WICHITA —Sedgwick County officials announced recommendations related to public gatherings in light of the COVID-19 pandemic during a news conference Friday morning in Wichita.

"Until further notice, there is a ban on public gatherings of more than 250 attendees in Sedgwick County," said Local Health Officer Garold Minns, M.D.&nbsp;

"Under state statute, the local health officer has the authority to cancel public events when there is a broad public health concern."

Watch the news <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI4EhXdTqz8">conference here.</a>

"As we continue to learn more about Coronavirus, we will revisit these recommendations and adjust as necessary."

For more information on the virus go to the<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf"> KDHE web site.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584117475311.png" alt="County Commissioner Pete Meitzner, Local Health Officer Garold Minns, MD.&nbsp; who is also the Dean of the KU School of Medicine in Wichita and Sedgwick County Health Director Adrienne Byrne during Friday's news conference-photo courtesy Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>County Commissioner Pete Meitzner, Local Health Officer Garold Minns, MD.&nbsp; who is also the Dean of the KU School of Medicine in Wichita and Sedgwick County Health Director Adrienne Byrne during Friday's news conference-photo courtesy Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Sedgwick County officials announced recommendations related to public gatherings in light of the COVID-19 pandemic during a news conference Friday morning in Wichita."Until further notice, there is a ban on public gatherings of more than 250 attendees in Sedgwick County," said Local Health Officer Garold Minns, M.D.&nbsp;"Under state statute, the local health officer has the authority to cancel public events when there is a broad public health concern."Watch the news <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI4EhXdTqz8">conference here.</a>"As we continue to learn more about Coronavirus, we will revisit these recommendations and adjust as necessary."For more information on the virus go to the<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf"> KDHE web site.</a>

Coronavirus: Sedgwick County bans public gatherings over 250 people

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is announcing a sixth case of COVID-19 in Kansas. 

According to a media release, the presumptive positive case was identified with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories (KHEL). These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as a positive unless determined otherwise.

The case is in a Butler County man in his 70s who had travel outside the U.S. KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patient is in isolation. No other information will be provided about the patient.

“Kansans should remain vigilant,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary said. “It’s important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”

People should exercise vigilance when attending large public gatherings, particularly those people over age 60 and those with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions. There are mass events guidance documents from the Centers from Disease Control available on KDHE’s <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/">website.</a>

If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.

You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584111668151.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is announcing a sixth case of COVID-19 in Kansas. According to a media release, the presumptive positive case was identified with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories (KHEL). These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as a positive unless determined otherwise.The case is in a Butler County man in his 70s who had travel outside the U.S. KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patient is in isolation. No other information will be provided about the patient.“Kansans should remain vigilant,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary said. “It’s important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”People should exercise vigilance when attending large public gatherings, particularly those people over age 60 and those with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions. There are mass events guidance documents from the Centers from Disease Control available on KDHE’s <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/">website.</a>If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Kansas finds 1st coronavirus case outside Kansas City metro

During a Thursday evening news conference, Governor Laura Kelly reported that Kansas has the first death due to coronavirus.

The victim was a man in his 70s from Wyandotte County.

Governor Laura Kelly has also issued an emergency declaration for the State of Kansas in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus).&nbsp; The declaration authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria.

"The safety and well-being of Kansans is our priority, first and foremost," Kelly said. "The landscape of COVID-19 is fast-changing. Today is evidence of that."

Tonight, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced the first COVID-19 related death in Kansas. A man in his 70s was brought to the hospital and died shortly after arrival. Testing done post-mortem came back positive for COVID-19. He was living in a long-term care facility in Wyandotte County.

"We are working on identifying contacts right now," Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. "We understand the concern and encourage Kansans to remain vigilant."

"To prevent the spread of COVID-19 to our most vulnerable population, it's important to follow the recommended guidelines of screening and restricting visitors to our long-term care facilities," Department for Children and Families and Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard said.&nbsp;

The Governor issued the emergency declaration Thursday afternoon. &nbsp;

"Our state is well prepared," Kelly said. "With this emergency declaration we can activate our response and coordinate fully. This is part of the process and will make access to important resources more accessible. We continue to work closely with our local, state and federal partners to respond to the potential spread of the virus - or any situation that may arise."

COVID-19 can be found at the following sources:

You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE's website and Frequently Asked Questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=3u0ejmwwe6q32%2FMk1f1hi2CpVhRMT1RCrMQUZEQ5VOk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=ykRqpB1cCOCWVqlTcEU4NWYLXl6%2BwvCuIZJi0VAHgro%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas health officials say they have identified three new cases of the coronavirus, making four cases in the state. Mary Beverly, the interim director of the Johnson County Health Department, says the cases are three men between the ages of 35 and 65 who all attended a conference in Florida. 

Beverly says the men did not have symptoms until after they returned from the conference and they are not seriously ill. The announcement comes after the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Emporia State University joined colleges across the country in shifting classes online to mitigate the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is confirming three presumptive-positive cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. The possible cases were identified with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories (KHEL). KHEL, which is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to perform COVID-19 testing, found presumptive-positive results. These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as a positive unless determined otherwise.

The cases are in Johnson County and involve three people who attended the same conference in Florida. It is believed they contracted COVID-19 in Florida.&nbsp; They were not symptomatic when traveling home and sought care once they began feeling ill. KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patients are all males and in isolation. These cases are not connected to the earlier case in Johnson County. No other information will be provided about the patients.

“Right now, there is no community spread,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “The cases in Kansas are here because of transmission elsewhere. However, Kansans should remain vigilant. It’s important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”

“Kansas is working alongside local and federal public health partners in addressing presumptive positive cases in our state, and the potential spread of the virus,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “It is our highest priority to keep all Kansans healthy and safe. Everyone should continue to practice safe habits such as hand washing and staying home when sick. The KDHE website, www.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fkdheks.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477178260&amp;sdata=3ZsIvAC9n9u%2FdowCO%2FQmie2VBJ0U6uMWZFKkqkDiw2k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kdheks.gov</a>, has daily updates and other resources to keep Kansans educated on COVID-19."

People should exercise vigilance when attending large public gatherings, particularly those people over age 60 and those with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions. There are mass events guidance documents from the Centers from Disease Control available on KDHE’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477188217&amp;sdata=V5ag3QGvNXe5jpJ2ghFTJeaOx%2BYIdAqqRd%2Bi4jpiSrY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>.

You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/ and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

During a Thursday evening news conference, Governor Laura Kelly reported that Kansas has the first death due to coronavirus.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F529643674624712%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The victim was a man in his 70s from Wyandotte County.Governor Laura Kelly has also issued an emergency declaration for the State of Kansas in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus).&nbsp; The declaration authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria."The safety and well-being of Kansans is our priority, first and foremost," Kelly said. "The landscape of COVID-19 is fast-changing. Today is evidence of that."Tonight, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced the first COVID-19 related death in Kansas. A man in his 70s was brought to the hospital and died shortly after arrival. Testing done post-mortem came back positive for COVID-19. He was living in a long-term care facility in Wyandotte County."We are working on identifying contacts right now," Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. "We understand the concern and encourage Kansans to remain vigilant.""To prevent the spread of COVID-19 to our most vulnerable population, it's important to follow the recommended guidelines of screening and restricting visitors to our long-term care facilities," Department for Children and Families and Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard said.&nbsp;The Governor issued the emergency declaration Thursday afternoon. &nbsp;"Our state is well prepared," Kelly said. "With this emergency declaration we can activate our response and coordinate fully. This is part of the process and will make access to important resources more accessible. We continue to work closely with our local, state and federal partners to respond to the potential spread of the virus - or any situation that may arise."COVID-19 can be found at the following sources:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Findex.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891596507&amp;sdata=80eCy5q8uxHf%2Fjc3lC8iNJEoqGtWCDaC0N%2F8PpldB08%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891606463&amp;sdata=2bh6QxhCkh9jOxgHw8bJiF9cFqHiYVnnY1M7abCB8IA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Center for Disease Control and Prevention</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.who.int%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891606463&amp;sdata=IVwTAAwt0Clz6a9wJiKtyC0GDBlS0LTIHY0tNBYlrTY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a></li>
 </ol>If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE's website and Frequently Asked Questions at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=3u0ejmwwe6q32%2FMk1f1hi2CpVhRMT1RCrMQUZEQ5VOk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbd113646320f48a2a58208d7c6e65640%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196564891616409&amp;sdata=ykRqpB1cCOCWVqlTcEU4NWYLXl6%2BwvCuIZJi0VAHgro%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas health officials say they have identified three new cases of the coronavirus, making four cases in the state. Mary Beverly, the interim director of the Johnson County Health Department, says the cases are three men between the ages of 35 and 65 who all attended a conference in Florida. Beverly says the men did not have symptoms until after they returned from the conference and they are not seriously ill. The announcement comes after the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Emporia State University joined colleges across the country in shifting classes online to mitigate the spread of the virus.&nbsp;-------------The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is confirming three presumptive-positive cases of COVID-19 in Kansas. The possible cases were identified with testing sent to KDHE’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories (KHEL). KHEL, which is approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to perform COVID-19 testing, found presumptive-positive results. These results will be verified by the CDC lab but will be treated as a positive unless determined otherwise.The cases are in Johnson County and involve three people who attended the same conference in Florida. It is believed they contracted COVID-19 in Florida.&nbsp; They were not symptomatic when traveling home and sought care once they began feeling ill. KDHE continues to work with the local health department and CDC to identify and contact people who may have come into contact with the individual while they were infectious and will monitor them for fever and respiratory symptoms. The patients are all males and in isolation. These cases are not connected to the earlier case in Johnson County. No other information will be provided about the patients.“Right now, there is no community spread,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “The cases in Kansas are here because of transmission elsewhere. However, Kansans should remain vigilant. It’s important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”“Kansas is working alongside local and federal public health partners in addressing presumptive positive cases in our state, and the potential spread of the virus,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “It is our highest priority to keep all Kansans healthy and safe. Everyone should continue to practice safe habits such as hand washing and staying home when sick. The KDHE website, www.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fkdheks.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477178260&amp;sdata=3ZsIvAC9n9u%2FdowCO%2FQmie2VBJ0U6uMWZFKkqkDiw2k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">kdheks.gov</a>, has daily updates and other resources to keep Kansans educated on COVID-19."People should exercise vigilance when attending large public gatherings, particularly those people over age 60 and those with weakened immune systems or chronic medical conditions. There are mass events guidance documents from the Centers from Disease Control available on KDHE’s website,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C4603af32acc04fd7b8d908d7c6a41d4d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637196280477188217&amp;sdata=V5ag3QGvNXe5jpJ2ghFTJeaOx%2BYIdAqqRd%2Bi4jpiSrY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>.If you have symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and believe you may have had contact or have had contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.You may also call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) today Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions at www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/ and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

🎥 Kan. reports 1st coronavirus death; governor declares emergency

United Airlines has responded to the coronavirus global pandemic with stepped up safety precautions to ensure travel has a minimal impact on health, as well as changes to provide customers flexibility at this time.

“The health scare, related to the COVID-19 virus,&nbsp;could worry people about boarding a plane,” said Gary Foss, managing partner of the ArkStar Group, air service consultant to Salina, “but United is moving to calm concerns about air travel.”

Safety is the top priority for all flights, including the daily treks from Salina to Chicago O’Hare and Denver International airports, according to a United Airlines release:

Among in-flight service changes will be fresh, clean glasses for every drink refill; customers may see flight attendants wearing gloves; and of course, all tableware, dishes, cutlery, carts and glassware are washed and sanitized after each use.

Flight attendants will hand food to travelers rather than travelers making their own food selections from a tray.

Extra cleaning supplies — gloves and masks — for flight crews, are being used to and from higher alert zones, as identified by the CDC.

To encourage travel, airlines have lowered many fares, some drastically.

“I can certainly see where people will be looking to stay closer to home this summer, particularly given restrictions on flights to Europe, Asia and elsewhere,” Foss said. “And they will be looking for a deal.”

On the list of top destinations from Salina, some roundtrip fares are significantly lower, among them:

Salina to Seattle dropping as low as $171, from $404 to $233.

Salina to Salt Lake City, cut as much as $62, from $433 to $371.

Salina to Puerto Vallarta, down $71, from $708 to $637.

Salina to Houston, trimmed to as low as $25, from $286 to $261.

Salina to Cabo San Lucas in Baja, Calif., down as much was as $24, from $509 to $485.

Salina to Phoenix has dropped as much as $22, from $385 to $363.

Check&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0013oSfc6d-jib0EdxdzcGGdzpQ6umO2yJJO-meRVFUWEAVDt3MKZ2k-76MSamsUbaHCd-MTteROwzWIbwlkNJWPXyHm5LxJlOemnb6bfvj_Rhaudzrxw-pSq9Ot_KEDwGND8tq3XbsflSSYZX8JOP0etS4P9pa6PWP&amp;c=9GDVdfOd1sIn0h1rSN3YXPjEnMQ717TXphEaF_3ndj6tXjaecBVFOQ==&amp;ch=q4BJYNM5uA-d9u_lNd8lcQWO00iEtspsnteJpuTNoAev_Qygp7lnlA==" target="_blank">united.com</a>&nbsp;for changes in fares and other adjustments.

While no changes to United’s schedule at Salina have been announced or are expected, United’s April 2020 flight schedule has other changes elsewhere to match the current state of global travel, such as a 10 percent reduction on domestic flights and 20 percent in international service reductions, including suspending service to Shanghai, Chengdu, Beijing, and Hong Kong in China.

Domestically, flight frequencies from many destinations are being reduced by Day of Week and some travelers are being routed over other United hubs to their final destinations. Additionally, some seasonal market launches are being delayed.

No markets will be canceled in their entirety, according to United’s announcement.

To help travelers’ confidence during these uncertain times, United is waiving change fees and giving travelers more flexibility:

The change fee waiver policy applies to all tickets, all fare types, all destinations, all points-of-sale, and all travel dates available for sale.

For tickets affected by schedule changes, travelers can use the ticket’s value for up to 15 months, up from the original priced of 12 months for them to remain valid.

By SALINA AIRPORT AUTHORITYUnited Airlines has responded to the coronavirus global pandemic with stepped up safety precautions to ensure travel has a minimal impact on health, as well as changes to provide customers flexibility at this time.“The health scare, related to the COVID-19 virus,&nbsp;could worry people about boarding a plane,” said Gary Foss, managing partner of the ArkStar Group, air service consultant to Salina, “but United is moving to calm concerns about air travel.”Safety is the top priority for all flights, including the daily treks from Salina to Chicago O’Hare and Denver International airports, according to a United Airlines release:<ol>
 <li>All touchable surfaces on United aircraft are cleaned with high-grade disinfectants between flights.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>When the Federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) alerts the airline that a potentially infected passenger has been on one of its flights, the plane is taken out of service for decontamination procedures.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>United uses state-of-the-art air circulation systems similar to those found in hospitals, equipped with high efficiency (HEPA) filters that remove up to 99.7 percent of onboard airborne particles.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>The airline plans to start using electrostatic foggers to disinfect the air within the cabin on all international arrivals into all of United’s U.S. hubs, including Honolulu and Guam.</li>
 </ol>Among in-flight service changes will be fresh, clean glasses for every drink refill; customers may see flight attendants wearing gloves; and of course, all tableware, dishes, cutlery, carts and glassware are washed and sanitized after each use.Flight attendants will hand food to travelers rather than travelers making their own food selections from a tray.Extra cleaning supplies — gloves and masks — for flight crews, are being used to and from higher alert zones, as identified by the CDC.To encourage travel, airlines have lowered many fares, some drastically.“I can certainly see where people will be looking to stay closer to home this summer, particularly given restrictions on flights to Europe, Asia and elsewhere,” Foss said. “And they will be looking for a deal.”On the list of top destinations from Salina, some roundtrip fares are significantly lower, among them:Salina to Seattle dropping as low as $171, from $404 to $233.Salina to Salt Lake City, cut as much as $62, from $433 to $371.Salina to Puerto Vallarta, down $71, from $708 to $637.Salina to Houston, trimmed to as low as $25, from $286 to $261.Salina to Cabo San Lucas in Baja, Calif., down as much was as $24, from $509 to $485.Salina to Phoenix has dropped as much as $22, from $385 to $363.Check&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0013oSfc6d-jib0EdxdzcGGdzpQ6umO2yJJO-meRVFUWEAVDt3MKZ2k-76MSamsUbaHCd-MTteROwzWIbwlkNJWPXyHm5LxJlOemnb6bfvj_Rhaudzrxw-pSq9Ot_KEDwGND8tq3XbsflSSYZX8JOP0etS4P9pa6PWP&amp;c=9GDVdfOd1sIn0h1rSN3YXPjEnMQ717TXphEaF_3ndj6tXjaecBVFOQ==&amp;ch=q4BJYNM5uA-d9u_lNd8lcQWO00iEtspsnteJpuTNoAev_Qygp7lnlA==" target="_blank">united.com</a>&nbsp;for changes in fares and other adjustments.While no changes to United’s schedule at Salina have been announced or are expected, United’s April 2020 flight schedule has other changes elsewhere to match the current state of global travel, such as a 10 percent reduction on domestic flights and 20 percent in international service reductions, including suspending service to Shanghai, Chengdu, Beijing, and Hong Kong in China.Domestically, flight frequencies from many destinations are being reduced by Day of Week and some travelers are being routed over other United hubs to their final destinations. Additionally, some seasonal market launches are being delayed.No markets will be canceled in their entirety, according to United’s announcement.To help travelers’ confidence during these uncertain times, United is waiving change fees and giving travelers more flexibility:The change fee waiver policy applies to all tickets, all fare types, all destinations, all points-of-sale, and all travel dates available for sale.For tickets affected by schedule changes, travelers can use the ticket’s value for up to 15 months, up from the original priced of 12 months for them to remain valid.

United aims for continued safe travel from Salina

UPDATE 8:45 p.m. Thursday:&nbsp;According to the Kansas High School Activities Association&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kshsaa.org/">website</a>, "After the conclusion of the quarterfinal round, the 2020 KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament will be canceled. Given the escalating concerns regarding COVID-19, the best decision for the safety of the student-athletes and spectators was to cancel the remainder of this championship tournament. The KSHSAA regrets the lost opportunity for teams and players that have worked to achieve their goals."

Currently all tournament sites are proceeding as scheduled with fans. We encourage everyone attending a state basketball tournament to continue to take the proper precautions in preventing illness transmission including proper and frequent hand washing with soap or sanitizer, covering the face when coughing or sneezing and keeping your hands away from your face. Anyone who is feeling sick or suffers from a significant health issue should stay home.

KSHSAA is continuing to monitor the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas State Department of Education regarding the rapidly evolving coronavirus situation.

All state basketball tournament sites are working diligently and taking additional precautions to provide the safest possible environment for the teams, fans and workers. We will continue to monitor new information from our public health organizations as it becomes available and make any changes to the state basketball tournaments if needed. Any updates will be provided at www.kshsaa.org and through Twitter (@KSHSAA).

<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a>

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC Coronavirus Information</a>

UPDATE 8:45 p.m. Thursday:&nbsp;According to the Kansas High School Activities Association&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kshsaa.org/">website</a>, "After the conclusion of the quarterfinal round, the 2020 KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament will be canceled. Given the escalating concerns regarding COVID-19, the best decision for the safety of the student-athletes and spectators was to cancel the remainder of this championship tournament. The KSHSAA regrets the lost opportunity for teams and players that have worked to achieve their goals."KSHSAACurrently all tournament sites are proceeding as scheduled with fans. We encourage everyone attending a state basketball tournament to continue to take the proper precautions in preventing illness transmission including proper and frequent hand washing with soap or sanitizer, covering the face when coughing or sneezing and keeping your hands away from your face. Anyone who is feeling sick or suffers from a significant health issue should stay home.KSHSAA is continuing to monitor the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas State Department of Education regarding the rapidly evolving coronavirus situation.All state basketball tournament sites are working diligently and taking additional precautions to provide the safest possible environment for the teams, fans and workers. We will continue to monitor new information from our public health organizations as it becomes available and make any changes to the state basketball tournaments if needed. Any updates will be provided at www.kshsaa.org and through Twitter (@KSHSAA).Additional Resources:<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC Coronavirus Information</a>

UPDATE: Kansas cancels state basketball tournaments

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– A statement from the Kansas City Royals concerning Major League Baseball's decision to delay the start of the regular season:

The Kansas City Royals are fully supportive of Major League Baseball’s decision to delay the start of the 2020 season.&nbsp; The health and comfort of our players, staff, fans and partners are top priority for the organization.

The Royals are working&nbsp;on ticket policies for the games that were scheduled during the first homestand (April 2-8).&nbsp; The Club will communicate more information in the next several days.&nbsp; The Royals will continue to monitor the situation through Major League Baseball, which is in direct contact daily with the Centers for Disease Control.

--<a href="http://royals.com">ROYALS</a>--

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;– A statement from the Kansas City Royals concerning Major League Baseball's decision to delay the start of the regular season:The Kansas City Royals are fully supportive of Major League Baseball’s decision to delay the start of the 2020 season.&nbsp; The health and comfort of our players, staff, fans and partners are top priority for the organization.The Royals are working&nbsp;on ticket policies for the games that were scheduled during the first homestand (April 2-8).&nbsp; The Club will communicate more information in the next several days.&nbsp; The Royals will continue to monitor the situation through Major League Baseball, which is in direct contact daily with the Centers for Disease Control.--<a href="http://royals.com">ROYALS</a>--

Royals issue statement concerning delay of season

CONCORDIA -- Based on the latest developments and the continued spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19, the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference, with support from the conference President's Council, announces the cancellation of all regular-season competition for all teams, effective Friday through April 1.&nbsp;

This time will allow everyone to assess the current situation and plan accordingly.&nbsp; Member colleges and the media will be kept updated through this time as we navigate through this.

During the suspension of athletic competitions, practices will still be allowed for now and in accordance with each respective member's institutional policies.

For a complete statement from the KJCCC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/admin/tinymce4/www.kjccc.org" target="_blank">www.kjccc.org</a>

Cloud County Community College’s leadership and members of its Emergency Management team are constantly evaluating the spread of the virus around the globe and in the United States. The team, working in conjunction with guidelines established by federal, state and local health agencies is charged with ensuring that Cloud’s emergency preparedness plans are up-to-date should the virus reach this area.

“The situation is evolving, and being monitored daily,” said Dr. Adrian Douglas, president of Cloud County. “At this time, there are no immediate threats or cause for alarm. Classes will resume as normal after the spring break holiday on Monday, March 16.”

This is a fluid situation and each Kansas community college has a plan which includes precautions they will be taking with their students, faculty, visitors, and staff, according to Heather Morgan, KACCT executive director.

“Be assured that the situation is being continuously monitored and operations will be adjusted if the situation worsens,” Morgan said. “Student success and safety is in the forefront of each college’s plan. Each college takes the situation seriously, institutes good health practices, implements restrictions to protect health and safety, and continues to monitor the evolving situation.&nbsp;

“The best course of action for students and parents is to remain informed of the evolving situation, follow each college’s social media stream and website, and remain calm and focused on the successful completion of the semester.&nbsp;Additional information will be released as the situation develops.”

--<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a>--

CONCORDIA -- Based on the latest developments and the continued spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19, the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference, with support from the conference President's Council, announces the cancellation of all regular-season competition for all teams, effective Friday through April 1.&nbsp;This time will allow everyone to assess the current situation and plan accordingly.&nbsp; Member colleges and the media will be kept updated through this time as we navigate through this.During the suspension of athletic competitions, practices will still be allowed for now and in accordance with each respective member's institutional policies.For a complete statement from the KJCCC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/admin/tinymce4/www.kjccc.org" target="_blank">www.kjccc.org</a>Cloud County Community College’s leadership and members of its Emergency Management team are constantly evaluating the spread of the virus around the globe and in the United States. The team, working in conjunction with guidelines established by federal, state and local health agencies is charged with ensuring that Cloud’s emergency preparedness plans are up-to-date should the virus reach this area.“The situation is evolving, and being monitored daily,” said Dr. Adrian Douglas, president of Cloud County. “At this time, there are no immediate threats or cause for alarm. Classes will resume as normal after the spring break holiday on Monday, March 16.”This is a fluid situation and each Kansas community college has a plan which includes precautions they will be taking with their students, faculty, visitors, and staff, according to Heather Morgan, KACCT executive director.“Be assured that the situation is being continuously monitored and operations will be adjusted if the situation worsens,” Morgan said. “Student success and safety is in the forefront of each college’s plan. Each college takes the situation seriously, institutes good health practices, implements restrictions to protect health and safety, and continues to monitor the evolving situation.&nbsp;“The best course of action for students and parents is to remain informed of the evolving situation, follow each college’s social media stream and website, and remain calm and focused on the successful completion of the semester.&nbsp;Additional information will be released as the situation develops.”--<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a>--

KJCCC to cancel athletic contests through April 1

NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball is delaying the start of its season by at least two weeks because of the coronavirus outbreak. 

Opening day had been scheduled for March 26. 

MLB also has suspended the rest of its spring training game schedule. MLB had continued to play into Thursday but changed course after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he strongly recommended to local authorities and organizers that they limit all mass gatherings. 

The March 26 start had been baseball's earliest scheduled opening other than for international games. MLB had not had a mass postponement of openers since 1995, when the season was shortened from 162 games to 144 after a strike.

NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball is delaying the start of its season by at least two weeks because of the coronavirus outbreak. Opening day had been scheduled for March 26. MLB also has suspended the rest of its spring training game schedule. MLB had continued to play into Thursday but changed course after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he strongly recommended to local authorities and organizers that they limit all mass gatherings. The March 26 start had been baseball's earliest scheduled opening other than for international games. MLB had not had a mass postponement of openers since 1995, when the season was shortened from 162 games to 144 after a strike.

MLB delays opening day at least 2 weeks because of virus

CLAY CENTER -- Clay County Medical Center (CCMC) is taking an active
approach to the coronavirus outbreak. 

While there are no known cases in Clay County,
the hospital medical staff and administration are monitoring new information
daily.

“We are taking the virus seriously and have plans ready
to activate should Clay County or one of our neighboring counties be affected,”
said Austin M. Gillard, CEO of CCMC. “The best course of action for the public
is to practice good hand hygiene, disinfect surfaces in your home and
workplace, and stay home if you feel sick.”

“The current threat of exposure in Clay County is very
low,” Gillard said. “KDHE has put a very sound statewide plan into place and is
communicating well with all hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities to
keep everyone up-to-date with daily changes and numbers. Our communities should
feel very safe.”

If a person suspects they have been exposed to
coronavirus, they should contact their medical provider for further
instruction. Most cases, even PUIs, can be managed without hospitalization,
however, patients should expect to follow a protocol for testing and isolation
if they have suspect they been exposed.

In order to meet cleanliness guidelines, the
environmental services team at CCMC has special processes and procedures for
cleaning and disinfecting inpatient areas and exam rooms that have been exposed
to viruses such as influenza and coronavirus.

“Our team does a fantastic job at keeping CCMC above
standards for cleanliness and have been closely monitoring their work since the
beginning of flu season,” Gillard said.

This does not mean that visitors will be able to access
every part of CCMC. Visitors are asked to check in at the nurse station to be
escorted to patient rooms by a member of our nursing staff. This precaution has
been in place since early winter as a way to prevent the spread of influenza to
or from patients and the public.

Coronavirus has similar symptoms to the cold and
influenza. The virus is very similar to other air-borne illnesses and the
defense against it is the same. Like influenza, coronavirus is a respiratory
virus that can mean fever, coughing, runny or stuffy nose and fatigue.&nbsp; 

“Common sense such as staying away from other people if
you are ill, covering coughs or sneezes, and washing your hands frequently will
help stop the spread coronavirus, influenza and the common cold,” Gillard said.
“We can’t stress enough how important it is to stay home if you have any of
these symptoms.”

CLAY CENTER -- Clay County Medical Center (CCMC) is taking an active
approach to the coronavirus outbreak. While there are no known cases in Clay County,
the hospital medical staff and administration are monitoring new information
daily.“We are taking the virus seriously and have plans ready
to activate should Clay County or one of our neighboring counties be affected,”
said Austin M. Gillard, CEO of CCMC. “The best course of action for the public
is to practice good hand hygiene, disinfect surfaces in your home and
workplace, and stay home if you feel sick.”“The current threat of exposure in Clay County is very
low,” Gillard said. “KDHE has put a very sound statewide plan into place and is
communicating well with all hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities to
keep everyone up-to-date with daily changes and numbers. Our communities should
feel very safe.”If a person suspects they have been exposed to
coronavirus, they should contact their medical provider for further
instruction. Most cases, even PUIs, can be managed without hospitalization,
however, patients should expect to follow a protocol for testing and isolation
if they have suspect they been exposed.In order to meet cleanliness guidelines, the
environmental services team at CCMC has special processes and procedures for
cleaning and disinfecting inpatient areas and exam rooms that have been exposed
to viruses such as influenza and coronavirus.“Our team does a fantastic job at keeping CCMC above
standards for cleanliness and have been closely monitoring their work since the
beginning of flu season,” Gillard said.This does not mean that visitors will be able to access
every part of CCMC. Visitors are asked to check in at the nurse station to be
escorted to patient rooms by a member of our nursing staff. This precaution has
been in place since early winter as a way to prevent the spread of influenza to
or from patients and the public.Coronavirus has similar symptoms to the cold and
influenza. The virus is very similar to other air-borne illnesses and the
defense against it is the same. Like influenza, coronavirus is a respiratory
virus that can mean fever, coughing, runny or stuffy nose and fatigue.&nbsp; “Common sense such as staying away from other people if
you are ill, covering coughs or sneezes, and washing your hands frequently will
help stop the spread coronavirus, influenza and the common cold,” Gillard said.
“We can’t stress enough how important it is to stay home if you have any of
these symptoms.”

CCMC taking active approach to coronavirus outbreak

By JAMES BELL <a href="http://hayspost.com">Hays Post</a>

In a letter addressed to faculty and staff Thursday afternoon, Fort Hays State University announced the university would shift all instruction to online only after spring break on March 23.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6a70c4afae0f4d5f5cd7d8">The decision comes after FHSU contemplated the possible local impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and other Kansas schools' decisions to shift to online-only instruction.</a>

"Based on guidance received from Kansas Department of Health and Environment last night, as well as information gleaned from ongoing discussions with our Student Health Center, our Critical Incident Policy Group, and various leaders and stakeholders throughout all divisions of FHSU, we have decided that&nbsp;all FHSU classes will be transitioned to online delivery, effective March 23," said FHSU President Tisa Mason in the letter.

"Additional issues surrounding clinicals, labs and practicums will be addressed in their respective departments," she said. "This effectively means that, after the conclusion of spring break, faculty and students should be prepared to transition all face-to-face classes to online delivery only."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kansasregents.org/about/news-releases/2020-news-releases/741-statement-from-regents-chair-shane-bangerter-on-covid-19-impact">The decision was also based on guidance from the Kansas Board of Regents following a special meeting with the KDHE Secretary Lee Norman Wednesday.</a>

<a href="http://www.kansasregents.org/about/news-releases/2020-news-releases/741-statement-from-regents-chair-shane-bangerter-on-covid-19-impact"></a>"At FHSU, we remain committed to the underlying goal of all our efforts and decision-making since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak:&nbsp;safeguarding the health of our students, faculty and staff," Mason said.&nbsp;"In striving to do so, we have also remained committed to our guiding principle that policies and decisions in response to COVID-19 should be informed by and aligned with, local, state, and national medical authorities and public health experts."

As a part of a social distancing strategy, the university is asking all students who reside on campus to return home during the break and remain there while courses are taught online only.&nbsp;

However, accommodations are being planned for those who must continue to reside on campus.

As the virus continues to spread, FHSU will continue to re-evaluate the decision on a weekly basis, but anticipates that online-only instruction will continue through the end of the semester.

The campus will remain open during this period, but university-sponsored travel is being restricted.

"All university-sponsored travel to destinations with community spread or outbreaks is prohibited," Mason said. "We strongly discourage all non-essential personal travel to any such areas, and may require employees or students who do travel to such locations to self-quarantine upon return."

In the letter, Mason acknowledged the challenges the decision will create but believes in the interest of safety is the best decision with the information available.

"We appreciate the gravity with which this decision will impact our local Hays area businesses and partners and the ripple effect this will create through western Kansas," Mason said. "We believe that these measures help to proactively mitigate the potential social spread of COVID-19 throughout this area. Armed with the information and guidance we have received to date, we believe this is a prudent course of action."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578077863102.jpeg" alt="FHSU's Sheridan Hall." />
 <figcaption>FHSU's Sheridan Hall.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL <a href="http://hayspost.com">Hays Post</a>In a letter addressed to faculty and staff Thursday afternoon, Fort Hays State University announced the university would shift all instruction to online only after spring break on March 23.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e6a70c4afae0f4d5f5cd7d8">The decision comes after FHSU contemplated the possible local impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and other Kansas schools' decisions to shift to online-only instruction.</a>"Based on guidance received from Kansas Department of Health and Environment last night, as well as information gleaned from ongoing discussions with our Student Health Center, our Critical Incident Policy Group, and various leaders and stakeholders throughout all divisions of FHSU, we have decided that&nbsp;all FHSU classes will be transitioned to online delivery, effective March 23," said FHSU President Tisa Mason in the letter."Additional issues surrounding clinicals, labs and practicums will be addressed in their respective departments," she said. "This effectively means that, after the conclusion of spring break, faculty and students should be prepared to transition all face-to-face classes to online delivery only."&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasregents.org/about/news-releases/2020-news-releases/741-statement-from-regents-chair-shane-bangerter-on-covid-19-impact">The decision was also based on guidance from the Kansas Board of Regents following a special meeting with the KDHE Secretary Lee Norman Wednesday.</a><a href="http://www.kansasregents.org/about/news-releases/2020-news-releases/741-statement-from-regents-chair-shane-bangerter-on-covid-19-impact"></a>"At FHSU, we remain committed to the underlying goal of all our efforts and decision-making since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak:&nbsp;safeguarding the health of our students, faculty and staff," Mason said.&nbsp;"In striving to do so, we have also remained committed to our guiding principle that policies and decisions in response to COVID-19 should be informed by and aligned with, local, state, and national medical authorities and public health experts."As a part of a social distancing strategy, the university is asking all students who reside on campus to return home during the break and remain there while courses are taught online only.&nbsp;However, accommodations are being planned for those who must continue to reside on campus.As the virus continues to spread, FHSU will continue to re-evaluate the decision on a weekly basis, but anticipates that online-only instruction will continue through the end of the semester.The campus will remain open during this period, but university-sponsored travel is being restricted."All university-sponsored travel to destinations with community spread or outbreaks is prohibited," Mason said. "We strongly discourage all non-essential personal travel to any such areas, and may require employees or students who do travel to such locations to self-quarantine upon return."In the letter, Mason acknowledged the challenges the decision will create but believes in the interest of safety is the best decision with the information available."We appreciate the gravity with which this decision will impact our local Hays area businesses and partners and the ripple effect this will create through western Kansas," Mason said. "We believe that these measures help to proactively mitigate the potential social spread of COVID-19 throughout this area. Armed with the information and guidance we have received to date, we believe this is a prudent course of action."

FHSU going online-only in response to COVID-19

While there are currently no known cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Salina, Lindsborg and Concordia communities, Salina Regional Health Center, Lindsborg Community Hospital and Cloud County Health Center are working closely with state and local entities to ensure preparedness. 

Patient care staff members at Salina Regional and its affiliates are undergoing training to safely care for COVID-19 patients.

“We have been monitoring this situation since Coronavirus first appeared in China in January and have been making internal preparations since then,” said Bethanie McDowell, director of Accreditation and Infection Prevention at Salina Regional Health Center. “We continue to monitor this very fluid situation and will implement further measures as necessary.”

As part of these efforts, all locations have implemented a number of measures to limit potential exposure to staff, visitors and patients:

• All visitor restrictions that began in January with influenza season will remain in place and be strictly enforced.

• In the Emergency Department, all patients will be limited to 1 visitor who is a non-sick immediate family member.

• Confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients will not be allowed visitors.

• Birth Center visitors will be restricted to IMMEDIATE FAMILY ONLY.

• DO NOT VISIT if you are ill or have any signs and symptoms of illness (cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue).

Patient screening &amp; treatment precautions

Patients arriving at all locations are being screened for possible COVID-19 infection. All patients will be asked if they:

• Have a cough or shortness of breath and have traveled outside the US in the past 14 days.

• Have had direct contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19.

Patients who answer in the affirmative to one or more of these questions will be given a mask and escorted to a room to await further assessment. Staff members will follow Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) procedures for assessment. If COVID-19 testing is warranted, Salina Regional Health Center and its&nbsp;affiliates have the ability to collect specimens to send them to the state lab for analysis.

Business and employee travel restrictions implemented

As many plan spring functions and travel we are mindful of the potential health risks posed by traveling to areas that have been highly impacted by COVID-19 and gatherings of large groups of people. As a result:

• All large group public gatherings and internal meetings of groups of 25 people or more have been postponed.

• All non-essential, SRHC supported, work-related travel has been suspended including educational conferences and vendor meetings.

• All employees are strongly encouraged to postpone any planned travel via cruise ship or to COVID-19 affected areas following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on travel recommendations.

• All employees are instructed to stay home when ill, especially if they are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness.

Protecting the health of our community is our first priority. As we work to slow the spread of COVID-19 everyone can play a role in taking preventive actions as part of their everyday lives:

• Wash your hands often using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.

•Do your best to avoid touching your face (eyes, nose and mouth).

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Follow additional guidance set by the KDHE and CDC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579021775004.png" alt="Salina Regional Health Center. Salina Post stock photo" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Health Center. Salina Post stock photo</figcaption>
 </figure>While there are currently no known cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Salina, Lindsborg and Concordia communities, Salina Regional Health Center, Lindsborg Community Hospital and Cloud County Health Center are working closely with state and local entities to ensure preparedness. Patient care staff members at Salina Regional and its affiliates are undergoing training to safely care for COVID-19 patients.“We have been monitoring this situation since Coronavirus first appeared in China in January and have been making internal preparations since then,” said Bethanie McDowell, director of Accreditation and Infection Prevention at Salina Regional Health Center. “We continue to monitor this very fluid situation and will implement further measures as necessary.”As part of these efforts, all locations have implemented a number of measures to limit potential exposure to staff, visitors and patients:Hospital Visitor Restrictions• All visitor restrictions that began in January with influenza season will remain in place and be strictly enforced.• In the Emergency Department, all patients will be limited to 1 visitor who is a non-sick immediate family member.• Confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients will not be allowed visitors.• Birth Center visitors will be restricted to IMMEDIATE FAMILY ONLY.• DO NOT VISIT if you are ill or have any signs and symptoms of illness (cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue).Patient screening &amp; treatment precautionsPatients arriving at all locations are being screened for possible COVID-19 infection. All patients will be asked if they:• Have a fever.• Have a cough or shortness of breath and have traveled outside the US in the past 14 days.• Have had direct contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19.Patients who answer in the affirmative to one or more of these questions will be given a mask and escorted to a room to await further assessment. Staff members will follow Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) procedures for assessment. If COVID-19 testing is warranted, Salina Regional Health Center and its&nbsp;affiliates have the ability to collect specimens to send them to the state lab for analysis.Business and employee travel restrictions implementedAs many plan spring functions and travel we are mindful of the potential health risks posed by traveling to areas that have been highly impacted by COVID-19 and gatherings of large groups of people. As a result:• All large group public gatherings and internal meetings of groups of 25 people or more have been postponed.• All non-essential, SRHC supported, work-related travel has been suspended including educational conferences and vendor meetings.• All employees are strongly encouraged to postpone any planned travel via cruise ship or to COVID-19 affected areas following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on travel recommendations.• All employees are instructed to stay home when ill, especially if they are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness.Continued WellnessProtecting the health of our community is our first priority. As we work to slow the spread of COVID-19 everyone can play a role in taking preventive actions as part of their everyday lives:• Wash your hands often using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.•Do your best to avoid touching your face (eyes, nose and mouth).• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.• Stay home if you are sick.• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.• Follow additional guidance set by the KDHE and CDC.

Salina Regional implements special precautions for coronavirus

NEW YORK ( AP) — The stock market had its biggest drop since the Black Monday crash of 1987 as fears of economic fallout from the coronavirus crisis deepened. The Dow industrials plunged more than 2,300 points, or 10%. The sell-of came despite action from the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. 

The steep drops over the last month have wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Markets have turned turbulent amid a cascade of shutdowns across the globe and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t help the weakening economy any time soon.

The deepening coronavirus crisis sent stocks into another alarming slide Thursday, extending a sell-off that has wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down more than 2,000 points, or 8.7%, in late afternoon trading. The broader S&amp;P 500 was off 8.4% and set to fall into a bear market by the close of trading, ending the longest bull market in Wall Street history — nearly 11 years.

European markets lost 12% in one of their worst days ever, even after the European Central Bank pledged to buy more bonds and offer more help for the economy.

The heavy losses came amid a cascade of cancellations and shutdowns across the globe — including Trump’s suspension of most travel to the U.S. from Europe — and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t counter the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic any time soon.

“The news just continues to get worse, and the travel ban puts an exclamation point on the weakness we’re going to see in global GDP and, in turn, the U.S.,“ said Liz Ann Sonders, chief investment strategist at Charles Schwab. “We’re starting to get a sense of how dire the impact on the economy is going to be. Each day the news doesn’t get better, it gets worse. It’s now has hit Main Street to a more significant degree.”

Stocks fell so fast on Wall Street at the opening bell that they triggered an automatic, 15-minute trading halt for the second time this week. The so-called circuit breakers were first adopted after the 1987 crash, and until this week hadn’t been tripped since 1997.

The Dow briefly turned upward and halved its losses at one point in the afternoon after the Federal Reserve announced it would step in to ease “highly unusual disruptions” in the Treasury market. But the burst of momentum quickly faded.

Trump often points proudly to the big rise on Wall Street under his administration and warned a crowd at a rally last August that “whether you love me or hate, you gotta vote for me,“ or else your 401(k) will go “down the tubes.”

Just last month, the Dow was boasting a nearly 50% gain since Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, 2017. By midafternoon Thursday, the Dow was clinging to an 8% gain, though it was still up 17.3% since just before Trump’s election in November 2016.

On Wednesday, the Dow finished the day down more than 20% from its all-time high, set just last month, officially entering what is known as a bear market for the first time in over a decade. The S&amp;P 500 was likewise in danger of finishing the day Thursday in bear market territory.

The combined health and financial crisis heightened fears of a recession.

“This is bad. The worst and fastest stock market correction in our career,“ Chris Rupkey, chief financial economist at MUFG Union, said in a research note overnight. “The economy is doomed to recession if the country stops working and takes the next 30 days off. The stock market knows it.”

NEW YORK (AP) — An early plunge of 7% on Wall Street Thursday triggered a trading halt as a sell-off slamming global markets continued. The Dow Jones industrials dropped more than 1,600 points, or 7%, the S&amp;P 500 fell a similar amount. 

Trading resumed after 15 minutes, approximately 8:50a.m. CDT.

 The rout came after President Trump imposed a travel ban on most of Europe and offered few new measures to contain the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. 

Benchmarks in Europe fell more than 7% even after the European Central Bank announced more stimulus measures. World markets are enduring violent swings amid uncertainty about how badly the outbreak will hit the economy.

NEW YORK ( AP) — The stock market had its biggest drop since the Black Monday crash of 1987 as fears of economic fallout from the coronavirus crisis deepened. The Dow industrials plunged more than 2,300 points, or 10%. The sell-of came despite action from the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. The steep drops over the last month have wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Markets have turned turbulent amid a cascade of shutdowns across the globe and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t help the weakening economy any time soon.The deepening coronavirus crisis sent stocks into another alarming slide Thursday, extending a sell-off that has wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down more than 2,000 points, or 8.7%, in late afternoon trading. The broader S&amp;P 500 was off 8.4% and set to fall into a bear market by the close of trading, ending the longest bull market in Wall Street history — nearly 11 years.European markets lost 12% in one of their worst days ever, even after the European Central Bank pledged to buy more bonds and offer more help for the economy.The heavy losses came amid a cascade of cancellations and shutdowns across the globe — including Trump’s suspension of most travel to the U.S. from Europe — and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t counter the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic any time soon.“The news just continues to get worse, and the travel ban puts an exclamation point on the weakness we’re going to see in global GDP and, in turn, the U.S.,“ said Liz Ann Sonders, chief investment strategist at Charles Schwab. “We’re starting to get a sense of how dire the impact on the economy is going to be. Each day the news doesn’t get better, it gets worse. It’s now has hit Main Street to a more significant degree.”Stocks fell so fast on Wall Street at the opening bell that they triggered an automatic, 15-minute trading halt for the second time this week. The so-called circuit breakers were first adopted after the 1987 crash, and until this week hadn’t been tripped since 1997.The Dow briefly turned upward and halved its losses at one point in the afternoon after the Federal Reserve announced it would step in to ease “highly unusual disruptions” in the Treasury market. But the burst of momentum quickly faded.Trump often points proudly to the big rise on Wall Street under his administration and warned a crowd at a rally last August that “whether you love me or hate, you gotta vote for me,“ or else your 401(k) will go “down the tubes.”Just last month, the Dow was boasting a nearly 50% gain since Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, 2017. By midafternoon Thursday, the Dow was clinging to an 8% gain, though it was still up 17.3% since just before Trump’s election in November 2016.On Wednesday, the Dow finished the day down more than 20% from its all-time high, set just last month, officially entering what is known as a bear market for the first time in over a decade. The S&amp;P 500 was likewise in danger of finishing the day Thursday in bear market territory.The combined health and financial crisis heightened fears of a recession.“This is bad. The worst and fastest stock market correction in our career,“ Chris Rupkey, chief financial economist at MUFG Union, said in a research note overnight. “The economy is doomed to recession if the country stops working and takes the next 30 days off. The stock market knows it.”----------NEW YORK (AP) — An early plunge of 7% on Wall Street Thursday triggered a trading halt as a sell-off slamming global markets continued. The Dow Jones industrials dropped more than 1,600 points, or 7%, the S&amp;P 500 fell a similar amount. Trading resumed after 15 minutes, approximately 8:50a.m. CDT. The rout came after President Trump imposed a travel ban on most of Europe and offered few new measures to contain the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. Benchmarks in Europe fell more than 7% even after the European Central Bank announced more stimulus measures. World markets are enduring violent swings amid uncertainty about how badly the outbreak will hit the economy.

Worst day on Wall Street since 1987 as virus fears spread

EMPORIA -- Emporia State University has announced that it will cancel all face-to-face classes Monday through Friday of next week in response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.

According to a letter to the campus community from President Allison Garrett on the university's website, "beginning Monday, March 23 and continuing until further notice, all ESU face-to-face classes will be offered through remote access rather than in classrooms."

Additionally, "all campus events and programming are cancelled until April 10, with monitoring to determine whether this date will be extended. This includes events scheduled by off-campus groups using university venues," the letter noted.

All ESU athletics events — track and field, baseball, softball, tennis — will be held without spectators.

"We strongly encourage students who live in the residence halls, sororities or fraternities to travel home or stay at home next week. For students who cannot go home, the residence halls and related services remain open. Residential Life will reach out to hall residents about housing options that will be available beginning Saturday, March 21," Garrett noted in the letter.

<a href="https://www.emporia.edu/covid-19-information/campus-communications/march-12-2020-message-campus-esu-president/">Click here</a> to read more about ESU's response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

EMPORIA -- Emporia State University has announced that it will cancel all face-to-face classes Monday through Friday of next week in response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.According to a letter to the campus community from President Allison Garrett on the university's website, "beginning Monday, March 23 and continuing until further notice, all ESU face-to-face classes will be offered through remote access rather than in classrooms."Additionally, "all campus events and programming are cancelled until April 10, with monitoring to determine whether this date will be extended. This includes events scheduled by off-campus groups using university venues," the letter noted.All ESU athletics events — track and field, baseball, softball, tennis — will be held without spectators."We strongly encourage students who live in the residence halls, sororities or fraternities to travel home or stay at home next week. For students who cannot go home, the residence halls and related services remain open. Residential Life will reach out to hall residents about housing options that will be available beginning Saturday, March 21," Garrett noted in the letter.<a href="https://www.emporia.edu/covid-19-information/campus-communications/march-12-2020-message-campus-esu-president/">Click here</a> to read more about ESU's response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

ESU transitioning to online classes in response to COVID-19

WICHITA -- Wichita State University has announced that it will suspend classes beginnning Monday to provide the campus community the opportunity to prepare for online instruction in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

According to information on the university's <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a>, all in-person classes will be temporarily moved to an online and/or remote format beginning the week of March 30, the week following the university's spring break.

All residence halls will remain open and continue normal operations, however "students who are able to move to another location are encouraged to do so," the <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a> states.

Additionally, effective Monday, all athletic events — either sponsored by WSU or held on WSU property — will be cancelled, however, events initially scheduled for after April 13 will be reevaluated, the WSU <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a> noted.

Effective today (March 12, all Wichita State athletic events are suspended indefinitely, per the American Athletic Conference, according to the university's <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a>.

To read more about WSU's actions concerning the coronavirus outbreak, <a href="https://www.wichita.edu/about/public_information/wsu_topics/topicscovid-19/covid-announcement.php">click here</a>.

WICHITA -- Wichita State University has announced that it will suspend classes beginnning Monday to provide the campus community the opportunity to prepare for online instruction in response to the coronavirus outbreak.According to information on the university's <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a>, all in-person classes will be temporarily moved to an online and/or remote format beginning the week of March 30, the week following the university's spring break.All residence halls will remain open and continue normal operations, however "students who are able to move to another location are encouraged to do so," the <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a> states.Additionally, effective Monday, all athletic events — either sponsored by WSU or held on WSU property — will be cancelled, however, events initially scheduled for after April 13 will be reevaluated, the WSU <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a> noted.Effective today (March 12, all Wichita State athletic events are suspended indefinitely, per the American Athletic Conference, according to the university's <a href="http://wichita.edu">website</a>.To read more about WSU's actions concerning the coronavirus outbreak, <a href="https://www.wichita.edu/about/public_information/wsu_topics/topicscovid-19/covid-announcement.php">click here</a>.

WSU suspends classes next week, moving to online instruction

ABILENE --Village Manor in Abilene is are currently taking precautions to prevent the possible spread of the Corona Virus (COVID-19) to its residents. 

Village Manor has placed a restriction on visitors, and those who are NOT direct family members (son, daughter, spouse) or caregiver (DPOA) will not be allowed to visit. Any individuals that show any signs or symptoms of respiratory illness will also be asked to not enter the facility.

We are also in daily contact with many state and federal agencies (KDHE, CMS, CDC, LeadingAge) to keep updated on the on-going changes so we can further protect our residents, and will be making changes in our protective steps as needed.

Thank you for your help in protecting our residents with these temporary measures. “Our highest priority is to protect our residents at Village Manor,” said Andy Sutter, Village Manor Executive Director/RN. The staff of Village Manor is receiving on-going training, and information, on recommended measures to help insure all precautions are in place.

If you have any questions about what we are currently doing,&nbsp;please do not hesitate to contact Village Manor at 785-263-1431.

ABILENE --Village Manor in Abilene is are currently taking precautions to prevent the possible spread of the Corona Virus (COVID-19) to its residents. Village Manor has placed a restriction on visitors, and those who are NOT direct family members (son, daughter, spouse) or caregiver (DPOA) will not be allowed to visit. Any individuals that show any signs or symptoms of respiratory illness will also be asked to not enter the facility.We are also in daily contact with many state and federal agencies (KDHE, CMS, CDC, LeadingAge) to keep updated on the on-going changes so we can further protect our residents, and will be making changes in our protective steps as needed.Thank you for your help in protecting our residents with these temporary measures. “Our highest priority is to protect our residents at Village Manor,” said Andy Sutter, Village Manor Executive Director/RN. The staff of Village Manor is receiving on-going training, and information, on recommended measures to help insure all precautions are in place.If you have any questions about what we are currently doing,&nbsp;please do not hesitate to contact Village Manor at 785-263-1431.

Village Manor in Abilene is restricting visitors

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minneapolis Health and Rehabilitation Center is temporarily restricting in-person visitation. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MinneapolisHealthandRehab/">Minneapolis Health and Rehabilitation Center</a> Facebook page:&nbsp;

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minneapolis Health and Rehabilitation Center is temporarily restricting in-person visitation. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MinneapolisHealthandRehab/">Minneapolis Health and Rehabilitation Center</a> Facebook page:&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMinneapolisHealthandRehab%2Fposts%2F929589020789015&width=500" width="500" height="728" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Minneapolis health facility restricts in-person visits

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

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

NCAA cancels March Madness, all winter and spring championships

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Health officials say a nursing home resident who become Kansas' first COVID-19-related death was infected at the Life Care Center of Kansas City, which is owned by the same company that owns the facility in Washington state linked to 22 fatalities. 

Kansas Health Secretary Lee Norman said a focus of the investigation is whether there has been any personnel sharing between the nursing homes in Kirkland, Washington, and the one in Kansas. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584135906321.png" alt="KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during Thursday&nbsp; press conference -image courtesy office of Kansas Governor" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during Thursday&nbsp; press conference -image courtesy office of Kansas Governor</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Health officials say a nursing home resident who become Kansas' first COVID-19-related death was infected at the Life Care Center of Kansas City, which is owned by the same company that owns the facility in Washington state linked to 22 fatalities. Kansas Health Secretary Lee Norman said a focus of the investigation is whether there has been any personnel sharing between the nursing homes in Kirkland, Washington, and the one in Kansas. The state also reported its sixth COVID-19 case on Friday. Norman says no other residents at the Life Center nursing home are showing symptoms.

Coronavirus Update