Pfizer announced Wednesday that its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and strongly protective in kids as young as 12, a step toward possibly beginning shots in this age group before they head back to school in the fall.

Most COVID-19 vaccines being rolled out worldwide are for adults, who are at higher risk from the coronavirus. Pfizer’s vaccine is authorized for ages 16 and older. But vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to stopping the pandemic — and helping schools, at least the upper grades, start to look a little more normal after months of disruption.

In a study of 2,260 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15, preliminary data showed there were no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among those given dummy shots, Pfizer reported.

It’s a small study, that hasn’t yet been published, so another important piece of evidence is how well the shots revved up the kids’ immune systems. Researchers reported high levels of virus-fighting antibodies, somewhat higher than were seen in studies of young adults.

Kids had side effects similar to young adults, the company said. The main side effects are pain, fever, chills and fatigue, particularly after the second dose. The study will continue to track participants for two years for more information about long-term protection and safety.

Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech in the coming weeks plan to ask the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European regulators to allow emergency use of the shots starting at age 12.

“We share the urgency to expand the use of our vaccine,” Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement. He expressed “the hope of starting to vaccinate this age group before the start of the next school year” in the United States.

Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Results also are expected soon from a U.S. study of Moderna’s vaccine in 12- to 17-year-olds.

But in a sign that the findings were promising, the FDA already allowed both companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-pandemics-coronavirus-pandemic-coronavirus-vaccine-3c2490cd1bef6221c9b33146fee0fe4c">begin U.S. studies&nbsp;</a>in children 11 and younger, working their way to as young as 6-month-old.

AstraZeneca last month began a study of its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. Johnson &amp; Johnson is planning its own pediatric studies. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.

While most COVID-19 vaccines being used globally were first tested in tens of thousands of adults, pediatric studies won’t need to be nearly as large. Scientists have safety information from those studies and from subsequent vaccinations in millions more adults.

One key question is the dosage: Pfizer gave the 12-and-older participants the same dose adults receive, while testing different doses in younger children.

It’s not clear how quickly the FDA would act on Pfizer’s request to allow vaccination starting at age 12. Another question is when the country would have enough supply of shots — and people to get them into adolescents’ arms — to let kids start getting in line.

Supplies are set to steadily increase over the spring and summer, at the same time states are opening vaccinations to younger, healthier adults who until now haven’t had a turn.

Children represent about 13% of COVID-19 cases documented in the U.S. And while children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill, at least 268 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 13,500 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics. That’s more than die from the flu in an average year. Additionally, a small number have developed a serious inflammatory condition linked to the coronavirus.

Caleb Chung, who turns 13 later this week, agreed to volunteer after his father, a Duke University pediatrician, presented the option. He doesn’t know if he received the vaccine or a placebo.

“Usually I’m just at home doing online school and there’s not much I can really do to fight back against the virus,” Caleb said in a recent interview. The study “was really somewhere that I could actually help out.”

His father, Dr. Richard Chung, said he’s proud of his son and all the other children volunteering for the needle pricks, blood tests and other tasks a study entails.

“We need kids to do these trials so that kids can get protected. Adults can’t do that for them,” Chung said.

By LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated PressPfizer announced Wednesday that its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and strongly protective in kids as young as 12, a step toward possibly beginning shots in this age group before they head back to school in the fall.Most COVID-19 vaccines being rolled out worldwide are for adults, who are at higher risk from the coronavirus. Pfizer’s vaccine is authorized for ages 16 and older. But vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to stopping the pandemic — and helping schools, at least the upper grades, start to look a little more normal after months of disruption.In a study of 2,260 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15, preliminary data showed there were no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among those given dummy shots, Pfizer reported.It’s a small study, that hasn’t yet been published, so another important piece of evidence is how well the shots revved up the kids’ immune systems. Researchers reported high levels of virus-fighting antibodies, somewhat higher than were seen in studies of young adults.Kids had side effects similar to young adults, the company said. The main side effects are pain, fever, chills and fatigue, particularly after the second dose. The study will continue to track participants for two years for more information about long-term protection and safety.Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech in the coming weeks plan to ask the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European regulators to allow emergency use of the shots starting at age 12.“We share the urgency to expand the use of our vaccine,” Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement. He expressed “the hope of starting to vaccinate this age group before the start of the next school year” in the United States.Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Results also are expected soon from a U.S. study of Moderna’s vaccine in 12- to 17-year-olds.But in a sign that the findings were promising, the FDA already allowed both companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-pandemics-coronavirus-pandemic-coronavirus-vaccine-3c2490cd1bef6221c9b33146fee0fe4c">begin U.S. studies&nbsp;</a>in children 11 and younger, working their way to as young as 6-month-old.AstraZeneca last month began a study of its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. Johnson &amp; Johnson is planning its own pediatric studies. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.ADVERTISEMENTWhile most COVID-19 vaccines being used globally were first tested in tens of thousands of adults, pediatric studies won’t need to be nearly as large. Scientists have safety information from those studies and from subsequent vaccinations in millions more adults.One key question is the dosage: Pfizer gave the 12-and-older participants the same dose adults receive, while testing different doses in younger children.It’s not clear how quickly the FDA would act on Pfizer’s request to allow vaccination starting at age 12. Another question is when the country would have enough supply of shots — and people to get them into adolescents’ arms — to let kids start getting in line.Supplies are set to steadily increase over the spring and summer, at the same time states are opening vaccinations to younger, healthier adults who until now haven’t had a turn.Children represent about 13% of COVID-19 cases documented in the U.S. And while children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill, at least 268 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 13,500 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics. That’s more than die from the flu in an average year. Additionally, a small number have developed a serious inflammatory condition linked to the coronavirus.Caleb Chung, who turns 13 later this week, agreed to volunteer after his father, a Duke University pediatrician, presented the option. He doesn’t know if he received the vaccine or a placebo.“Usually I’m just at home doing online school and there’s not much I can really do to fight back against the virus,” Caleb said in a recent interview. The study “was really somewhere that I could actually help out.”His father, Dr. Richard Chung, said he’s proud of his son and all the other children volunteering for the needle pricks, blood tests and other tasks a study entails.“We need kids to do these trials so that kids can get protected. Adults can’t do that for them,” Chung said.___

Pfizer: COVID-19 vaccine effective in kids ages 12 to 15

Geary County health officials reported on Friday that there were no changes in COVID-19 numbers from Thursday. There were still six active cases in the county.

Geary County health officials reported on Friday that there were no changes in COVID-19 numbers from Thursday. There were still six active cases in the county.

No change in COVID-19 numbers

Pottawatomie County health officials said this past week that FEMA helps the public tell fact from fiction, and rumors from truth regarding the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can stop the spread of rumors by finding trusted sources of information, sharing information only from trusted sources, and discouraging others from sharing information from unverified sources.&nbsp;

You can find trusted sources on the Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus Page.&nbsp;

There are five things you can do to avoid a coronavirus scam. They include ignoring offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Hang up on robocalls, watch out for phishing emails and text messages by not clicking on links in emails or texts that you did not expect, research before you donate and stay in the know.

Pottawatomie County health officials said this past week that FEMA helps the public tell fact from fiction, and rumors from truth regarding the responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can stop the spread of rumors by finding trusted sources of information, sharing information only from trusted sources, and discouraging others from sharing information from unverified sources.&nbsp;You can find trusted sources on the Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus Page.&nbsp;There are five things you can do to avoid a coronavirus scam. They include ignoring offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Hang up on robocalls, watch out for phishing emails and text messages by not clicking on links in emails or texts that you did not expect, research before you donate and stay in the know.

Avoid coronavirus scams

Geary County health officials confirmed three new positive cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. There are now six active cases in the county, which is up two from earlier in the week.&nbsp; One person is hospitalized.

Geary County health officials confirmed three new positive cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. There are now six active cases in the county, which is up two from earlier in the week.&nbsp; One person is hospitalized.

There are three new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19

Geary USD 475's Central Kitchen has received recognition from the Kansas State Department of Education for the staff's efforts in feeding the students during the COVID-19 pandemic since March of 2020.

When the pandemic struck staff navigated the challenges faced to have to-go breakfast and lunch meals ready for the students, while ensuring the students were healthy and ready to learn.

“We had to figure out what we could serve that they can grab and go, because at that time most of the meals we served hot and they weren’t really made to do that,” said Shelly Gunderson, director of child nutrition for the school district.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the kitchen served approximately 5,058 students a day.

“The response of our Central Kitchen staff has been nothing short of amazing. We were called back on Friday of spring break a year ago, and by Tuesday of the following week the food service program was up and running&nbsp; at multiple locations across the district,” Chief Operations Officer David Wild said. “To this day the dedicated staff of professionals have not looked back while continuing to ensure the nutritional needs of our children are met.” Simultaneously, the staff helped feed local, struggling day cares meals for their children.

The staff also received the Kansas State Department of Education’s Sunflower Spotlight for their work serving students breakfast and the positive impact it made. 

“It’s good because breakfast is important, that they start the day off,” Gunderson said. “The educational aspect of it, it’s showing that kids that eat in the morning do better in school.”


Geary USD 475's Central Kitchen has received recognition from the Kansas State Department of Education for the staff's efforts in feeding the students during the COVID-19 pandemic since March of 2020.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616595212558.jpeg" alt="Central&nbsp; Kitchen staff prepare lunch for students" />
 <figcaption>Central&nbsp; Kitchen staff prepare lunch for students</figcaption>
 </figure>When the pandemic struck staff navigated the challenges faced to have to-go breakfast and lunch meals ready for the students, while ensuring the students were healthy and ready to learn.“We had to figure out what we could serve that they can grab and go, because at that time most of the meals we served hot and they weren’t really made to do that,” said Shelly Gunderson, director of child nutrition for the school district.Since the beginning of the pandemic, the kitchen served approximately 5,058 students a day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616595190493.jpeg" alt="Shelly Gunderson, Director of Child Nutrition" />
 <figcaption>Shelly Gunderson, Director of Child Nutrition</figcaption>
 </figure>“The response of our Central Kitchen staff has been nothing short of amazing. We were called back on Friday of spring break a year ago, and by Tuesday of the following week the food service program was up and running&nbsp; at multiple locations across the district,” Chief Operations Officer David Wild said. “To this day the dedicated staff of professionals have not looked back while continuing to ensure the nutritional needs of our children are met.” Simultaneously, the staff helped feed local, struggling day cares meals for their children.The staff also received the Kansas State Department of Education’s Sunflower Spotlight for their work serving students breakfast and the positive impact it made. “It’s good because breakfast is important, that they start the day off,” Gunderson said. “The educational aspect of it, it’s showing that kids that eat in the morning do better in school.”

Geary County Schools receive state recognition for school meals during pandemic

Geary County health officials reported Tuesday that there was no change in COVID-19 numbers in the county from Monday. That means there were no new cases.

There are currently five active cases in the county and one person is hospitalized.

Geary County health officials reported Tuesday that there was no change in COVID-19 numbers in the county from Monday. That means there were no new cases.There are currently five active cases in the county and one person is hospitalized.

No change is being reported in COVID-19 numbers

VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System which includes the Richard J, Seitz Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Junction City will provide the 2nd Dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine to local Junction City and Manhattan area Veterans enrolled in VA Health Care on Saturday, March 27th at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

In partnership with the C.L. Opera House, this VA follow up clinic is for those Veterans provided the initial Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine on the 27th of February. Veterans have already been scheduled into their appointment slots and are reminded to arrive on time. 

Joe and Sheila Markley, directors of the CL Hooper Opera House share, “We are thrilled the Opera House is being used to distribute the COVID Vaccine. While we may have been closed for live shows, it is so good to be open and helping our community in this way. Great work is being done here through the County Health Department and the VA. What a wonderful opportunity this has been to give back to the community.”

VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System which includes the Richard J, Seitz Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Junction City will provide the 2nd Dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine to local Junction City and Manhattan area Veterans enrolled in VA Health Care on Saturday, March 27th at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.In partnership with the C.L. Opera House, this VA follow up clinic is for those Veterans provided the initial Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine on the 27th of February. Veterans have already been scheduled into their appointment slots and are reminded to arrive on time. Joe and Sheila Markley, directors of the CL Hooper Opera House share, “We are thrilled the Opera House is being used to distribute the COVID Vaccine. While we may have been closed for live shows, it is so good to be open and helping our community in this way. Great work is being done here through the County Health Department and the VA. What a wonderful opportunity this has been to give back to the community.”

Veterans in VA Health Care can receive second dose of COVID-19 vaccine

Governor Kelly has announced that the state will move into Phases three and four combined for COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday. Geary County will do the same. Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said the two phases include anyone between 16 and 64 with medical conditions that increase the risk for severe COVID-19 disease. This includes, but is not limited to diseases such as cancer, heart conditions, diabetes, respiratory disease, liver disease, kidney disease and obesity.&nbsp;

In addition to people with medical risks, the following also are included in these phases: agricultural and food workers, critical manufacturing, utility workers, social service and government workers not in previous phases, transportation workers, couriers, water and wastewater workers, shelter and house workers, finance (bank tellers), information technology and communications workers. Anyone who falls into previous categories can still get their vaccine as well.

People can sign up online on the Health Department Facebook page at the top under Pinned Post or on the Geary County website, under the COVID-19 tab, vaccine registration form. Those who signed up will be notified when they can come and receive their COVID shot.

Also, a reminder that the free COVID testing site is available Monday thru Saturday at the old VA Clinic located at 715 Southwind Dr. This is across 77 from the Wal-Mart Neighborhood market.

Governor Kelly has announced that the state will move into Phases three and four combined for COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday. Geary County will do the same. Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said the two phases include anyone between 16 and 64 with medical conditions that increase the risk for severe COVID-19 disease. This includes, but is not limited to diseases such as cancer, heart conditions, diabetes, respiratory disease, liver disease, kidney disease and obesity.&nbsp;In addition to people with medical risks, the following also are included in these phases: agricultural and food workers, critical manufacturing, utility workers, social service and government workers not in previous phases, transportation workers, couriers, water and wastewater workers, shelter and house workers, finance (bank tellers), information technology and communications workers. Anyone who falls into previous categories can still get their vaccine as well.People can sign up online on the Health Department Facebook page at the top under Pinned Post or on the Geary County website, under the COVID-19 tab, vaccine registration form. Those who signed up will be notified when they can come and receive their COVID shot.Also, a reminder that the free COVID testing site is available Monday thru Saturday at the old VA Clinic located at 715 Southwind Dr. This is across 77 from the Wal-Mart Neighborhood market.

Geary County will move into Phases 3 and 4 of vaccinations

Junction City Rotary Clubs are participating in a program to urge the public to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp; Clubs in both Kansas and Oklahoma are using an attention-grabbing display of smiles.

"Sharing Smiles" is designed to help draw attention and maintain a focus on the need for getting vaccine. The "Smiley" kits were purchased through a grant from the Kansas Leadership Center and are designed to help spread the word to get vaccinated.&nbsp;

Kits of eight to ten smile face signs and two rectangular signs are available to be temporarily set up at events, in the yards of supporters, and in other locations to catch attention of passing motorists and urge them to get vaccinated to help stop the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;

The displays will be installed and rotated by volunteer Rotarians on a regular basis.

Junction City Rotary Clubs are participating in a program to urge the public to obtain a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp; Clubs in both Kansas and Oklahoma are using an attention-grabbing display of smiles."Sharing Smiles" is designed to help draw attention and maintain a focus on the need for getting vaccine. The "Smiley" kits were purchased through a grant from the Kansas Leadership Center and are designed to help spread the word to get vaccinated.&nbsp;Kits of eight to ten smile face signs and two rectangular signs are available to be temporarily set up at events, in the yards of supporters, and in other locations to catch attention of passing motorists and urge them to get vaccinated to help stop the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp;The displays will be installed and rotated by volunteer Rotarians on a regular basis.

Rotary Clubs of Junction City urge COVID-19 vaccinations with Smiley Faces

Effective Friday, March 19, 2021, Meadowlark will officially re-open its Kimball Avenue entrance in Manhattan and suspend usage of the check-point station located on Tuttle Creek Boulevard.

Visitors without symptoms of illness, a current or suspected COVID-19 diagnosis, or contact with someone who has a positive COVID-19 test or is under investigation, will be permitted to enter campus.

This will include common, public areas in Meadowlark’s Community Center such as Prairie Star Restaurant and the Courtyard.

Visitation to licensed areas, which includes skilled nursing and assisted living, must still be scheduled. Residents who reside in the independent living areas of Meadowlark have been able to accept visitors to their homes without restriction since Monday, Feb. 8, 2021.

Mask-wearing on Meadowlark’s campus remains a requirement. All staff, residents, and visitors must don a mask when they are not actively eating or drinking.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616154133584.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Effective Friday, March 19, 2021, Meadowlark will officially re-open its Kimball Avenue entrance in Manhattan and suspend usage of the check-point station located on Tuttle Creek Boulevard.Visitors without symptoms of illness, a current or suspected COVID-19 diagnosis, or contact with someone who has a positive COVID-19 test or is under investigation, will be permitted to enter campus.This will include common, public areas in Meadowlark’s Community Center such as Prairie Star Restaurant and the Courtyard.Visitation to licensed areas, which includes skilled nursing and assisted living, must still be scheduled. Residents who reside in the independent living areas of Meadowlark have been able to accept visitors to their homes without restriction since Monday, Feb. 8, 2021.Mask-wearing on Meadowlark’s campus remains a requirement. All staff, residents, and visitors must don a mask when they are not actively eating or drinking.

Meadowlark relaxing restrictions on visitation

Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Commanding General, has issued an update to the COVID-19 General Order. The Army said via social media that the order is effective 17 March and available at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/.../all.../coronavirus-information</a>.

<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank"></a>Major changes include the following exceptions to the Fort Riley Mask policy: (1) outside when social distancing of 6 feet can be maintained; (2) when physically executing a graded event of an APFT or ACFT; (3) when working outside or operating machinery in situations where mask usage could increase heat-related or safety concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Maj. Gen. D.A. Sims, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Commanding General, has issued an update to the COVID-19 General Order. The Army said via social media that the order is effective 17 March and available at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/.../all.../coronavirus-information</a>.<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/my-fort/all-services/coronavirus-information?fbclid=IwAR133l_aIMV6joLdevvthw-w_fGkS_jU79A5NKU-j6hilM2fJLghrkeftBA" target="_blank"></a>Major changes include the following exceptions to the Fort Riley Mask policy: (1) outside when social distancing of 6 feet can be maintained; (2) when physically executing a graded event of an APFT or ACFT; (3) when working outside or operating machinery in situations where mask usage could increase heat-related or safety concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley has an update to the COVID-19 general order

The Bob Schmidt Foundation and Geary Community Healthcare Foundation are teaming up on a campaign to encourage community members to get their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Ashley King, Geary Community Hospital Director of Communications,&nbsp; said the Healthcare Foundation has partnered with the Bob Schmidt Foundation to help raise awareness.&nbsp; She noted that Geary Community Hospital and the Geary County Health Department are encouraging everyone to get the COVID vaccine. "They can go to our website at&nbsp; gearycommunityhospital.org or they can call 238-0305 to sign up, and we're just hoping to get everyone vaccinated that wants to be vaccinated as soon as possible."

Beginning Monday, the State will move to phases three and four for vaccinations. King stated that those phases will include anyone with an underlying health conditions that are ages 16 to 64. "So that will open up another cohort of people to help get vaccinated. We will start that process on Monday."

King confirmed that the Healthcare Foundation, Geary Community Hospital and the Bob Schmidt Foundation are making this campaign possible. The Bob Schmidt Foundation donated $5,000 to help raise awareness for the COVID-19 vaccine, and that amount was matched by another $5,000 from the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation.

You can also sign up for a vaccination at the Geary County Health Department Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fform.jotform.com%2F210035411304031%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1qsNDkGXSzka5UbcdvUFeIdU88y_uWJKFo1QjdF_jIC3UQREAJDSONfSA&amp;h=AT0xEmDlWzJbWiZXw2gmMOZncMINQvsXyqxJ4vWvGJFT582JjMdaXRk76zKRnbk7BsoLsQ2dEGoDwCul644cS7Gdd9EOujPJG7vS5TExQlguCfa_5ifYiJyD-9xg94ebq4Ia&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1kvfSVj1hOPl-U03_uxwIp9005oO23Ye4sNCPjeVZU5Ymc51G0l32SkH5PGkKFN2WG8NvsWodcRr-0doev5FA9tkWLGxpHnvMQ16hR-V4pRdQzerrbsB6_W0wIKSS9IH9uo-uspN_UuqNWwNCwJGXlrpqNIUASgb9y5o_TRjrVovAa" target="_blank">https://form.jotform.com/210035411304031</a>.

Campaign raises awareness for COVID-19 vaccinations

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel reported this week that the city and county will receive money from the American Recovery Act. What is unclear right now is the amount.

Dinkel informed the Junction City Commission that there are different numbers and local officials don't know how they will be able to use them. "One thing that we're looking at is possibly water and sewer system upgrades which would help us save money that we had planned to use for that, and help out long term. Don't know all the rules yet but it could be a substantial amount of money."

Dinkel added the county will get some funding as well, but a lot of the details are not yet known. It will probably be another two to three weeks. "But there's going to be some substantial money coming through the community on that."

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel reported this week that the city and county will receive money from the American Recovery Act. What is unclear right now is the amount.Dinkel informed the Junction City Commission that there are different numbers and local officials don't know how they will be able to use them. "One thing that we're looking at is possibly water and sewer system upgrades which would help us save money that we had planned to use for that, and help out long term. Don't know all the rules yet but it could be a substantial amount of money."Dinkel added the county will get some funding as well, but a lot of the details are not yet known. It will probably be another two to three weeks. "But there's going to be some substantial money coming through the community on that."

City and County expect to receive federal funds from American Recovery Act

Geary County health officials reported eight new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday but there were 10 recovered cases.

There are eight active cases in the county and three people are hospitalized.

Geary County health officials reported eight new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday but there were 10 recovered cases.There are eight active cases in the county and three people are hospitalized.

Health Department provides a COVID-19 update

There were not any new COVID-19 cases reported in Geary County on Thursday, according to the Health Department. There was one recovered case. There are 10 active cases in the county and three people are hospitalized.

Since the pandemic began there have been 1,537 confirmed positive cases and 1,508 recovered cases.

There were not any new COVID-19 cases reported in Geary County on Thursday, according to the Health Department. There was one recovered case. There are 10 active cases in the county and three people are hospitalized.Since the pandemic began there have been 1,537 confirmed positive cases and 1,508 recovered cases.

Health Department updates COVID-19 statistics

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 778 to a total of 297,229, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4,851, an increase of 35.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 778 to a total of 297,229, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4,851, an increase of 35.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615399528241.png" alt="Wednesday March 10, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday March 10, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

TOPEKA – In conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance issued Monday for those who have been vaccinated, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing similar guidance in Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.

Two weeks after Kansans receive their completed vaccination (two weeks after the second dose for Pfizer and Moderna, two weeks after the single dose for Johnson &amp; Johnson), Kansans may begin to gather in their private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or social distancing.

The guidance also allows for vaccinated people to gather in private homes with unvaccinated people so long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.

“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”

While private home guidance has changed for those who are fully vaccinated, public health measures in public still apply to everyone, including those vaccinated.

“Thank you for continuing to keep your fellow Kansans safe,” Dr. Norman said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610057767019.png" alt="“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”" />
 <figcaption>“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – In conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance issued Monday for those who have been vaccinated, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing similar guidance in Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In conjunction with new <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCgov</a> guidance, KDHE is issuing similar guidance. Two weeks after completing the vaccination, KSans may gather in private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, w/out masks or distancing. Complete details: <a href="https://t.co/UsDjFE3CTe">https://t.co/UsDjFE3CTe</a> <a href="https://t.co/d68H3HCxaV">pic.twitter.com/d68H3HCxaV</a>&mdash; KDHE (@KDHE) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDHE/status/1369702030831390722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Two weeks after Kansans receive their completed vaccination (two weeks after the second dose for Pfizer and Moderna, two weeks after the single dose for Johnson &amp; Johnson), Kansans may begin to gather in their private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or social distancing.The guidance also allows for vaccinated people to gather in private homes with unvaccinated people so long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”While private home guidance has changed for those who are fully vaccinated, public health measures in public still apply to everyone, including those vaccinated.<ul>
 <li>Wear a mask</li><li>Stay at least 6 feet away from others</li><li>Avoid crowds</li><li>Avoid poorly ventilated spaces</li><li>Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol</li>
 </ul>“Thank you for continuing to keep your fellow Kansans safe,” Dr. Norman said.

KDHE guidance for Kansans who are vaccinated

The Geary County Commission has approved a new local health order which continues to include the requirement to wear face masks but relaxes the 100-person limit on mass gatherings.

Trish Giordano, Commission Chair, said they kept the face masks in place for businesses and if you're unable to social distance. "We want people to still be cognizant of mitigation activities and trying to stop the spread."

On the removal of the gathering limitations, Giordano stated, "We definitely want to think about the kids graduating this year and being able to hold graduation."

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a public health and safety concern for the citizens of Geary County, and

WHEREAS, the Local Health Officer and Medical Advisor/Consultant have provided recommendations in the form of public health orders to the Board of County Commissioners which acts as the local board of health in order to curb and mitigate the community spread of COVID-19, and WHEREAS, K.S.A. 65-201 and 202 have been amended by the Kansas Legislature to confer the power upon the local governing body, the Board of County Commissioners of Geary County, which acts as the local board of health, to: " ... issue orders less stringent than .. . an executive order effective statewide .. "; and the power to amend or revoke any emergency declaration upon review; and to amend or revoke any local health order upon review; and

WHEREAS, the Local Health Officer, the Medical Advisor/Consultant, and the Emergency Management Services Director, have reviewed Resolution 12-28-2020A, the Governor's latest Executive Order, and the current conditions in Geary County and the surrounding counties and hereby recommends to the Board of County Commissioners, acting as the Board of Health, the following order which the Board of County Commissioners acting as the Board of Health and under the authority of House Bill 2016 does HEREBY ADOPT AND DOES FURTHER HEREBY RESOLVE and ORDER that Resolution 12-28-2020A be amended as follows, taking into account those factors which are necessary to protect the public health and safety of the citizens of Geary County, all in view of the current conditions existing and the efforts to combat and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and its variants:

I. For the purposes of the Order, "Mask or other face-covering" means a covering of the nose and mouth down to the chin that is secured to the head with ties, straps, or loops over the ears or secured to the head by other means or devices or wrapped around the lower face . A mask or other facecovering can be made of various synthetic and natural fabrics, including cotton, silk, or linen.

Ideally, a mask or other face-covering has two or more layers. A mask or other face-covering may be factory-made, sewn by hand, or improvised from the household items such as scarfs, bandanas, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.

2. For the purposes of this Order, the phrase "Close Contact" means: a. Being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, for a period of 10 or more minutes;

b. Having physical contact with an individual who tested positive for COVID-19.

For purposes of this Order, individuals are ordered to restrict activities based upon my authority as the Local Health Officer. People at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and people who are sick are urged to stay in their residence except as necessary to seek medical care.

1. All businesses must prominently post signs in their establishments identifying the requirement to wear a mask.

2. Each and every person over two (2) years old, when in Geary County, must:

a. Wear a face covering over their nose and mouth when they are in but not limited to any of the following situations:

1. Inside any indoor or outdoor public space where 6-foot distancing at all times is not possible (not including people who reside together.)

ii. In line and waiting to enter an indoor public space or waiting in line to check out at any place of business;

111. Obtaining services from the healthcare sector in settings, including but not limited to, a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician or dental office, veterinary clinic, or blood bank, unless directed otherwise by an employee or healthcare provider; or; 1v. Waiting for or riding on public transportation or in a taxi, private car service, or ridesharing vehicle. v. Any situation where there is close contact or exposure for 10 minutes or more.

b. All businesses, organizations, and non-profit associations must require all employees, customers, visitors, members, or members of the public to wear a mask or other face coverings when:

1. Visiting/working for any business/organization where they will come into contact with another member of the public.

ii. Employees are working in any space where food or beverages are prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others, including but not limited to kitchens, bars, deli counters, etc;

111 . When entering an eating or drinking facility, customers and those mentioned in A.2.b.ii must wear masks until seated, whenever they get up to move about an establishment where they do not maintain 6-foot distancing, and when not actively engaged in eating or drinking.

1v. Employees are in any room or an enclosed area where other people (except individuals who reside together) are present and unable to maintain a 6-foot distance except for infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.

NOTE: Documentation from a health care provider must be provided for anyone claiming a medical exemption from wearing a mask.

c. The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks other face coverings in situations described in Paragraphs 2:

1. Children age two years and under should not wear a face-covering because of the risk of suffocation;

11. Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a face covering-this includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a face-covering could obstruct breathing or who is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance;

111. Persons who are deaf and hard of hearing, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication;

1v. Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines;

v. Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face-covering is necessary to perform the service;

v1. Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service, while they are actively engaged in eating or drinking, provided they maintain a 6-foot distance between individuals (not including individuals who reside together or are seated together) with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity;

vii. Athletes who are engaged in an organized sports activity that allows athletes to maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity, and individuals who are participating in strenuous exercise that allows such individuals to maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity;

viii. Persons who are engaged in an activity that a professional or recreational association, regulatory entity, medical association, or other public health-oriented entity has determined cannot be safely conducted while wearing a mask or other face-covering;

1x. Persons engaged in a court-related proceeding held or managed by the Kansas Judiciary;

x. Persons engaged in any lawful activity during which wearing a mask or other facecovering is prohibited by law; and

x1. Persons who have one or more physical barrier(s) between them and any other persons.

d. Face coverings are not a replacement for adhering to social distancing and other public health protocols with respect to COVID-19. All individuals must continue to maintain 6 feet or more of distance from other people, wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and stay home when sick.

All businesses and locations are required to comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) "Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), May 2020" (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-businessresponse.html) and industry-specific guidance from trade groups. They must meet, at a minimum, the following requirements.

1. Soap and water must be readily available as well as alcohol-based hand sanitizers for employees and customers.

2. Routine cleaning with a bleach solution or some other sanitizing product of frequently touched surfaces such as workstations, keyboards, telephones, handrails, doorknobs, cash registers, credit card keypads, etc.

3. Sanitizing all surfaces such as countertops, tables/chairs, and any items handled by customers before being used by another customer. 

The Geary County Commission has approved a new local health order which continues to include the requirement to wear face masks but relaxes the 100-person limit on mass gatherings.Trish Giordano, Commission Chair, said they kept the face masks in place for businesses and if you're unable to social distance. "We want people to still be cognizant of mitigation activities and trying to stop the spread."On the removal of the gathering limitations, Giordano stated, "We definitely want to think about the kids graduating this year and being able to hold graduation."The new order is effective Tuesday.---Text of the new local health order:RESOLUTION 3-8-2021WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a public health and safety concern for the citizens of Geary County, andWHEREAS, the Local Health Officer and Medical Advisor/Consultant have provided recommendations in the form of public health orders to the Board of County Commissioners which acts as the local board of health in order to curb and mitigate the community spread of COVID-19, and WHEREAS, K.S.A. 65-201 and 202 have been amended by the Kansas Legislature to confer the power upon the local governing body, the Board of County Commissioners of Geary County, which acts as the local board of health, to: " ... issue orders less stringent than .. . an executive order effective statewide .. "; and the power to amend or revoke any emergency declaration upon review; and to amend or revoke any local health order upon review; andWHEREAS, the Local Health Officer, the Medical Advisor/Consultant, and the Emergency Management Services Director, have reviewed Resolution 12-28-2020A, the Governor's latest Executive Order, and the current conditions in Geary County and the surrounding counties and hereby recommends to the Board of County Commissioners, acting as the Board of Health, the following order which the Board of County Commissioners acting as the Board of Health and under the authority of House Bill 2016 does HEREBY ADOPT AND DOES FURTHER HEREBY RESOLVE and ORDER that Resolution 12-28-2020A be amended as follows, taking into account those factors which are necessary to protect the public health and safety of the citizens of Geary County, all in view of the current conditions existing and the efforts to combat and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and its variants:Section One: DefinitionsI. For the purposes of the Order, "Mask or other face-covering" means a covering of the nose and mouth down to the chin that is secured to the head with ties, straps, or loops over the ears or secured to the head by other means or devices or wrapped around the lower face . A mask or other facecovering can be made of various synthetic and natural fabrics, including cotton, silk, or linen.Ideally, a mask or other face-covering has two or more layers. A mask or other face-covering may be factory-made, sewn by hand, or improvised from the household items such as scarfs, bandanas, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.2. For the purposes of this Order, the phrase "Close Contact" means: a. Being within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, for a period of 10 or more minutes;b. Having physical contact with an individual who tested positive for COVID-19.Section Two: Mitigation ActivitiesFor purposes of this Order, individuals are ordered to restrict activities based upon my authority as the Local Health Officer. People at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and people who are sick are urged to stay in their residence except as necessary to seek medical care.A. MASKS1. All businesses must prominently post signs in their establishments identifying the requirement to wear a mask.2. Each and every person over two (2) years old, when in Geary County, must:a. Wear a face covering over their nose and mouth when they are in but not limited to any of the following situations:1. Inside any indoor or outdoor public space where 6-foot distancing at all times is not possible (not including people who reside together.)ii. In line and waiting to enter an indoor public space or waiting in line to check out at any place of business;111. Obtaining services from the healthcare sector in settings, including but not limited to, a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician or dental office, veterinary clinic, or blood bank, unless directed otherwise by an employee or healthcare provider; or; 1v. Waiting for or riding on public transportation or in a taxi, private car service, or ridesharing vehicle. v. Any situation where there is close contact or exposure for 10 minutes or more.b. All businesses, organizations, and non-profit associations must require all employees, customers, visitors, members, or members of the public to wear a mask or other face coverings when:1. Visiting/working for any business/organization where they will come into contact with another member of the public.ii. Employees are working in any space where food or beverages are prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others, including but not limited to kitchens, bars, deli counters, etc;111 . When entering an eating or drinking facility, customers and those mentioned in A.2.b.ii must wear masks until seated, whenever they get up to move about an establishment where they do not maintain 6-foot distancing, and when not actively engaged in eating or drinking.1v. Employees are in any room or an enclosed area where other people (except individuals who reside together) are present and unable to maintain a 6-foot distance except for infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity.NOTE: Documentation from a health care provider must be provided for anyone claiming a medical exemption from wearing a mask.c. The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks other face coverings in situations described in Paragraphs 2:1. Children age two years and under should not wear a face-covering because of the risk of suffocation;11. Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a face covering-this includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a face-covering could obstruct breathing or who is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance;111. Persons who are deaf and hard of hearing, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication;1v. Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines;v. Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face-covering is necessary to perform the service;v1. Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service, while they are actively engaged in eating or drinking, provided they maintain a 6-foot distance between individuals (not including individuals who reside together or are seated together) with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity;vii. Athletes who are engaged in an organized sports activity that allows athletes to maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity, and individuals who are participating in strenuous exercise that allows such individuals to maintain a 6-foot distance from others with only infrequent or incidental moments of closer proximity;viii. Persons who are engaged in an activity that a professional or recreational association, regulatory entity, medical association, or other public health-oriented entity has determined cannot be safely conducted while wearing a mask or other face-covering;1x. Persons engaged in a court-related proceeding held or managed by the Kansas Judiciary;x. Persons engaged in any lawful activity during which wearing a mask or other facecovering is prohibited by law; andx1. Persons who have one or more physical barrier(s) between them and any other persons.d. Face coverings are not a replacement for adhering to social distancing and other public health protocols with respect to COVID-19. All individuals must continue to maintain 6 feet or more of distance from other people, wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and stay home when sick.B. SANITATIONAll businesses and locations are required to comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) "Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), May 2020" (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-businessresponse.html) and industry-specific guidance from trade groups. They must meet, at a minimum, the following requirements.1. Soap and water must be readily available as well as alcohol-based hand sanitizers for employees and customers.2. Routine cleaning with a bleach solution or some other sanitizing product of frequently touched surfaces such as workstations, keyboards, telephones, handrails, doorknobs, cash registers, credit card keypads, etc.3. Sanitizing all surfaces such as countertops, tables/chairs, and any items handled by customers before being used by another customer.

County relaxes some COVID-19 requirements

Geary County health officials confirmed on Monday that there were two new positive cases of COVID-19 and three recovered cases. There are 12 total active cases in the county and three people are hospitalized.&nbsp;

The number hospitalized increased by one case over the weekend.

Geary County health officials confirmed on Monday that there were two new positive cases of COVID-19 and three recovered cases. There are 12 total active cases in the county and three people are hospitalized.&nbsp;The number hospitalized increased by one case over the weekend.

Health Department provides COVID-19 report

Shenk Gym at Junction City High School was the site Saturday for a mass vaccination clinic for those scheduled in the Phase Two of vaccinatons.

Hy-Vee conducted the clinic with help from KDHE and Geary County. One thousand doses were allotted for the clinic where participants signed up for an appointment and then received a shot. Not all of the doses were dispensed, however.&nbsp; There was substantial attendance during the morning hours of 8-10 a.m. and again from mid-day until about 4 p.m. No problems were reported.&nbsp;

Shenk Gym at Junction City High School was the site Saturday for a mass vaccination clinic for those scheduled in the Phase Two of vaccinatons.Hy-Vee conducted the clinic with help from KDHE and Geary County. One thousand doses were allotted for the clinic where participants signed up for an appointment and then received a shot. Not all of the doses were dispensed, however.&nbsp; There was substantial attendance during the morning hours of 8-10 a.m. and again from mid-day until about 4 p.m. No problems were reported.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615066770225.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Covid-19 vaccine is dispensed to Phase Two recipients in Geary County

Geary County Emergency Management has reported that free COVID-19 testing is returning to the county, but with a change of venue.  It is now located at the previous VA Clinic at 715 Southwind Drive in Junction City across from the Walmart Neighborhood Market.  

Online sign up is available now and they are open Friday, March 5th if you are needing tested.  They will be open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5:30 pm and closed on Sundays.

Geary County Emergency Management has reported that free COVID-19 testing is returning to the county, but with a change of venue. It is now located at the previous VA Clinic at 715 Southwind Drive in Junction City across from the Walmart Neighborhood Market. Online sign up is available now and they are open Friday, March 5th if you are needing tested. They will be open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5:30 pm and closed on Sundays.

Free COVID-19 testing returns to Geary County

There will be a COVID-19 vaccination opportunity for 1,000 Phase Two recipients Saturday in Junction City. This event will be held at the Shenk Gym at Junction City High School from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Garry Berges, Geary County Emergency Management Director, explained that they're asking people in Phase Two that need the shot to sign up for an appointment. "Especially we're trying to target the elderly and the minority group of people, those that live in Geary County to get on the Hy-Vee.com website and sign up.&nbsp;

You do need to register. Go to Hy-Vee.com/COVID and click find appointment. Choose Kansas and you will be connected to the event scheduled in Junction City. You can then sign up for a time.

Kyle Odem. Manager of the Hy-Vee store in Manhattan, stated that they want to do one vaccination every five minutes at each of 16 different vaccination stations in the Shenk Gym.&nbsp;

Odem said the State reached out to Hy-Vee to see what they could do to host an event in Geary County. "So, once we got the heads up on that it was just hunting down a location and then working with our partner stores in Topeka and Lawrence and the University of Kansas to get as many vaccinators together as possible so we could take care of as many residents as possible in one day."

Chairs will be set up six feet apart throughout the gym for social distancing. Once you get your vaccination there will be a 15-minute waiting period for the recipients.

This will be the first COVID-19 vaccination for recipients. Odem confirmed that In approximately three weeks there will be clinic once more information is available on a site location and date more information will be announced.

&nbsp;To schedule your appointment between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=9ac2c15b-a99b-4bcd-b515-9800b1865a7a" target="_blank">https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=9ac2c15b-a99b-4bcd-b515-9800b1865a7a</a>.

To schedule your appointment between 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m., please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=44c5b1db-dbf2-44f2-b18e-5f8059be7505" target="_blank">https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=44c5b1db-dbf2-44f2-b18e-5f8059be7505</a>.

Berges encouraged everyone to reach out to their elderly neighbors and help them get up to receive the vaccine. If they need a ride to get to the vaccine site, offer to drive them.

Firefighters, police officers, first responders, correction officers

K-12 and childcare workers including, teachers, custodians, drivers and other staff

Food processing, including meat processing plants

Large-scale aviation manufacturing plants

Workers in the following industries if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties:

Supply of critical services or materials for the COVID response

There will be a COVID-19 vaccination opportunity for 1,000 Phase Two recipients Saturday in Junction City. This event will be held at the Shenk Gym at Junction City High School from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.Garry Berges, Geary County Emergency Management Director, explained that they're asking people in Phase Two that need the shot to sign up for an appointment. "Especially we're trying to target the elderly and the minority group of people, those that live in Geary County to get on the Hy-Vee.com website and sign up.&nbsp;You do need to register. Go to Hy-Vee.com/COVID and click find appointment. Choose Kansas and you will be connected to the event scheduled in Junction City. You can then sign up for a time.Kyle Odem. Manager of the Hy-Vee store in Manhattan, stated that they want to do one vaccination every five minutes at each of 16 different vaccination stations in the Shenk Gym.&nbsp;Odem said the State reached out to Hy-Vee to see what they could do to host an event in Geary County. "So, once we got the heads up on that it was just hunting down a location and then working with our partner stores in Topeka and Lawrence and the University of Kansas to get as many vaccinators together as possible so we could take care of as many residents as possible in one day."Chairs will be set up six feet apart throughout the gym for social distancing. Once you get your vaccination there will be a 15-minute waiting period for the recipients.This will be the first COVID-19 vaccination for recipients. Odem confirmed that In approximately three weeks there will be clinic once more information is available on a site location and date more information will be announced.&nbsp;To schedule your appointment between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=9ac2c15b-a99b-4bcd-b515-9800b1865a7a" target="_blank">https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=9ac2c15b-a99b-4bcd-b515-9800b1865a7a</a>.To schedule your appointment between 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m., please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=44c5b1db-dbf2-44f2-b18e-5f8059be7505" target="_blank">https://www.hy-vee.com/my-pharmacy/covid-vaccine-consent?event=44c5b1db-dbf2-44f2-b18e-5f8059be7505</a>.Berges encouraged everyone to reach out to their elderly neighbors and help them get up to receive the vaccine. If they need a ride to get to the vaccine site, offer to drive them.The Covid 19 Phase Two groups follow:Health care workersResidents 65 years of age and olderHigh-contact critical workers including:Firefighters, police officers, first responders, correction officersGrocery store workers and food servicesK-12 and childcare workers including, teachers, custodians, drivers and other staffFood processing, including meat processing plantsLarge-scale aviation manufacturing plantsTransportation workersWorkers in the following industries if they regularly need to be in high-risk settings to perform their duties:Retail, warehouses and sales outletsAgricultureSupply of critical services or materials for the COVID responseThe U.S. Postal ServiceDepartment of Motor Vehicles

Hy-Vee will conduct a mass COVID-19 vaccination in Junction City

Geary County Health confirmed on Wednesday that there were three new positive cases of COVID-19 and one recovered case.

Right now there are 16 total active cases in the county.

Since the pandemic began there have been 1,531 positive cases and 1,496 recovered cases.

Geary County Health confirmed on Wednesday that there were three new positive cases of COVID-19 and one recovered case.Right now there are 16 total active cases in the county.Since the pandemic began there have been 1,531 positive cases and 1,496 recovered cases.

Health Department reports very little increase in COVID-19 numbers

RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 3, 2021) Riley County health has identified 27&nbsp;new positive coronavirus cases and 16&nbsp;additional recoveries since the last report on March 1. The percent of positive cases for the week of February 21st was 2.2%. That translates to 42 of the 1,922 tests performed coming back positive. This is the fifth week in a row that Riley County has seen the percent of positive cases below 5%.&nbsp;

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients, one of whom is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

This week, RCHD will administer “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22 and February 4th. If you were not notified this week they will be reaching out next week.&nbsp;

Next week, the Health Department will work to complete Phase 2 as mandated by the state. This phase includes those who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 3, 2021) Riley County health has identified 27&nbsp;new positive coronavirus cases and 16&nbsp;additional recoveries since the last report on March 1. The percent of positive cases for the week of February 21st was 2.2%. That translates to 42 of the 1,922 tests performed coming back positive. This is the fifth week in a row that Riley County has seen the percent of positive cases below 5%.&nbsp;Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for two positive patients, one of whom is in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;This week, RCHD will administer “boosters”, second doses, to individuals who were vaccinated between December 22 and February 4th. If you were not notified this week they will be reaching out next week.&nbsp;Next week, the Health Department will work to complete Phase 2 as mandated by the state. This phase includes those who work in congregate settings and high-contact critical workers.&nbsp;

Riley County health provides a COVID-19 update

WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.

<a href="https://www.gogettested.com/kansas">Click here </a>for testing locations in Kansas.

Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.

“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.

After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.

The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.

“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”

U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.

“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”

But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.

L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591208066312.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.<a href="https://www.gogettested.com/kansas">Click here </a>for testing locations in Kansas.Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.President Joe Biden has promised to revamp the nation’s testing system by investing billions more in supplies and government coordination. But with demand falling fast, the country may soon have a glut of unused supplies. The U.S. will be able to conduct nearly 1 billion monthly tests by June, according to projections from researchers at Arizona State University. That’s more than 25 times the country’s current rate of about 40 million tests reported per month.With more than 150 million new vaccine doses due for delivery by late March, testing is likely to fall further as local governments shift staff and resources to giving shots.“You have to pick your battles here,” said Dr. Jeffrey Engel of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. “Everyone would agree that if you have one public health nurse, you’re going to use that person for vaccination, not testing.”Some experts say the country must double down on testing to avoid flare-ups from coronavirus variants that have taken hold in the U.K., South Africa and other places.“We need to use testing to continue the downward trend,” said Dr. Jonathan Quick of the Rockefeller Foundation, which has been advising Biden officials. “We need to have it there to catch surges from the variants.”Last week, Minnesota began urging families to get tested every two weeks through the end of the school year as more students return to the classroom.“To protect this progress, we need to use all the tools at our disposal,” said Dan Huff, an assistant state health commissioner.But some of the most vocal testing proponents are less worried about the declines in screening. From a public health viewpoint, testing is effective if it helps to quickly find the infected, trace their contacts and isolate them to stop the spread. In most parts of the U.S., that never happened.Over the holiday season, many Americans still had to wait days to receive test results, rendering them largely useless. That’s led to testing fatigue and dwindling interest, said Dr. Michael Mina of Harvard University.“It doesn’t exactly give you a lot of gratifying, immediate feedback,” Mina said. “So people’s willingness or interest in getting tested starts to go down.”Still, U.S. test manufacturers continue ramping up production, with another 110 million rapid and home-based tests expected to hit the market next month.Government officials long assumed this growing arsenal of cheap, 15-minute tests would be used to regularly screen millions of students and teachers as in-person classes resume. But recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t emphasize testing, describing it as an “additional layer” of protection, behind basic measures like masking and social distancing.Even without strong federal backing, educational leaders say testing programs will be important for marshaling public confidence needed to fully reopen schools, including in the fall when cases are expected to rise again.“Schools have asked themselves, justifiably, ‘Is the juice worth the squeeze to set up a big testing effort?’” said Mike Magee, CEO of Chiefs for Change, a nonprofit that advises districts in more than 25 states. “Our message to the school systems we work with is: ‘Yes, you need to stand up comprehensive testing because you’re going to need it.’”___

Coronavirus Update