Geary County health officials reported four new positive COVID-19 cases and four recovered cases on Friday. There are 38 active cases.

The Health Department noted that one person is hospitalized due to&nbsp; the coronavirus.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There have been 462 positive cases and 419 recovered cases since&nbsp; the pandemic began. There have been four deaths in Geary County.

Geary County health officials reported four new positive COVID-19 cases and four recovered cases on Friday. There are 38 active cases.The Health Department noted that one person is hospitalized due to&nbsp; the coronavirus.&nbsp;&nbsp;There have been 462 positive cases and 419 recovered cases since&nbsp; the pandemic began. There have been four deaths in Geary County.

Geary County health provides the latest COVID-19 update

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Public health officials in two of Kansas’ most populous counties on Thursday tightened restrictions on gatherings, and public schools in the state’s capital city scrapped at least two weeks of in-person classes in favor online learning amid a statewide surge in coronavirus cases.

In Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, gatherings will be limited to 10 people whether they are held indoors or outdoors, starting Friday. An order from Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, dropped the limits from 25 for indoor gatherings and 45 for outdoor gatherings, said bars and restaurants that can hold 100 or more people must operate at 50% of their capacities, and said bars must close at 11 p.m. every day, rather than remaining open until midnight four nights a week.

The limit on gatherings also will drop Friday to 15 from 45 in neighboring Douglas County, home to the main University of Kansas campus under an order issued by the county health officer, Dr. Thomas Marcellino.

With their orders, at least seven of the state’s 105 counties have issued more restrictive rules this week. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly issued an order requiring people statewide to wear masks in public, but state law allows counties to opt out, and most still have. Shawnee County is one of fewer than 30 with a mask mandate.

“The exponential rise in cases has been due to both small and large gatherings across the board,” said Craig Barnes, a Shawnee County Health Department spokesman. “We’re trying to, with this order, minimize the opportunities in the areas where people can congregate in small settings, especially indoor small settings.”

Kansas had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-kansas-topeka-3cf7f250ce53ff022500a2554ba515d0">a record daily average</a>&nbsp;of 2,430 new confirmed and probable cases during the seven days that ended Wednesday, according state Department of Health and Environment data. The state also averaged a record 38 new COVID-19-related hospitalizations per day during that period, along with 18 new deaths a day.

Kansas has had more than 109,000 coronavirus cases, 4,200 hospitalizations and 1,200 deaths since the pandemic reached the state in early March, according to the health department.

The Topeka public school district, with about 13,000 students and 2,400 staff, announced that it would suspend in-person classes for at least two weeks, starting Monday. The district, one of the largest in the state, had students splitting four days a week between in-person and online classes, with online classes Wednesdays.

The district has reported 36 students and 25 staff members testing positive for coronavirus, but officials said the bigger issue is others being forced to quarantine because of potential exposures to the virus outside school. While some teachers can cover others’ classes, it cuts into their planning time, and it’s becoming harder to find outside substitutes because of the pandemic, said Rebecca Morrisey, Topeka High School’s principal.

“Most of our subs tend to be retired, and they have — many of them — been a little bit apprehensive about coming into the buildings,” she said. “It is a real challenge to cover classes.”

Public health officials blame the big surge in coronavirus cases on people being lax about wearing masks in public and still attending gatherings, including private family ones, such as birthday parties, baby showers and even informal get-togethers. They’re worried that the state will see an even larger spike in cases after Thanksgiving.

The chairman of the Republican Party in Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, confirmed in a Facebook post Thursday that at least one person attending its election night victory party tested positive for coronavirus. Public health officials have expressed concerns about the possibility of an outbreak from a similar GOP election night party in Topeka, attended by about 100 people, including U.S. Sen.-elect Roger Marshall.

Meanwhile, University of Kansas Health System doctors said during a morning video briefing that they’re working to see which patients can safely delay surgeries,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/covid-19-impact-university-of-kansas-health-system-beginning-to-delay-small-number-of-surgeries/34657404" target="_blank">KMBC-TV reports.</a>&nbsp;Hospitals in other parts of the state are stressed as well, most notably in south-central Kansas, which is home to the state’s largest city, Wichita.

In Finney County, in southwestern Kansas, the county seat of Garden City approved a mask mandate Wednesday, but the county has no plans to follow suit,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2020/11/12/garden-city-requires-masks-finney-county-doesnt/" target="_blank">KWCH-TV reported.&nbsp;</a>Finney County Commission Chairman Duane Drees said in a statement Thursday that the city’s decision was “appropriate and reasonable,” but county commissioners believe in letting those more-local officials make such decisions.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Public health officials in two of Kansas’ most populous counties on Thursday tightened restrictions on gatherings, and public schools in the state’s capital city scrapped at least two weeks of in-person classes in favor online learning amid a statewide surge in coronavirus cases.In Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, gatherings will be limited to 10 people whether they are held indoors or outdoors, starting Friday. An order from Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, dropped the limits from 25 for indoor gatherings and 45 for outdoor gatherings, said bars and restaurants that can hold 100 or more people must operate at 50% of their capacities, and said bars must close at 11 p.m. every day, rather than remaining open until midnight four nights a week.The limit on gatherings also will drop Friday to 15 from 45 in neighboring Douglas County, home to the main University of Kansas campus under an order issued by the county health officer, Dr. Thomas Marcellino.With their orders, at least seven of the state’s 105 counties have issued more restrictive rules this week. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly issued an order requiring people statewide to wear masks in public, but state law allows counties to opt out, and most still have. Shawnee County is one of fewer than 30 with a mask mandate.“The exponential rise in cases has been due to both small and large gatherings across the board,” said Craig Barnes, a Shawnee County Health Department spokesman. “We’re trying to, with this order, minimize the opportunities in the areas where people can congregate in small settings, especially indoor small settings.”Kansas had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-kansas-topeka-3cf7f250ce53ff022500a2554ba515d0">a record daily average</a>&nbsp;of 2,430 new confirmed and probable cases during the seven days that ended Wednesday, according state Department of Health and Environment data. The state also averaged a record 38 new COVID-19-related hospitalizations per day during that period, along with 18 new deaths a day.Kansas has had more than 109,000 coronavirus cases, 4,200 hospitalizations and 1,200 deaths since the pandemic reached the state in early March, according to the health department.The Topeka public school district, with about 13,000 students and 2,400 staff, announced that it would suspend in-person classes for at least two weeks, starting Monday. The district, one of the largest in the state, had students splitting four days a week between in-person and online classes, with online classes Wednesdays.The district has reported 36 students and 25 staff members testing positive for coronavirus, but officials said the bigger issue is others being forced to quarantine because of potential exposures to the virus outside school. While some teachers can cover others’ classes, it cuts into their planning time, and it’s becoming harder to find outside substitutes because of the pandemic, said Rebecca Morrisey, Topeka High School’s principal.“Most of our subs tend to be retired, and they have — many of them — been a little bit apprehensive about coming into the buildings,” she said. “It is a real challenge to cover classes.”Public health officials blame the big surge in coronavirus cases on people being lax about wearing masks in public and still attending gatherings, including private family ones, such as birthday parties, baby showers and even informal get-togethers. They’re worried that the state will see an even larger spike in cases after Thanksgiving.The chairman of the Republican Party in Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, confirmed in a Facebook post Thursday that at least one person attending its election night victory party tested positive for coronavirus. Public health officials have expressed concerns about the possibility of an outbreak from a similar GOP election night party in Topeka, attended by about 100 people, including U.S. Sen.-elect Roger Marshall.Meanwhile, University of Kansas Health System doctors said during a morning video briefing that they’re working to see which patients can safely delay surgeries,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/covid-19-impact-university-of-kansas-health-system-beginning-to-delay-small-number-of-surgeries/34657404" target="_blank">KMBC-TV reports.</a>&nbsp;Hospitals in other parts of the state are stressed as well, most notably in south-central Kansas, which is home to the state’s largest city, Wichita.In Finney County, in southwestern Kansas, the county seat of Garden City approved a mask mandate Wednesday, but the county has no plans to follow suit,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2020/11/12/garden-city-requires-masks-finney-county-doesnt/" target="_blank">KWCH-TV reported.&nbsp;</a>Finney County Commission Chairman Duane Drees said in a statement Thursday that the city’s decision was “appropriate and reasonable,” but county commissioners believe in letting those more-local officials make such decisions.

Kansas counties tighten COVID rules; more schools online

Geary County health officials reported eight new positive cases of COVID-19 and nine recovered cases on Thursday. Two people are currently hospitalized.&nbsp;

Since the pandemic began there have been 458 confirmed positive cases and 415 recovered cases. Four people have died. There are currently 39 active cases in Geary County.

Geary County health officials reported eight new positive cases of COVID-19 and nine recovered cases on Thursday. Two people are currently hospitalized.&nbsp;Since the pandemic began there have been 458 confirmed positive cases and 415 recovered cases. Four people have died. There are currently 39 active cases in Geary County.

Health Department provides the COVID-19 update

All COURT SESSIONS&nbsp;for City Junction City Municipal Court will be cancelled and rescheduled for times after December 1, 2020.&nbsp; You may confirm you court date by contacting the Municipal Court at 785-762-4666. The cancellation is due to COVID-19 related issues.

Regular operating hours for the Municipal Court will remain the same.&nbsp;

Any questions or concerns please contact the Junction City Municipal Court.

All COURT SESSIONS&nbsp;for City Junction City Municipal Court will be cancelled and rescheduled for times after December 1, 2020.&nbsp; You may confirm you court date by contacting the Municipal Court at 785-762-4666. The cancellation is due to COVID-19 related issues.Regular operating hours for the Municipal Court will remain the same.&nbsp;Any questions or concerns please contact the Junction City Municipal Court.

Municipal Court sessions will be rescheduled

&nbsp; Health officials confirm that a 63 year-old Riley County resident died Wednesday morning after testing positive for coronavirus on November 2. He lived at Via Christi Village and passed away at Ascension Via Christi hospital. He is the 13th COVID-related fatality in the county. Riley County has 114 new positive cases and 20 additional recoveries since Monday’s report. There are currently 351 active coronavirus cases in the county. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 10 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “It is essential that you follow health guidelines, wear a mask, maintain distance, and stay home if you are sick,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “With the increase in cases we are seeing, it serves as a call to action for all of us to do our part so we can get through this. The more contact you have with people outside your home, the greater your risk for catching or spreading the virus.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Health officials confirm that a 63 year-old Riley County resident died Wednesday morning after testing positive for coronavirus on November 2. He lived at Via Christi Village and passed away at Ascension Via Christi hospital. He is the 13th COVID-related fatality in the county. Riley County has 114 new positive cases and 20 additional recoveries since Monday’s report. There are currently 351 active coronavirus cases in the county. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 10 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “It is essential that you follow health guidelines, wear a mask, maintain distance, and stay home if you are sick,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “With the increase in cases we are seeing, it serves as a call to action for all of us to do our part so we can get through this. The more contact you have with people outside your home, the greater your risk for catching or spreading the virus.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County health reports a 13th COVID-19 related death

There were five new positive COVID-19 cases reported by the Geary County Health Department on Tuesday, along with one recovered case. Two people are currently hospitalized.&nbsp;

Since the pandemic began there have been 450 confirmed cases in Geary County and 406 recovered cases along with four deaths. There are currently 40 active cases in the county.

There were five new positive COVID-19 cases reported by the Geary County Health Department on Tuesday, along with one recovered case. Two people are currently hospitalized.&nbsp;Since the pandemic began there have been 450 confirmed cases in Geary County and 406 recovered cases along with four deaths. There are currently 40 active cases in the county.

COVID-19 update is released by the Health Department

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials have allowed emergency use of the first antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19, an experimental approach against the virus that has killed more than 238,000 Americans.

The Food and Drug Administration on Monday cleared the experimental <a href="https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-neutralizing-antibody-bamlanivimab-ly-cov555-receives-fda">drug from Eli Lilly</a> for people 12 and older with mild or moderate COVID-19 not requiring hospitalization. It’s a one-time treatment given through an IV.

The therapy is still undergoing additional testing to establish its safety and effectiveness. It is similar to a treatment President Donald Trump received after contracting the virus last month.

Lilly’s studies of the antibody drug are continuing. Early results suggest it may help clear the coronavirus sooner and possibly cut hospitalizations in people with mild to moderate COVID-19. A study of it in hospitalized patients was stopped when independent monitors saw the drug did not seem to be helping in that situation.

The government previously reached an agreement to buy and supply much of the early production of Lilly’s drug.

Only one drug -- Gilead Sciences’ remdesivir -- has full FDA approval for treating COVID-19. Government treatment guidelines also back using dexamethasone and other steroids for certain severely ill, hospitalized patients.

One other treatment has an emergency use designation now — convalescent plasma, or the blood of COVID-19 survivors. No large studies have shown it to be more effective than usual care alone, however.

The new drug is part of an emerging family of biologic therapies that offer a promising new approach to preventing serious disease and death from COVID-19. Experts say the infused drugs could serve as a therapeutic bridge to help manage the virus until vaccines are widely available.

The drugs are laboratory-made versions of antibodies, blood proteins which the body creates to help target and eliminate foreign infections. The new therapies are concentrated versions of the antibodies that proved most effective against the virus in patient studies.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. also has asked for emergency authorization for an antibody drug it is testing, the one Trump received.

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

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

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

The government has signed an agreement with Lilly to spend $375 million to buy 300,000 vials of the drug. How many doses that would provide is unclear. Each vial contains 70 milligrams and that dose proved ineffective in the early results. It took four times that amount — 2,800 milligrams — to show any effect.

The Lilly drug is authorized for people 12 and older who weigh at least 40 kilograms (about 88 pounds), and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. This includes those who are 65 years of age or older, or who have certain chronic medical conditions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604973355245.png" alt="Photo courtesy Eli Lilly" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Eli Lilly</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials have allowed emergency use of the first antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19, an experimental approach against the virus that has killed more than 238,000 Americans.The Food and Drug Administration on Monday cleared the experimental <a href="https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-neutralizing-antibody-bamlanivimab-ly-cov555-receives-fda">drug from Eli Lilly</a> for people 12 and older with mild or moderate COVID-19 not requiring hospitalization. It’s a one-time treatment given through an IV.The therapy is still undergoing additional testing to establish its safety and effectiveness. It is similar to a treatment President Donald Trump received after contracting the virus last month.Lilly’s studies of the antibody drug are continuing. Early results suggest it may help clear the coronavirus sooner and possibly cut hospitalizations in people with mild to moderate COVID-19. A study of it in hospitalized patients was stopped when independent monitors saw the drug did not seem to be helping in that situation.The government previously reached an agreement to buy and supply much of the early production of Lilly’s drug.Only one drug -- Gilead Sciences’ remdesivir -- has full FDA approval for treating COVID-19. Government treatment guidelines also back using dexamethasone and other steroids for certain severely ill, hospitalized patients.One other treatment has an emergency use designation now — convalescent plasma, or the blood of COVID-19 survivors. No large studies have shown it to be more effective than usual care alone, however.The new drug is part of an emerging family of biologic therapies that offer a promising new approach to preventing serious disease and death from COVID-19. Experts say the infused drugs could serve as a therapeutic bridge to help manage the virus until vaccines are widely available.The drugs are laboratory-made versions of antibodies, blood proteins which the body creates to help target and eliminate foreign infections. The new therapies are concentrated versions of the antibodies that proved most effective against the virus in patient studies.Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. also has asked for emergency authorization for an antibody drug it is testing, the one Trump received.FDA regulators authorized the Lilly drug using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental drugs and other medical products during public health crises.In normal times the FDA requires “substantial evidence” to show that a drug is safe and effective, usually through one or more large, rigorously controlled patient studies. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards and require only that an experimental treatment’s potential benefits outweigh its risks.The emergency authorization functions like a temporary approval for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. To win full approval, Lilly will have to submit additional research to fully define the drug’s safety and benefit for patients.The government has signed an agreement with Lilly to spend $375 million to buy 300,000 vials of the drug. How many doses that would provide is unclear. Each vial contains 70 milligrams and that dose proved ineffective in the early results. It took four times that amount — 2,800 milligrams — to show any effect.The Lilly drug is authorized for people 12 and older who weigh at least 40 kilograms (about 88 pounds), and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. This includes those who are 65 years of age or older, or who have certain chronic medical conditions.___

US allows 1st emergency use of a COVID-19 antibody drug

Geary County Health Department officials have confirmed that there were six new positive COVID-19 cases and 16 new recovered cases over the weekend. There are now 36 active cases and two people are hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began there have been 445 positive cases, 405 recovered cases and four deaths.

Geary County Health Department officials have confirmed that there were six new positive COVID-19 cases and 16 new recovered cases over the weekend. There are now 36 active cases and two people are hospitalized.Since the pandemic began there have been 445 positive cases, 405 recovered cases and four deaths.

Six new positive, 16 recovered COVID-19 cases reported in Geary Co.

Riley County has 126 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. There are currently 258 active coronavirus cases in the county. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for six positive patients and one person under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (three positives and one PUI) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Kansas is experiencing a large number of new cases,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Many of the new patients in Riley County are linked to community spread, according to information from contact tracing staff. This means patients do not know where they contracted the virus. I advise all residents to use caution and take the health guidelines seriously.” Additional information about safety practices and health guidelines is available on the CDC’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=53052a5316&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>. Test results have started to come in for the 525 people who participated in the free testing event last week. So far, 92 of those tested were positive. Not all results have been received and contact tracing staff will continue to call all of the people who participated. The positive rate for the county will be calculated and published on Wednesday, to allow for test results from Friday and Saturday to be included. RCHD will offer free testing every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 -7:00 p.m. through the end of the year. No appointment is needed and anyone can participate. Please wear a mask and enter CiCo Park from the Kimball/Candlewood parking lot, then follow the signs to the barns near Pottorf Hall. Testing will be held each Thursday in all weather conditions, but will not be offered the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Thursday, December 31 testing event will be held Wednesday, December 30 instead. For more information about testing, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=73cb80881a&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, contact a health care provider, or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;The Screening Line will not be available Wednesday, November 11 because the health department is closed for Veterans' Day. Riley County Statistics for Monday, November 9, 2020:

There are now seven active outbreaks in Riley County. The Alpha of Clovia 4H Scholarship House was recently added to the list, and no outbreaks have expired since Friday’s report.&nbsp;

Riley County has 126 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. There are currently 258 active coronavirus cases in the county. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for six positive patients and one person under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (three positives and one PUI) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Kansas is experiencing a large number of new cases,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Many of the new patients in Riley County are linked to community spread, according to information from contact tracing staff. This means patients do not know where they contracted the virus. I advise all residents to use caution and take the health guidelines seriously.” Additional information about safety practices and health guidelines is available on the CDC’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=53052a5316&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>. Test results have started to come in for the 525 people who participated in the free testing event last week. So far, 92 of those tested were positive. Not all results have been received and contact tracing staff will continue to call all of the people who participated. The positive rate for the county will be calculated and published on Wednesday, to allow for test results from Friday and Saturday to be included. RCHD will offer free testing every Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 -7:00 p.m. through the end of the year. No appointment is needed and anyone can participate. Please wear a mask and enter CiCo Park from the Kimball/Candlewood parking lot, then follow the signs to the barns near Pottorf Hall. Testing will be held each Thursday in all weather conditions, but will not be offered the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Thursday, December 31 testing event will be held Wednesday, December 30 instead. For more information about testing, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=73cb80881a&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, contact a health care provider, or call the Riley County Screening Line at 785-323-6400. The Screening Line is staffed by nurses and is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;The Screening Line will not be available Wednesday, November 11 because the health department is closed for Veterans' Day. Riley County Statistics for Monday, November 9, 2020:<ol>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,523</li><li>Total active: 258</li><li>Total recovered: 2,253</li><li>Total deaths: 12</li><li>Total negative test results: 21,226</li>
 </ol>There are now seven active outbreaks in Riley County. The Alpha of Clovia 4H Scholarship House was recently added to the list, and no outbreaks have expired since Friday’s report.&nbsp;By Vivienne UccelloPublic Information OfficerRiley County Emergency Operations Center

Riley County health reports 126 new positive COVID-19 cases

Chapman USD 473 Superintendent of Schools, Jerry Hodson, has confirmed the third grade class at Blue Ridge Elementary School will be quarantined for a few days.&nbsp; The decision follows confirmed positive COVID-19 cases within the third grade class and after consulting the Dickinson County Health Department. Parents of students are asked to monitor their students for symptoms.

The third grade class will begin remote learning on Nov. 12 and continue through Nov. 17. The class will be able to return to school on Nov. 18.&nbsp; All other classes in the school will continue meeting as normal.

Parents of third grade students with internet who have questions or concerns can contact the building administration, Afton Diehl.

Chapman USD 473 Superintendent of Schools, Jerry Hodson, has confirmed the third grade class at Blue Ridge Elementary School will be quarantined for a few days.&nbsp; The decision follows confirmed positive COVID-19 cases within the third grade class and after consulting the Dickinson County Health Department. Parents of students are asked to monitor their students for symptoms.The third grade class will begin remote learning on Nov. 12 and continue through Nov. 17. The class will be able to return to school on Nov. 18.&nbsp; All other classes in the school will continue meeting as normal.Parents of third grade students with internet who have questions or concerns can contact the building administration, Afton Diehl.

Blue Ridge Elementary School third grade class will quarantine

Dirty Dawg Saloon in Aggieville must close per court order after multiple violations of the most recent local health order.

Friday, a Riley County District Court Judge granted the county’s application for a restraining order against Dirty Dawg Saloon. Starting at 10:00 a.m. today, Saturday, November 7th, the restraining order goes into effect and the bar must close until the defendants take action to comply with Local Health Order No. 18.

Over several weeks, violations of the local health order were documented through reports and body camera footage from Riley County Police Officers. The violations included overcrowding, open dance floors, and staying open past midnight.

According to the Judge’s orders the dance floor must be closed and customers must be prohibited from drinking unless seated at tables. The defendants must also take action to comply with City of Manhattan Municipal Code Sec. 22-71(b) and require customers and employees to wear face masks.

“We will continue to work with businesses to communicate the need for safety protocols,” Riley County Health Officer Julie Gibbs said. “Ultimately, we will do what is necessary to protect the health of our community.”

Similar action will be taken against other establishments in violation of local health orders. For more information about Local Health Order 18 and Riley County’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, visit the Riley County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=b662354e6b&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, follow RCHD on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2094d22980&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">/RileyCountyHealthDepartment/</a>&nbsp;and Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2120dd5e27&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">@RileyCoHealth</a>.

Dirty Dawg Saloon in Aggieville must close per court order after multiple violations of the most recent local health order.Friday, a Riley County District Court Judge granted the county’s application for a restraining order against Dirty Dawg Saloon. Starting at 10:00 a.m. today, Saturday, November 7th, the restraining order goes into effect and the bar must close until the defendants take action to comply with Local Health Order No. 18.Over several weeks, violations of the local health order were documented through reports and body camera footage from Riley County Police Officers. The violations included overcrowding, open dance floors, and staying open past midnight.According to the Judge’s orders the dance floor must be closed and customers must be prohibited from drinking unless seated at tables. The defendants must also take action to comply with City of Manhattan Municipal Code Sec. 22-71(b) and require customers and employees to wear face masks.“We will continue to work with businesses to communicate the need for safety protocols,” Riley County Health Officer Julie Gibbs said. “Ultimately, we will do what is necessary to protect the health of our community.”Similar action will be taken against other establishments in violation of local health orders. For more information about Local Health Order 18 and Riley County’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, visit the Riley County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=b662354e6b&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">www.rileycountyks.gov/coronavirus</a>, follow RCHD on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2094d22980&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">/RileyCountyHealthDepartment/</a>&nbsp;and Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=2120dd5e27&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">@RileyCoHealth</a>.

Court orders an Aggieville saloon to close

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/06/hospitals-near-breaking-point-as-covid-19-patients-multiply/">Kansas Reflector</a>

As Steve Stites, the chief
 medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, tried to 
get the message out Friday that hospital resources are more scarce than 
previously thought, he began to pound his desk.

Kansas City area hospitals
 are approaching the point where they will have to choose they provide 
care to, he said, because there isn’t enough staff to care for the 
continuously rising number of COVID-19 patients. Hospitals have had to 
refuse transfers of COVID-19 patients from the state’s rural areas, he 
said, which also have run out of space.

“At our institution, now, 
COVID is the leading admission diagnosis,” Stites said. “I mean, a year 
ago, there was nothing. And now it is the leading reason to come in the 
hospital.”

He began to emphasis his 
words with the drumming of his fist: “Not cancer, not heart attack, not 
heart failure, not COPD or emphysema. The No. 1 reason is COVID. Well, 
that’s a big change for us. And we’re headed right smack into the cold 
and other flu season, etc. We know this is always when hospital capacity
 is stretched. It’s not unusual for us to be full this time of the year.
 But now we’ve got 10 to 15% more patients from just one disease.”

Health officials from 
private and public entities, local and state, have struggled for months 
to get more of the public to take preventative measures seriously. The 
consequences are dire.

The Kansas Department for 
Health and Environment on Friday said 79 deaths and 5,418 new infections
 had been reported since its last update, two days ago.

KDHE’s online dashboard 
shows 33% of intensive care unit beds remain available across the state,
 including 36% in Kansas City. But health officials say the actual 
number of available beds is much lower because hospitals lack the staff 
to care for more patients.

At one point this week, 
there were 32 empty ICU beds at 11 Kansas City area hospitals, but KU 
Health said the number that could actually be staffed was just 22. 
Stites said within the KU Health System there were 277 patients 
hospitalized for COVID-19 as of Monday. By Friday, the number was 318 
“and climbing.”

Hospital officials are 
looking to delay surgeries and extend workloads for nurses in 
anticipation that the pandemic will continue to get exponentially worse.

David Wild, vice president
 of performance improvement for KU Health, said it wasn’t clear how long
 it would take before hospitals no longer have the resources to treat 
new patients.

“Is it tomorrow? No, I don’t think so,” Wild said. “Could it be? Well, maybe. But it’s more likely weeks.”

In a separate briefing, 
Shawnee County health officials sounded similar alarms about 
overstressed hospitals and uncontrolled community transmission of 
COVID-19.

Gianfranco Pezzino, the 
Shawnee County health officer, said the past two weeks have been the 
worst of the pandemic to date. Last week, the county saw a 70.4% 
increase in cases and the percent that tested positive nearly doubled, 
from 5.4% to 10.7%, exceeding all previous marks. There were so many new
 cases, health officials are unable to do contact tracing for some of 
them. Of the new infections, health officials have no idea how 82% 
acquired their infections.

Topeka hospitals were at 81.7% capacity, Pezzino said, but actual space was far less because of staffing limitations.

“I can tell you today 
there was a hospital with only one ICU bed available,” Pezzino said. “I 
don’t know you, but that gives me chills. It’s just like being one car 
wreck away on I-70 from a major crisis, because you don’t have ICU beds 
or acute care beds to put patients.”

He stressed the importance
 to consider not just mass gatherings but a multitude of other ways the 
virus is commonly spread: sleepovers, birthday parties, weddings, 
funerals, Halloween, family reunions, tailgate parties, car shows, 
business meetings, trade conventions, sports events.

“You get the idea,” he 
said. “Every situation that brings two or three people, or you know a 
certain number of people, together is a risk for the transmission.”

He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers continue to get worse, and that “it doesn’t need to be like this.”

“It will depend in large 
part, once again, on the extent to which his community and its leaders 
are willing to make some more sacrifices now to prevent more problems in
 the future,” Pezzino said.

Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604690551401.png" alt="Steve Stites, the chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, says the number of COVID-19 patients who need to be hospitalized has increased exponentially, putting hospitals in the Kansas City area in danger of not being able to treat patients. (Screenshot from virtual news briefing/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Stites, the chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, says the number of COVID-19 patients who need to be hospitalized has increased exponentially, putting hospitals in the Kansas City area in danger of not being able to treat patients. (Screenshot from virtual news briefing/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/06/hospitals-near-breaking-point-as-covid-19-patients-multiply/">Kansas Reflector</a>As Steve Stites, the chief
 medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, tried to 
get the message out Friday that hospital resources are more scarce than 
previously thought, he began to pound his desk.Kansas City area hospitals
 are approaching the point where they will have to choose they provide 
care to, he said, because there isn’t enough staff to care for the 
continuously rising number of COVID-19 patients. Hospitals have had to 
refuse transfers of COVID-19 patients from the state’s rural areas, he 
said, which also have run out of space.“At our institution, now, 
COVID is the leading admission diagnosis,” Stites said. “I mean, a year 
ago, there was nothing. And now it is the leading reason to come in the 
hospital.”He began to emphasis his 
words with the drumming of his fist: “Not cancer, not heart attack, not 
heart failure, not COPD or emphysema. The No. 1 reason is COVID. Well, 
that’s a big change for us. And we’re headed right smack into the cold 
and other flu season, etc. We know this is always when hospital capacity
 is stretched. It’s not unusual for us to be full this time of the year.
 But now we’ve got 10 to 15% more patients from just one disease.”Health officials from 
private and public entities, local and state, have struggled for months 
to get more of the public to take preventative measures seriously. The 
consequences are dire.The Kansas Department for 
Health and Environment on Friday said 79 deaths and 5,418 new infections
 had been reported since its last update, two days ago.KDHE’s online dashboard 
shows 33% of intensive care unit beds remain available across the state,
 including 36% in Kansas City. But health officials say the actual 
number of available beds is much lower because hospitals lack the staff 
to care for more patients.At one point this week, 
there were 32 empty ICU beds at 11 Kansas City area hospitals, but KU 
Health said the number that could actually be staffed was just 22. 
Stites said within the KU Health System there were 277 patients 
hospitalized for COVID-19 as of Monday. By Friday, the number was 318 
“and climbing.”Hospital officials are 
looking to delay surgeries and extend workloads for nurses in 
anticipation that the pandemic will continue to get exponentially worse.David Wild, vice president
 of performance improvement for KU Health, said it wasn’t clear how long
 it would take before hospitals no longer have the resources to treat 
new patients.“Is it tomorrow? No, I don’t think so,” Wild said. “Could it be? Well, maybe. But it’s more likely weeks.”In a separate briefing, 
Shawnee County health officials sounded similar alarms about 
overstressed hospitals and uncontrolled community transmission of 
COVID-19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604690610487.png" alt="Gianfranco Pezzino, the Shawnee County health officer, said the potential for the pandemic to worsen depends on the community’s willingness to make some sacrifices. (Screenshot from virtual briefing/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gianfranco Pezzino, the Shawnee County health officer, said the potential for the pandemic to worsen depends on the community’s willingness to make some sacrifices. (Screenshot from virtual briefing/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Gianfranco Pezzino, the 
Shawnee County health officer, said the past two weeks have been the 
worst of the pandemic to date. Last week, the county saw a 70.4% 
increase in cases and the percent that tested positive nearly doubled, 
from 5.4% to 10.7%, exceeding all previous marks. There were so many new
 cases, health officials are unable to do contact tracing for some of 
them. Of the new infections, health officials have no idea how 82% 
acquired their infections.Topeka hospitals were at 81.7% capacity, Pezzino said, but actual space was far less because of staffing limitations.“I can tell you today 
there was a hospital with only one ICU bed available,” Pezzino said. “I 
don’t know you, but that gives me chills. It’s just like being one car 
wreck away on I-70 from a major crisis, because you don’t have ICU beds 
or acute care beds to put patients.”He stressed the importance
 to consider not just mass gatherings but a multitude of other ways the 
virus is commonly spread: sleepovers, birthday parties, weddings, 
funerals, Halloween, family reunions, tailgate parties, car shows, 
business meetings, trade conventions, sports events.“You get the idea,” he 
said. “Every situation that brings two or three people, or you know a 
certain number of people, together is a risk for the transmission.”He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers continue to get worse, and that “it doesn’t need to be like this.”“It will depend in large 
part, once again, on the extent to which his community and its leaders 
are willing to make some more sacrifices now to prevent more problems in
 the future,” Pezzino said.Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.

Kan. hospitals near breaking point as COVID-19 patients multiply

Geary County health officials released a daily COVID-19 update on Friday with six new positive cases and one recovered case. The number of active cases in the county now totals 46. 

Geary County health officials released a daily COVID-19 update on Friday with six new positive cases and one recovered case. The number of active cases in the county now totals 46. Two people are hospitalized.

Six new positive COVID-19 cases are reported on Friday

From the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association newsletter, during their National Hunting and Fishing Day event at Sportsman's acres there were approximately 100 to 150 who tried some outdoor activities.&nbsp;

The annual Assisted Deer Hunt usually scheduled the final weekend of firearms deer season has been cancelled by&nbsp; the Corps of Engineers this year due to ongoing concerns about COVID-19,

From the Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association newsletter, during their National Hunting and Fishing Day event at Sportsman's acres there were approximately 100 to 150 who tried some outdoor activities.&nbsp;The annual Assisted Deer Hunt usually scheduled the final weekend of firearms deer season has been cancelled by&nbsp; the Corps of Engineers this year due to ongoing concerns about COVID-19,

Fish & Game Association provides updates

&nbsp; Riley County has 86 new positive cases and 39 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Of the new cases, 59% &nbsp;are patients between the ages of 18-24. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for four positive patients and four persons under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (one positive and three PUIs) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Cases are expected to continue increasing as we enter the winter flu season,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Please consider altering your usual holiday plans to keep safety at the forefront this year. Some examples of low-risk activities for Thanksgiving include having a dinner with only members of your household, having a virtual dinner with extended family and friends, or shopping online rather than in person for Black Friday.”

&nbsp; Riley County has 86 new positive cases and 39 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Of the new cases, 59% &nbsp;are patients between the ages of 18-24. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for four positive patients and four persons under investigation (PUI) at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization and four of them (one positive and three PUIs) are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). “Cases are expected to continue increasing as we enter the winter flu season,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Please consider altering your usual holiday plans to keep safety at the forefront this year. Some examples of low-risk activities for Thanksgiving include having a dinner with only members of your household, having a virtual dinner with extended family and friends, or shopping online rather than in person for Black Friday.”

Riley County case numbers increase

Geary County health officials reported seven new positive COVID-19 cases on Thursday and one recovered case. That leaves 41 active cases in the county. Two people are hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began there have been 433 confirmed positive cases and 388 recovered cases. There have been four COVID-19 related deaths.

Geary County health officials reported seven new positive COVID-19 cases on Thursday and one recovered case. That leaves 41 active cases in the county. Two people are hospitalized.Since the pandemic began there have been 433 confirmed positive cases and 388 recovered cases. There have been four COVID-19 related deaths.

COVID-19 positive case count increases by seven

There were seven new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Geary County on Wednesday and no recoveries. Two people are hospitalized. The information was confirmed by the Geary County Health Department.

There were seven new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Geary County on Wednesday and no recoveries. Two people are hospitalized. The information was confirmed by the Geary County Health Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604583042826.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Positive COVID-19 cases rise by seven in Geary County

&nbsp; An 88 year-old Riley County woman died at Via Christi hospital on Friday. She tested positive for COVID-19 on October 23. The patient was a resident of Leonardville Nursing Home, which has been identified as a new area of outbreak in the county. All staff and residents of the nursing home are being tested regularly in accordance with KDHE guidelines. &nbsp; The Health Department reported that Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 4 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; An 88 year-old Riley County woman died at Via Christi hospital on Friday. She tested positive for COVID-19 on October 23. The patient was a resident of Leonardville Nursing Home, which has been identified as a new area of outbreak in the county. All staff and residents of the nursing home are being tested regularly in accordance with KDHE guidelines. &nbsp; The Health Department reported that Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 60 additional recoveries since Friday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 4 positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County reports 12th COVID-19 related death

Geary County health officials did not have any new positive COVID-19 or any recovered cases to report. The total number of confirmed positive cases since the pandemic began is 394 and there have been 373 recovered cases.&nbsp;

The Health Department added that there are 17 active cases, two people are hospitalized and there have been four fatalities since the beginning of the pandemic.&nbsp;

Geary County health officials did not have any new positive COVID-19 or any recovered cases to report. The total number of confirmed positive cases since the pandemic began is 394 and there have been 373 recovered cases.&nbsp;The Health Department added that there are 17 active cases, two people are hospitalized and there have been four fatalities since the beginning of the pandemic.&nbsp;

No change reported in the COVID-19 status in Geary County

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

Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 10 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Guidance about how to celebrate Halloween safely is posted on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=348b09661f&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=98c53524f1&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>. Limiting close contact with people outside your household and finding alternate ways to celebrate will help limit your exposure to the virus. “We’re seeing an increase in case totals, but Riley County numbers are lower than other areas in the state,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “We’ve been able to approach the pandemic with a unified front and we’re fortunate to have an Emergency Operations Center in the county. &nbsp;I’m grateful for the teamwork and leadership shown by the Unified Command, K-State, local school districts, elected officials, and for the hard work and support from the public. We will get through this if we continue to work together; the fight is far from over.” Riley County Statistics for Friday, October 30, 2020:

Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification.

Riley County currently has four active outbreaks. The public outbreak at the Smith House has expired and no new outbreaks have been identified since the last report. Three additional cases have been associated with the October 17 wedding in Manhattan, bringing the total to 40 active cases for that outbreak. “Event permits are still required for gatherings of more than 50 people,” said Julie Gibbs. “We want people to be able to celebrate occasions and host events, and we’ll educate you about precautions to put in place in order to help keep those events safe. It is up to each individual to take action and follow those guidelines.”

Riley County has 37 new positive cases and 10 additional recoveries since Wednesday’s report. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients at this time. The patients have symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. Guidance about how to celebrate Halloween safely is posted on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=348b09661f&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=98c53524f1&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">website</a>. Limiting close contact with people outside your household and finding alternate ways to celebrate will help limit your exposure to the virus. “We’re seeing an increase in case totals, but Riley County numbers are lower than other areas in the state,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “We’ve been able to approach the pandemic with a unified front and we’re fortunate to have an Emergency Operations Center in the county. &nbsp;I’m grateful for the teamwork and leadership shown by the Unified Command, K-State, local school districts, elected officials, and for the hard work and support from the public. We will get through this if we continue to work together; the fight is far from over.” Riley County Statistics for Friday, October 30, 2020:<ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 2,214</li><li>Total active: 127</li><li>Total recovered: 2,076</li><li>Total deaths: 11</li><li>Total negative test results: 19,251</li>
 </ul>Case counts are preliminary and subject to verification.<figure>
 <img src="" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Riley County currently has four active outbreaks. The public outbreak at the Smith House has expired and no new outbreaks have been identified since the last report. Three additional cases have been associated with the October 17 wedding in Manhattan, bringing the total to 40 active cases for that outbreak. “Event permits are still required for gatherings of more than 50 people,” said Julie Gibbs. “We want people to be able to celebrate occasions and host events, and we’ll educate you about precautions to put in place in order to help keep those events safe. It is up to each individual to take action and follow those guidelines.”

Riley County records more positive 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

Information released by the Geary County Health Department on Thursday included two new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 and one recovered case. Two people in Geary County are currently hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began there have been 394 confirmed positive cases and 373 recovered cases. There have been four deaths.

Information released by the Geary County Health Department on Thursday included two new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 and one recovered case. Two people in Geary County are currently hospitalized.Since the pandemic began there have been 394 confirmed positive cases and 373 recovered cases. There have been four deaths.

COVID-19 report issued for Thursday

Geary County health official reported three new positive COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, and one recovered case. There are no 16 active cases in the county with two people hospitalized.

Since&nbsp; the pandemic began there have ben 392 confirmed oases since the pandemic began and 372 recovered cases in Geary County. There have been four deaths in the county.

Geary County health official reported three new positive COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, and one recovered case. There are no 16 active cases in the county with two people hospitalized.Since&nbsp; the pandemic began there have ben 392 confirmed oases since the pandemic began and 372 recovered cases in Geary County. There have been four deaths in the county.

Health officials deliver the latest COVID-19 update

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>
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Coronavirus Update