Geary County health officials reported nine new positive COVID-19 cases on Monday. They include women ages 79, 48, 42, 17 and 41, plus men ages 58, 67, 43 and a 10-year old boy.

There are currently 36 active cases in the county while 156 people have recovered. Three people are hospitalized and two have died. There are seven persons under investigations where test results are pending.

Geary County health officials reported nine new positive COVID-19 cases on Monday. They include women ages 79, 48, 42, 17 and 41, plus men ages 58, 67, 43 and a 10-year old boy.There are currently 36 active cases in the county while 156 people have recovered. Three people are hospitalized and two have died. There are seven persons under investigations where test results are pending.

Nine new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Geary County 

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly will hold a press conference at 4 p.m. Monday to give an update regarding COVID-19 in Kansas.

Another weekend surge pushed the total number of virus cases for the pandemic past 38,000. The state Department of Health and Environment said Monday that Kansas saw another 1,545 confirmed and probable cases since Friday, an increase of 4.2%. The total since the pandemic began is 38,401.

The health department said all 105 of the state’s counties have had a confirmed or probable case. Rawlins and Wallace counties in western Kansas had remained the only two without a reported case for more than a month before the department said Monday that they had one case each.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly will hold a press conference at 4 p.m. Monday to give an update regarding COVID-19 in Kansas.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F326252398816890%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>Another weekend surge pushed the total number of virus cases for the pandemic past 38,000. The state Department of Health and Environment said Monday that Kansas saw another 1,545 confirmed and probable cases since Friday, an increase of 4.2%. The total since the pandemic began is 38,401.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598288743755.png" alt="August 24, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>August 24, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>The health department said all 105 of the state’s counties have had a confirmed or probable case. Rawlins and Wallace counties in western Kansas had remained the only two without a reported case for more than a month before the department said Monday that they had one case each.

🎥  Gov. Kelly: No more COVID-19-free counties in Kansas

(&nbsp; (JUNCTION CITY, KS – August 24, 2020) On Saturday a&nbsp; Konza Prairie Community Health Center (Konza) employee was swabbed for COVID-19 due to symptoms. Test results on Monday have confirmed the employee is positive for COVID-19. The staff member is currently in isolation.

Konza said all patients who were in contact with the employee have been identified. Due to the limited nature of the services provided by the employee’s department, impact to patients was minimal.

As of this release, all close contacts have been contacted and instructed to quarantine for 14 days, based on CDC guidelines.

Konza is committed to both patient and staff safety and is taking every precautionary measure to continue to safely provide access to essential healthcare services during this time. To minimize your risk of exposure to COVID-19, please continue to follow standard precautions as outlined by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Distance yourself from others when in public, especially if you are a senior or have a medical condition that puts you in a high-risk category.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth mask when in public.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue. Throw the used tissue away and immediately wash your hands.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily – including phones, keyboards, doorknobs, handles, and light switches – with an EPA-registered disinfectant

(&nbsp; (JUNCTION CITY, KS – August 24, 2020) On Saturday a&nbsp; Konza Prairie Community Health Center (Konza) employee was swabbed for COVID-19 due to symptoms. Test results on Monday have confirmed the employee is positive for COVID-19. The staff member is currently in isolation.Konza said all patients who were in contact with the employee have been identified. Due to the limited nature of the services provided by the employee’s department, impact to patients was minimal.As of this release, all close contacts have been contacted and instructed to quarantine for 14 days, based on CDC guidelines.Konza is committed to both patient and staff safety and is taking every precautionary measure to continue to safely provide access to essential healthcare services during this time. To minimize your risk of exposure to COVID-19, please continue to follow standard precautions as outlined by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment:• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.• Stay home as much as possible.• Distance yourself from others when in public, especially if you are a senior or have a medical condition that puts you in a high-risk category.• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth mask when in public.• Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue. Throw the used tissue away and immediately wash your hands.• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily – including phones, keyboards, doorknobs, handles, and light switches – with an EPA-registered disinfectant

Konza staff member tests positive for coronavirus

Riley County has 41 new positive cases and 1 recovery since Friday’s report. The totals are now 225 active, 376 recovered, and 5 deaths. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 1 positive patient and zero PUI* patients at this time. The patient has symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. The Riley County Health Department (RCHD) is contacting all who were swabbed at Vineyard Community Church on Thursday, August 20th. There were a total of 18 positive results of the 478 tested at that event, though not all were Riley County residents. Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their 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. Riley County Statistics for Monday, August 24, 2020:

Riley County has 41 new positive cases and 1 recovery since Friday’s report. The totals are now 225 active, 376 recovered, and 5 deaths. Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 1 positive patient and zero PUI* patients at this time. The patient has symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization. The Riley County Health Department (RCHD) is contacting all who were swabbed at Vineyard Community Church on Thursday, August 20th. There were a total of 18 positive results of the 478 tested at that event, though not all were Riley County residents. Anyone who has symptoms, is a close contact of a positive patient, or would like information about how to get tested should contact their 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. Riley County Statistics for Monday, August 24, 2020: <ul>
 <li>Total positive cases in Riley County Residents: 606</li><li>Total active: 225</li><li>Total recovered: 376</li><li>Total deaths: 5</li><li>Pending test results: 131</li><li>Negative test results: 6,208</li><li>Average age: 30.8 years old</li><li>Gender: Female: 47.0% (285), Male 53.0% (321)</li>
 </ul>

Riley County health officials report more COVID-19 cases

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Sunday announced emergency authorization to treat COVID-19 patients with convalescent plasma — a move he called “a breakthrough,” one of his top health officials called “promising” and other health experts said needs more study before it’s celebrated.

The announcement came after White House officials complained there were politically motivated delays by the Food and Drug Administration in approving a vaccine and therapeutics for the disease that has upended Trump’s reelection chances.

On the eve of the Republican National Convention, Trump put himself at the center of the FDA’s announcement of the authorization at a news conference Sunday evening. The authorization makes it easier for some patients to obtain the treatment but is not the same as full FDA approval.

The blood plasma, taken from patients who have recovered from the coronavirus and rich in antibodies, may provide benefits to those battling the disease. But the evidence so far has not been conclusive about whether it works, when to administer it and what dose is needed.

In a letter describing the emergency authorization, the chief scientist for the FDA, Denise Hinton, said: “COVID-19 convalescent plasma should not be considered a new standard of care for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Additional data will be forthcoming from other analyses and ongoing, well-controlled clinical trials in the coming months.”

But Trump had made clear to aides that he was eager to showcase good news in the battle against the virus, and the timing allowed him to head into his convention with momentum. He and aides billed it as a “major” development and used the White House briefing room to make the announcement.

Trump also displayed some rare discipline in the evening news conference, sticking to his talking points, deferring to the head of the FDA, Stephen Hahn, and only taking three questions from reporters.

The White House had grown agitated with the pace of the plasma approval. The accusations of an FDA slowdown, which were presented without evidence, were just the latest assault from Trump’s team on what he refers to as the “deep state” bureaucracy. White House chief of staff Mark Meadows did not deal in specifics, but said that “we’ve looked at a number of people that are not being as diligent as they should be in terms of getting to the bottom of it.”

“This president is about cutting red tape,” Meadows said in an interview Sunday on “This Week” on ABC. “He had to make sure that they felt the heat. If they don’t see the light, they need to feel the heat because the American people are suffering.”

During Sunday’s 18-minute press conference, Trump said he thought there had been a “logjam” at the FDA over granting the emergency authorization. He alleged there are people at the FDA “that can see things being held up ... and that’s for political reasons.”

Dr. Joshua Sharfstein said the statement, and Hahn’s silence while Trump said it, “was disgraceful.”

“The FDA commissioner basically allowed the president to mischaracterize the decision and attack the integrity of FDA employees. I was horrified,” said Sharfstein, a vice dean at John Hopkins University’s school of public health who was a top FDA official during the Obama administration.

“This is a promising therapy that has not been fully established,” he said

The push on Sunday came a day after Trump tweeted sharp criticism on the process to treat the virus, which has killed more than 175,000 Americans and imperiled his reelection chances. The White House has sunk vast resources into an expedited process to develop a vaccine, and Trump aides have been banking on it being an “October surprise” that could help the president make up ground in the polls.

“The deep state, or whoever, over at the FDA is making it very difficult for drug companies to get people in order to test the vaccines and therapeutics,” Trump tweeted. “Obviously, they are hoping to delay the answer until after November 3rd. Must focus on speed, and saving lives!”

Earlier this month, Mayo Clinic researchers reported a strong hint that blood plasma from COVID-19 survivors helps other infected patients recover. But it wasn’t considered proof.

More than 70,000 patients in the U.S. have been given convalescent plasma, a century-old approach to fend off flu and measles before vaccines. It’s a go-to tactic when new diseases come along, and history suggests it works against some, but not all, infections.

The Mayo Clinic reported preliminary data from 35,000 coronavirus patients treated with plasma, and said there were fewer deaths among people given plasma within three days of diagnosis, and also among those given plasma containing the highest levels of virus-fighting antibodies.

But it wasn’t a formal study. The patients were treated in different ways in hospitals around the country as part of an FDA program designed to speed access to the experimental therapy. That “expanded access” program tracks what happens to the recipients, but it cannot prove the plasma — and not other care they received — was the real reason for improvement.

Administration officials, in a call with reporters Sunday, discussed a benefit for patients who were within three days of admission to a hospital and were not on a respirator, and were given ‘high-titer’ convalescent plasma containing higher concentrations of antibodies. They were then compared to similar patients who were given lower-titer plasma. The findings suggest deaths were 35% lower in the high-titer group.

There’s been little data on how effective it is or whether it must be administered fairly early in an illness to make a significant difference, said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases expert at Vanderbilt University.

Aiming to ward off a possible a run on convalescent plasma after the announcement, government officials have been working to obtain plasma and to team with corporate partners and nonprofit organizations to generate interest among previously infected patients to donate.

Hahn, who called the development “promising,” said Trump did not speak to him about the timing of the announcement. He said “this has been in the works for several weeks.”

But some health experts were skeptical. Benjamin Corb, of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, called it “conspicuous timing.”

“President Trump is once again putting his political goals ahead of the health and well-being of the American public,” Corb said.

Rigorous studies are under way around the country, comparing similar patients randomly assigned to get plasma or a dummy infusion in addition to regular care. But those studies have been difficult to finish as the virus waxes and wanes in different cities. Also, some patients have requested plasma rather than agreeing to a study that might give them a placebo instead.

Former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb dismissed the suggestion of a slowdown.

“I firmly reject the idea they would slow-walk anything or accelerate anything based on any political consideration or any consideration other than what is best for the public health and a real sense of mission to patients,” Gottlieb told CBS’s “Face the Nation.”

Trump, in news conferences, “has made all kinds of therapeutic suggestions” that have not proven to be supported by science — and are even dangerous, Schaffner said. That includes statements about the possible value of treating COVID-19 patients with ultraviolet light and disinfectant. Trump reportedly also recently became enthusiastic about oleandrin, a plant extract derived from a toxic shrub that scientists immediately warned against.

But the president is perhaps best known for his early and ardent embrace of the malaria drugs hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine.

Earlier this month, Hahn emphasized that routine evaluation procedures will remain in place to evaluate COVID vaccine candidates.

“I think this administration has put more pressure on the Food and Drug Administration than I can remember” ever happening in the past, Schaffner said.

“Everybody is just a little bit nervous,” he said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced Sunday the emergency authorization of convalescent plasma for COVID-19 patients, in a move he called “a breakthrough,” one of his top health officials called “promising,” and other health experts said needs more study before it’s celebrated.

The announcement came after days of White House officials suggesting there were politically motivated delays by the Food and Drug Administration in approving a vaccine and therapeutics for the disease that has upended Trump’s reelection chances.

On the eve of the Republican National Convention, Trump put himself at the center of the FDA’s announcement of the authorization — it makes it easier for some patients to obtain the treatment — in a news conference Sunday evening.

The blood plasma, taken from patients who have recovered from the coronavirus and rich in antibodies, may provide benefits to those battling with the disease. But the evidence so far has not been conclusive about whether it works, when to administer it and what dose is needed.

In a letter describing the emergency authorization, the chief scientist for the FDA, Denise Hinton, noted: “COVID-19 convalescent plasma should not be considered a new standard of care for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Additional data will be forthcoming from other analyses and ongoing, well-controlled clinical trials in the coming months.”

An emergency use authorization is not the same as full FDA approval.

In the authorization letter, FDA officials emphasized convalescent plasma is still under investigation. “COVID-19 convalescent plasma should not be considered a new standard of care for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Additional data will be forthcoming from other analyses and ongoing, well-controlled clinical trials in the coming months,” it said.

But Trump had made clear to aides that he was eager for a piece of good news on the battle of the pandemic, and the timing allowed him to head into the convention with momentum. He and aides billed it as a “major” development and utilized the White House briefing room to make the announcement.

The White House had grown agitated with the pace of the plasma approval, but the accusations of a slowdown, which were presented without evidence, were just the latest assault from Trump’s team on the “deep state” bureaucracy. White House chief of staff Mark Meadows did not deal in specifics, but said that “we’ve looked at a number of people that are not being as diligent as they should be in terms of getting to the bottom of it.”

There’s no solid evidence yet that it fights the coronavirus and, if so, how best to use it.

Hahn, who called the development “promising,” said Trump did not speak to him about the timing of the announcement, which comes just before a pivotal week for the president’s reelection chances. Hahn said “this has been in the works for several weeks” and came after a data validation for which the agency had been waiting.

Rigorous studies underway around the country are designed to get that proof, by comparing similar patients randomly assigned to get plasma or a dummy infusion in addition to regular care. But those studies have been difficult to finish as the virus waxes and wanes in different cities. Also, some patients have requested plasma rather than agreeing to a study that might give them a placebo instead.

Hundreds of drugs are currently being developed as possible treatments against the coronavirus infection, taking a range of approaches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598222952199.png" alt="President Trump took only 3 questions during the Sunday evening press conference-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump took only 3 questions during the Sunday evening press conference-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Sunday announced emergency authorization to treat COVID-19 patients with convalescent plasma — a move he called “a breakthrough,” one of his top health officials called “promising” and other health experts said needs more study before it’s celebrated.The announcement came after White House officials complained there were politically motivated delays by the Food and Drug Administration in approving a vaccine and therapeutics for the disease that has upended Trump’s reelection chances.On the eve of the Republican National Convention, Trump put himself at the center of the FDA’s announcement of the authorization at a news conference Sunday evening. The authorization makes it easier for some patients to obtain the treatment but is not the same as full FDA approval.The blood plasma, taken from patients who have recovered from the coronavirus and rich in antibodies, may provide benefits to those battling the disease. But the evidence so far has not been conclusive about whether it works, when to administer it and what dose is needed.In a letter describing the emergency authorization, the chief scientist for the FDA, Denise Hinton, said: “COVID-19 convalescent plasma should not be considered a new standard of care for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Additional data will be forthcoming from other analyses and ongoing, well-controlled clinical trials in the coming months.”But Trump had made clear to aides that he was eager to showcase good news in the battle against the virus, and the timing allowed him to head into his convention with momentum. He and aides billed it as a “major” development and used the White House briefing room to make the announcement.Trump also displayed some rare discipline in the evening news conference, sticking to his talking points, deferring to the head of the FDA, Stephen Hahn, and only taking three questions from reporters.The White House had grown agitated with the pace of the plasma approval. The accusations of an FDA slowdown, which were presented without evidence, were just the latest assault from Trump’s team on what he refers to as the “deep state” bureaucracy. White House chief of staff Mark Meadows did not deal in specifics, but said that “we’ve looked at a number of people that are not being as diligent as they should be in terms of getting to the bottom of it.”“This president is about cutting red tape,” Meadows said in an interview Sunday on “This Week” on ABC. “He had to make sure that they felt the heat. If they don’t see the light, they need to feel the heat because the American people are suffering.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598222686256.png" alt="President Donald Trump accompanied by Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn, center and HHS Secretary Alex Azar during a media briefing Sunday -photo Courtesy White House." />
 <figcaption>President Donald Trump accompanied by Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn, center and HHS Secretary Alex Azar during a media briefing Sunday -photo Courtesy White House.</figcaption>
 </figure>During Sunday’s 18-minute press conference, Trump said he thought there had been a “logjam” at the FDA over granting the emergency authorization. He alleged there are people at the FDA “that can see things being held up ... and that’s for political reasons.”Dr. Joshua Sharfstein said the statement, and Hahn’s silence while Trump said it, “was disgraceful.”“The FDA commissioner basically allowed the president to mischaracterize the decision and attack the integrity of FDA employees. I was horrified,” said Sharfstein, a vice dean at John Hopkins University’s school of public health who was a top FDA official during the Obama administration.“This is a promising therapy that has not been fully established,” he saidThe push on Sunday came a day after Trump tweeted sharp criticism on the process to treat the virus, which has killed more than 175,000 Americans and imperiled his reelection chances. The White House has sunk vast resources into an expedited process to develop a vaccine, and Trump aides have been banking on it being an “October surprise” that could help the president make up ground in the polls.“The deep state, or whoever, over at the FDA is making it very difficult for drug companies to get people in order to test the vaccines and therapeutics,” Trump tweeted. “Obviously, they are hoping to delay the answer until after November 3rd. Must focus on speed, and saving lives!”Earlier this month, Mayo Clinic researchers reported a strong hint that blood plasma from COVID-19 survivors helps other infected patients recover. But it wasn’t considered proof.More than 70,000 patients in the U.S. have been given convalescent plasma, a century-old approach to fend off flu and measles before vaccines. It’s a go-to tactic when new diseases come along, and history suggests it works against some, but not all, infections.The Mayo Clinic reported preliminary data from 35,000 coronavirus patients treated with plasma, and said there were fewer deaths among people given plasma within three days of diagnosis, and also among those given plasma containing the highest levels of virus-fighting antibodies.But it wasn’t a formal study. The patients were treated in different ways in hospitals around the country as part of an FDA program designed to speed access to the experimental therapy. That “expanded access” program tracks what happens to the recipients, but it cannot prove the plasma — and not other care they received — was the real reason for improvement.Administration officials, in a call with reporters Sunday, discussed a benefit for patients who were within three days of admission to a hospital and were not on a respirator, and were given ‘high-titer’ convalescent plasma containing higher concentrations of antibodies. They were then compared to similar patients who were given lower-titer plasma. The findings suggest deaths were 35% lower in the high-titer group.There’s been little data on how effective it is or whether it must be administered fairly early in an illness to make a significant difference, said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases expert at Vanderbilt University.Aiming to ward off a possible a run on convalescent plasma after the announcement, government officials have been working to obtain plasma and to team with corporate partners and nonprofit organizations to generate interest among previously infected patients to donate.Hahn, who called the development “promising,” said Trump did not speak to him about the timing of the announcement. He said “this has been in the works for several weeks.”But some health experts were skeptical. Benjamin Corb, of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, called it “conspicuous timing.”“President Trump is once again putting his political goals ahead of the health and well-being of the American public,” Corb said.Rigorous studies are under way around the country, comparing similar patients randomly assigned to get plasma or a dummy infusion in addition to regular care. But those studies have been difficult to finish as the virus waxes and wanes in different cities. Also, some patients have requested plasma rather than agreeing to a study that might give them a placebo instead.Former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb dismissed the suggestion of a slowdown.“I firmly reject the idea they would slow-walk anything or accelerate anything based on any political consideration or any consideration other than what is best for the public health and a real sense of mission to patients,” Gottlieb told CBS’s “Face the Nation.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598218807664.png" alt="President Trump during the Sunday evening news conference -photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during the Sunday evening news conference -photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>Trump, in news conferences, “has made all kinds of therapeutic suggestions” that have not proven to be supported by science — and are even dangerous, Schaffner said. That includes statements about the possible value of treating COVID-19 patients with ultraviolet light and disinfectant. Trump reportedly also recently became enthusiastic about oleandrin, a plant extract derived from a toxic shrub that scientists immediately warned against.But the president is perhaps best known for his early and ardent embrace of the malaria drugs hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine.Earlier this month, Hahn emphasized that routine evaluation procedures will remain in place to evaluate COVID vaccine candidates.“I think this administration has put more pressure on the Food and Drug Administration than I can remember” ever happening in the past, Schaffner said.“Everybody is just a little bit nervous,” he said.-----------WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced Sunday the emergency authorization of convalescent plasma for COVID-19 patients, in a move he called “a breakthrough,” one of his top health officials called “promising,” and other health experts said needs more study before it’s celebrated.The announcement came after days of White House officials suggesting there were politically motivated delays by the Food and Drug Administration in approving a vaccine and therapeutics for the disease that has upended Trump’s reelection chances.On the eve of the Republican National Convention, Trump put himself at the center of the FDA’s announcement of the authorization — it makes it easier for some patients to obtain the treatment — in a news conference Sunday evening.The blood plasma, taken from patients who have recovered from the coronavirus and rich in antibodies, may provide benefits to those battling with the disease. But the evidence so far has not been conclusive about whether it works, when to administer it and what dose is needed.In a letter describing the emergency authorization, the chief scientist for the FDA, Denise Hinton, noted: “COVID-19 convalescent plasma should not be considered a new standard of care for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Additional data will be forthcoming from other analyses and ongoing, well-controlled clinical trials in the coming months.”An emergency use authorization is not the same as full FDA approval.In the authorization letter, FDA officials emphasized convalescent plasma is still under investigation. “COVID-19 convalescent plasma should not be considered a new standard of care for the treatment of patients with COVID-19. Additional data will be forthcoming from other analyses and ongoing, well-controlled clinical trials in the coming months,” it said.But Trump had made clear to aides that he was eager for a piece of good news on the battle of the pandemic, and the timing allowed him to head into the convention with momentum. He and aides billed it as a “major” development and utilized the White House briefing room to make the announcement.Trump also displayed some rare discipline in the evening news conference, sticking to his talking points, deferring to the head of the FDA, Stephen Hahn, and only taking three questions from reporters.The White House had grown agitated with the pace of the plasma approval, but the accusations of a slowdown, which were presented without evidence, were just the latest assault from Trump’s team on the “deep state” bureaucracy. White House chief of staff Mark Meadows did not deal in specifics, but said that “we’ve looked at a number of people that are not being as diligent as they should be in terms of getting to the bottom of it.”“This president is about cutting red tape,” Meadows said in an interview Sunday on “This Week” on ABC. “He had to make sure that they felt the heat. If they don’t see the light, they need to feel the heat because the American people are suffering.”The push on Sunday came a day after Trump tweeted sharp criticism on the process to treat the virus, which has killed more than 175,000 Americans and imperiled his reelection chances. The White House has sunk vast resources into an expedited process to develop a vaccine, and Trump aides have been banking on it being an “October surprise” that could help the president make up ground in the polls.“The deep state, or whoever, over at the FDA is making it very difficult for drug companies to get people in order to test the vaccines and therapeutics,” Trump tweeted. “Obviously, they are hoping to delay the answer until after November 3rd. Must focus on speed, and saving lives!”Earlier this month, Mayo Clinic researchers reported a strong hint that blood plasma from COVID-19 survivors helps other infected patients recover. But it wasn’t considered proof.More than 70,000 patients in the U.S. have been given convalescent plasma, a century-old approach to fend off flu and measles before vaccines. It’s a go-to tactic when new diseases come along, and history suggests it works against some, but not all, infections.There’s no solid evidence yet that it fights the coronavirus and, if so, how best to use it.The Mayo Clinic reported preliminary data from 35,000 coronavirus patients treated with plasma, and said there were fewer deaths among people given plasma within three days of diagnosis, and also among those given plasma containing the highest levels of virus-fighting antibodies.But it wasn’t a formal study. The patients were treated in different ways in hospitals around the country as part of an FDA program designed to speed access to the experimental therapy. That “expanded access” program tracks what happens to the recipients, but it cannot prove the plasma — and not other care they received — was the real reason for improvement.Administration officials, in a call with reporters Sunday, discussed a benefit for patients who were within three days of admission to a hospital and were not on a respirator, and were given ‘high-titer’ convalescent plasma containing higher concentrations of antibodies. They were then compared to similar patients who were given lower-titer plasma. The findings suggest deaths were 35% lower in the high-titer group.There’s been little data on how effective it is or whether it must be administered fairly early in an illness to make a significant difference, said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases expert at Vanderbilt University.Aiming to ward off a possible a run on convalescent plasma after the announcement, government officials have been working to obtain plasma and to team with corporate partners and nonprofit organizations to generate interest among previously infected patients to donate.Hahn, who called the development “promising,” said Trump did not speak to him about the timing of the announcement, which comes just before a pivotal week for the president’s reelection chances. Hahn said “this has been in the works for several weeks” and came after a data validation for which the agency had been waiting.But some health experts were skeptical. Benjamin Corb, of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, called it “conspicuous timing.”“President Trump is once again putting his political goals ahead of the health and well-being of the American public,” Corb said.Rigorous studies underway around the country are designed to get that proof, by comparing similar patients randomly assigned to get plasma or a dummy infusion in addition to regular care. But those studies have been difficult to finish as the virus waxes and wanes in different cities. Also, some patients have requested plasma rather than agreeing to a study that might give them a placebo instead.Former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb dismissed the suggestion of a slowdown.ADVERTISEMENT“I firmly reject the idea they would slow-walk anything or accelerate anything based on any political consideration or any consideration other than what is best for the public health and a real sense of mission to patients,” Gottlieb told CBS’s “Face the Nation.”Hundreds of drugs are currently being developed as possible treatments against the coronavirus infection, taking a range of approaches.Trump, in news conferences, “has made all kinds of therapeutic suggestions” that have not proven to be supported by science — and are even dangerous, Schaffner said. That includes statements about the possible value of treating COVID-19 patients with ultraviolet light and disinfectant. Trump reportedly also recently became enthusiastic about oleandrin, a plant extract derived from a toxic shrub that scientists immediately warned against.But the president is perhaps best known for his early and ardent embrace of the malaria drugs hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine.Earlier this month, Hahn emphasized that routine evaluation procedures will remain in place to evaluate COVID vaccine candidates.“I think this administration has put more pressure on the Food and Drug Administration than I can remember” ever happening in the past, Schaffner said.“Everybody is just a little bit nervous,” he said.----

Trump: Plasma treatment for COVID-19 a breakthrough

WASHINGTON (AP) — A widely used coronavirus test is under scrutiny this week after federal health officials warned that it could deliver inaccurate results if laboratory technicians don’t follow the the latest updates from the manufacturer.

The Food and Drug Administration’s warning over Thermo Fisher’s TaqPath test underscores the complexity of COVID-19 tests and how easily they can be skewed by faulty processing and equipment.

The FDA action follows a report last month by Connecticut public health officials that the test resulted in at least 90 people receiving false positive results for the coronavirus.

Thermo Fisher’s test is one of the standard tools used to screen for COVID-19, run on large, automated machines found in many U.S. hospitals and laboratories. The FDA flagged two separate issues that could potentially result in false results: the chemical mixing process and computer software that runs on the company’s machine. Thermo Fisher has provided new instructions for mixing. And a software update fixes the second problem, the FDA said.

For all positive results, FDA said labs should review the instrument settings.

Thermo Fisher said in a statement that its data shows the issues are rare and most users get accurate results by following company directions.

No test is 100% accurate and all medical tests are expected to deliver a certain small portion of false results. Less is known about the accuracy of COVID-19 tests because of how quickly they were rushed through the regulatory process because of the pandemic.

Thermo Fisher’s test uses molecular technology that is considered the gold standard for detecting the COVID-19 virus and other viruses. The test uses chemicals to extract the genetic material of the virus from a nasal swab, then amplifies it many times until it is detectable with a computer.

Thermo Fisher’s test was among the first granted emergency use by the FDA in mid-March. Like other companies, it got the OK based on laboratory experiments it submitted to regulators. The test successfully detected coronavirus in 60 lab-made samples of the virus, and successfully ruled out the virus in 60 samples that didn’t contain the virus. That was sufficient to meet FDA requirements..

However,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38967d1644ef374d1bcbc7806b383b8e">experts have warned</a>&nbsp;that these laboratory measures are very different from the large patient studies that assess the real-world performance of a test. Those studies can reveal factors that can skew results, such as faulty samples or incorrect processing .

The biggest concern during infectious disease outbreaks is usually avoiding false negatives, or when the test fails to catch people who are actually infected. That can result in some people unknowingly spreading the virus.

But Dr. Albert Ko of Yale’s School of Public Health noted that false positives can also create problems, particularly in places like nursing homes and prisons where people are grouped together based on test results.

“You may wind up putting someone who hasn’t been infected together with people who may be infected and are contagious,” Ko said.

Test results can be affected by a variety of factors, including the type of test used, the quality of the sample and when it was taken during the course of any infection.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A widely used coronavirus test is under scrutiny this week after federal health officials warned that it could deliver inaccurate results if laboratory technicians don’t follow the the latest updates from the manufacturer.The Food and Drug Administration’s warning over Thermo Fisher’s TaqPath test underscores the complexity of COVID-19 tests and how easily they can be skewed by faulty processing and equipment.The FDA action follows a report last month by Connecticut public health officials that the test resulted in at least 90 people receiving false positive results for the coronavirus.WHAT HAPPENED WITH THE TEST?Thermo Fisher’s test is one of the standard tools used to screen for COVID-19, run on large, automated machines found in many U.S. hospitals and laboratories. The FDA flagged two separate issues that could potentially result in false results: the chemical mixing process and computer software that runs on the company’s machine. Thermo Fisher has provided new instructions for mixing. And a software update fixes the second problem, the FDA said.For all positive results, FDA said labs should review the instrument settings.Thermo Fisher said in a statement that its data shows the issues are rare and most users get accurate results by following company directions.HOW ACCURATE ARE COVID-19 TESTS?No test is 100% accurate and all medical tests are expected to deliver a certain small portion of false results. Less is known about the accuracy of COVID-19 tests because of how quickly they were rushed through the regulatory process because of the pandemic.Thermo Fisher’s test uses molecular technology that is considered the gold standard for detecting the COVID-19 virus and other viruses. The test uses chemicals to extract the genetic material of the virus from a nasal swab, then amplifies it many times until it is detectable with a computer.Thermo Fisher’s test was among the first granted emergency use by the FDA in mid-March. Like other companies, it got the OK based on laboratory experiments it submitted to regulators. The test successfully detected coronavirus in 60 lab-made samples of the virus, and successfully ruled out the virus in 60 samples that didn’t contain the virus. That was sufficient to meet FDA requirements..However,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38967d1644ef374d1bcbc7806b383b8e">experts have warned</a>&nbsp;that these laboratory measures are very different from the large patient studies that assess the real-world performance of a test. Those studies can reveal factors that can skew results, such as faulty samples or incorrect processing .HOW SIGNIFICANT ARE FALSE RESULTS?The biggest concern during infectious disease outbreaks is usually avoiding false negatives, or when the test fails to catch people who are actually infected. That can result in some people unknowingly spreading the virus.But Dr. Albert Ko of Yale’s School of Public Health noted that false positives can also create problems, particularly in places like nursing homes and prisons where people are grouped together based on test results.“You may wind up putting someone who hasn’t been infected together with people who may be infected and are contagious,” Ko said.Test results can be affected by a variety of factors, including the type of test used, the quality of the sample and when it was taken during the course of any infection.___

Many steps needed for accurate COVID-19 test results

&nbsp;Geary County Health officials Friday confirmed 3 new cases. They all involve men, 36, 17 and 64 years old. There are 42 active cases in the county. Two people are hospitalized.

&nbsp;Geary County Health officials Friday confirmed 3 new cases. They all involve men, 36, 17 and 64 years old. There are 42 active cases in the county. Two people are hospitalized.

Three more COVID-19 cases are identified

Riley County Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs issued a Notice to Close Immediately to O’Malley’s Alley, located at 1210 Moro Street, and O'Malley's, located at 1208 Moro Street, in Aggieville, Manhattan. An officer from the Riley County Police Department (RCPD) served the order to owner William Porter and placards were placed on the doors of the establishments.

As the Local Health Officer appointed by the Board of Health, Gibbs is authorized to prohibit public gatherings and take other measures necessary for the control of any and all infectious or contagious diseases. Pursuant to K.S.A. 65-129b, any sheriff, deputy sheriff or other law enforcement officer of the state or any political subdivision within Riley County, Kansas is ordered to assist in the execution or enforcement of Local Health Orders.This is the first Notice to Close Immediately that has been issued in Riley County during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Officials reported in a news release that&nbsp; Riley County residents reported multiple complaints about O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley and the complaints were confirmed by RCPD officers as well as the Local Health Officer. Efforts to achieve voluntary compliance were unsuccessful.O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley were observed on Friday, August 21 to be in violation of section 2, B#4 Local Health Order 18 which states:

O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley were also observed to be in violation of section 2, A#1 of Order 18 which states:

The Notice to Close Immediately will remain in effect until such time as O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley can comply with Order 18 or any subsequent order.

Riley County Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs issued a Notice to Close Immediately to O’Malley’s Alley, located at 1210 Moro Street, and O'Malley's, located at 1208 Moro Street, in Aggieville, Manhattan. An officer from the Riley County Police Department (RCPD) served the order to owner William Porter and placards were placed on the doors of the establishments.As the Local Health Officer appointed by the Board of Health, Gibbs is authorized to prohibit public gatherings and take other measures necessary for the control of any and all infectious or contagious diseases. Pursuant to K.S.A. 65-129b, any sheriff, deputy sheriff or other law enforcement officer of the state or any political subdivision within Riley County, Kansas is ordered to assist in the execution or enforcement of Local Health Orders.This is the first Notice to Close Immediately that has been issued in Riley County during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.Officials reported in a news release that&nbsp; Riley County residents reported multiple complaints about O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley and the complaints were confirmed by RCPD officers as well as the Local Health Officer. Efforts to achieve voluntary compliance were unsuccessful.O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley were observed on Friday, August 21 to be in violation of section 2, B#4 Local Health Order 18 which states:<ol>
 <li>All restaurants and bars are limited to seated areas only. This includes patios.</li><li>Service or consumption of food or drinks while standing at a counter/bar or in standing-only areas is prohibited.</li><li>Consumption of food and beverages shall only take place at a counter or table via seated service.</li>
 </ol>O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley were also observed to be in violation of section 2, A#1 of Order 18 which states:<ol>
 <li>All individuals present within the city limits of Manhattan must comply with the local mask ordinance.</li>
 </ol>The Notice to Close Immediately will remain in effect until such time as O’Malley’s and O’Malley’s Alley can comply with Order 18 or any subsequent order.

O'Malley's Alley and O'Malleys are given a notice to close

FORT RILEY, Kansas - The Fort Riley Automotive Skills Center, building 7753, is closed temporarily due to a center volunteer testing positive for COVID-19. The center is scheduled to reopen Sept. 4 after deep cleaning.

According to the Fort Riley Garrison Public Affairs Office the volunteer worked in the center Aug. 15 and 16. Workers who were in the automotive center those days are quarantined for 14 days. Fort Riley Public Health officials are also recommending anyone who visited the facility on those days to self-monitor for symptoms. Self-monitoring means monitor for any symptoms while continuing daily duties. If symptoms manifest, remain at or return home and call the COVID-19 hotline at 785-239-DOCS (3627) option 7.

FORT RILEY, Kansas - The Fort Riley Automotive Skills Center, building 7753, is closed temporarily due to a center volunteer testing positive for COVID-19. The center is scheduled to reopen Sept. 4 after deep cleaning.According to the Fort Riley Garrison Public Affairs Office the volunteer worked in the center Aug. 15 and 16. Workers who were in the automotive center those days are quarantined for 14 days. Fort Riley Public Health officials are also recommending anyone who visited the facility on those days to self-monitor for symptoms. Self-monitoring means monitor for any symptoms while continuing daily duties. If symptoms manifest, remain at or return home and call the COVID-19 hotline at 785-239-DOCS (3627) option 7.

Fort Riley Automotive Skills Center is closing temporarily

&nbsp; Riley County has 33 new positive cases and 1 recovery since Wednesday’s report. The totals are now 185 active, 375 recovered, and 5 deaths. Additional cases have been identified in association with the Phi Delta Theta fraternity in Manhattan, for a total of 15 included in today’s report. No additional cases have been identified with the USD 384 School District Office outbreak, and that total remains at 7 positive people.&nbsp; Phi Delta Theta continues to work closely with the Riley County Health Department to encourage testing of their members and close contacts, while upholding their health and safety protocols.&nbsp; “Our members that have been tested positive are regularly checked in on and are doing well,” said Phi Delta Theta Chapter President Zach Hoeven. “Our fraternity has been fully cooperating with all of the right people and will continue to do so. We are doing the right thing by getting people tested to ensure the health and safety for both our members and our community.” Resources for Greek housing are available through the Fraternity and Sorority Life at K-State (FSL) at www.fslatkstate.com. Find additional resources and guidance for group living quarters on the Riley County website at https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19211/Group-Housing-Guidance. More advice and information for people in shared or congregate housing is available from the CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/shared-congregate-house/guidance-shared-congregate-housing.html.&nbsp; Phi Delta Theta continues to work closely with the Riley County Health Department to encourage testing of their members and close contacts, while upholding their health and safety protocols. “Our fraternity has been fully cooperating with all of the right people and will continue to do so,” said Phi Delta Theta Chapter President Zach Hoeven. “We are doing the right thing by getting people tested to ensure the health and safety for both our members and our community.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Riley County has 33 new positive cases and 1 recovery since Wednesday’s report. The totals are now 185 active, 375 recovered, and 5 deaths. Additional cases have been identified in association with the Phi Delta Theta fraternity in Manhattan, for a total of 15 included in today’s report. No additional cases have been identified with the USD 384 School District Office outbreak, and that total remains at 7 positive people.&nbsp; Phi Delta Theta continues to work closely with the Riley County Health Department to encourage testing of their members and close contacts, while upholding their health and safety protocols.&nbsp; “Our members that have been tested positive are regularly checked in on and are doing well,” said Phi Delta Theta Chapter President Zach Hoeven. “Our fraternity has been fully cooperating with all of the right people and will continue to do so. We are doing the right thing by getting people tested to ensure the health and safety for both our members and our community.” Resources for Greek housing are available through the Fraternity and Sorority Life at K-State (FSL) at www.fslatkstate.com. Find additional resources and guidance for group living quarters on the Riley County website at https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19211/Group-Housing-Guidance. More advice and information for people in shared or congregate housing is available from the CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/shared-congregate-house/guidance-shared-congregate-housing.html.&nbsp; Phi Delta Theta continues to work closely with the Riley County Health Department to encourage testing of their members and close contacts, while upholding their health and safety protocols. “Our fraternity has been fully cooperating with all of the right people and will continue to do so,” said Phi Delta Theta Chapter President Zach Hoeven. “We are doing the right thing by getting people tested to ensure the health and safety for both our members and our community.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County COVID-19 cases continue to climb upward

Geary County health officials confirmed five new positive cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. They included men, ages 45 and 27 plus women ages 17, 19 and 34 years of age.

There are now 43 active cases in Geary County while 182 have recovered. Tests are pending for 17 people and two people are hospitalized.

Geary County health officials confirmed five new positive cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. They included men, ages 45 and 27 plus women ages 17, 19 and 34 years of age.There are now 43 active cases in Geary County while 182 have recovered. Tests are pending for 17 people and two people are hospitalized.

Five positive COVID-19 cases are added to the Geary County total

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas death toll from the coronavirus pandemic rose to 411 on Wednesday as public health officials reported six more deaths.

The state Department of Health and Environment also reported on its website that Kansas had another 723 confirmed and probable cases since Monday, an increase of 2%, for a total of 35,890.

The actual number of cases is thought to be far higher because people can be infected without feeling ill and because of a lack of testing, particularly early in the pandemic.

Kansas has had 441 coronavirus clusters since the pandemic began, with 209 deaths at long-term care facilities, the health department said. Clusters at meatpacking plants accounted for 19 deaths and religious gatherings accounted for 12 deaths.

Health officials reported five clusters at Kansas colleges and universities associated with 57 coronavirus cases, with no hospitalizations or deaths associated with them.

Daycare facilities and schools were associated with 16 clusters associated with 78 cases, including one which required hospitalization.

Shawnee Mission, among the state’s largest school districts, plans to start classes online and suspend sports. But a neighboring school district is holding off on making a call as some parents urge them to reopen.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas death toll from the coronavirus pandemic rose to 411 on Wednesday as public health officials reported six more deaths.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKDHEnews%2Fvideos%2F2680082192274634%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 state Department of Health and Environment also reported on its website that Kansas had another 723 confirmed and probable cases since Monday, an increase of 2%, for a total of 35,890.The actual number of cases is thought to be far higher because people can be infected without feeling ill and because of a lack of testing, particularly early in the pandemic.Kansas has had 441 coronavirus clusters since the pandemic began, with 209 deaths at long-term care facilities, the health department said. Clusters at meatpacking plants accounted for 19 deaths and religious gatherings accounted for 12 deaths.Health officials reported five clusters at Kansas colleges and universities associated with 57 coronavirus cases, with no hospitalizations or deaths associated with them.Daycare facilities and schools were associated with 16 clusters associated with 78 cases, including one which required hospitalization.Shawnee Mission, among the state’s largest school districts, plans to start classes online and suspend sports. But a neighboring school district is holding off on making a call as some parents urge them to reopen.--------

🎥  Pandemic death toll rises with 6 new deaths in Kansas

Geary County Health Officer Tammy Von Busch has issued a new health order with updates in regard to COVID-19.&nbsp;

Two updates include a mandatory face coverings requirement while a person is in public or private and unable to maintain a social distance of six feet, and standing areas in bars and food service establishments is prohibited.&nbsp; All restaurants and bars are limited to seated areas only.

&nbsp;This order goes into effect immediately. A copy is available at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gearycounty.org%2F1418%2FNovel-Coronavirus-COVID-19%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2X6ZBQiwoz4yw978DGMHdeUKqHc3m9l94Jz59b1yNsgHN2Ij2LUcbx300&amp;h=AT0Dk0eoIetNsDDc7Vgh45h33yu0hqFkJMdZhuh3OFGiTynD7q91stmiqRonAzJCeUYxuUSlwem2a7kgAvT8BtipWRM1OZk7HRuAM3Nq2VttybMfw_pDOrCRBTL_w6bIFMoH&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT31Z3j4SLvEDwoGE86dsfIsi4vjyRTv8wAky87oSLAly-H5Ze6XJFcsaDwD2eEManpK14TFpsUKdcYvfFKJMMietv3sTXkdQc5nBxjftRQ9wr5zYNm1EqlhyMzPsjR_LxQ-yWFznaRy0cBG34Vekwrt8zCSldbzn5Q6k-bS1StMXWQjsgHhmPcl5fd1jWw" target="_blank">https://www.gearycounty.org/1418/Novel-Coronavirus-COVID-19</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597875799678.jpeg" alt="Geary County Health Department" />
 <figcaption>Geary County Health Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Health Officer Tammy Von Busch has issued a new health order with updates in regard to COVID-19.&nbsp;Two updates include a mandatory face coverings requirement while a person is in public or private and unable to maintain a social distance of six feet, and standing areas in bars and food service establishments is prohibited.&nbsp; All restaurants and bars are limited to seated areas only.&nbsp;This order goes into effect immediately. A copy is available at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gearycounty.org%2F1418%2FNovel-Coronavirus-COVID-19%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2X6ZBQiwoz4yw978DGMHdeUKqHc3m9l94Jz59b1yNsgHN2Ij2LUcbx300&amp;h=AT0Dk0eoIetNsDDc7Vgh45h33yu0hqFkJMdZhuh3OFGiTynD7q91stmiqRonAzJCeUYxuUSlwem2a7kgAvT8BtipWRM1OZk7HRuAM3Nq2VttybMfw_pDOrCRBTL_w6bIFMoH&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT31Z3j4SLvEDwoGE86dsfIsi4vjyRTv8wAky87oSLAly-H5Ze6XJFcsaDwD2eEManpK14TFpsUKdcYvfFKJMMietv3sTXkdQc5nBxjftRQ9wr5zYNm1EqlhyMzPsjR_LxQ-yWFznaRy0cBG34Vekwrt8zCSldbzn5Q6k-bS1StMXWQjsgHhmPcl5fd1jWw" target="_blank">https://www.gearycounty.org/1418/Novel-Coronavirus-COVID-19</a>

New Health Order goes into effect in Geary County

Riley County has 32 new COVID-19 positive cases, bringing the total number of active cases in the county to 153. Four people have recovered since the last health department report on Monday.

Two outbreaks in Riley County were announced on Tuesday including one at the Phi Delta Theta fraternity which has one additional positive for a total of 14 cases. The other involved the Blue Valley USD 384 office in Randolph which remains at seven positive cases.

A new group of 13 Riley County residents is also associated with an outbreak at a wedding that was held in Shawnee County. Riley County Health Department tracing staff are responsible for calling those residents, even though the outbreak occurred in another county.

“As people participate in more activities and attend events it is crucial that they take safety precautions,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Keep your distance, wear your mask, and wash your hands. We are expecting numbers to increase and the actions you choose to take now will make all the difference.”

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient.

Riley County has 32 new COVID-19 positive cases, bringing the total number of active cases in the county to 153. Four people have recovered since the last health department report on Monday.Two outbreaks in Riley County were announced on Tuesday including one at the Phi Delta Theta fraternity which has one additional positive for a total of 14 cases. The other involved the Blue Valley USD 384 office in Randolph which remains at seven positive cases.A new group of 13 Riley County residents is also associated with an outbreak at a wedding that was held in Shawnee County. Riley County Health Department tracing staff are responsible for calling those residents, even though the outbreak occurred in another county.“As people participate in more activities and attend events it is crucial that they take safety precautions,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Keep your distance, wear your mask, and wash your hands. We are expecting numbers to increase and the actions you choose to take now will make all the difference.”Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for one positive patient.

Substantial increase reported in positive COVID-19 cases in Riley County

Geary County health authorities have confirmed three new positive cases of COVID-19. They involve a 52-year old man plus women ages 62 and 22. There are now 38 active cases in the county.

There have been 176 total cases since the pandemic began, 140 patients have recovered and there have been two deaths. Two people are hospitalized at the present time. There are 33 persons under investigation where test results are pending.

Geary County health authorities have confirmed three new positive cases of COVID-19. They involve a 52-year old man plus women ages 62 and 22. There are now 38 active cases in the county.There have been 176 total cases since the pandemic began, 140 patients have recovered and there have been two deaths. Two people are hospitalized at the present time. There are 33 persons under investigation where test results are pending.

Three new cases of COVID-19 reported in Geary County

&nbsp; The Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Task Force has approved more than $130 million in relief funding for economic development and connectivity in the state. These dollars are being awarded in the form of grants to eligible businesses.&nbsp;

Applications can be submitted starting TODAY at 12 p.m.&nbsp;at <a href="https://u4920431.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=FjB6mhVWfGRrFLkvgCTTsdHpfIXFwcSc9nmIgzI2rRbgpZEGNzeNo7iViQtr3MIln3tObGtUNenTQW2Q4pozPQ-3D-3DXjft_bizJ3rQjIh9-2F40eorGOn5cuH1O1Lp5ZfHI4STzy6qnxLKzvP1VOY-2BmhJCdfdNhQHwD-2Bx7zBmPcm4YbliHEbPXZ8Dsa1yioFtoIXQUhIkUe-2BEzom0hg46sySP7bvuTjJyyDPiK9SMrADaJYBOvsUgFWqnYXUwcti6z6c-2Fq-2BNM-2FO7GEp3n3EsDSrzYvQjytMbrABoIgRTlVXVM7IE-2Fab5Z5A6KU28FZyd7v-2Fz4aSNQt-2BA-3D" target="_blank">kansascommerce.gov/covidrelief</a>. You can find the different types of grants, along with&nbsp;<a href="https://u4920431.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=FjB6mhVWfGRrFLkvgCTTsdHpfIXFwcSc9nmIgzI2rRbgpZEGNzeNo7iViQtr3MIlDb8uBxyYfrd6-2BP4vWgN0asxz4-2Ba6Zpv8dcoqEX57S1Ddm6MJkh5-2FFdmmFKuf4IU63UtdqFK4DFT42mGhPwpS4A-3D-3D6Sh5_bizJ3rQjIh9-2F40eorGOn5cuH1O1Lp5ZfHI4STzy6qnxLKzvP1VOY-2BmhJCdfdNhQHwD-2Bx7zBmPcm4YbliHEbPXUS5CCvOXV8-2FyNVoVyXVR8K-2BTu0b7rbRUU83CrLvXrvmutMs5PL0D8JH3pcfLqaOhpL3A3Kzs7SODlvqqPBBQXYfYqgijF8MiYWKOzrLx3TTc50Ai0B7vbn97cIE7yVNUwVoRw3jjGIRc5y1g8d1Vlg-3D" target="_blank">extensive FAQs</a>&nbsp;at that site, as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; The Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Task Force has approved more than $130 million in relief funding for economic development and connectivity in the state. These dollars are being awarded in the form of grants to eligible businesses.&nbsp;Applications can be submitted starting TODAY at 12 p.m.&nbsp;at <a href="https://u4920431.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=FjB6mhVWfGRrFLkvgCTTsdHpfIXFwcSc9nmIgzI2rRbgpZEGNzeNo7iViQtr3MIln3tObGtUNenTQW2Q4pozPQ-3D-3DXjft_bizJ3rQjIh9-2F40eorGOn5cuH1O1Lp5ZfHI4STzy6qnxLKzvP1VOY-2BmhJCdfdNhQHwD-2Bx7zBmPcm4YbliHEbPXZ8Dsa1yioFtoIXQUhIkUe-2BEzom0hg46sySP7bvuTjJyyDPiK9SMrADaJYBOvsUgFWqnYXUwcti6z6c-2Fq-2BNM-2FO7GEp3n3EsDSrzYvQjytMbrABoIgRTlVXVM7IE-2Fab5Z5A6KU28FZyd7v-2Fz4aSNQt-2BA-3D" target="_blank">kansascommerce.gov/covidrelief</a>. You can find the different types of grants, along with&nbsp;<a href="https://u4920431.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=FjB6mhVWfGRrFLkvgCTTsdHpfIXFwcSc9nmIgzI2rRbgpZEGNzeNo7iViQtr3MIlDb8uBxyYfrd6-2BP4vWgN0asxz4-2Ba6Zpv8dcoqEX57S1Ddm6MJkh5-2FFdmmFKuf4IU63UtdqFK4DFT42mGhPwpS4A-3D-3D6Sh5_bizJ3rQjIh9-2F40eorGOn5cuH1O1Lp5ZfHI4STzy6qnxLKzvP1VOY-2BmhJCdfdNhQHwD-2Bx7zBmPcm4YbliHEbPXUS5CCvOXV8-2FyNVoVyXVR8K-2BTu0b7rbRUU83CrLvXrvmutMs5PL0D8JH3pcfLqaOhpL3A3Kzs7SODlvqqPBBQXYfYqgijF8MiYWKOzrLx3TTc50Ai0B7vbn97cIE7yVNUwVoRw3jjGIRc5y1g8d1Vlg-3D" target="_blank">extensive FAQs</a>&nbsp;at that site, as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Back to Business Grant portal opens Wednesday 

Patient volumes are improving at Geary Community Hospital. Frank Corcoran, CEO, said surgical, ED, diagnostic and inpatient volumes received discussion at the monthly Board of Trustees meeting.

Patient volumes in July got close to the pre-COVID numbers that existed prior to the pandemic. Year to date from May 1 until the present time the hospital is seeing about a 10 to 15 percent volume decrease in each of those areas. "If we can keep moving forward as the numbers are coming back without any spikes or any pandemic causes to make our volumes drop again I think we're going to be in good shape."

Corcoran says volumes are coming back and they need patients to come back to the hospital and start using the services. "We're almost there, we're not quite there yet but we need to keep pushing and keep going. We think the hospital is safe."

Patient volumes are improving at Geary Community Hospital. Frank Corcoran, CEO, said surgical, ED, diagnostic and inpatient volumes received discussion at the monthly Board of Trustees meeting.Patient volumes in July got close to the pre-COVID numbers that existed prior to the pandemic. Year to date from May 1 until the present time the hospital is seeing about a 10 to 15 percent volume decrease in each of those areas. "If we can keep moving forward as the numbers are coming back without any spikes or any pandemic causes to make our volumes drop again I think we're going to be in good shape."Corcoran says volumes are coming back and they need patients to come back to the hospital and start using the services. "We're almost there, we're not quite there yet but we need to keep pushing and keep going. We think the hospital is safe."

Patient volumes are a focus for Geary Community Hospital officials

The Riley County Health Department and Kansas Department of Health and Environment have identified two additional outbreaks in Riley County. An outbreak is declared if five or more cases are associated with a specific place and time. There are currently two active outbreaks in Riley County, and seven outbreaks which have been closed. The first outbreak is associated with the Phi Delta Theta fraternity in Manhattan. A total of 13 fraternity members have tested positive. The Riley County Health Department has been in contact with the fraternity and has shared information with K-State and Greek Life. Fraternity members and managers have been instructed to follow procedures for outbreaks in group living quarters. These procedures include deep cleaning and disinfection as well as quarantine for anyone who had been in close contact with positive patients. Close contact is defined as more than 10 minutes of time spent less than 6 feet apart. Guidance for people living in group quarters is available on the Riley County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=55a3524e44&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19211/Group-Housing-Guidance</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The second outbreak is associated with the Blue Valley USD 384 District Office in Randolph. A total of seven people including staff members and school board members have tested positive. Six of those patients are Riley County residents. Several USD 384 buildings and common areas have been closed so those areas can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Staff members who work in school buildings which remain open have been asked to stay in their rooms and continue to follow health safety practices. “Because we can isolate locations where staff have been, we can deep clean those areas,” said Blue Valley Superintendent John Cox. &nbsp;“We will continue to have athletic practices as long as it is safe to do so. Coaches are asked to continue with the safety protocols and procedures they have been using.” Classes have not started at USD 384 yet. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who has been in close contact with a positive patient should contact a medical professional. The Riley County Screening phone line 785-323-6400 is available Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The phone line is staffed by nurses who can help provide information about testing options.

By Vivienne Uccello - Public Information Officer

The Riley County Health Department and Kansas Department of Health and Environment have identified two additional outbreaks in Riley County. An outbreak is declared if five or more cases are associated with a specific place and time. There are currently two active outbreaks in Riley County, and seven outbreaks which have been closed. The first outbreak is associated with the Phi Delta Theta fraternity in Manhattan. A total of 13 fraternity members have tested positive. The Riley County Health Department has been in contact with the fraternity and has shared information with K-State and Greek Life. Fraternity members and managers have been instructed to follow procedures for outbreaks in group living quarters. These procedures include deep cleaning and disinfection as well as quarantine for anyone who had been in close contact with positive patients. Close contact is defined as more than 10 minutes of time spent less than 6 feet apart. Guidance for people living in group quarters is available on the Riley County website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=55a3524e44&amp;e=fd06d17886" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/19211/Group-Housing-Guidance</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp; The second outbreak is associated with the Blue Valley USD 384 District Office in Randolph. A total of seven people including staff members and school board members have tested positive. Six of those patients are Riley County residents. Several USD 384 buildings and common areas have been closed so those areas can be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Staff members who work in school buildings which remain open have been asked to stay in their rooms and continue to follow health safety practices. “Because we can isolate locations where staff have been, we can deep clean those areas,” said Blue Valley Superintendent John Cox. &nbsp;“We will continue to have athletic practices as long as it is safe to do so. Coaches are asked to continue with the safety protocols and procedures they have been using.” Classes have not started at USD 384 yet. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who has been in close contact with a positive patient should contact a medical professional. The Riley County Screening phone line 785-323-6400 is available Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The phone line is staffed by nurses who can help provide information about testing options.By Vivienne Uccello - Public Information OfficerRiley County Emergency Operations Center

Two new COVID-19 outbreaks have been identified in Riley County

Certified teachers in Geary USD 475 are expected to be on-site at schools beginning Thursday. Lacee Sell, Associate Superintendent, explained there will be discussions and review of the operations plan and the reentry plan for the district. USD 475 is preparing for the upcoming school year and the challenges that could be posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Sell said the following week there will two days of professional development, Aug. 25 and 26. "When you stop and think about the magnitude of teachers that we have to develop in prepping for this year, most of that, 99.9 percent of that will be done online virtually."

The associate superintendent noted that there have been many hours of planning, guidance and input from principals, and discussions with teachers. "I would like to think that it's been a concentrated effort by many. We could be a model for anybody to use as far as what we've done. The Schoology work is next to none. "

Sell added that the efforts that those teams are putting together in the event that the school buildings could not open then USD 475 would be in a position where the district could continue to have school. Remote learning platforms could then be used.

Classes for students begin Aug. 31. As of Monday 29 percent of the students were enrolled in the remote learning option and the remainder in brick and mortar schools.

Certified teachers in Geary USD 475 are expected to be on-site at schools beginning Thursday. Lacee Sell, Associate Superintendent, explained there will be discussions and review of the operations plan and the reentry plan for the district. USD 475 is preparing for the upcoming school year and the challenges that could be posed by the coronavirus pandemic.Sell said the following week there will two days of professional development, Aug. 25 and 26. "When you stop and think about the magnitude of teachers that we have to develop in prepping for this year, most of that, 99.9 percent of that will be done online virtually."The associate superintendent noted that there have been many hours of planning, guidance and input from principals, and discussions with teachers. "I would like to think that it's been a concentrated effort by many. We could be a model for anybody to use as far as what we've done. The Schoology work is next to none. "Sell added that the efforts that those teams are putting together in the event that the school buildings could not open then USD 475 would be in a position where the district could continue to have school. Remote learning platforms could then be used.Classes for students begin Aug. 31. As of Monday 29 percent of the students were enrolled in the remote learning option and the remainder in brick and mortar schools.

USD 475 prepares for the school year

Geary USD 475 had 6,311 students enrolled as of 8 a.m. Monday. Classes for the upcoming school year begin Aug. 31 with enrollment continuing.

Lacee Sell, Associate Superintendent, reported to the Board of Education that 1,853 students are enrolled in remote learning.&nbsp; "Grades pre-K through 12. "

Sell said 4,624 were enrolled on-site in a brick and mortar school.&nbsp;

The total percentage of remote learners in USD 475 was calculated at 29 percent of the student population.&nbsp;

Geary USD 475 had 6,311 students enrolled as of 8 a.m. Monday. Classes for the upcoming school year begin Aug. 31 with enrollment continuing.Lacee Sell, Associate Superintendent, reported to the Board of Education that 1,853 students are enrolled in remote learning.&nbsp; "Grades pre-K through 12. "Sell said 4,624 were enrolled on-site in a brick and mortar school.&nbsp;The total percentage of remote learners in USD 475 was calculated at 29 percent of the student population.&nbsp;

USD 475 provides an enrollment update

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The baseball game between Cincinnati and Kansas City scheduled for Tuesday will be played as part of a doubleheader Wednesday so that the Reds can do additional testing after a player tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend. 

Players, coaches and other members of the Reds organization were retested for the coronavirus Saturday and Sunday after one player was sidelined because of a positive result. The final two games of a series against Pittsburgh at Great American Ball Park were postponed, and the Reds were planning to fly into Kansas City early Tuesday.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The baseball game between Cincinnati and Kansas City scheduled for Tuesday will be played as part of a doubleheader Wednesday so that the Reds can do additional testing after a player tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend. Players, coaches and other members of the Reds organization were retested for the coronavirus Saturday and Sunday after one player was sidelined because of a positive result. The final two games of a series against Pittsburgh at Great American Ball Park were postponed, and the Reds were planning to fly into Kansas City early Tuesday.

Royals - Reds game Tuesday postponed

Multiple Geary County entities and organizations will benefit from a new 800 megahertz radio system that is expected to be funded by COVID-19 relief money.&nbsp;

The county commission has that at the top of their list of projects to be paid for by the COVID-19 money. Commissioner Brad Scholz said the system will help the hospital, police, fire and sheriff's departments. Others could also receive assistance. The cost is $2,683,444 out of the approximate $6.3 million targeted for the county. All of the proposals totaled a combined total of more than ten million dollars.

A local committee has worked to prioritize the projects, which totaled nearly 60. Scholz noted that making cuts was difficult. "Because everyone feels that their's is the most important, but I can tell you with the school district, the cities, county entities everyone has been very receptive. They knew that there were going to have to be cuts made because we're three million over."

The proposed spending plan was turned into the state. The money has been received but the state must approve the projects before it can be spent.&nbsp;

Another project will include a monitor system for Geary Community Hospital totaling about $900,000, a GeneXpert Express which is a molecular test for COVID-19 which provides a quick turnaround result. There are about 60 items on the list. Some other recipients include USD 475, Rural Water District Four, Cloud County Community College, Dorothy Bramlage Public Library and Konza Prairie Community Health Center.

Multiple Geary County entities and organizations will benefit from a new 800 megahertz radio system that is expected to be funded by COVID-19 relief money.&nbsp;The county commission has that at the top of their list of projects to be paid for by the COVID-19 money. Commissioner Brad Scholz said the system will help the hospital, police, fire and sheriff's departments. Others could also receive assistance. The cost is $2,683,444 out of the approximate $6.3 million targeted for the county. All of the proposals totaled a combined total of more than ten million dollars.A local committee has worked to prioritize the projects, which totaled nearly 60. Scholz noted that making cuts was difficult. "Because everyone feels that their's is the most important, but I can tell you with the school district, the cities, county entities everyone has been very receptive. They knew that there were going to have to be cuts made because we're three million over."The proposed spending plan was turned into the state. The money has been received but the state must approve the projects before it can be spent.&nbsp;Another project will include a monitor system for Geary Community Hospital totaling about $900,000, a GeneXpert Express which is a molecular test for COVID-19 which provides a quick turnaround result. There are about 60 items on the list. Some other recipients include USD 475, Rural Water District Four, Cloud County Community College, Dorothy Bramlage Public Library and Konza Prairie Community Health Center.

New radio system is at the top of the list for COVID-19 relief funding

Approximately 100 players began the 2020 football season at Junction City High School on Monday. Coach Randall Zimmerman said thinks looked different. "Because of check-in and those kind of things. Everybody was spread out."

Some players didn't have their paperwork turned in yet so they could not practice yet. Zimmerman said the freshman class was low on numbers. "With school not started yet, school gets here and they jump into fall sports and those kind of things." He anticipates a few more freshman will come out for football.

The Blue Jays return three of five offensive linemen and strong experience at running back and quarterback. "Defensively our secondary looks really, really strong. All of those kids are back from a year ago."

The coach felt a lot was accomplished on the first day in installing both offense and defense. Practice is structured differently in the COVID-19 era. "As soon as they walked in they went right to their groups. Groups were spread out, warm up is separate, in groups not as a team. When we address them we're addressing them when they're spread ou."

The Blue Jays open the season against Topeka High, Thursday, Sept. 3 in the capitol city.

Approximately 100 players began the 2020 football season at Junction City High School on Monday. Coach Randall Zimmerman said thinks looked different. "Because of check-in and those kind of things. Everybody was spread out."Some players didn't have their paperwork turned in yet so they could not practice yet. Zimmerman said the freshman class was low on numbers. "With school not started yet, school gets here and they jump into fall sports and those kind of things." He anticipates a few more freshman will come out for football.The Blue Jays return three of five offensive linemen and strong experience at running back and quarterback. "Defensively our secondary looks really, really strong. All of those kids are back from a year ago."The coach felt a lot was accomplished on the first day in installing both offense and defense. Practice is structured differently in the COVID-19 era. "As soon as they walked in they went right to their groups. Groups were spread out, warm up is separate, in groups not as a team. When we address them we're addressing them when they're spread ou."The Blue Jays open the season against Topeka High, Thursday, Sept. 3 in the capitol city.

Fooball practice opens at JCHS

Riley County Emergency Medical Services were notified last Friday that an employee tested positive for COVID-19. The employee is an Emergency Medical Technician.&nbsp;

The employee was last on duty and had contact with the public on Wednesday, Aug. 12, and did not have any symptoms at that time. CDC guidelines and Riley County EMS policy were followed while on duty and that individual wore appropriate personal protective equipment including a mask while interacting with the public on Aug. 12 Anyone who was include contact with the employee has already been notified.

An investigation revealed that the employee was exposed to a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19 on Monday, Aug. 10, while attending a local school board function in Pottawatomie County.

Riley County Emergency Medical Services were notified last Friday that an employee tested positive for COVID-19. The employee is an Emergency Medical Technician.&nbsp;The employee was last on duty and had contact with the public on Wednesday, Aug. 12, and did not have any symptoms at that time. CDC guidelines and Riley County EMS policy were followed while on duty and that individual wore appropriate personal protective equipment including a mask while interacting with the public on Aug. 12 Anyone who was include contact with the employee has already been notified.An investigation revealed that the employee was exposed to a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19 on Monday, Aug. 10, while attending a local school board function in Pottawatomie County.

Riley County EMS employee tests positive for COVID-19

COVID-19 positive case numbers increased again on Monday. Nine new cases were reported by the Health Department.

They include six men ages 65, 34, 22, 58, 42 and 46. There were three women ages 65, 22 and 19 years.

There are currently 41 active cases and 131 people have recovered. One person is hospitalized and there have been two deaths. Test results are pending on 33 people.

COVID-19 positive case numbers increased again on Monday. Nine new cases were reported by the Health Department.They include six men ages 65, 34, 22, 58, 42 and 46. There were three women ages 65, 22 and 19 years.There are currently 41 active cases and 131 people have recovered. One person is hospitalized and there have been two deaths. Test results are pending on 33 people.

Coronavirus Update