Five employees -- four direct-care and one non-direct care -- tested positive this morning for COVID-19 following the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing and resident testing for the virus, the facility reported this afternoon. 

No residents or any other employees tested positive.

“Our top priority continues to be the safety of our residents and staff members,” said Jeanne Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s vice president for health and wellness and infection preventionist.

The Salin campus is now conducting routine employee surveillance testing for COVID-19. Surveillance testing requires all employees, agency employees, volunteers, hospice, lab and therapy providers at our campus to be tested for COVID-19 on a frequency determined by our county’s COVID-19 testing positivity rate. Based on the Saline County rate, the Salina campus is testing employees once a week. These positive cases were identified through employee surveillance testing and resident testing conducted on Oct. 30.

The Salina campus is in contact with the Saline County Health Department and per their recommendation, it will test all residents and employees on Wednesday.

The employees are quarantining at home and will not be allowed to work until they meet CDC and KDHE guidelines for when an employee may return to work. Under the current guidelines, symptomatic employees may return to work when at least 72 hours have passed since resolution of the employee’s fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and the employee’s symptoms have improved and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic positive employees will quarantine for 14 days. Upon the employee’s return to work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and restrictions.

Salina Presbyterian Manor noted in a news release that it encourages all staff members to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. The facility has been screening employees as they enter the community building for a shift and before employees have any direct contact with residents. Additionally, all staff are educated to stay at home if they are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well.

Five employees -- four direct-care and one non-direct care -- tested positive this morning for COVID-19 following the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing and resident testing for the virus, the facility reported this afternoon. No residents or any other employees tested positive.“Our top priority continues to be the safety of our residents and staff members,” said Jeanne Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s vice president for health and wellness and infection preventionist.The Salin campus is now conducting routine employee surveillance testing for COVID-19. Surveillance testing requires all employees, agency employees, volunteers, hospice, lab and therapy providers at our campus to be tested for COVID-19 on a frequency determined by our county’s COVID-19 testing positivity rate. Based on the Saline County rate, the Salina campus is testing employees once a week. These positive cases were identified through employee surveillance testing and resident testing conducted on Oct. 30.The Salina campus is in contact with the Saline County Health Department and per their recommendation, it will test all residents and employees on Wednesday.The employees are quarantining at home and will not be allowed to work until they meet CDC and KDHE guidelines for when an employee may return to work. Under the current guidelines, symptomatic employees may return to work when at least 72 hours have passed since resolution of the employee’s fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and the employee’s symptoms have improved and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic positive employees will quarantine for 14 days. Upon the employee’s return to work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and restrictions.Salina Presbyterian Manor noted in a news release that it encourages all staff members to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. The facility has been screening employees as they enter the community building for a shift and before employees have any direct contact with residents. Additionally, all staff are educated to stay at home if they are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well.

Five Salina Presbyterian Manor employees test positive for COVID-19

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

There are 59 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Friday October 30. The total for the county is now 1,225, with 160 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,052 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have 5 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.

Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

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

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

“This sharp increase in cases creates a very heavy workload for staff. This results in the extreme difficulty to call newly diagnosed individuals in a timely manner and provide advice on precautions to take to avoid further transmission,” said Jason Tiller, Saline County Health Officer. “So far today, we have been notified of 42 new cases which is an all-time daily record.”

“Please be patient with us, our staff is working extremely hard to make contact as quickly as possible.”

Those that are notified of a positive COVID-19 test should take the following precautions:

●If you have severe symptoms, immediately call your primary care provider and follow their directions.

●Isolate yourself in your home. Isolation means that you should not come in contact with anyone, should not leave your house, and should not allow visitors to enter your house.

●Make a list of everyone that you had close contact with (10 minutes within 6 feet) starting two days before symptoms appeared; or if not exhibiting symptoms, two days before the date the laboratory test was performed.

●Keep note of what staff members at the Health Department you speak to. We want to make it easier to connect you to the right person should additional questions about your particular situation.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 89,227 cases and 1,046 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:

●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill

●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution

●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings

●Avoid socializing with large groups

●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604358795482.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.There are 59 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Friday October 30. The total for the county is now 1,225, with 160 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 1,052 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have 5 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>●Desktop Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>“This sharp increase in cases creates a very heavy workload for staff. This results in the extreme difficulty to call newly diagnosed individuals in a timely manner and provide advice on precautions to take to avoid further transmission,” said Jason Tiller, Saline County Health Officer. “So far today, we have been notified of 42 new cases which is an all-time daily record.” “Please be patient with us, our staff is working extremely hard to make contact as quickly as possible.”Those that are notified of a positive COVID-19 test should take the following precautions:●If you have severe symptoms, immediately call your primary care provider and follow their directions.●Isolate yourself in your home. Isolation means that you should not come in contact with anyone, should not leave your house, and should not allow visitors to enter your house.●Make a list of everyone that you had close contact with (10 minutes within 6 feet) starting two days before symptoms appeared; or if not exhibiting symptoms, two days before the date the laboratory test was performed.●Keep note of what staff members at the Health Department you speak to. We want to make it easier to connect you to the right person should additional questions about your particular situation.According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 89,227 cases and 1,046 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings●Avoid socializing with large groups●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County: 59 new COVID-19 cases; 1,052 of 1,225 recovered

By ANNE CHRISTIANSEN-BULLERS KUMC News

KANSAS CITY - The struggle to breathe is well-documented symptom for those battling COVID-19, so how is the disease best treated for those with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma?

A study to address that question, along with other research related to lung issues, is being supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/" target="_blank">American Lung Association</a>&nbsp;and its research arm, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/airways-clinical-research-centers" target="_blank">Airways Clinical Research Centers Network&nbsp;</a>(ACRC).

The University of Kansas Medical Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/acrc-expands">recently expanded its position&nbsp;</a>in the ACRC from member to consortium hub, which gives KU Medical Center the responsibility to mentor and lead other universities in its group.

<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/internal-medicine/clinical-divisions/pulmonary-critical-care-and-sleep-medicine/faculty/mario-castro-md.html" target="_blank">Mario Castro</a>, MD, MPH, division chief for pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will act as principal investigator. He brings this role with him from a previous position at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

The ACRC is the nation's largest not-for-profit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease. Its member centers have advanced research in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

"The ACRC Network is an incredibly valuable resource in pulmonology research," Castro said. "The network has answered some of the most important clinical questions we need to manage our patients with asthma, COPD and chronic cough. Now we are leveraging this expertise to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic."

KU Medical Center will be one of nine hub leaders for the ACRC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/about-our-research/covid19-action-initiative" target="_blank">COVID-19 Action Initiative</a>, a $25 million project from the American Lung Association. The initiative's goals are to:

American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer said the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the importance of ongoing lung disease research championed by the ACRC. "Clinical research allows us to advance scientific knowledge from the lab to the patient's bedside swiftly, directly impacting patient care," he said.

A second major ACRC initiative, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/lung-health-study" target="_blank">Lung Health Cohort Study</a>&nbsp;of millennials (ages 25-35 years old), will examine the effect of environmental exposures on respiratory health in young people. These environmental exposures will include urgent, timely and relevant factors, such as COVID-19 and vaping.

Castro said KU Medical Center is honored to play a role in the initiative, which is funded by a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.

"Often, when we think of breathing problems, we focus on the very young or the very old," Castro said. "The Lung Health Cohort Study provides an opportunity to research exposure risk within a young person's environment, so that all generations can benefit moving forward."

"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence."

Locally, KU Medical Center is teaming up with Children's Mercy Kansas City for a clinical trial to be conducted by the ACRC. The trial, called "Improving&nbsp;Medication&nbsp;Adherence with&nbsp;Telehealthcare Medication Therapy Management to&nbsp;Change&nbsp;Health Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults with Asthma," goes by the acronym MATCH and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Participants will include 300 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-30) who have a difficult time controlling their asthma.

All participants in the clinical trial will receive sensors that attach to their corticosteroid inhalers and a software application for their smartphone or computer.

When the medication is taken, the sensors relay information to the software so the clinical trial participant and the trial administrator can review it. With that data, both can see how well the participant is sticking to the medication plan.

Some participants will get extra support to adhere to their medication plan. In addition to the sensors and software, these participants will have video consultations with a pharmacist trained in medication therapy management. These telehealth visits will offer the participant periodic feedback and encouragement.

The clinical trial will measure which group has fewer asthma flare-ups. It also will figure out the cost-benefit analysis of the telehealth consultations.

"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence," Castro said. "Being able to test that hypothesis as well as measure its costs - especially against the costs associated with an emergency-room visit or hospitalization - could provide insight into a new approach to this common chronic disease, especially in these days of the pandemic where telehealth provides definite advantages to patient care."

In April 2020, the number of member institutions within ACRC nearly doubled, from 22 sites to 39. Universities within the current KU Medical Center consortium hub include the university itself as well as:

"As our nation faces the COVID-19 public health crisis, this framework of the ACRC is needed today more than ever," ALA's Wimmer said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603750350464.jpeg" alt="The University of Kansas Medical Center will take a leadership role in the Airways Clinical Research Centers Network (ACRC), the research arm of the American Lung Association." />
 <figcaption>The University of Kansas Medical Center will take a leadership role in the Airways Clinical Research Centers Network (ACRC), the research arm of the American Lung Association.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANNE CHRISTIANSEN-BULLERS KUMC NewsKANSAS CITY - The struggle to breathe is well-documented symptom for those battling COVID-19, so how is the disease best treated for those with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma?A study to address that question, along with other research related to lung issues, is being supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/" target="_blank">American Lung Association</a>&nbsp;and its research arm, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/airways-clinical-research-centers" target="_blank">Airways Clinical Research Centers Network&nbsp;</a>(ACRC).The University of Kansas Medical Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/acrc-expands">recently expanded its position&nbsp;</a>in the ACRC from member to consortium hub, which gives KU Medical Center the responsibility to mentor and lead other universities in its group.<h2>Importance of ACRC Network</h2><a href="http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/internal-medicine/clinical-divisions/pulmonary-critical-care-and-sleep-medicine/faculty/mario-castro-md.html" target="_blank">Mario Castro</a>, MD, MPH, division chief for pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will act as principal investigator. He brings this role with him from a previous position at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.The ACRC is the nation's largest not-for-profit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease. Its member centers have advanced research in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."The ACRC Network is an incredibly valuable resource in pulmonology research," Castro said. "The network has answered some of the most important clinical questions we need to manage our patients with asthma, COPD and chronic cough. Now we are leveraging this expertise to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic."<h2>COVID-19 Action Initiative</h2>KU Medical Center will be one of nine hub leaders for the ACRC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/about-our-research/covid19-action-initiative" target="_blank">COVID-19 Action Initiative</a>, a $25 million project from the American Lung Association. The initiative's goals are to:<ul>
 <li>Expand respiratory research</li><li>Fund grants for coronavirus vaccines and other prevention measures</li><li>Provide additional grants for research evaluating the effects of COVID-19 on patients with chronic lung disease</li><li>Enhance key public health measures through education and advocacy</li>
 </ul>American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer said the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the importance of ongoing lung disease research championed by the ACRC. "Clinical research allows us to advance scientific knowledge from the lab to the patient's bedside swiftly, directly impacting patient care," he said.<h2>Millennial Lung Health Cohort Study</h2>A second major ACRC initiative, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/lung-health-study" target="_blank">Lung Health Cohort Study</a>&nbsp;of millennials (ages 25-35 years old), will examine the effect of environmental exposures on respiratory health in young people. These environmental exposures will include urgent, timely and relevant factors, such as COVID-19 and vaping.Castro said KU Medical Center is honored to play a role in the initiative, which is funded by a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health."Often, when we think of breathing problems, we focus on the very young or the very old," Castro said. "The Lung Health Cohort Study provides an opportunity to research exposure risk within a young person's environment, so that all generations can benefit moving forward."<h2>Clinical trial for those with asthma</h2><figure>
 <img src="http://www.kumc.edu/Images/news/Castro,%20M%20Pulmonary%20Disease.jpg" alt="Mario Castro" />
 <figcaption>Mario Castro</figcaption>
 </figure>"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence."Locally, KU Medical Center is teaming up with Children's Mercy Kansas City for a clinical trial to be conducted by the ACRC. The trial, called "Improving&nbsp;Medication&nbsp;Adherence with&nbsp;Telehealthcare Medication Therapy Management to&nbsp;Change&nbsp;Health Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults with Asthma," goes by the acronym MATCH and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.Participants will include 300 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-30) who have a difficult time controlling their asthma.All participants in the clinical trial will receive sensors that attach to their corticosteroid inhalers and a software application for their smartphone or computer.When the medication is taken, the sensors relay information to the software so the clinical trial participant and the trial administrator can review it. With that data, both can see how well the participant is sticking to the medication plan.Some participants will get extra support to adhere to their medication plan. In addition to the sensors and software, these participants will have video consultations with a pharmacist trained in medication therapy management. These telehealth visits will offer the participant periodic feedback and encouragement.The clinical trial will measure which group has fewer asthma flare-ups. It also will figure out the cost-benefit analysis of the telehealth consultations."We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence," Castro said. "Being able to test that hypothesis as well as measure its costs - especially against the costs associated with an emergency-room visit or hospitalization - could provide insight into a new approach to this common chronic disease, especially in these days of the pandemic where telehealth provides definite advantages to patient care."<h2>About the ACRC expansion</h2>In April 2020, the number of member institutions within ACRC nearly doubled, from 22 sites to 39. Universities within the current KU Medical Center consortium hub include the university itself as well as:<ul>
 <li>Vanderbilt University</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Madison</li><li>Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina</li>
 </ul>"As our nation faces the COVID-19 public health crisis, this framework of the ACRC is needed today more than ever," ALA's Wimmer said.

KUMC selected for COVID-19, lung health research

UPDATED: The McPherson County Health Department on Saturday corrected the total number of new COVID-19 cases in the county. We have updated the information below.

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department Friday reported 27 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 455.

Of that total, 346 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, the health department noted. Two of the active cases are hospitalized.

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

• New cases since last public release: 27

• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 32

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

UPDATED: The McPherson County Health Department on Saturday corrected the total number of new COVID-19 cases in the county. We have updated the information below.MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department Friday reported 27 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 455.Of that total, 346 have met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, the health department noted. Two of the active cases are hospitalized.Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.• New cases since last public release: 27• Asymptomatic: 30• Cases with unknown exposure: 197• Cases 60 years old and above: 128• Cases 50-59 years old: 55• Cases 40-49 years old: 64• Cases 30-39 years old: 54• Cases 18-29 years old: 108• Cases under 18 years old: 46• Female cases: 239• Male cases: 216• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 32• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 5• Deaths: 7

UPDATE: McPherson County reports 27 new cases of COVID-19

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

The Health Department is investigating a public exposure to COVID-19 at Chuck’s Bar located at 600 N Santa Fe Avenue in Salina. Potential exposure would have occurred on the following dates: October 23rd, October 24th, October 26th, and October 29th. Anyone who visited Chucks during these times should monitor their health and watch for symptoms of COVID-19.

There are 44 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Wednesday, October 28. The total for the county is now 1,166, with 170 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 983 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have 5 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.

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

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 85,181 cases and 1,029 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604095962810.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 report for Friday.The Health Department is investigating a public exposure to COVID-19 at Chuck’s Bar located at 600 N Santa Fe Avenue in Salina. Potential exposure would have occurred on the following dates: October 23rd, October 24th, October 26th, and October 29th. Anyone who visited Chucks during these times should monitor their health and watch for symptoms of COVID-19.There are 44 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Wednesday, October 28. The total for the county is now 1,166, with 170 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 983 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have 5 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>●Desktop Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 85,181 cases and 1,029 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings●Avoid socializing with large groups●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County: Potential exposure at Chuck's Bar; 44 new COVID-19 cases

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

$65M approved for more COVID-19 testing in Kansas

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 3,369 to a total of 82,045 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1007, an increase of&nbsp; 31.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 3,369 to a total of 82,045 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1007, an increase of&nbsp; 31.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603905113410.png" alt="Wednesday Oct. 28, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Oct. 28, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

Two health
care residents and one non-direct care employee tested positive Tuesday morning
for COVID-19 following the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing and
resident testing for the virus. 

The residents are in isolation and the employee
is quarantined at home.

“Our top priority
continues to be the safety of our residents and staff members,” said Jeanne
Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s vice president for health and wellness and infection
preventionist.

The Salina campus is now conducting
routine employee surveillance testing for COVID-19. Surveillance testing
requires all employees, agency employees, volunteers, hospice, lab and therapy
providers at our campus to be tested for COVID-19 on a frequency determined by
our county’s COVID-19 testing positivity rate. Based on the Saline County rate,
the Salina campus is testing employees once a week. These positive cases were identified
through employee surveillance testing and resident testing conducted on Friday.

The Salina campus is in contact with the
Saline County Health Department and per their recommendation, will continue
its weekly testing and follow any other recommendations they provide.

The COVID positive residents will recover in
isolation and be cared for by designated staff. Salina Presbyterian Manor noted in a news release that it will follow CDC and KDHE
guidelines for when the residents may come out of isolation. Under the current
guidelines, symptomatic residents may leave isolation when at least 72
hours have passed since resolution of the resident’s fever without the use of
fever-reducing medications and the resident’s symptoms have improved and
at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic
positive residents will quarantine for 14 days. Designated staff members are
following doctor’s orders for treatment protocols and following CDC infection
prevention protocols.

The employee is
quarantining at home and will not be allowed to work until meeting CDC and
KDHE guidelines for when an employee may return to work. Under the current guidelines, symptomatic employees may return to
work when at least 72 hours have passed since resolution of the
employee’s fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and the
employee’s symptoms&nbsp; have improved and
at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic
positive employees will quarantine for 14 days. Upon the employee’s return to
work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and
restrictions.

Salina Presbyterian Manor noted in the news release that it encourages all staff members to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as
these are continually updated.&nbsp; Employees are screened as they enter the community building for a shift and
before employees have any direct contact with residents.&nbsp; Staff are educated to stay at home if they
are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well, the news release noted.

Two health
care residents and one non-direct care employee tested positive Tuesday morning
for COVID-19 following the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing and
resident testing for the virus. The residents are in isolation and the employee
is quarantined at home.“Our top priority
continues to be the safety of our residents and staff members,” said Jeanne
Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s vice president for health and wellness and infection
preventionist.The Salina campus is now conducting
routine employee surveillance testing for COVID-19. Surveillance testing
requires all employees, agency employees, volunteers, hospice, lab and therapy
providers at our campus to be tested for COVID-19 on a frequency determined by
our county’s COVID-19 testing positivity rate. Based on the Saline County rate,
the Salina campus is testing employees once a week. These positive cases were identified
through employee surveillance testing and resident testing conducted on Friday.The Salina campus is in contact with the
Saline County Health Department and per their recommendation, will continue
its weekly testing and follow any other recommendations they provide.The COVID positive residents will recover in
isolation and be cared for by designated staff. Salina Presbyterian Manor noted in a news release that it will follow CDC and KDHE
guidelines for when the residents may come out of isolation. Under the current
guidelines, symptomatic residents may leave isolation when at least 72
hours have passed since resolution of the resident’s fever without the use of
fever-reducing medications and the resident’s symptoms have improved and
at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic
positive residents will quarantine for 14 days. Designated staff members are
following doctor’s orders for treatment protocols and following CDC infection
prevention protocols.The employee is
quarantining at home and will not be allowed to work until meeting CDC and
KDHE guidelines for when an employee may return to work. Under the current guidelines, symptomatic employees may return to
work when at least 72 hours have passed since resolution of the
employee’s fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and the
employee’s symptoms&nbsp; have improved and
at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Asymptomatic
positive employees will quarantine for 14 days. Upon the employee’s return to
work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and
restrictions.Salina Presbyterian Manor noted in the news release that it encourages all staff members to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as
these are continually updated.&nbsp; Employees are screened as they enter the community building for a shift and
before employees have any direct contact with residents.&nbsp; Staff are educated to stay at home if they
are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well, the news release noted.

Residents, employee at Salina Presbyterian Manor test positive for COVID-19

WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicare will cover the yet-to-be approved coronavirus vaccine free for older people under a policy change expected to be announced shortly, a senior Trump administration official said Tuesday.

The coming announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aims to align the time-consuming process for securing Medicare coverage of a new vaccine, drug or treatment with the rapid campaign to have a coronavirus vaccine ready for initial distribution once it is ready, possibly as early as the end of the year.

It’s questionable under normal circumstances if Medicare can pay for a drug that receives emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, as expected for the eventual coronavirus vaccine. Emergency use designation is a step short of full approval.

The administration official said Medicare’s announcement will try to resolve several legal technicalities that could conceivably get in the way of delivering free vaccines to millions of seniors, a high-risk group for COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The official spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss a pending regulation.

President Donald Trump and lawmakers of both parties in Congress have spelled out their intention that all Americans will be able to get the vaccine for free. But the official said a series of potential legal obstacles that could get in the way of Medicare payment never got unscrambled.

Earlier this month, Medicare administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/seema-verma">Seema Verma</a>&nbsp;said her agency was close to resolving the issue.

“I think we’ve figured out a path forward,” Verma said at the HLTH conference, a forum for innovators. “It was very clear that Congress wants to make sure that Medicare beneficiaries have this vaccine and that there isn’t any cost-sharing.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3988cd848c818b3e7317df306b926cc">$1.8 trillion CARES Act</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress in March called for free vaccination for all Americans, from seniors covered by Medicare to families with employer-sponsored health insurance.

A White House-backed initiative called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/756e5b743058701c4a2ebefd0af1ade4">“Operation Warp Speed”</a>&nbsp;is pushing to have a vaccine ready for distribution in the coming months. The government is spending billions of dollars to manufacture vaccines even before they receive FDA approval, thereby cutting the timeline for delivery. Officials at the FDA have committed that the program will not interfere with their own science-based decisions. Vaccines that don’t meet the test for approval would be discarded.

States have already begun submitting their plans for vaccine distribution to the federal government.

Initially, it’s expected vaccines will go to people in high-risk groups such as medical personnel, frontline workers and nursing home residents and staff. Older people are also high on the priority list because their risks of serious illness and death from the coronavirus — which has&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html" target="_blank">killed more than 225,000 people</a>&nbsp;in the United States — are much higher. It could be well into next year before a vaccine is widely available.

Medicare’s impending announcement was first reported by Politico.

<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>WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicare will cover the yet-to-be approved coronavirus vaccine free for older people under a policy change expected to be announced shortly, a senior Trump administration official said Tuesday.The coming announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aims to align the time-consuming process for securing Medicare coverage of a new vaccine, drug or treatment with the rapid campaign to have a coronavirus vaccine ready for initial distribution once it is ready, possibly as early as the end of the year.It’s questionable under normal circumstances if Medicare can pay for a drug that receives emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, as expected for the eventual coronavirus vaccine. Emergency use designation is a step short of full approval.The administration official said Medicare’s announcement will try to resolve several legal technicalities that could conceivably get in the way of delivering free vaccines to millions of seniors, a high-risk group for COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The official spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss a pending regulation.President Donald Trump and lawmakers of both parties in Congress have spelled out their intention that all Americans will be able to get the vaccine for free. But the official said a series of potential legal obstacles that could get in the way of Medicare payment never got unscrambled.Earlier this month, Medicare administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/seema-verma">Seema Verma</a>&nbsp;said her agency was close to resolving the issue.“I think we’ve figured out a path forward,” Verma said at the HLTH conference, a forum for innovators. “It was very clear that Congress wants to make sure that Medicare beneficiaries have this vaccine and that there isn’t any cost-sharing.”“Stay tuned,” she added.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3988cd848c818b3e7317df306b926cc">$1.8 trillion CARES Act</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress in March called for free vaccination for all Americans, from seniors covered by Medicare to families with employer-sponsored health insurance.A White House-backed initiative called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/756e5b743058701c4a2ebefd0af1ade4">“Operation Warp Speed”</a>&nbsp;is pushing to have a vaccine ready for distribution in the coming months. The government is spending billions of dollars to manufacture vaccines even before they receive FDA approval, thereby cutting the timeline for delivery. Officials at the FDA have committed that the program will not interfere with their own science-based decisions. Vaccines that don’t meet the test for approval would be discarded.States have already begun submitting their plans for vaccine distribution to the federal government.Initially, it’s expected vaccines will go to people in high-risk groups such as medical personnel, frontline workers and nursing home residents and staff. Older people are also high on the priority list because their risks of serious illness and death from the coronavirus — which has&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html" target="_blank">killed more than 225,000 people</a>&nbsp;in the United States — are much higher. It could be well into next year before a vaccine is widely available.Medicare’s impending announcement was first reported by Politico.

Medicare finalizing coverage policy for coronavirus vaccine

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.

Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.

Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.

&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.

The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.

“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

Kansas City sees record number of virus deaths 

Salina Presbyterian Manor has temporarily suspended visitation due to COVID-19 concerns. 

Last week, the senior living facility reported that one non-direct care employee and one direct care employee tested positive Wednesday morning for COVID-19 during the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing for the virus. READ:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a6997830-3723-423c-a22f-a453cc052856"> UPDATE: Employees at Salina Presbyterian Manor test positive for COVID-19</a>

An announcement on its Facebook page this evening noted that, "At this time all visitation at Salina Presbyterian Manor is suspended per the Saline County Health Department. We hope to be offering visits again soon. Please contact the campus directly to discuss visitation status."

Salina Presbyterian Manor has temporarily suspended visitation due to COVID-19 concerns. Last week, the senior living facility reported that one non-direct care employee and one direct care employee tested positive Wednesday morning for COVID-19 during the campus’ routine employee surveillance testing for the virus. READ:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a6997830-3723-423c-a22f-a453cc052856"> UPDATE: Employees at Salina Presbyterian Manor test positive for COVID-19</a>An announcement on its Facebook page this evening noted that, "At this time all visitation at Salina Presbyterian Manor is suspended per the Saline County Health Department. We hope to be offering visits again soon. Please contact the campus directly to discuss visitation status."<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapresbyterianmanor%2Fposts%2F3232367210224756&show_text=true&width=552&height=418&appId" width="552" height="418" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Salina Presbyterian Manor temporarily suspends visitation

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 22 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 395.

Of that total, 327 cases have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, the department noted. Additionally, three of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department reported.

• New cases since last public release: 22

• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 31

MCPHERSON -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 22 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to 395.Of that total, 327 cases have either met Kansas Department of Health and Environment recovery guidelines or have died, the department noted. Additionally, three of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department reported.Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.• New cases since last public release: 22• Asymptomatic: 29• Cases with unknown exposure: 177• Cases 60 years old and above: 111• Cases 50-59 years old: 44• Cases 40-49 years old: 56• Cases 30-39 years old: 47• Cases 18-29 years old: 98• Cases under 18 years old: 39• Female cases: 210• Male cases: 185• Hospitalized cases (may not represent current hospitalizations): 31• Ventilated cases (may not represent current ventilated cases): 5• Deaths: 6

McPherson County reports 22 new cases of COVID-19

There are 24 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Friday, October 23. The total for the county is now 1,087, with 145 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 929 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have seven hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 78,676 cases and 976 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

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

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Monday.There are 24 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Friday, October 23. The total for the county is now 1,087, with 145 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 929 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have seven hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/yjPT1">https://arcg.is/yjPT1</a>●Desktop Users: <a href="https://arcg.is/1qHnb0">https://arcg.is/1qHnb0</a>According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 78,676 cases and 976 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings●Avoid socializing with large groups●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County reports 24 new COVID-19 cases; 929 of 1,087 recovered

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

There are 38 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Wednesday, October 21. The total for the county is now 1,063, with 181 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 869 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have nine hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.

●Mobile Device Users: https://arcg.is/yjPT1

●Desktop Users: https://arcg.is/1qHnb0

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 76,230 cases and 975 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.There are 38 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Wednesday, October 21. The total for the county is now 1,063, with 181 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 869 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reports that they have nine hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital; the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●Mobile Device Users: https://arcg.is/yjPT1●Desktop Users: https://arcg.is/1qHnb0According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 76,230 cases and 975 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings●Avoid socializing with large groups●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County reports 38 new COVID-19 cases; 869 of 1,063 recovered

WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.

The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.

Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.

The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.

“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.

The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.

Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.

Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.

So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603450089080.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.___

FDA approves the first drug for treating COVID-19

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.

For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.

The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.

The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.

It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.

The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.

An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.

The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.

In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.

“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.

The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.

The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591480312815.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.___

CDC redefines COVID-19 close contact, adds brief encounters

We were notified of a positive case from another county that had attended a horse sale at Farmers &amp; Ranchers located at 1500 Old 40 in Salina while symptomatic. This event was held on October 10th and 11th. If you were in attendance, you need to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19.

Since our last update, we were also notified of an additional death related to COVID-19. There are 19 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Wednesday, October 14. The total for the county is now 948, with 98 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 837 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 9 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 70,855 cases and 859 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

●The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation has created the Kansas Eviction Prevention Program.

This program is designed to decrease evictions and increase housing stability by assisting landlords and tenants experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID pandemic. See more information at <a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/eviction-preventionprogram/#:~:text=The%20Kansas%20Eviction%20Prevention%20Program,result%20of%20the%20COVID%20pandemic.&amp;text=Approved%20tenants%20are%20eligible%20for,to%20exceed%20%245%2C000%20per%20household">https://kshousingcorp.org/eviction-preventionprogram/#:~:text=The%20Kansas%20Eviction%20Prevention%20Program,result%20of%20the%20COVID%20pandemic.&amp;text=Approved%20tenants%20are%20eligible%20for,to%20exceed%20%245%2C000%20per%20household.</a>

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602888369077.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Friday.We were notified of a positive case from another county that had attended a horse sale at Farmers &amp; Ranchers located at 1500 Old 40 in Salina while symptomatic. This event was held on October 10th and 11th. If you were in attendance, you need to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19.Since our last update, we were also notified of an additional death related to COVID-19. There are 19 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Wednesday, October 14. The total for the county is now 948, with 98 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 837 that have recovered, and a total of 13 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 9 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized.According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 70,855 cases and 859 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Announcements:●The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation has created the Kansas Eviction Prevention Program.This program is designed to decrease evictions and increase housing stability by assisting landlords and tenants experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID pandemic. See more information at <a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/eviction-preventionprogram/#:~:text=The%20Kansas%20Eviction%20Prevention%20Program,result%20of%20the%20COVID%20pandemic.&amp;text=Approved%20tenants%20are%20eligible%20for,to%20exceed%20%245%2C000%20per%20household">https://kshousingcorp.org/eviction-preventionprogram/#:~:text=The%20Kansas%20Eviction%20Prevention%20Program,result%20of%20the%20COVID%20pandemic.&amp;text=Approved%20tenants%20are%20eligible%20for,to%20exceed%20%245%2C000%20per%20household.</a>Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings●Avoid socializing with large groups●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County: Symptomatic person went to local sale barn; another death

Salina USD 305 added to its COVID-19 report this week.

One positive test at South High School October 14

One positive test at Central High School October 13

One positive test at Lakewood Middle School October 13, 2020

One positive test at South High School October 13

One positive test at Heartland Early Education October 13

Since the district began posting confirmed cases on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd305.com/covid-19_incidents">COVID-19 INCIDENTS</a>&nbsp;webpage on Sept. 3, 44 cases have been reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Salina USD 305 added to its COVID-19 report this week.The following new cases were added.One positive test at South High School October 14One positive test at Central High School October 13One positive test at Lakewood Middle School October 13, 2020One positive test at South High School October 13One positive test at Heartland Early Education October 13One positive test at South High School October 13Since the district began posting confirmed cases on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd305.com/covid-19_incidents">COVID-19 INCIDENTS</a>&nbsp;webpage on Sept. 3, 44 cases have been reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 305 adds to its COVID-19 incidents report

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/14/hospital-staffing-and-capacity-a-concern-for-kansas-communities-as-covid-19-multiplies/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Concerns are 
growing about adequate staffing levels and bed capacity at Kansas 
hospitals and nursing homes strained by rising COVID-19 cases.

Hospitals in southeast Kansas already are struggling with capacity issues. <a href="https://www.morningsun.net/news/20201013/county-health-officials-consider-policy-changes-as-area-hospitals-reach-capacity">Ascension Via Christi Hospital announced this week</a>
 it would implement its surge plan and cease all elective surgeries 
because of a spike in cases in Crawford and Bourbon counties.

Kansas Department of 
Health and Environment secretary Lee Norman said Tuesday most hospitals 
he has spoken with are staying ahead of the virus. He said as case 
numbers rise in a community, however, so will the strain on hospital 
staff.

“Staffing challenges will 
be the first thing that we notice as numbers get worse,” Norman said. 
“It’s not because the people are out with an illness or in quarantine. 
It’s just because there are only so many critical care practitioners — 
whether they are doctors, nurses or therapists — to go around.”

As flu season begins, 
Norman emphasized the need to keep community COVID-19 case numbers low 
and, in effect, keep all areas of the hospital operating at full 
capacity.

Norman said he has 
discussed surge capacity plans and the possibility of strain on staffing
 levels during conversations this week with hospitals and nursing homes 
across the state.

Physical inventory, such 
as dialysis machines and ventilators, is strong statewide, Norman said, 
and he expects hospitals to remain well-stocked. But he is advising a 
cautious approach to potential staffing shortfalls.

“We have to do whatever we
 can to push it down,” Norman said. “I think we might get pinched, which
 is an excellent reason, I think, to bolster up and strengthen the 
anti-contagion practices in every county, city and town.”

KDHE on Wednesday reported
 an increase in of 1,293 cases of COVID-19 since Monday, and a two-day 
increase of 67 deaths. That brings state totals to 69,155 cases and 838 
deaths since the pandemic began in early March.

Kansas remains in the red zone for total cases per 100,000 people compared to the United States as a whole.

Norman said there is 
mounting evidence people could face re-infection with different strains 
of the virus. A woman in the Netherlands died this week after 
reinfection with COVID-19, although she was also fighting a rare form of
 cancer at the same time.

Nonfatal reinfections also has been reported in Hong Kong, Belgium and Nevada.

Norman said these reports 
contrast with the belief many hold that those who are infected are no 
longer at risk of contracting it again.

“We don’t know for sure if
 an immunity to the first time you had it, if it is a slightly different
 virus, will provide immunity the next time you are exposed,” Norman 
said. “Which means as a person that had it before, can they act like 
they won’t get it again? We don’t know the answer to that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602783801990.png" alt="Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary Lee Norman said capacity issues in southeast Kansas should serve as a wake-up call as concerns grow over rising COVID-19 case numbers and their strain on hospital staffing levels. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary Lee Norman said capacity issues in southeast Kansas should serve as a wake-up call as concerns grow over rising COVID-19 case numbers and their strain on hospital staffing levels. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/14/hospital-staffing-and-capacity-a-concern-for-kansas-communities-as-covid-19-multiplies/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Concerns are 
growing about adequate staffing levels and bed capacity at Kansas 
hospitals and nursing homes strained by rising COVID-19 cases.Hospitals in southeast Kansas already are struggling with capacity issues. <a href="https://www.morningsun.net/news/20201013/county-health-officials-consider-policy-changes-as-area-hospitals-reach-capacity">Ascension Via Christi Hospital announced this week</a>
 it would implement its surge plan and cease all elective surgeries 
because of a spike in cases in Crawford and Bourbon counties.Kansas Department of 
Health and Environment secretary Lee Norman said Tuesday most hospitals 
he has spoken with are staying ahead of the virus. He said as case 
numbers rise in a community, however, so will the strain on hospital 
staff.“Staffing challenges will 
be the first thing that we notice as numbers get worse,” Norman said. 
“It’s not because the people are out with an illness or in quarantine. 
It’s just because there are only so many critical care practitioners — 
whether they are doctors, nurses or therapists — to go around.”As flu season begins, 
Norman emphasized the need to keep community COVID-19 case numbers low 
and, in effect, keep all areas of the hospital operating at full 
capacity.Norman said he has 
discussed surge capacity plans and the possibility of strain on staffing
 levels during conversations this week with hospitals and nursing homes 
across the state.Physical inventory, such 
as dialysis machines and ventilators, is strong statewide, Norman said, 
and he expects hospitals to remain well-stocked. But he is advising a 
cautious approach to potential staffing shortfalls.“We have to do whatever we
 can to push it down,” Norman said. “I think we might get pinched, which
 is an excellent reason, I think, to bolster up and strengthen the 
anti-contagion practices in every county, city and town.”KDHE on Wednesday reported
 an increase in of 1,293 cases of COVID-19 since Monday, and a two-day 
increase of 67 deaths. That brings state totals to 69,155 cases and 838 
deaths since the pandemic began in early March.Kansas remains in the red zone for total cases per 100,000 people compared to the United States as a whole.Norman said there is 
mounting evidence people could face re-infection with different strains 
of the virus. A woman in the Netherlands died this week after 
reinfection with COVID-19, although she was also fighting a rare form of
 cancer at the same time.Nonfatal reinfections also has been reported in Hong Kong, Belgium and Nevada.Norman said these reports 
contrast with the belief many hold that those who are infected are no 
longer at risk of contracting it again.“We don’t know for sure if
 an immunity to the first time you had it, if it is a slightly different
 virus, will provide immunity the next time you are exposed,” Norman 
said. “Which means as a person that had it before, can they act like 
they won’t get it again? We don’t know the answer to that.”

Hospital staffing, capacity a concern for Kan. communities as COVID-19 multiplies

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

There are 24 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Monday, October 12. The total for the county is now 929, with 105 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 812 that have recovered, and a total of 12 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 9 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized. Our virtual dashboard was unable to be updated today due to the annual flu clinic.

The annual community flu clinic is occurring today, October 14th until 6 pm. This is a drive-thru clinic only at the 4-H Building located at 900 Greeley Ave.

According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 69,155 cases and 838 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.

●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602714303563.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.There are 24 new positive COVID-19 cases in Saline County to report since the last update on Monday, October 12. The total for the county is now 929, with 105 cases that are actively being monitored by the Health Department, 812 that have recovered, and a total of 12 deaths. Salina Regional Health Center reporting that they have 9 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Salina Regional is a regional hospital, the COVID-19 patient total is not specific to the number of Saline County residents who may be hospitalized. Our virtual dashboard was unable to be updated today due to the annual flu clinic.The annual community flu clinic is occurring today, October 14th until 6 pm. This is a drive-thru clinic only at the 4-H Building located at 900 Greeley Ave.According to the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment, there are now 69,155 cases and 838 deaths statewide. This information can be found at <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/">https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/</a>.Here is what you can do to help us to stop the spread:●Stay home if you have any symptoms or are ill●Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution●Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings●Avoid socializing with large groups●High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs●Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Coronavirus Update