on top of this pandemic,″ said Sarah Gilbert, a leader of the Oxford research team. “And that’s what it now looks like we’re going to have the ability to contribute to in a really big way.″

The results come as a second wave of COVID-19 hits many countries, once again shutting businesses, restricting social interaction and pummeling the world economy.

AstraZeneca said it will immediately apply for early approval of the vaccine where possible, and it will seek an emergency use listing from the World Health Organization, so it can make the vaccine available in low-income countries.

The AstraZeneca trial looked at two different dosing regimens. A half-dose of the vaccine followed by a full dose at least one month later was 90% effective. Another approach, giving patients two full doses one month apart, was 62% effective. The combined results showed an average efficacy rate of 70%.

The vaccine uses a weakened version of a common cold virus that is combined with genetic material for the characteristic spike protein of the virus that causes COVID-19. After vaccination, the spike protein primes the immune system to attack the virus if it later infects the body.

The vaccine can be transported under “normal refrigerated conditions” of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), AstraZeneca said. By comparison, Pfizer plans to distribute its vaccine using specially designed “thermal shippers” that use dry ice to maintain temperatures of minus-70 degrees Celsius (minus-94 degrees Fahrenheit).

Peter Openshaw, professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, said the finding that a smaller initial dose is more effective than a larger one is good news because it may reduce costs and mean more people can be vaccinated.

“The report that an initial half-dose is better than a full dose seems counterintuitive for those of us thinking of vaccines as normal drugs: With drugs, we expect that higher doses have bigger effects, and more side-effects,” he said. “But the immune system does not work like that.”

The results reported Monday come from trials in the U.K. and Brazil that involved 23,000 people. Late-stage trials are also underway in the U.S., Japan, Russia, South Africa, Kenya and Latin America, with further trials planned for other European and Asian countries.

AstraZeneca has been ramping up manufacturing capacity, so it can supply hundreds of millions of doses of the vaccine starting in January, Chief Executive Pascal Soriot said earlier this month.

Soriot said Monday that the Oxford vaccine’s simpler supply chain and AstraZeneca’s commitment to provide it on a nonprofit basis during the pandemic mean it will be affordable and available to people around the world.

“This vaccine’s efficacy and safety confirm that it will be highly effective against COVID-19 and will have an immediate impact on this public health emergency,” Soriot said.

British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he felt “a great sense of relief” at the news from AstraZeneca.

Britain has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford vaccine, and the government says several million doses can be produced before the end of the year if it is approved by regulators.

Just months ago, “the idea that by November we would have three vaccines, all of which have got high effectiveness … I would have given my eye teeth for,” Hancock said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="Photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca said Monday that late-stage trials showed its coronavirus vaccine was up to 90% effective, giving public health officials hope they may soon have access to a vaccine that is cheaper and easier to distribute than some of its rivals.The results are based on interim analysis of trials in the U.K. and Brazil of a vaccine developed by Oxford University and manufactured by AstraZeneca. No hospitalizations or severe cases of COVID-19 were reported in those receiving the vaccine.AstraZeneca is the third major drug company to report late-stage results for a potential COVID-19 vaccine as the world anxiously waits for scientific breakthroughs that will bring an end to a pandemic that has wrought economic devastation and resulted in nearly 1.4 million confirmed deaths.Pfizer and Moderna last week reported preliminary results from late-stage trials showing their vaccines were almost 95% effective. But, unlike its rivals, the AstraZeneca vaccine doesn’t have to be stored at ultra-cold temperatures, making it easier to distribute, especially in developing countries.“I think these are really exciting results,” Dr. Andrew Pollard, chief investigator for the trial, said during a news conference. “Because the vaccine can be stored at fridge temperatures, it can be distributed around the world using the normal immunization distribution system. And so our goal … to make sure that we have a vaccine that was accessible everywhere, I think we’ve actually managed to do that.”The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is also cheaper. AstraZeneca, which has pledged it won’t make a profit on the vaccine during the pandemic, has reached agreements with governments and international health organizations that put its cost at about $2.50 a dose. Pfizer’s vaccine costs about $20 a dose, while Moderna’s is $15 to $25, based on agreements the companies have struck to supply their vaccines to the U.S. government.All three vaccines must be approved by regulators before they can be widely distributed.Oxford researchers and AstraZeneca stressed that they aren’t competing with other projects, and that multiple vaccines will be needed to reach enough of the world’s population and end the pandemic.“We’re not thinking about vaccinations working in terms of one person at a time. We have to think about vaccinating communities, populations, reducing transmission within those populations, so that we really get on top of this pandemic,″ said Sarah Gilbert, a leader of the Oxford research team. “And that’s what it now looks like we’re going to have the ability to contribute to in a really big way.″The results come as a second wave of COVID-19 hits many countries, once again shutting businesses, restricting social interaction and pummeling the world economy.AstraZeneca said it will immediately apply for early approval of the vaccine where possible, and it will seek an emergency use listing from the World Health Organization, so it can make the vaccine available in low-income countries.The AstraZeneca trial looked at two different dosing regimens. A half-dose of the vaccine followed by a full dose at least one month later was 90% effective. Another approach, giving patients two full doses one month apart, was 62% effective. The combined results showed an average efficacy rate of 70%.The vaccine uses a weakened version of a common cold virus that is combined with genetic material for the characteristic spike protein of the virus that causes COVID-19. After vaccination, the spike protein primes the immune system to attack the virus if it later infects the body.The vaccine can be transported under “normal refrigerated conditions” of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius (36 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit), AstraZeneca said. By comparison, Pfizer plans to distribute its vaccine using specially designed “thermal shippers” that use dry ice to maintain temperatures of minus-70 degrees Celsius (minus-94 degrees Fahrenheit).Peter Openshaw, professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, said the finding that a smaller initial dose is more effective than a larger one is good news because it may reduce costs and mean more people can be vaccinated.“The report that an initial half-dose is better than a full dose seems counterintuitive for those of us thinking of vaccines as normal drugs: With drugs, we expect that higher doses have bigger effects, and more side-effects,” he said. “But the immune system does not work like that.”The results reported Monday come from trials in the U.K. and Brazil that involved 23,000 people. Late-stage trials are also underway in the U.S., Japan, Russia, South Africa, Kenya and Latin America, with further trials planned for other European and Asian countries.AstraZeneca has been ramping up manufacturing capacity, so it can supply hundreds of millions of doses of the vaccine starting in January, Chief Executive Pascal Soriot said earlier this month.Soriot said Monday that the Oxford vaccine’s simpler supply chain and AstraZeneca’s commitment to provide it on a nonprofit basis during the pandemic mean it will be affordable and available to people around the world.“This vaccine’s efficacy and safety confirm that it will be highly effective against COVID-19 and will have an immediate impact on this public health emergency,” Soriot said.British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he felt “a great sense of relief” at the news from AstraZeneca.Britain has ordered 100 million doses of the Oxford vaccine, and the government says several million doses can be produced before the end of the year if it is approved by regulators.Just months ago, “the idea that by November we would have three vaccines, all of which have got high effectiveness … I would have given my eye teeth for,” Hancock said.___

Cheaper COVID-19 vaccine headed for approval

U.S. health officials agreed to allow emergency use of a second antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19, an experimental medicine that President Donald Trump was given when he was sickened last month.

The Food and Drug Administration authorized use of the <a href="https://www.gilead.com/news-and-press/press-room/press-releases/2020/10/us-food-and-drug-administration-approves-gileads-antiviral-veklury-remdesivir-for-treatment-of-covid19">Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. drug to </a>try to prevent hospitalization and worsening disease from developing in patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms.

The drug is given as a one-time treatment through an IV. The FDA allowed its use in adults and children 12 and over who weigh at least 88 pounds and who are at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 because of age or certain other medical conditions.

Emergency authorization allows use of the drug to start while studies are continuing to establish safety and effectiveness. Early results suggest the drug may reduce COVID-19-related hospitalization or emergency room visits in patients at high risk for disease progression, the FDA said.

Regeneron said that initial doses will be made available to roughly 300,000 patients through a federal government allocation program. Those patients will not be charged for the drug but may have to pay part of the cost of giving the IV.

Initial supplies will likely be vastly outstripped by demand as the U.S. has surged past 12 million reported cases, with the country facing what health experts say will be a dark winter due to uncontrolled spread of the virus.

Antibodies are proteins the body makes to target and help eliminate viruses, but it can take weeks for the best ones to form after an infection occurs. The drugs are concentrated versions of ones that proved best able to do this in lab and animal tests, and in theory help the body start to fight the virus right away.

The Regeneron drug is a combo of two antibodies to enhance the chances it will prove effective. Earlier this month, the FDA gave emergency authorization to a single-antibody drug from Eli Lilly that also is still being studied.

There’s no way to know whether the Regeneron drug helped Trump recover; he received a host of treatments and most COVID-19 patients recover on their own.

FDA regulators authorized the Regeneron drug using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental drugs and other medical products during public health crises.

In normal times the FDA requires “substantial evidence” to show that a drug is safe and effective, usually through one or more large, rigorously controlled patient studies. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards and require only that an experimental treatment’s potential benefits outweigh its risks.

The emergency authorization functions like a temporary approval for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. To win full approval, Regeneron will have to submit additional research to fully define the drug’s safety and benefit for patients.

The White House cast the decision as a victory for Trump’s efforts “to deliver cutting-edge treatments with highly promising results to protect the health and safety of the most vulnerable Americans,” according to a statement from spokesman Michael Bars.

By MARILYNN MARCHIONE, Associated PressU.S. health officials agreed to allow emergency use of a second antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19, an experimental medicine that President Donald Trump was given when he was sickened last month.The Food and Drug Administration authorized use of the <a href="https://www.gilead.com/news-and-press/press-room/press-releases/2020/10/us-food-and-drug-administration-approves-gileads-antiviral-veklury-remdesivir-for-treatment-of-covid19">Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. drug to </a>try to prevent hospitalization and worsening disease from developing in patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms.The drug is given as a one-time treatment through an IV. The FDA allowed its use in adults and children 12 and over who weigh at least 88 pounds and who are at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 because of age or certain other medical conditions.Emergency authorization allows use of the drug to start while studies are continuing to establish safety and effectiveness. Early results suggest the drug may reduce COVID-19-related hospitalization or emergency room visits in patients at high risk for disease progression, the FDA said.Regeneron said that initial doses will be made available to roughly 300,000 patients through a federal government allocation program. Those patients will not be charged for the drug but may have to pay part of the cost of giving the IV.Initial supplies will likely be vastly outstripped by demand as the U.S. has surged past 12 million reported cases, with the country facing what health experts say will be a dark winter due to uncontrolled spread of the virus.Antibodies are proteins the body makes to target and help eliminate viruses, but it can take weeks for the best ones to form after an infection occurs. The drugs are concentrated versions of ones that proved best able to do this in lab and animal tests, and in theory help the body start to fight the virus right away.The Regeneron drug is a combo of two antibodies to enhance the chances it will prove effective. Earlier this month, the FDA gave emergency authorization to a single-antibody drug from Eli Lilly that also is still being studied.There’s no way to know whether the Regeneron drug helped Trump recover; he received a host of treatments and most COVID-19 patients recover on their own.FDA regulators authorized the Regeneron drug using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental drugs and other medical products during public health crises.In normal times the FDA requires “substantial evidence” to show that a drug is safe and effective, usually through one or more large, rigorously controlled patient studies. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards and require only that an experimental treatment’s potential benefits outweigh its risks.The emergency authorization functions like a temporary approval for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. To win full approval, Regeneron will have to submit additional research to fully define the drug’s safety and benefit for patients.The White House cast the decision as a victory for Trump’s efforts “to deliver cutting-edge treatments with highly promising results to protect the health and safety of the most vulnerable Americans,” according to a statement from spokesman Michael Bars.___

2nd emergency use of a COVID-19 antibody drug approved

Even if all Kansans immediately mask
 up and avoid crowded places, it will likely take weeks to ease the 
burden on hospitals packed with COVID-19 patients.

By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-20/mask-rules-helped-kansas-counties-slow-the-march-of-coronavirus-new-cdc-report-suggests">Kansas News Service</a>

In Kansas counties that adopted mask rules last summer, the spread of COVID-19 slowed, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6947e2.htm?s_cid=mm6947e2_w" target="_blank">new research</a> from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows.

The
 study by federal and state epidemiologists suggests that if more 
counties follow suit, it could help stem a disastrous groundswell that 
has hospitals in Kansas and across the Midwest reeling.

The 
release of the new CDC publication comes just two days after Kansas Gov.
 Laura Kelly made her second attempt to get Kansans across the state to <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-18/with-hospitals-reeling-kansas-gov-kelly-makes-second-push-to-tame-coronavirus-with-masks" target="_blank">mask up</a>. Most counties overrode her first statewide mask order, and they could do the same to this one.

Physicians
 at the University of Kansas Health System say taking masks and social 
distancing seriously saves lives and eases the rush on hospital beds.

Even if all Kansans followed their advice fastidiously and immediately, incubation periods mean the record surge across the state would likely intensify before it gets better.

“This (pandemic) is very quick to get worse,” anesthesiologist David Wild said, “and very slow to get better.”

“People
 are in the hospital for four, five, seven days, if they're not in the 
ICU,” he said. “If they’re in the ICU, it may be 15 or 20 or 30. And so 
it will take some time before we see the benefits of those behaviors 
changing.”

That means it would likely take three weeks or more of 
very conscientious efforts by Kansans before hospitals start to get some
 of the respite — and freed up beds — that they desperately need.

Doctors fear COVID-19’s record surge across the state could worsen over Thanksgiving and Christmas instead.

Already, hospital officials say they’re <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-16/kansas-hospitals-seek-help-from-nearby-states-but-the-whole-midwest-is-struggling-with-a-covid-surge" target="_blank">spending hours calling intensive care units</a>
 in other cities and neighboring states to see who can fit more people. 
They’re postponing kidney stone surgeries just to free up a few extra 
beds, or treating patients in hallways and waiting rooms.

This 
summer, the Republican-led Legislature passed a law that blocks Kelly 
from requiring masks. The most she can do is issue rules that county 
commissions can then reject.

She did so in July, but 80 of the 
state’s 105 counties blocked the effort. Some have since changed their 
tunes. Sixty-five still have no mask rules.

Kelly said Republican leaders and others have signaled to her that more county commissions are ready this time to come on board.

“We have reached a new stage in our fight with this virus,” she said, and mask-wearing would help “turn the tide.”

County
 commissions have until Wednesday to act before Kelly’s rules take 
effect. They can tweak her version as they see fit — or can again buck 
her effort entirely.

But the harsh new reality could force their 
hands. In rural parts of the state, critically ill patients can wait for
 hours for admission to intensive care units in cities hours away.

Editor's note: While Ellis County in northwest Kansas does not have a countywide mask mandate in place, the city of Hays does.

The
 CDC and Kansas researchers — which included state epidemiologist Farah 
Ahmed and former state epidemiologist Charles Hunt — compared the spread
 of the virus in counties with mask rules to those without them over 
nearly three months this summer.

The disease’s march — calculated 
as seven-day rolling averages of new cases — slowed in counties with mask 
orders. Face coverings appear to have helped, though the authors say 
extra local limits on public gatherings — things like caps on restaurant
 capacity — may have boosted the effect in some of those counties.

“COVID-19
 incidence rates reversed course,” the authors wrote, but not in the 
counties without mask rules. There, the pace of new cases kept climbing.

(Researchers
 at the Kansas Health Institute also contributed to the study. The 
institute receives funding from the Kansas Health Foundation, one of the
 Kansas News Service’s financial supporters.)

The CDC and the <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a> both recommend wearing masks in public and around people you don’t live with.

The
 CDC recommends masks for children as young as two years old, though the
 WHO recommends against requiring it for those under age five because 
such young children may not wear it properly.

Kelly’s order asks 
Kansans over the age of five (except those with medical conditions that 
would make it difficult) to wear masks in public. That includes outdoor 
spaces where people can’t keep six feet away from each other.

Businesses must also instruct employees to wear masks, and require it of customers.

The
 epidemiological price of weddings, parties and packed bars and 
restaurants spiraled rapidly out of control across the Midwest once cold
 weather pushed socializing indoors.

In just two weeks, Kansas has confirmed 36,000 new cases of the coronavirus that has killed <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/" target="_blank">more than 250,000</a> people in the U.S.

Minnesota’s governor ordered <a href="https://www.startribune.com/walz-to-close-bars-restaurants-and-fitness-centers-for-4-weeks/573114521/" target="_blank">restaurants and bars</a> closed again this week, even as the state said the federal government would send it dozens of <a href="https://www.startribune.com/fema-ambulances-deployed-to-help-transfer-minn-patients/573127151/" target="_blank">staffed ambulances</a> to transport a flood of COVID patients to hospitals.

The governors of <a href="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/2020-11-17/iowa-governor-reverses-course-issues-mask-mandate-as-covid-19-cases-rise" target="_blank">Iowa</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/bismarck-north-dakota-coronavirus-pandemic-45788d9dfaae23c1db8125088dfa242b" target="_blank">North Dakota</a>, previously opposed to face-covering orders, broke down over the past week and ordered people to mask up statewide.

Scientists
 say masks help by filtering some of the droplets that pass into the air
 from an infected person’s nose and mouth. The CDC summarized the 
research to date in a <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/more/masking-science-sars-cov2.html" target="_blank">recent online summary</a>.

More than 30 states now have rules requiring masks.

Celia Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health and education for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/Celia_LJ" target="_blank"> @celialj_LJ</a> or email her at celia@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605897184989.png" alt=" Stephan Bisaha / Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption> Stephan Bisaha / Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Even if all Kansans immediately mask
 up and avoid crowded places, it will likely take weeks to ease the 
burden on hospitals packed with COVID-19 patients.</h2>By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-20/mask-rules-helped-kansas-counties-slow-the-march-of-coronavirus-new-cdc-report-suggests">Kansas News Service</a>In Kansas counties that adopted mask rules last summer, the spread of COVID-19 slowed, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6947e2.htm?s_cid=mm6947e2_w" target="_blank">new research</a> from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows.The
 study by federal and state epidemiologists suggests that if more 
counties follow suit, it could help stem a disastrous groundswell that 
has hospitals in Kansas and across the Midwest reeling.The 
release of the new CDC publication comes just two days after Kansas Gov.
 Laura Kelly made her second attempt to get Kansans across the state to <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-18/with-hospitals-reeling-kansas-gov-kelly-makes-second-push-to-tame-coronavirus-with-masks" target="_blank">mask up</a>. Most counties overrode her first statewide mask order, and they could do the same to this one.Physicians
 at the University of Kansas Health System say taking masks and social 
distancing seriously saves lives and eases the rush on hospital beds.Even if all Kansans followed their advice fastidiously and immediately, incubation periods mean the record surge across the state would likely intensify before it gets better.“This (pandemic) is very quick to get worse,” anesthesiologist David Wild said, “and very slow to get better.”“People
 are in the hospital for four, five, seven days, if they're not in the 
ICU,” he said. “If they’re in the ICU, it may be 15 or 20 or 30. And so 
it will take some time before we see the benefits of those behaviors 
changing.”That means it would likely take three weeks or more of 
very conscientious efforts by Kansans before hospitals start to get some
 of the respite — and freed up beds — that they desperately need.Doctors fear COVID-19’s record surge across the state could worsen over Thanksgiving and Christmas instead.Already, hospital officials say they’re <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-16/kansas-hospitals-seek-help-from-nearby-states-but-the-whole-midwest-is-struggling-with-a-covid-surge" target="_blank">spending hours calling intensive care units</a>
 in other cities and neighboring states to see who can fit more people. 
They’re postponing kidney stone surgeries just to free up a few extra 
beds, or treating patients in hallways and waiting rooms.This 
summer, the Republican-led Legislature passed a law that blocks Kelly 
from requiring masks. The most she can do is issue rules that county 
commissions can then reject.She did so in July, but 80 of the 
state’s 105 counties blocked the effort. Some have since changed their 
tunes. Sixty-five still have no mask rules.Kelly said Republican leaders and others have signaled to her that more county commissions are ready this time to come on board.“We have reached a new stage in our fight with this virus,” she said, and mask-wearing would help “turn the tide.”County
 commissions have until Wednesday to act before Kelly’s rules take 
effect. They can tweak her version as they see fit — or can again buck 
her effort entirely.But the harsh new reality could force their 
hands. In rural parts of the state, critically ill patients can wait for
 hours for admission to intensive care units in cities hours away.<div><iframe title="Does your county require masks in public?" aria-label="Map" id="datawrapper-chart-wZcb4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wZcb4/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="447"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var e in a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var t=document.getElementById("datawrapper-chart-"+e)||document.querySelector("iframe[src*='"+e+"']");t&&(t.style.height=a.data["datawrapper-height"][e]+"px")}}))}();
</script></div>Editor's note: While Ellis County in northwest Kansas does not have a countywide mask mandate in place, the city of Hays does.<h2>Mask rules in Kansas</h2>The
 CDC and Kansas researchers — which included state epidemiologist Farah 
Ahmed and former state epidemiologist Charles Hunt — compared the spread
 of the virus in counties with mask rules to those without them over 
nearly three months this summer.The disease’s march — calculated 
as seven-day rolling averages of new cases — slowed in counties with mask 
orders. Face coverings appear to have helped, though the authors say 
extra local limits on public gatherings — things like caps on restaurant
 capacity — may have boosted the effect in some of those counties.“COVID-19
 incidence rates reversed course,” the authors wrote, but not in the 
counties without mask rules. There, the pace of new cases kept climbing.(Researchers
 at the Kansas Health Institute also contributed to the study. The 
institute receives funding from the Kansas Health Foundation, one of the
 Kansas News Service’s financial supporters.)The CDC and the <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a> both recommend wearing masks in public and around people you don’t live with.The
 CDC recommends masks for children as young as two years old, though the
 WHO recommends against requiring it for those under age five because 
such young children may not wear it properly.Kelly’s order asks 
Kansans over the age of five (except those with medical conditions that 
would make it difficult) to wear masks in public. That includes outdoor 
spaces where people can’t keep six feet away from each other.Businesses must also instruct employees to wear masks, and require it of customers.<h2>The swift increase</h2>The
 epidemiological price of weddings, parties and packed bars and 
restaurants spiraled rapidly out of control across the Midwest once cold
 weather pushed socializing indoors.In just two weeks, Kansas has confirmed 36,000 new cases of the coronavirus that has killed <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/" target="_blank">more than 250,000</a> people in the U.S.Minnesota’s governor ordered <a href="https://www.startribune.com/walz-to-close-bars-restaurants-and-fitness-centers-for-4-weeks/573114521/" target="_blank">restaurants and bars</a> closed again this week, even as the state said the federal government would send it dozens of <a href="https://www.startribune.com/fema-ambulances-deployed-to-help-transfer-minn-patients/573127151/" target="_blank">staffed ambulances</a> to transport a flood of COVID patients to hospitals.The governors of <a href="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/news-from-npr/2020-11-17/iowa-governor-reverses-course-issues-mask-mandate-as-covid-19-cases-rise" target="_blank">Iowa</a> and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/bismarck-north-dakota-coronavirus-pandemic-45788d9dfaae23c1db8125088dfa242b" target="_blank">North Dakota</a>, previously opposed to face-covering orders, broke down over the past week and ordered people to mask up statewide.Scientists
 say masks help by filtering some of the droplets that pass into the air
 from an infected person’s nose and mouth. The CDC summarized the 
research to date in a <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/more/masking-science-sars-cov2.html" target="_blank">recent online summary</a>.More than 30 states now have rules requiring masks.Celia Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health and education for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter<a href="https://twitter.com/Celia_LJ" target="_blank"> @celialj_LJ</a> or email her at celia@kcur.org.

CDC report: Mask rules helped Kan. counties slow march of virus

Beginning Monday, City Commission study sessions and meetings will take place via Zoom until further notice. 

This decision to revise the meeting format was made to align with the mass gathering limitations imposed by the Saline County Commission and Saline County Health Official.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/46682045-45df-46f2-9bc5-e1f6eec9dc0f">New county public health order puts restrictions on indoor gatherings</a>

Beginning Monday, City Commission study sessions and meetings will take place via Zoom until further notice. This decision to revise the meeting format was made to align with the mass gathering limitations imposed by the Saline County Commission and Saline County Health Official.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/46682045-45df-46f2-9bc5-e1f6eec9dc0f">New county public health order puts restrictions on indoor gatherings</a>Study sessions and meetings can be viewed on the City of Salina’s YouTube channel at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas">https://www.youtube.com/cityofSalinaKansas</a>.To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to use the following Zoom link:<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587"> https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275984587</a>If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the Mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must raise their hand so that the meeting host can allow them to speak.Citizens can also send written comments or questions to City Commissioners via email at <a href="mailto:citycommission@salina.org">citycommission@salina.org</a>.In order for the commissioners to have an opportunity to review comments in advance of the meeting, please email your comments or questions by 5 p.m. the Sunday prior to the Monday meetings.

Coronavirus Update