TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly has ordered financial institutions to temporarily suspend business and residential evictions to help those financially affected by the spread of the coronavirus.

The executive order signed by Kelly Tuesday says the action will allow Kansans to “retain their homes and businesses to avoid immediate danger to their health, safety and welfare.”

Financial institutions were ordered to suspend initiating mortgage foreclosure or judicial proceedings and commercial or residential evictions until May 1.

The order was not announced by Kelly or her office and the governor did not mention it during a news conference Tuesday, during which she required all the state’s K-12 schools to close and move lessons online for the rest of the spring semester. On Monday, she banned all gatherings of 50 or more people.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas doubled on Tuesday to at least 18, with one death. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and the vast majority recover. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584536714178.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly during Tuesday's news conference in Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly during Tuesday's news conference in Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly has ordered financial institutions to temporarily suspend business and residential evictions to help those financially affected by the spread of the coronavirus.The executive order signed by Kelly Tuesday says the action will allow Kansans to “retain their homes and businesses to avoid immediate danger to their health, safety and welfare.”Financial institutions were ordered to suspend initiating mortgage foreclosure or judicial proceedings and commercial or residential evictions until May 1.The order was not announced by Kelly or her office and the governor did not mention it during a news conference Tuesday, during which she required all the state’s K-12 schools to close and move lessons online for the rest of the spring semester. On Monday, she banned all gatherings of 50 or more people.The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas doubled on Tuesday to at least 18, with one death. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and the vast majority recover. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia._____

Gov. Kelly bans home and business evictions until May 1

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly on Tuesday closed Kansas’ public and private K-12 schools for the rest of the spring semester, moving teaching online throughout the state to try to lessen the spread of the new coronavirus.

Kelly also said that starting Monday, most of the 18,000 state workers under her supervision will be directed to stay at home for two weeks so that agencies can plan for having some continue working from home and placing others on paid administrative leave. She acknowledged that Kansans may see deadlines extended for such things as renewing driver’s or professional licenses.

It was the governor’s strongest response yet to the coronavirus pandemic, coming a day after she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/90881e25d6e359716cd09bf4206ef6e0">banned public gatherings of 50 or more</a>&nbsp;people throughout the state, only to see federal officials recommended no gatherings of more than 10. Her move to close the schools had the support of Education Commissioner Randy Watson and groups representing teachers, school boards and school administrators.

Kelly’s order also came after the number of confirmed coronavirus cases doubled in two days, reaching at least 18 on Tuesday, with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/abe73aa8d68965193ae292dd4346c79e">one COVID-19-related death</a>&nbsp;in Wyandotte County. Most of the cases are in the Kansas City area, but western Kansas also reported a case.

“The reality of this pandemic is that it cannot be controlled statewide if schools buildings return to normal operations or if they respond inconsistently within our local communities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and the vast majority recover. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

Yet Kelly’s order to close schools concerned some Republican legislators, and Senate health committee Chairman Gene Suellentrop, a Wichita Republican, called it “asinine.” He said schools could remain closed for two or four weeks, but shuttering them for the rest of the semester is overreacting.

“We are overblowing this thing,” he said. “It doesn’t mean people need to be reckless, but we can’t stop living.”

Kelly and Watson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7392f99d7bdfeddb038f08332035dd4d">already had urged schools</a>&nbsp;to remain closed this week if they were not already on spring break, and some local health officers had started ordering them closed.

The governor said that after some buildings are “thoroughly sanitized,” they may reopen to allow educators to plan services or to host fewer than 10 students. Watson said a task force will issue recommendations later this week, including about how to teach students without adequate access to computers or internet services. Kansas has almost 500,000 K-12 students.

But GOP Sen. Julia Lynn, of Olathe, said she is skeptical such plans will deliver an adequate education.

Kelly said schools might not reopen in August for the new school year.

“This situation has evolved rapidly and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future,” she said.

Kelly has previously stopped short of taking actions other governors have to check the spread of coronavirus, such as ordering the closing of private businesses or imposing a curfew. She’s argued that Kansas should take steps fitting a state with a relatively low population density.

But state universities already have moved classes online and the University of Kansas, Kansas State and Wichita State announced Tuesday that all classes would be held remotely for the rest of the semester.

Officials in Johnson and Wyandotte counties and Jackson County, Missouri, ordered the closing of restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs and movie theaters through April 1, with the exception of drive-thru, pickup and delivery services.

And Kansas lottery officials announced the four state-owned casinos will close at the end of the day Tuesday until at least March 30. The casinos are in Kansas City, Pittsburg, Dodge City and Mulvane, south of Wichita.

Health officials on Tuesday reported the first coronavirus cases in Douglas County, home to the University of Kansas; Miami County, south of the Kansas City metropolitan area; and Ford County, in southwest Kansas. Franklin County in eastern Kansas and Butler County outside of Wichita each have recorded a case.

Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, has reported 10 confirmed cases and neighboring Wyandotte County, three.

Kansas health officials said 16 of the cases involve Kansas residents. The Ford County case involves a visitor from Oregon and the Miami County case, someone from Missouri.

The state’s only COVID-19-related death so far was last week, a man in his 70s who lived in a Kansas City, Kansas nursing home. Dr. Lee Norman, the state’s health secretary, said last week that the man was immobile so someone brought the infection to him.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584484524519.png" alt="Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during Tuesday's announcement in Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during Tuesday's announcement in Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly on Tuesday closed Kansas’ public and private K-12 schools for the rest of the spring semester, moving teaching online throughout the state to try to lessen the spread of the new coronavirus.Kelly also said that starting Monday, most of the 18,000 state workers under her supervision will be directed to stay at home for two weeks so that agencies can plan for having some continue working from home and placing others on paid administrative leave. She acknowledged that Kansans may see deadlines extended for such things as renewing driver’s or professional licenses.It was the governor’s strongest response yet to the coronavirus pandemic, coming a day after she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/90881e25d6e359716cd09bf4206ef6e0">banned public gatherings of 50 or more</a>&nbsp;people throughout the state, only to see federal officials recommended no gatherings of more than 10. Her move to close the schools had the support of Education Commissioner Randy Watson and groups representing teachers, school boards and school administrators.Kelly’s order also came after the number of confirmed coronavirus cases doubled in two days, reaching at least 18 on Tuesday, with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/abe73aa8d68965193ae292dd4346c79e">one COVID-19-related death</a>&nbsp;in Wyandotte County. Most of the cases are in the Kansas City area, but western Kansas also reported a case.“The reality of this pandemic is that it cannot be controlled statewide if schools buildings return to normal operations or if they respond inconsistently within our local communities,” Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584481689719.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly during Tuesday's news conference" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly during Tuesday's news conference</figcaption>
 </figure>For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and the vast majority recover. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579714677583.jpeg" alt=" Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop, Wichita is unhappy with the decision to close schools. -photo by Daniel Caudill / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop, Wichita is unhappy with the decision to close schools. -photo by Daniel Caudill / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Yet Kelly’s order to close schools concerned some Republican legislators, and Senate health committee Chairman Gene Suellentrop, a Wichita Republican, called it “asinine.” He said schools could remain closed for two or four weeks, but shuttering them for the rest of the semester is overreacting.“We are overblowing this thing,” he said. “It doesn’t mean people need to be reckless, but we can’t stop living.”Kelly and Watson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/7392f99d7bdfeddb038f08332035dd4d">already had urged schools</a>&nbsp;to remain closed this week if they were not already on spring break, and some local health officers had started ordering them closed.The governor said that after some buildings are “thoroughly sanitized,” they may reopen to allow educators to plan services or to host fewer than 10 students. Watson said a task force will issue recommendations later this week, including about how to teach students without adequate access to computers or internet services. Kansas has almost 500,000 K-12 students.But GOP Sen. Julia Lynn, of Olathe, said she is skeptical such plans will deliver an adequate education.Kelly said schools might not reopen in August for the new school year.“This situation has evolved rapidly and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future,” she said.Kelly has previously stopped short of taking actions other governors have to check the spread of coronavirus, such as ordering the closing of private businesses or imposing a curfew. She’s argued that Kansas should take steps fitting a state with a relatively low population density.But state universities already have moved classes online and the University of Kansas, Kansas State and Wichita State announced Tuesday that all classes would be held remotely for the rest of the semester.Officials in Johnson and Wyandotte counties and Jackson County, Missouri, ordered the closing of restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs and movie theaters through April 1, with the exception of drive-thru, pickup and delivery services.And Kansas lottery officials announced the four state-owned casinos will close at the end of the day Tuesday until at least March 30. The casinos are in Kansas City, Pittsburg, Dodge City and Mulvane, south of Wichita.Health officials on Tuesday reported the first coronavirus cases in Douglas County, home to the University of Kansas; Miami County, south of the Kansas City metropolitan area; and Ford County, in southwest Kansas. Franklin County in eastern Kansas and Butler County outside of Wichita each have recorded a case.Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, has reported 10 confirmed cases and neighboring Wyandotte County, three.Kansas health officials said 16 of the cases involve Kansas residents. The Ford County case involves a visitor from Oregon and the Miami County case, someone from Missouri.The state’s only COVID-19-related death so far was last week, a man in his 70s who lived in a Kansas City, Kansas nursing home. Dr. Lee Norman, the state’s health secretary, said last week that the man was immobile so someone brought the infection to him.

The Latest: Kansas closes K-12 schools; state workers to stay home

Cloud County Community College, working to assist local agencies in mitigating the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19, continues to monitor the latest information in an effort to support the well-being of students, employees and the community. Effective Monday, March 23, Cloud County Community College will transition from face-to-face courses to online instruction for the remainder of the semester.

“The health of Cloud’s students, employees, visitors, and the community are of critical importance,” said Dr. Adrian Douglas, president of Cloud County. “We have students travel to campus from a wide geographical area, which exposes our campus and the community, and makes CCCC more vulnerable to the possible spread of infection.”

Beginning March 23, students must log into their Canvas account, the college’s learning management system, to continue their coursework for the remainder of the semester. Students are asked to regularly monitor their email accounts for communications from instructors. If any student has questions, or needs assistance, they can contact Amanda Strait, director of online services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:astrait@cloud.edu" target="_blank">astrait@cloud.edu</a>.

Students are allowed to stay in housing until March 29. They are encouraged to check out permanently for the semester during this timeframe with either Susan Dudley, coordinator of residence life, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sdudley@cloud.edu" target="_blank">sdudley@cloud.edu</a>, or Caesar Wood, director of auxiliary services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:caesar.wood@cloud.edu" target="_blank">caesar.wood@cloud.edu</a>. Students who are currently living in on-campus housing and who have no other place to live, will be allowed to remain in housing.

In an effort to maintain social distancing, the Concordia and Geary County campuses will be closed to the public until further notice. The closure of the college to the public means that the following areas cannot be accessed: The Library, T-Bird Bookstore, Fitness Center, Arley Bryant Gymnasium, walking track, Thunderville, and Student Union.&nbsp;The T-Bird Café will be open only to students who have a valid meal plan. There will be no Cloud 9 Sunday Buffet until further notice.

“By limiting the number of people on campus, we are practicing the CDC-recommended social distancing to help curb the spread of COVID-19.”

Any event that was scheduled to be held on campus will be canceled or postponed. That information will be updated regularly, and can be found on the college website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cloud.edu/" target="_blank">www.cloud.edu</a>.

Following the recent statement from the NJCAA that all spring sports be canceled, Cloud is adhering to that rule, and all athletic events will be canceled for the remainder of the semester.

“We are making tough decisions based on thoughtful review of available information, in conjunction with the Cloud County Health Department, Emergency Management, and state and federal agencies to address this rapidly evolving public health issue,” Douglas said.

“The decisions being made prioritize the safety and health of all faculty, staff, students, and the community. These actions are aimed at minimizing the impact of this public health issue. The situation is continually evolving, and future guidance will be provided as new information becomes available.”

Cloud County Community College, working to assist local agencies in mitigating the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19, continues to monitor the latest information in an effort to support the well-being of students, employees and the community. Effective Monday, March 23, Cloud County Community College will transition from face-to-face courses to online instruction for the remainder of the semester.“The health of Cloud’s students, employees, visitors, and the community are of critical importance,” said Dr. Adrian Douglas, president of Cloud County. “We have students travel to campus from a wide geographical area, which exposes our campus and the community, and makes CCCC more vulnerable to the possible spread of infection.”Beginning March 23, students must log into their Canvas account, the college’s learning management system, to continue their coursework for the remainder of the semester. Students are asked to regularly monitor their email accounts for communications from instructors. If any student has questions, or needs assistance, they can contact Amanda Strait, director of online services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:astrait@cloud.edu" target="_blank">astrait@cloud.edu</a>.Students are allowed to stay in housing until March 29. They are encouraged to check out permanently for the semester during this timeframe with either Susan Dudley, coordinator of residence life, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sdudley@cloud.edu" target="_blank">sdudley@cloud.edu</a>, or Caesar Wood, director of auxiliary services, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:caesar.wood@cloud.edu" target="_blank">caesar.wood@cloud.edu</a>. Students who are currently living in on-campus housing and who have no other place to live, will be allowed to remain in housing.In an effort to maintain social distancing, the Concordia and Geary County campuses will be closed to the public until further notice. The closure of the college to the public means that the following areas cannot be accessed: The Library, T-Bird Bookstore, Fitness Center, Arley Bryant Gymnasium, walking track, Thunderville, and Student Union.&nbsp;The T-Bird Café will be open only to students who have a valid meal plan. There will be no Cloud 9 Sunday Buffet until further notice.“By limiting the number of people on campus, we are practicing the CDC-recommended social distancing to help curb the spread of COVID-19.”Any event that was scheduled to be held on campus will be canceled or postponed. That information will be updated regularly, and can be found on the college website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cloud.edu/" target="_blank">www.cloud.edu</a>.Following the recent statement from the NJCAA that all spring sports be canceled, Cloud is adhering to that rule, and all athletic events will be canceled for the remainder of the semester.“We are making tough decisions based on thoughtful review of available information, in conjunction with the Cloud County Health Department, Emergency Management, and state and federal agencies to address this rapidly evolving public health issue,” Douglas said.“The decisions being made prioritize the safety and health of all faculty, staff, students, and the community. These actions are aimed at minimizing the impact of this public health issue. The situation is continually evolving, and future guidance will be provided as new information becomes available.”Jessica LeDucDirector of MarketingCLOUD COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Cloud County Community College is going online for the rest of the semester

Governor Laura Kelly announced that all Kansas schools will be closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year to combat the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in our communities. 

With Governor Kelly’s decision, St. Xavier is working to develop more concrete educational plans with the help of KSDE and the Diocese of Salina for the coming weeks.  KSDE has convened a Continuous Learning Committee to develop a comprehensive plan to assist districts in delivering education to students while school buildings remain closed. This Committee is planning to give us information by the end of the day Wednesday. There are many questions that we simply do not yet have answers for at this time. 

School Principal Shawn Augustine said "With the state’s guidance, and with the dedication, innovation, and creativity of our staff and families here at St. Francis Xavier, I am confident that the next few days will bring clarity around many of these questions. Thank you for your patience and flexibility during this unprecedented time.  It is our mission to educate for eternity, and that is what we plan to continue doing at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School. "

Governor Laura Kelly announced that all Kansas schools will be closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year to combat the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in our communities. With Governor Kelly’s decision, St. Xavier is working to develop more concrete educational plans with the help of KSDE and the Diocese of Salina for the coming weeks. KSDE has convened a Continuous Learning Committee to develop a comprehensive plan to assist districts in delivering education to students while school buildings remain closed. This Committee is planning to give us information by the end of the day Wednesday. There are many questions that we simply do not yet have answers for at this time. School Principal Shawn Augustine said "With the state’s guidance, and with the dedication, innovation, and creativity of our staff and families here at St. Francis Xavier, I am confident that the next few days will bring clarity around many of these questions. Thank you for your patience and flexibility during this unprecedented time. It is our mission to educate for eternity, and that is what we plan to continue doing at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School. "

St. Xavier is working on a plan following school closing order

WASHINGTON (AP) —The Trump administration is urging U.S. construction companies to donate their inventories of safety masks to hospitals and forgo new orders as the nation battles the coronavirus pandemic.

Vice President Mike Pence said the single-use N95 masks, which are designed to filter 95 percent of airborne particles and commonly used in the construction industry, are "perfectly acceptable" for hospital use.

Pence, who is heading up the White House Coronavirus Task Force, visited the Minnesota headquarters of 3M, the maker of the N95 mask, earlier this month to discuss the production increase.

Pence and Surgeon General Jerome Adams have said the average American does not need to go out and buy a mask. They have urged Americans to leave the masks for medical professionals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584463514674.png" alt="President Trump and Vice President Pence during Tuesday's Coronavirus Task Force media briefing -image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump and Vice President Pence during Tuesday's Coronavirus Task Force media briefing -image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The Trump administration is urging U.S. construction companies to donate their inventories of safety masks to hospitals and forgo new orders as the nation battles the coronavirus pandemic.Vice President Mike Pence said the single-use N95 masks, which are designed to filter 95 percent of airborne particles and commonly used in the construction industry, are "perfectly acceptable" for hospital use.Pence, who is heading up the White House Coronavirus Task Force, visited the Minnesota headquarters of 3M, the maker of the N95 mask, earlier this month to discuss the production increase.Pence and Surgeon General Jerome Adams have said the average American does not need to go out and buy a mask. They have urged Americans to leave the masks for medical professionals.___

President Trump: US builders should hand over their masks

Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Governor Laura Kelly announced all school facilities in the State of Kansas will be closed for the remainder of&nbsp;the 2019-2020 school year. Please know we have been working on plans since mid-March, including how we can meet the ongoing learning needs of our students and provide breakfast and lunch for our students ages 1-18.

USD475 School Building Access:All school buildings will remain open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, March 18th&nbsp;through 20th.Hours will be:

Schools will be open at these times so students and parents may retrieve personal items to include medications, clothing, backpacks, personal items and devices required for possible&nbsp;e-learning.

Our Teaching &amp; Learning Team is working on the how we will deliver online learning. As soon as these plans are formalized we will share them out.&nbsp;

USD475 Food Service Program Update:Early this morning the District received a waiver to serve meals at restricted sites through March 27th. This approval authorizes a sack meal program for breakfast and lunch at Early Childhood Development Center, Junction City Middle School, Washington Elementary,&nbsp;Spring Valley Elementary and Seitz Elementary on Fort Riley.*It is important for patrons to understand that the District food nutrition program is regulated in the nutritional content of these meals, accountability for distribution and program locations. A waiver is necessary anytime meals are served when school is&nbsp;not in session. Regardless of waiver, federal nutritional guidelines must be followed in the preparation of Grab-n-Go meals. Meals are distributed between 11:30 and 12:30 Monday through Friday at designated locations. Each child will receive a lunch meal&nbsp;for that day plus a sack breakfast for the following morning. Children are not required to attend the school where meals are being distributed however, they must be physically present to receive the meals.&nbsp;

District staff is evaluating demand with the intent to shift or add sites as may be needed. It is currently preparing 500 breakfast and 500 lunch meals daily. The District disinfected&nbsp;all 18 schools over spring break. It will again disinfect its facilities starting the week of March 23rd. Sites serving as food distribution points are disinfected daily.

As a reminder, this school closure is in response to the current public health crisis. The focus should remain on preventing the spread the coronavirus, or COVID-19 as it is also referred to.

We are committed to working together as a community to support one another throughout these unprecedented times, and communication will remain a top priority. We will message&nbsp;through school email, our District web-site, and our USD 475 social media platforms.

Tuesday, March 17, 2020 Governor Laura Kelly announced all school facilities in the State of Kansas will be closed for the remainder of&nbsp;the 2019-2020 school year. Please know we have been working on plans since mid-March, including how we can meet the ongoing learning needs of our students and provide breakfast and lunch for our students ages 1-18.USD475 School Building Access:All school buildings will remain open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, March 18th&nbsp;through 20th.Hours will be:<ol>
 <li>Wednesday, 18th: 8am to Noon and 1 to 7pm.&nbsp;</li><li>Thursday / Friday, 19th&nbsp;&amp; 20th: 8am to Noon and 1 to 4pm</li>
 </ol>Schools will be open at these times so students and parents may retrieve personal items to include medications, clothing, backpacks, personal items and devices required for possible&nbsp;e-learning.E-Learning:Our Teaching &amp; Learning Team is working on the how we will deliver online learning. As soon as these plans are formalized we will share them out.&nbsp;USD475 Food Service Program Update:Early this morning the District received a waiver to serve meals at restricted sites through March 27th. This approval authorizes a sack meal program for breakfast and lunch at Early Childhood Development Center, Junction City Middle School, Washington Elementary,&nbsp;Spring Valley Elementary and Seitz Elementary on Fort Riley.*It is important for patrons to understand that the District food nutrition program is regulated in the nutritional content of these meals, accountability for distribution and program locations. A waiver is necessary anytime meals are served when school is&nbsp;not in session. Regardless of waiver, federal nutritional guidelines must be followed in the preparation of Grab-n-Go meals. Meals are distributed between 11:30 and 12:30 Monday through Friday at designated locations. Each child will receive a lunch meal&nbsp;for that day plus a sack breakfast for the following morning. Children are not required to attend the school where meals are being distributed however, they must be physically present to receive the meals.&nbsp;District staff is evaluating demand with the intent to shift or add sites as may be needed. It is currently preparing 500 breakfast and 500 lunch meals daily. The District disinfected&nbsp;all 18 schools over spring break. It will again disinfect its facilities starting the week of March 23rd. Sites serving as food distribution points are disinfected daily.As a reminder, this school closure is in response to the current public health crisis. The focus should remain on preventing the spread the coronavirus, or COVID-19 as it is also referred to.We are committed to working together as a community to support one another throughout these unprecedented times, and communication will remain a top priority. We will message&nbsp;through school email, our District web-site, and our USD 475 social media platforms.

USD 475 issues statement on school closing order 

Manhattan based McCullough Development has closed their offices to the public until further notice. That includes amenities such as fitness centers, common area meeting spaces and business centers.

The move by the company comes as they continue to deal with challenges posed by COVID-19. The company said the health and safety of their employees and residents is their top priority. they are taking the action to close all physical offices of the company to support the efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19, and to protect their employees and residents.&nbsp;

McCullough Development also owns properties in Junction City.

The company noted that residents can submit a maintenance request, pay rent, and communicate to staff through their resident portal at www.mdproperties.com and by telephone at 785-539-9339.&nbsp;

Manhattan based McCullough Development has closed their offices to the public until further notice. That includes amenities such as fitness centers, common area meeting spaces and business centers.The move by the company comes as they continue to deal with challenges posed by COVID-19. The company said the health and safety of their employees and residents is their top priority. they are taking the action to close all physical offices of the company to support the efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19, and to protect their employees and residents.&nbsp;McCullough Development also owns properties in Junction City.The company noted that residents can submit a maintenance request, pay rent, and communicate to staff through their resident portal at www.mdproperties.com and by telephone at 785-539-9339.&nbsp;

McCullough Development offices will be closed to the public

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is now reporting 18 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. As the state hustles to control the virus, the House has approved a bill to give laid-off workers another 10 weeks of unemployment benefits. After the measure cleared a committee Tuesday morning, the chamber canceled all of its remaining committee meetings until further notice. Also Tuesday, the Kansas Lottery Commission announced it will close the four state-owned casinos until at least March 30. Gov. Laura Kelly has banned all gatherings of more than 50 people until May 1.

FORD COUNTY— The first case of coronavirus has been confirmed in western Kansas.

According to a media release from the Ford County Health Department, a patient over the age of 60 is being treated in the county.

The patient traveled into Ford County and their family is now under quarantine, according to the release.

Ford County has remained fully staffed related to the mitigation and tracking of the virus. Authorities released no additional details on the patient or where the&nbsp; patient is being treated.

<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">Click here for </a>or more on coronavirus symptoms and treatment.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is now reporting 18 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. As the state hustles to control the virus, the House has approved a bill to give laid-off workers another 10 weeks of unemployment benefits. After the measure cleared a committee Tuesday morning, the chamber canceled all of its remaining committee meetings until further notice. Also Tuesday, the Kansas Lottery Commission announced it will close the four state-owned casinos until at least March 30. Gov. Laura Kelly has banned all gatherings of more than 50 people until May 1.------------FORD COUNTY— The first case of coronavirus has been confirmed in western Kansas.According to a media release from the Ford County Health Department, a patient over the age of 60 is being treated in the county.The patient traveled into Ford County and their family is now under quarantine, according to the release.Ford County has remained fully staffed related to the mitigation and tracking of the virus. Authorities released no additional details on the patient or where the&nbsp; patient is being treated.<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">Click here for </a>or more on coronavirus symptoms and treatment.

The Latest: First case of coronavirus in western Kan., 18 statewide

A technician at Viracor Eurofins examines a virus sample- photo&nbsp;VIRACOR EUROFINS

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A clinical lab in Missouri says it has developed a test for the novel coronavirus that is more than 99% accurate.

KCUR reports that Viracor Eurofins in Lee's Summit claims it is capable of performing more than 1,000 tests per day and returning results the same day.

Officials say the test would allow for expanding testing to patients who don't currently meet the eligibility criteria for public laboratory testing established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Company Vice President Steve Kleiboecker said the test is performed with chemicals and reagents — compounds used to detect other substances. That allows it to be performed quickly.

The test has yet to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration but the company is certified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments, which sets standards for clinical lab testing. The certification allows the lab to proceed with tests and then send data to the FDA for review.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has allowed testing to begin. State of Kansas health officials said they welcomed the additional testing capabilities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584468619442.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A technician at Viracor Eurofins examines a virus sample- photo&nbsp;VIRACOR EUROFINSKANSAS CITY (AP) — A clinical lab in Missouri says it has developed a test for the novel coronavirus that is more than 99% accurate.KCUR reports that Viracor Eurofins in Lee's Summit claims it is capable of performing more than 1,000 tests per day and returning results the same day.Officials say the test would allow for expanding testing to patients who don't currently meet the eligibility criteria for public laboratory testing established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Company Vice President Steve Kleiboecker said the test is performed with chemicals and reagents — compounds used to detect other substances. That allows it to be performed quickly.The test has yet to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration but the company is certified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments, which sets standards for clinical lab testing. The certification allows the lab to proceed with tests and then send data to the FDA for review.The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has allowed testing to begin. State of Kansas health officials said they welcomed the additional testing capabilities.

KC-area lab says it has developed rapid test for coronavirus

Topeka – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic,&nbsp;KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers will be taking actions to reduce contact and maintain social distancing as directed by the Centers for Disease Control, according to a media release from the agency.

KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers will remain open, but with limited services to the public. Individuals should call (877) 509-6757 to ensure their local Workforce Center location is open to in-person visits prior to arriving. Previously scheduled appointments for essential services will still occur unless otherwise indicated. All non-essential services will be provided via telephone, email or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansasworks.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864925978&amp;sdata=VY7YftGL75ZtdSyDzhXJfGScdQCaizz6fRACVzbtvzo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kansasworks.com</a>.

The Public Access Computer area will be closed to the public until further notice.&nbsp;All workshops, large meetings and job fairs through April 5, 2020, have been cancelled. They will be rescheduled at a later date in accordance with direction from state and local officials.&nbsp;This includes testing and meetings for the Youth Employment Program, Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and Rapid Response.

Any Kansan needing employment or reemployment services can call (877) 509-6757 to schedule a time to speak to a representative. Messages should include the individual’s name, phone number and email address. Calls will be returned in the order they are received. Services may also be accessed via the live chat function at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansasworks.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864925978&amp;sdata=VY7YftGL75ZtdSyDzhXJfGScdQCaizz6fRACVzbtvzo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kansasworks.com</a>. &nbsp;

Individuals enrolled in the Dislocated Worker program will be contacted by a case manager by March 20 to arrange for paperwork to be completed and submitted via email.

Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA)

Individuals participating in the RESEA program should contact (877) 509-6757.&nbsp;When leaving a voicemail message, individuals should be sure to include their full name and phone number for a return call. Individuals who have an assigned case manager should also include their case manager’s name in the message. RESEA staff will return calls as soon as possible.&nbsp;

TAA meetings scheduled for March 30-31 in the Wichita Community have been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.&nbsp; Please contact Tonya Carlson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tonya.carlson@ks.gov">tonya.carlson@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;if you have questions.

All job fairs scheduled through April 5, 2020, including the Statewide Job Fair on April 2, have been canceled. Please call (877) 509-6757 with any questions.

Employers in need of Rapid Response Layoff Assistance should contact Shelly Thompson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Shelly.Thompson@ks.gov">Shelly.Thompson@ks.gov</a>.

Additional guidance from the Department of Labor on emergency Unemployment Insurance Filings related to COVID-19 can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dol.ks.gov%2Fcovid19response&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864935889&amp;sdata=G2BkFeClXiJpmgYZhQ67he5uQQIDj4hN6WL8Eghcj0o%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dol.ks.gov/covid19response</a>.

The Kansas Department of Commerce is working closely with the Kansas Department of Emergency Management (KDEM) to complete the required steps for requesting an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration. Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fabout-us%2Fsba-coronavirus-assistance-resources%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864935889&amp;sdata=u8WQehewNPFwKg4sU1T5DM7QO5iZgDhBQzt2OooLabM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kansascommerce.gov/about-us/sba-coronavirus-assistance-resources/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584456916835.png" alt="Kansasworks" />
 <figcaption>Kansasworks</figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic,&nbsp;KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers will be taking actions to reduce contact and maintain social distancing as directed by the Centers for Disease Control, according to a media release from the agency.KANSASWORKS Workforce Centers will remain open, but with limited services to the public. Individuals should call (877) 509-6757 to ensure their local Workforce Center location is open to in-person visits prior to arriving. Previously scheduled appointments for essential services will still occur unless otherwise indicated. All non-essential services will be provided via telephone, email or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansasworks.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864925978&amp;sdata=VY7YftGL75ZtdSyDzhXJfGScdQCaizz6fRACVzbtvzo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kansasworks.com</a>.The Public Access Computer area will be closed to the public until further notice.&nbsp;All workshops, large meetings and job fairs through April 5, 2020, have been cancelled. They will be rescheduled at a later date in accordance with direction from state and local officials.&nbsp;This includes testing and meetings for the Youth Employment Program, Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and Rapid Response.Any Kansan needing employment or reemployment services can call (877) 509-6757 to schedule a time to speak to a representative. Messages should include the individual’s name, phone number and email address. Calls will be returned in the order they are received. Services may also be accessed via the live chat function at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansasworks.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864925978&amp;sdata=VY7YftGL75ZtdSyDzhXJfGScdQCaizz6fRACVzbtvzo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kansasworks.com</a>. &nbsp;Individual program updates are below.Dislocated WorkerIndividuals enrolled in the Dislocated Worker program will be contacted by a case manager by March 20 to arrange for paperwork to be completed and submitted via email.Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA)Individuals participating in the RESEA program should contact (877) 509-6757.&nbsp;When leaving a voicemail message, individuals should be sure to include their full name and phone number for a return call. Individuals who have an assigned case manager should also include their case manager’s name in the message. RESEA staff will return calls as soon as possible.&nbsp;Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA)TAA meetings scheduled for March 30-31 in the Wichita Community have been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.&nbsp; Please contact Tonya Carlson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tonya.carlson@ks.gov">tonya.carlson@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;if you have questions.Employer Services<ol>
 <li>Job Fairs</li>
 </ol>All job fairs scheduled through April 5, 2020, including the Statewide Job Fair on April 2, have been canceled. Please call (877) 509-6757 with any questions.<ol>
 <li>Rapid Response</li>
 </ol>Employers in need of Rapid Response Layoff Assistance should contact Shelly Thompson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Shelly.Thompson@ks.gov">Shelly.Thompson@ks.gov</a>.Additional guidance from the Department of Labor on emergency Unemployment Insurance Filings related to COVID-19 can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dol.ks.gov%2Fcovid19response&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864935889&amp;sdata=G2BkFeClXiJpmgYZhQ67he5uQQIDj4hN6WL8Eghcj0o%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dol.ks.gov/covid19response</a>.<ol>
 <li>Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan</li>
 </ol>The Kansas Department of Commerce is working closely with the Kansas Department of Emergency Management (KDEM) to complete the required steps for requesting an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration. Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fabout-us%2Fsba-coronavirus-assistance-resources%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cfc174a471c0d4261d33d08d7ca7fdcd0%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637200522864935889&amp;sdata=u8WQehewNPFwKg4sU1T5DM7QO5iZgDhBQzt2OooLabM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kansascommerce.gov/about-us/sba-coronavirus-assistance-resources/</a>.

Kansasworks makes changes at centers, cancels job fairs

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas on Monday banned public gatherings of 50 or more people for the next two months, but officials in the Kansas City area imposed a stricter rule and ordered some businesses to close over the next two weeks in hopes of limiting the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly also blocked utilities in her state from cutting off services until mid-April and warned that the coronavirus pandemic may force additional statewide restrictions.

Kelly stopped short of ordering bars, restaurants, gyms or other businesses to close, as governors in other states have. Her executive orders also came the same day that President Donald Trump's administration said people should avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 over the next 15 days.

Officials in the Kansas City area immediately took the new guidance from Trump's administration to heart. In Kansas City and Jackson County, Missouri&nbsp;and Johnson and Wyandotte County, Kansas, they ordered the closing of restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs and movie theaters from Tuesday through April 1, with the exception of drive-through, pickup and delivery services. They also banned public gatherings of more than 10 people, although they exempted government, religious and private business activities.

“I don't think that we are finished putting in place strategies to deal with the fallout from the coronavirus," Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference.

Kelly and Kansas' education commissioner recommended that schools remain closed this week, and state universities have started moving to online classes. The Kansas Supreme Court canceled oral arguments on cases it had scheduled for later this month.

Kansas has seen one COVID-19-related death, of a man in his 70s who was a resident of a Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home. Public health officials have confirmed 11 cases so far, and all but two of them have been in the state's portion of the Kansas City area.

The Legislature is pursuing measures to give public schools more flexibility to cancel in-person classes and to allow courts to extend deadlines for trials and filing lawsuits if they are forced to close.

State officials also announced new guidelines calling for nursing homes, to restrict visitors and cancel group activities and dining. The ban on utility disconnections runs through April 15 and includes electricity, water, natural gas and telecommunications companies.

Kelly's order on public gatherings is in line with guidance issued Sunday night by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But on Monday, Trump announced the stricter guidelines for the short-term.

“The smaller, the safer. I think we just need to follow that," said Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System. “Don't wait on the government to tell you to do it.”

Kelly said she did not order business closings because many Kansas enterprises already have taken steps to limit crowd sizes.

While the one death occurred in Wyandotte County, eight of the state's 11 coronavirus cases are from Johnson County, the state's most populous county, home to affluent and sprawling Kansas City suburbs. Lee Norman, the state's secretary of health and environment said the last three people infected there had contact with another infected person, demonstrating the need for social distancing.

But officials had some good news: 85 staff and other residents at the home linked to the state's one COVID-19 related death have all tested negative for coronavirus, said Dr. Allen Greiner, Wyandotte County's health officer. He said another 20 tests are pending, involving people who had contact with the deceased man.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584451007631.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JOHN HANNA,&nbsp;Associated PressTOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas on Monday banned public gatherings of 50 or more people for the next two months, but officials in the Kansas City area imposed a stricter rule and ordered some businesses to close over the next two weeks in hopes of limiting the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly also blocked utilities in her state from cutting off services until mid-April and warned that the coronavirus pandemic may force additional statewide restrictions.Kelly stopped short of ordering bars, restaurants, gyms or other businesses to close, as governors in other states have. Her executive orders also came the same day that President Donald Trump's administration said people should avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 over the next 15 days.Officials in the Kansas City area immediately took the new guidance from Trump's administration to heart. In Kansas City and Jackson County, Missouri&nbsp;and Johnson and Wyandotte County, Kansas, they ordered the closing of restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs and movie theaters from Tuesday through April 1, with the exception of drive-through, pickup and delivery services. They also banned public gatherings of more than 10 people, although they exempted government, religious and private business activities.“I don't think that we are finished putting in place strategies to deal with the fallout from the coronavirus," Kelly said during a Statehouse news conference.Kelly and Kansas' education commissioner recommended that schools remain closed this week, and state universities have started moving to online classes. The Kansas Supreme Court canceled oral arguments on cases it had scheduled for later this month.Kansas has seen one COVID-19-related death, of a man in his 70s who was a resident of a Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home. Public health officials have confirmed 11 cases so far, and all but two of them have been in the state's portion of the Kansas City area.For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, and the vast majority recover. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.The Legislature is pursuing measures to give public schools more flexibility to cancel in-person classes and to allow courts to extend deadlines for trials and filing lawsuits if they are forced to close.State officials also announced new guidelines calling for nursing homes, to restrict visitors and cancel group activities and dining. The ban on utility disconnections runs through April 15 and includes electricity, water, natural gas and telecommunications companies.Kelly's order on public gatherings is in line with guidance issued Sunday night by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But on Monday, Trump announced the stricter guidelines for the short-term.“The smaller, the safer. I think we just need to follow that," said Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System. “Don't wait on the government to tell you to do it.”Kelly said she did not order business closings because many Kansas enterprises already have taken steps to limit crowd sizes.While the one death occurred in Wyandotte County, eight of the state's 11 coronavirus cases are from Johnson County, the state's most populous county, home to affluent and sprawling Kansas City suburbs. Lee Norman, the state's secretary of health and environment said the last three people infected there had contact with another infected person, demonstrating the need for social distancing.But officials had some good news: 85 staff and other residents at the home linked to the state's one COVID-19 related death have all tested negative for coronavirus, said Dr. Allen Greiner, Wyandotte County's health officer. He said another 20 tests are pending, involving people who had contact with the deceased man.___

Kansas City restaurants, bars, theaters close until April 1 

At present, it is the intent that the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will remain open with regular operating hours until further notice.&nbsp; This situation will be evaluated daily and decisions about the future will be based on new information and recommendations as they are made with particular attention given to those from federal and state officials.&nbsp;

Library Director Susan Moyer said the library’s standard practice for many years has been to clean items with alcohol when they are returned and before they are placed into circulation again.&nbsp; This practice will continue with additional cleaning measures put in place for circulating items and other elements of the library’s services.&nbsp;

In an abundance of caution, some services will be curtailed or temporarily eliminated including the following:&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All library programs scheduled from today through March 31 are cancelled.&nbsp; No new program reservations are being taken at this time.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Outreach programming services have been suspended including outreach story programs and homebound delivery.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One-on-One instructional services are suspended until further notice.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Donations of book, audio and video items will not be accepted until further notice.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No new meeting room reservations will be taken beginning today and extending through March 31.&nbsp; Reservations taken after March 31 are subject to cancellation.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Existing meeting room reservations will be honored but use of the kitchen facilities has been suspended through March 31.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interlibrary loan service has been suspended until April 30.&nbsp; Existing borrowing requests not already in transit will be cancelled.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other changes affecting the availability of headphones and earbuds, Young People’s Department tablets, crayons and color sheets, and high-touch items such as bean bag chairs, toys, games and puzzles have been implemented.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hand cleaning stations have been placed at both entrances for patron use.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone exhibiting signs of illness will be asked to leave the library fo

At present, it is the intent that the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will remain open with regular operating hours until further notice.&nbsp; This situation will be evaluated daily and decisions about the future will be based on new information and recommendations as they are made with particular attention given to those from federal and state officials.&nbsp;Library Director Susan Moyer said the library’s standard practice for many years has been to clean items with alcohol when they are returned and before they are placed into circulation again.&nbsp; This practice will continue with additional cleaning measures put in place for circulating items and other elements of the library’s services.&nbsp;In an abundance of caution, some services will be curtailed or temporarily eliminated including the following:&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All library programs scheduled from today through March 31 are cancelled.&nbsp; No new program reservations are being taken at this time.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Outreach programming services have been suspended including outreach story programs and homebound delivery.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One-on-One instructional services are suspended until further notice.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Donations of book, audio and video items will not be accepted until further notice.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No new meeting room reservations will be taken beginning today and extending through March 31.&nbsp; Reservations taken after March 31 are subject to cancellation.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Existing meeting room reservations will be honored but use of the kitchen facilities has been suspended through March 31.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Interlibrary loan service has been suspended until April 30.&nbsp; Existing borrowing requests not already in transit will be cancelled.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Other changes affecting the availability of headphones and earbuds, Young People’s Department tablets, crayons and color sheets, and high-touch items such as bean bag chairs, toys, games and puzzles have been implemented.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hand cleaning stations have been placed at both entrances for patron use.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone exhibiting signs of illness will be asked to leave the library fo

Dorothy Bramlage Public makes Coronavirus 19 adjustments

WASHINGTON —The United States implemented dramatic new restrictions on Americans going out in public and 7 million people in the San Francisco area were put on a near-total lockdown to control the coronavirus emergency that has walloped the global economy.

Not everyone was adhering to the clampdowns, however.

On the same day that the Trump administration called on Americans to not gather in groups of more than 10 people and urged older people to stay home, Arizona, Florida and Illinois went ahead with plans to hold presidential primaries Tuesday. Ohio called off its primary just hours before polls were to open.

Beaches on Florida’s Gulf coast near Tampa stayed open, including one that was was flooded with spring breakers. Gov. Ron Desantis said he would leave it up to communities whether to restrict access to beaches.

“It’s not probably advisable to have spring break gatherings” but that people in small groups at the beach is probably OK, he said. “I think the communities can work that out.”

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, praised the federal government’s response as he took only limited action amid the outbreak. Unlike other governors of heavily populated states, Abbott has not made explicit calls for limiting mass gatherings.

“This is not a time to panic,” he said. “It’s not as if we have never been through this before. We’ve been through this many, many times.”

The comments came on the same day that the number of infections in the U.S. climbed to nearly 4,500, with at least 81 deaths, two-thirds of them in hard-hit Washington state. Worldwide, more than 7,100 have died.

With the U.S. economy shuddering to a near-halt, the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted nearly 3,000 points, or 13%, its biggest one-day percentage loss since the Black Monday crash of 1987.

The rapid work stoppage had Americans fretting about their jobs and their savings, threatened to overwhelm unemployment benefit programs, and heightened fears the country could plunge into a recession.

The decision to move ahead with primaries ran counter to stern new guidelines put in place by the Trump administration.

Over the next half month, Americans should not gather in groups of more than 10 people, schooling should be at home and discretionary travel and social visits should be avoided.

The president for the first time acknowledged that the pandemic may send the economy into a recession and suggested that the nation may be dealing with the virus until “July or August.”

Elections officials in Arizona, Florida and Illinois said they were taking precautions to make sure voters could safely cast their ballots, despite widening calls for people to avoid going in public. A handful of other states already postponed their elections.

Growing public unease over the coronavirus spread was causing disruptions to polling places in some states before they even opened.

In Pasco County, Florida, the number of poll workers dropping out surged from 20 last week to more than 150 by Monday after a case of coronavirus was confirmed in the county.

“It’s a skeleton crew at a lot of locations,” said Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections Paul Lux. “We are at the honest end of the rope in terms of who I can grab and who I can get trained and get deployed.”

In Illinois, counties were moving polling places out of nursing homes, offering ballot drop-off options for jittery voters and scrambling to find replacements for poll workers canceling at the last minute.

Chicago elections officials worked late Monday to find replacements for 168 polling sites.

And the city elections commission was begging healthy people to volunteer to work at the polls amid a “tsumani” of cancellations.

“Please, please heed our call and volunteer,” said Marisel Hernandez, the commission’s chair. “Help us.”

Meanwhile, millions of Americans were holed up at home, with many thrown out of work until further notice as the list of businesses forced to close across the U.S. extended to restaurants, bars, gyms and casinos.

Officials in six San Francisco Bay Area counties issued a “shelter in place” order affecting nearly 7 million people, requiring most residents to stay inside and venture out only for food, medicine or exercise for three weeks — the most drastic measure taken yet in the U.S. to curb the spread of the virus.

“I know today’s order is a radical step. It has to be. We need to act now, all of us,” said Dr. Grant Colfax, director of the San Francisco Health Department.

Health officials, politicians and business leaders are talking about “social distancing” and “flattening the curve,” or encouraging people to avoid others to slow the spread of the virus and keep U.S. hospitals from being overwhelmed with a sudden deluge of patients.

Most people who come down with the disease have relatively mild symptoms, but it can be deadly for some, especially the elderly and those with underlying health problems. Most people infected with the virus recover in a matter of weeks.

The shutdowns touched every corner of the country: blackjack dealers in Las Vegas, theme park workers in Orlando, Florida, restaurant and bar employees nationwide, and winery workers in California. At least eight states called on all bars and restaurants to close at least part of the day.

The economy appears to be decelerating at a much faster pace than during the 2008 financial meltdown.

“This is like an avalanche. It’s all happening at once,” said Heidi Shierholz, senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute. “And no one knows how long it’s going to last.”

On the other side of the ledger, Amazon announced it wants to add 100,000 workers to deliver packages amid a surge in online orders from people unable or unwilling to set foot in stores. And gun sales soared in many places as fear took hold.

“I’ve never seen it like this,” said Ed Turner, who owns Ed’s Public Safety in Stockbridge, Georgia. “This is self-preservation. This is panic. This is ‘I won’t be able to protect my family from the hordes and the walking dead.’”

With schools closed for tens of millions of children across the country, parents began using lesson plans that included flash cards, online learning, dog walks and creativity sessions. Many did this while juggling work conference calls, emails and memos. Others scrambled to find child care.

Nationwide, many restaurants were restricted to takeout or delivery only.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584387309958.png" alt="President Trump with new CDC recommendations released during Monday's coronavirus task force media briefing- Image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump with new CDC recommendations released during Monday's coronavirus task force media briefing- Image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —The United States implemented dramatic new restrictions on Americans going out in public and 7 million people in the San Francisco area were put on a near-total lockdown to control the coronavirus emergency that has walloped the global economy.Not everyone was adhering to the clampdowns, however.On the same day that the Trump administration called on Americans to not gather in groups of more than 10 people and urged older people to stay home, Arizona, Florida and Illinois went ahead with plans to hold presidential primaries Tuesday. Ohio called off its primary just hours before polls were to open.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584441861411.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Beaches on Florida’s Gulf coast near Tampa stayed open, including one that was was flooded with spring breakers. Gov. Ron Desantis said he would leave it up to communities whether to restrict access to beaches.“It’s not probably advisable to have spring break gatherings” but that people in small groups at the beach is probably OK, he said. “I think the communities can work that out.”Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, praised the federal government’s response as he took only limited action amid the outbreak. Unlike other governors of heavily populated states, Abbott has not made explicit calls for limiting mass gatherings.“This is not a time to panic,” he said. “It’s not as if we have never been through this before. We’ve been through this many, many times.”The comments came on the same day that the number of infections in the U.S. climbed to nearly 4,500, with at least 81 deaths, two-thirds of them in hard-hit Washington state. Worldwide, more than 7,100 have died.With the U.S. economy shuddering to a near-halt, the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted nearly 3,000 points, or 13%, its biggest one-day percentage loss since the Black Monday crash of 1987.The rapid work stoppage had Americans fretting about their jobs and their savings, threatened to overwhelm unemployment benefit programs, and heightened fears the country could plunge into a recession.The decision to move ahead with primaries ran counter to stern new guidelines put in place by the Trump administration.Over the next half month, Americans should not gather in groups of more than 10 people, schooling should be at home and discretionary travel and social visits should be avoided.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584441724320.png" alt="CDC" />
 <figcaption>CDC</figcaption>
 </figure>The president for the first time acknowledged that the pandemic may send the economy into a recession and suggested that the nation may be dealing with the virus until “July or August.”Elections officials in Arizona, Florida and Illinois said they were taking precautions to make sure voters could safely cast their ballots, despite widening calls for people to avoid going in public. A handful of other states already postponed their elections.Growing public unease over the coronavirus spread was causing disruptions to polling places in some states before they even opened.In Pasco County, Florida, the number of poll workers dropping out surged from 20 last week to more than 150 by Monday after a case of coronavirus was confirmed in the county.“It’s a skeleton crew at a lot of locations,” said Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections Paul Lux. “We are at the honest end of the rope in terms of who I can grab and who I can get trained and get deployed.”In Illinois, counties were moving polling places out of nursing homes, offering ballot drop-off options for jittery voters and scrambling to find replacements for poll workers canceling at the last minute.Chicago elections officials worked late Monday to find replacements for 168 polling sites.And the city elections commission was begging healthy people to volunteer to work at the polls amid a “tsumani” of cancellations.“Please, please heed our call and volunteer,” said Marisel Hernandez, the commission’s chair. “Help us.”Meanwhile, millions of Americans were holed up at home, with many thrown out of work until further notice as the list of businesses forced to close across the U.S. extended to restaurants, bars, gyms and casinos.Officials in six San Francisco Bay Area counties issued a “shelter in place” order affecting nearly 7 million people, requiring most residents to stay inside and venture out only for food, medicine or exercise for three weeks — the most drastic measure taken yet in the U.S. to curb the spread of the virus.“I know today’s order is a radical step. It has to be. We need to act now, all of us,” said Dr. Grant Colfax, director of the San Francisco Health Department.Health officials, politicians and business leaders are talking about “social distancing” and “flattening the curve,” or encouraging people to avoid others to slow the spread of the virus and keep U.S. hospitals from being overwhelmed with a sudden deluge of patients.Most people who come down with the disease have relatively mild symptoms, but it can be deadly for some, especially the elderly and those with underlying health problems. Most people infected with the virus recover in a matter of weeks.The shutdowns touched every corner of the country: blackjack dealers in Las Vegas, theme park workers in Orlando, Florida, restaurant and bar employees nationwide, and winery workers in California. At least eight states called on all bars and restaurants to close at least part of the day.The economy appears to be decelerating at a much faster pace than during the 2008 financial meltdown.“This is like an avalanche. It’s all happening at once,” said Heidi Shierholz, senior economist at the Economic Policy Institute. “And no one knows how long it’s going to last.”On the other side of the ledger, Amazon announced it wants to add 100,000 workers to deliver packages amid a surge in online orders from people unable or unwilling to set foot in stores. And gun sales soared in many places as fear took hold.“I’ve never seen it like this,” said Ed Turner, who owns Ed’s Public Safety in Stockbridge, Georgia. “This is self-preservation. This is panic. This is ‘I won’t be able to protect my family from the hordes and the walking dead.’”With schools closed for tens of millions of children across the country, parents began using lesson plans that included flash cards, online learning, dog walks and creativity sessions. Many did this while juggling work conference calls, emails and memos. Others scrambled to find child care.Nationwide, many restaurants were restricted to takeout or delivery only.

Government issues historic restrictions amid virus outbreak

By order of the Geary County Health Department and under authority of the Kansas Department of Health &amp; ZEnvironment, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School has been directed to remain closed through March 27th.&nbsp;

School Principal Shawn Augustine said staff is working together to provide a list of educational resources, and are continuing to explore methods where they can provide instruction should the school continue to be closed.

Effective today ( Tuesday, March 17, there will be Grab-n-Go meals available for children at the Early Childhood Development Center, Junction City Middle School, Washington Elementary School, Seitz Elementary School on Fort Riley, and Spring Valley Elementary School. All children ages 1-18 qualify for those meals but the child must be present when picking up the meal. Meals will be distributed between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Each child will receive a lunch meal for that day plus a sack breakfast for the following morning.

By order of the Geary County Health Department and under authority of the Kansas Department of Health &amp; ZEnvironment, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School has been directed to remain closed through March 27th.&nbsp;School Principal Shawn Augustine said staff is working together to provide a list of educational resources, and are continuing to explore methods where they can provide instruction should the school continue to be closed.Effective today ( Tuesday, March 17, there will be Grab-n-Go meals available for children at the Early Childhood Development Center, Junction City Middle School, Washington Elementary School, Seitz Elementary School on Fort Riley, and Spring Valley Elementary School. All children ages 1-18 qualify for those meals but the child must be present when picking up the meal. Meals will be distributed between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.Each child will receive a lunch meal for that day plus a sack breakfast for the following morning.

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School closes through March 27

LENEXA - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing an expanded list of EPA-registered disinfectant products that have qualified for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that
causes COVID-19. 

The list contains nearly 200 additional products—including 40 new products that went through the agency’s expedited review process. 

The agency also made key enhancements to the web-based list to improve its usefulness.

“During this pandemic, it’s important that people can easily find the information they’re looking for when choosing and using a surface disinfectant,”&nbsp;said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.&nbsp;

“With this expanded
list, EPA is making sure Americans have greater access to as many effective and approved surface disinfectant products as possible and that they have the information at their fingertips to use them effectively.”

While disinfectant products on this list have not been tested specifically against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, they are expected to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 because they have been tested and proven effective
on either a harder-to-kill virus or against another human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.

The product list has also been updated to include the product’s active ingredient and the amount of time the surface should remain wet to be effective against the given pathogen.

To make the list more consumer friendly, information in the table is now sortable, searchable and printable, and can be easily viewed on a mobile device.

These additions make it easier for consumers to find surface disinfectants and instructions for using them effectively against SARS-CoV-2.

&nbsp;View the list of EPA-registered<a href="https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2"> disinfectant products here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563804610898.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>EPALENEXA - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing an expanded list of EPA-registered disinfectant products that have qualified for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that
causes COVID-19. The list contains nearly 200 additional products—including 40 new products that went through the agency’s expedited review process. The agency also made key enhancements to the web-based list to improve its usefulness.“During this pandemic, it’s important that people can easily find the information they’re looking for when choosing and using a surface disinfectant,”&nbsp;said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.&nbsp;“With this expanded
list, EPA is making sure Americans have greater access to as many effective and approved surface disinfectant products as possible and that they have the information at their fingertips to use them effectively.”While disinfectant products on this list have not been tested specifically against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, they are expected to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 because they have been tested and proven effective
on either a harder-to-kill virus or against another human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.The product list has also been updated to include the product’s active ingredient and the amount of time the surface should remain wet to be effective against the given pathogen.To make the list more consumer friendly, information in the table is now sortable, searchable and printable, and can be easily viewed on a mobile device.These additions make it easier for consumers to find surface disinfectants and instructions for using them effectively against SARS-CoV-2.&nbsp;View the list of EPA-registered<a href="https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2"> disinfectant products here.</a>

EPA expands COVID-19 disinfectant list

SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. researchers gave the first shots in a first test of an experimental coronavirus vaccine Monday, leading off a worldwide hunt for protection even as the pandemic surges.

With careful jabs in the arms of four healthy volunteers, scientists at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Research Institute in Seattle began an anxiously awaited first-stage study of a potential COVID-19 vaccine developed in record time after the new virus exploded out of China and fanned out across the globe.

“We’re team coronavirus now,” Kaiser Permanente study leader Dr. Lisa Jackson said on the eve of the experiment. “Everyone wants to do what they can in this emergency.”

The Associated Press observed as the study’s first participant, an operations manager at a small tech company, received the injection in an exam room.

“We all feel so helpless. This is an amazing opportunity for me to do something,” Jennifer Haller, 43, of Seattle said before getting vaccinated. Her two teenagers “think it's cool” that she's taking part in the study.

After the injection, she left the exam room with a big smile: “I'm feeling great."

Three others were next in line for a test that will ultimately give 45 volunteers two doses, a month apart.

Neal Browning, 46, of Bothell, Washington, is a Microsoft network engineer who says his young daughters are proud he volunteered.

“Every parent wants their children to look up to them,” he said. But he’s told them not to brag to their friends. “It’s other people, too. It’s not just Dad out there.”

Monday’s milestone marked just the beginning of a series of studies in people needed to prove whether the shots are safe and could work. Even if the research goes well, a vaccine would not be available for widespread use for 12 to 18 months, said Dr. Anthony Fauci of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

Still, finding a vaccine “is an urgent public health priority,” Fauci said in a statement Monday. The new study “is an important first step toward achieving that goal.”

This vaccine candidate, code-named mRNA-1273, was developed by the NIH and Massachusetts-based biotechnology company Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected because the shots do not contain the coronavirus itself.

It’s not the only potential vaccine in the pipeline. Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine against COVID-19. Another candidate, made by Inovio Pharmaceuticals, is expected to begin its own safety study next month in the U.S., China and South Korea.

The Seattle experiment got underway days after the World Health Organization declared the new virus outbreak a pandemic because of its rapid global spread, which has infected more than 169,000 people and killed more than 6,500.

COVID-19 has upended the world’s social and economic fabric since China first identified the virus in January, with broad regions shuttering schools and businesses, restricting travel, canceling entertainment and sporting events, and encouraging people to stay away from each other.

Starting what scientists call a first-in-humans study is a momentous occasion for scientists, but Jackson described her team’s mood as “subdued.” They’ve been working around-the-clock readying the research in a part of the U.S. struck early and hard by the virus.

Still, “going from not even knowing that this virus was out there ... to have any vaccine” in testing in about two months is unprecedented, Jackson told the AP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579661439404.jpeg" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — U.S. researchers gave the first shots in a first test of an experimental coronavirus vaccine Monday, leading off a worldwide hunt for protection even as the pandemic surges.With careful jabs in the arms of four healthy volunteers, scientists at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Research Institute in Seattle began an anxiously awaited first-stage study of a potential COVID-19 vaccine developed in record time after the new virus exploded out of China and fanned out across the globe.“We’re team coronavirus now,” Kaiser Permanente study leader Dr. Lisa Jackson said on the eve of the experiment. “Everyone wants to do what they can in this emergency.”The Associated Press observed as the study’s first participant, an operations manager at a small tech company, received the injection in an exam room.“We all feel so helpless. This is an amazing opportunity for me to do something,” Jennifer Haller, 43, of Seattle said before getting vaccinated. Her two teenagers “think it's cool” that she's taking part in the study.After the injection, she left the exam room with a big smile: “I'm feeling great."Three others were next in line for a test that will ultimately give 45 volunteers two doses, a month apart.Neal Browning, 46, of Bothell, Washington, is a Microsoft network engineer who says his young daughters are proud he volunteered.“Every parent wants their children to look up to them,” he said. But he’s told them not to brag to their friends. “It’s other people, too. It’s not just Dad out there.”Monday’s milestone marked just the beginning of a series of studies in people needed to prove whether the shots are safe and could work. Even if the research goes well, a vaccine would not be available for widespread use for 12 to 18 months, said Dr. Anthony Fauci of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.Still, finding a vaccine “is an urgent public health priority,” Fauci said in a statement Monday. The new study “is an important first step toward achieving that goal.”This vaccine candidate, code-named mRNA-1273, was developed by the NIH and Massachusetts-based biotechnology company Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected because the shots do not contain the coronavirus itself.It’s not the only potential vaccine in the pipeline. Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine against COVID-19. Another candidate, made by Inovio Pharmaceuticals, is expected to begin its own safety study next month in the U.S., China and South Korea.The Seattle experiment got underway days after the World Health Organization declared the new virus outbreak a pandemic because of its rapid global spread, which has infected more than 169,000 people and killed more than 6,500.COVID-19 has upended the world’s social and economic fabric since China first identified the virus in January, with broad regions shuttering schools and businesses, restricting travel, canceling entertainment and sporting events, and encouraging people to stay away from each other.Starting what scientists call a first-in-humans study is a momentous occasion for scientists, but Jackson described her team’s mood as “subdued.” They’ve been working around-the-clock readying the research in a part of the U.S. struck early and hard by the virus.Still, “going from not even knowing that this virus was out there ... to have any vaccine” in testing in about two months is unprecedented, Jackson told the AP.Some of the study’s carefully chosen healthy volunteers, ages 18 to 55, will get higher dosages than others to test how strong the inoculations should be. Scientists will check for any side effects and draw blood samples to test if the vaccine is revving up the immune system, looking for encouraging clues like the NIH earlier found in vaccinated mice.“We don’t know whether this vaccine will induce an immune response or whether it will be safe. That’s why we’re doing a trial,” Jackson stressed. “It’s not at the stage where it would be possible or prudent to give it to the general population.”Most of the vaccine research under way globally targets a protein aptly named “spike” that studs the surface of the new coronavirus and lets it invade human cells. Block that protein and people cannot get infected.Researchers at the NIH copied the section of the virus’ genetic code that contains the instructions for cells to create the spike protein. Moderna encased that “messenger RNA” into a vaccine.The idea: The body will become a mini-factory, producing some harmless spike protein. When the immune system spots the foreign protein, it will make antibodies to attack — and be primed to react quickly if the person later encounters the real virus.That’s a much faster way of producing a vaccine than the traditional approach of growing virus in the lab and preparing shots from either killed or weakened versions of it.But because vaccines are given to millions of healthy people, it takes time to test them in large enough numbers to spot an uncommon side effect, cautioned Dr. Nelson Michael of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, which is developing a different vaccine candidate.“The science can go very quickly but, first, do no harm, right?” he told reporters last week.The Seattle research institute is part of a government network that tests all kinds of vaccines and was chosen for the coronavirus vaccine study before COVID-19 began spreading widely in Washington state.Kaiser Permanente screened dozens of people, looking for those who have no chronic health problems and are not currently sick. Researchers are not checking whether would-be volunteers already had a mild case of COVID-19 before deciding if they are eligible.If some did, scientists will be able to tell by the number of antibodies in their pre-vaccination blood test and account for that, Jackson said. Participants will be paid $100 for each clinic visit in the study.--------WASHINGTON (AP) — A clinical trial evaluating a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin Monday, according to a government official.The first participant in the trial will receive the experimental vaccine on Monday, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the trial has not been publicly announced yet. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial, which is taking place at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle, the official said.Public health officials say it will take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine.Testing will begin with 45 young, healthy volunteers with different doses of shots co-developed by NIH and Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected from the shots, because they don’t contain the virus itself. The goal is purely to check that the vaccines show no worrisome side effects, setting the stage for larger tests.Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine as COVID-19 cases continue to grow. Importantly, they’re pursuing different types of vaccines — shots developed from new technologies that not only are faster to produce than traditional inoculations but might prove more potent. Some researchers even aim for temporary vaccines, such as shots that might guard people’s health a month or two at a time while longer-lasting protection is developed.For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead. The death toll in the United States is more than 50, while infections neared 3,000 across 49 states and the District of Columbia.The vast majority of people recover. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three weeks to six weeks to recover.___

Coronavirus Update