Ellis County Health Department

New cases: 0 Current active cases: 0 Recovered cases: 8 Total cases: 8

New cases: As reported by KDHE. Will be updated every 24 hours via press release from ECHD.

Active cases: As determined by the Public Health office. Patients are currently in isolation with daily contact from the ECHD.

Recovered cases: Following KDHE guidelines patients have completed isolation, have had significant improvement of symptoms and have gone 72 hours fever free with no fever-reducing medication.

Total cases: Total number of lab-confirmed Covid-19 patients that reside in Ellis County. Includes both active cases and recovered cases.

Many have noticed the inconsistency between KDHE and ECHD numbers. KDHE has determined that a problem exists between some private labs and the KDHE lab. This does not impact notification to the ECHD. We are notified of all positives and begin the contact tracing immediately. Ellis County Health Department is the most up to date and accurate source of information regarding COVID-19 cases in Ellis County. Follow us on Facebook to ensure that you have current and correct information.

Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.

Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by CDC, KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you.

Stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19">www.cdc.gov/COVID19</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>/. Call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. or ECHD at 628-9440.

Ellis County Health DepartmentNew cases: 0 Current active cases: 0 Recovered cases: 8 Total cases: 8New cases: As reported by KDHE. Will be updated every 24 hours via press release from ECHD.Active cases: As determined by the Public Health office. Patients are currently in isolation with daily contact from the ECHD.Recovered cases: Following KDHE guidelines patients have completed isolation, have had significant improvement of symptoms and have gone 72 hours fever free with no fever-reducing medication.Total cases: Total number of lab-confirmed Covid-19 patients that reside in Ellis County. Includes both active cases and recovered cases.Many have noticed the inconsistency between KDHE and ECHD numbers. KDHE has determined that a problem exists between some private labs and the KDHE lab. This does not impact notification to the ECHD. We are notified of all positives and begin the contact tracing immediately. Ellis County Health Department is the most up to date and accurate source of information regarding COVID-19 cases in Ellis County. Follow us on Facebook to ensure that you have current and correct information.Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by CDC, KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you.Stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19">www.cdc.gov/COVID19</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>/. Call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. or ECHD at 628-9440.

ECHD: No active COVID-19 cases in county

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The effort to reopen the economy in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic has set off a conflict at the state and federal level that is escalating by the day over how much legal protection companies should get if their returning workers get sick.

The White House, governors, members of congress and state lawmakers are all getting pressured by business leaders who want to be shielded from potential lawsuits brought by sick workers. They are also feeling heat on the other side from unions that want bolstered safety at workplaces and from the influential trial lawyers lobby, which hopes to preserve legal protections to go after corporations in court if people are sickened on the job.

The issue has vaulted to the forefront of the debate in Congress over the next, and fifth, coronavirus relief bill that’s still in its infancy. The safety of returning workers has dominated union negotiations between casino workers and their employers in Las Vegas. And governors in some states are imposing restrictions on the ability of people to collect unemployment if they choose not to return to work out of fear for their safety.

The debate has put policy makers on the hot seat at the same time that they are moving forward with reopening their states.

Utah lawmakers have moved to protect businesses from being sued if a customer or employee is exposed to the coronavirus after reopening, with supporters like Republican Rep. Norm Thurston saying establishments need to be rewarded for being willing to open their doors again.

The proposal passed the Republican-controlled Legislature the day before Gov. Gary Herbert announced the state would allow the reopening of restaurants, gyms and salons starting Friday. The governor has not yet signed it.

Skeptics like Democratic Rep. Brian King called the legislation a “get-out-of-liability-free card.”

“If a business wants to get open and make some money, that means they have to be responsible for the safety of both their employees and the public,” King said Wednesday. “They don’t get it both ways. They don’t get to both make money and be insulated from their negligent decision-making.”

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pushing the Republican-led state Legislature to expand protections from liability lawsuits to manufacturers, businesses, health care workers and first responders. Mississippi and North Carolina are considering similar protections for businesses.

“They don’t need to be concerned about liability from opportunistic people that might be trying to find a chink in their armor, to sue them for trying to do the right thing,” said chamber president Dan Mehan on Tuesday. “Lawsuit protection is paramount for this recovery.”

President Donald Trump’s executive action Tuesday ordering meat processing plants to stay open amid concerns about the nation’s food supply also put a spotlight on the delicate balance between protecting companies without leaving workers unfairly exposed.

The order, which was developed in consultation with industry leaders including Tyson and Smithfield, is designed, in part, to provide companies with additional liability protections in case workers get sick.

Unions fired back at Trump’s action, saying the White House was jeopardizing lives and prioritizing cold cuts over workers’ health.

In California, Democratic state Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez proposed legislation that would allow employees to qualify for workers’ compensation if they contracted coronavirus on the job, a provision that unions have advocated.

Business, insurers and local government organizations pushed back with a letter this week to legislative leaders and Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, saying the move could cost $2.2 billion to $33.6 billion annually, depending on the details of the plan. The workers are already covered under state law if they get the virus, opponents argue.

A separate legislative proposal by a Republican Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez of California would protect small businesses by barring those who obtain unemployment benefits from also suing their employers.

As Congress prepares the next coronavirus relief bill, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has made the issue a top priority. He has portrayed the protections as necessary to fend off opportunistic trial lawyers.

“Just as soon as the pandemic recedes, the lawyers will come in, and this is the important part of getting our country back to business,” McConnell said Wednesday on Fox News’ “The Brian Kilmeade Show.”

The casino workers’ Culinary Union in Las Vegas said it is negotiating reopening protocols with casino companies to ensure there are stronger safety standards. Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak, a Democrat, has not said when he will allow casinos to reopen.

John Whiting isn’t going to rely on an employer to keep him safe. He was working at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta when the pandemic hit and had been planning to find a summer job until he returns to his job as a teacher next school year. But the 26-year-old is intentionally staying away from public-facing jobs out of fear he’ll get sick and infect the aunt and uncle he’s staying with. He’s instead trying to find a job where he can telecommute in a field like tech support.

“I have to think about them as well. I’d rather not risk that because we only go out for groceries, in terms of being out in the public like that. So I thought it was better to find something virtual,” Whiting said.

States are also focusing on unemployment rules as some leaders fret that workers’ fears of getting the virus or comfort with expanded unemployment benefits could keep them home.

State officials in Iowa this week warned furloughed workers that they will lose their unemployment benefits if they refuse to return when their employer calls them back to work, which is considered a “voluntary quit.” Restaurants, some bars, malls and retail stores will reopen in 77 of the state’s 99 counties Friday.

Iowa Workforce Development urged employers to report workers who don’t return for a good reason as soon as possible and warned that the federal law providing an additional $600 weekly in benefits contains “serious consequences” for fraudulent claims.

In Texas, several groups representing workers sent a letter Wednesday calling on state regulators to change unemployment rules to allow people who can’t go back to work because they or their family member face a high risk of contracting the coronavirus to still get unemployment benefits.

Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, on Monday outlined a plan to allow the state’s restaurants, retailers, movie theaters and malls to start letting customers trickle into their establishments starting Friday. He didn’t address whether employees might lose their jobs if they didn’t return to work, but said he understands the concerns and that no worker or business is required to return to work.

“You have every right to choose your own pathway in life and you have ultimate control over your own personal safety,” Abbott said.

The recent suggestion by an Oklahoma official that the state might ask the federal government to stop the $600-a-week federal government payments to unemployed people raised eyebrows, but the state’s Department of Commerce spokeswoman Leslie Blair said in a statement Wednesday there is no plan to stop those federal payments.

She did acknowledge, however, that there is “legitimate concern” that people won’t go back to work because they can make more money in unemployment with the added federal stimulus fund than at their jobs.

“We really do need them to return so our economy can get started again,” Blair said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587120134875.png" alt="President Trump announced initial plans to reopen the country during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -Photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump announced initial plans to reopen the country during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -Photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The effort to reopen the economy in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic has set off a conflict at the state and federal level that is escalating by the day over how much legal protection companies should get if their returning workers get sick.The White House, governors, members of congress and state lawmakers are all getting pressured by business leaders who want to be shielded from potential lawsuits brought by sick workers. They are also feeling heat on the other side from unions that want bolstered safety at workplaces and from the influential trial lawyers lobby, which hopes to preserve legal protections to go after corporations in court if people are sickened on the job.The issue has vaulted to the forefront of the debate in Congress over the next, and fifth, coronavirus relief bill that’s still in its infancy. The safety of returning workers has dominated union negotiations between casino workers and their employers in Las Vegas. And governors in some states are imposing restrictions on the ability of people to collect unemployment if they choose not to return to work out of fear for their safety.The debate has put policy makers on the hot seat at the same time that they are moving forward with reopening their states.Utah lawmakers have moved to protect businesses from being sued if a customer or employee is exposed to the coronavirus after reopening, with supporters like Republican Rep. Norm Thurston saying establishments need to be rewarded for being willing to open their doors again.The proposal passed the Republican-controlled Legislature the day before Gov. Gary Herbert announced the state would allow the reopening of restaurants, gyms and salons starting Friday. The governor has not yet signed it.Skeptics like Democratic Rep. Brian King called the legislation a “get-out-of-liability-free card.”“If a business wants to get open and make some money, that means they have to be responsible for the safety of both their employees and the public,” King said Wednesday. “They don’t get it both ways. They don’t get to both make money and be insulated from their negligent decision-making.”The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pushing the Republican-led state Legislature to expand protections from liability lawsuits to manufacturers, businesses, health care workers and first responders. Mississippi and North Carolina are considering similar protections for businesses.“They don’t need to be concerned about liability from opportunistic people that might be trying to find a chink in their armor, to sue them for trying to do the right thing,” said chamber president Dan Mehan on Tuesday. “Lawsuit protection is paramount for this recovery.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587045646390.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>President Donald Trump’s executive action Tuesday ordering meat processing plants to stay open amid concerns about the nation’s food supply also put a spotlight on the delicate balance between protecting companies without leaving workers unfairly exposed.The order, which was developed in consultation with industry leaders including Tyson and Smithfield, is designed, in part, to provide companies with additional liability protections in case workers get sick.Unions fired back at Trump’s action, saying the White House was jeopardizing lives and prioritizing cold cuts over workers’ health.In California, Democratic state Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez proposed legislation that would allow employees to qualify for workers’ compensation if they contracted coronavirus on the job, a provision that unions have advocated.Business, insurers and local government organizations pushed back with a letter this week to legislative leaders and Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, saying the move could cost $2.2 billion to $33.6 billion annually, depending on the details of the plan. The workers are already covered under state law if they get the virus, opponents argue.A separate legislative proposal by a Republican Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez of California would protect small businesses by barring those who obtain unemployment benefits from also suing their employers.As Congress prepares the next coronavirus relief bill, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has made the issue a top priority. He has portrayed the protections as necessary to fend off opportunistic trial lawyers.“Just as soon as the pandemic recedes, the lawyers will come in, and this is the important part of getting our country back to business,” McConnell said Wednesday on Fox News’ “The Brian Kilmeade Show.”The casino workers’ Culinary Union in Las Vegas said it is negotiating reopening protocols with casino companies to ensure there are stronger safety standards. Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak, a Democrat, has not said when he will allow casinos to reopen.John Whiting isn’t going to rely on an employer to keep him safe. He was working at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta when the pandemic hit and had been planning to find a summer job until he returns to his job as a teacher next school year. But the 26-year-old is intentionally staying away from public-facing jobs out of fear he’ll get sick and infect the aunt and uncle he’s staying with. He’s instead trying to find a job where he can telecommute in a field like tech support.“I have to think about them as well. I’d rather not risk that because we only go out for groceries, in terms of being out in the public like that. So I thought it was better to find something virtual,” Whiting said.States are also focusing on unemployment rules as some leaders fret that workers’ fears of getting the virus or comfort with expanded unemployment benefits could keep them home.State officials in Iowa this week warned furloughed workers that they will lose their unemployment benefits if they refuse to return when their employer calls them back to work, which is considered a “voluntary quit.” Restaurants, some bars, malls and retail stores will reopen in 77 of the state’s 99 counties Friday.Iowa Workforce Development urged employers to report workers who don’t return for a good reason as soon as possible and warned that the federal law providing an additional $600 weekly in benefits contains “serious consequences” for fraudulent claims.In Texas, several groups representing workers sent a letter Wednesday calling on state regulators to change unemployment rules to allow people who can’t go back to work because they or their family member face a high risk of contracting the coronavirus to still get unemployment benefits.Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, on Monday outlined a plan to allow the state’s restaurants, retailers, movie theaters and malls to start letting customers trickle into their establishments starting Friday. He didn’t address whether employees might lose their jobs if they didn’t return to work, but said he understands the concerns and that no worker or business is required to return to work.“You have every right to choose your own pathway in life and you have ultimate control over your own personal safety,” Abbott said.The recent suggestion by an Oklahoma official that the state might ask the federal government to stop the $600-a-week federal government payments to unemployed people raised eyebrows, but the state’s Department of Commerce spokeswoman Leslie Blair said in a statement Wednesday there is no plan to stop those federal payments.She did acknowledge, however, that there is “legitimate concern” that people won’t go back to work because they can make more money in unemployment with the added federal stimulus fund than at their jobs.“We really do need them to return so our economy can get started again,” Blair said.____

Debate flares over legal protections as businesses open up

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 500 to a total of 4238, the state health department reported Thursday afternoon. This is largest 24-hour increase in positive cases.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 500 to a total of 4238, the state health department reported Thursday afternoon. This is largest 24-hour increase in positive cases.Coronavirus deaths were reported at 129<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588271899081.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

Join Hays Post reporter James Bell and Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams for a live chat about the current developments with the COVID-19 business relief efforts.

During the conversation, we will take questions live and also invite questions in advance. 

Questions can be sent to&nbsp;thehayspostpodcast@gmail.com.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e879d1eeb7f17053601a319">Part 1 of this limited series can be found by clicking here.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e978a47eb7f17053602a2d5">Part 2 can be found here.</a>

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dv2Ze0MyqDI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Join Hays Post reporter James Bell and Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams for a live chat about the current developments with the COVID-19 business relief efforts.During the conversation, we will take questions live and also invite questions in advance. Questions can be sent to&nbsp;thehayspostpodcast@gmail.com.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e879d1eeb7f17053601a319">Part 1 of this limited series can be found by clicking here.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e978a47eb7f17053602a2d5">Part 2 can be found here.</a>

🎥LIVE: Navigating the COVID-19 Economic Response

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A surge in unemployment stemming from the coronavirus shutdown of large parts of the U.S. economy is starting to push some state jobless funds toward insolvency.

At least a half-dozen states already have notified the federal government that they could need to borrow billions of dollars to pay unemployment benefits because their own trust funds are running out of money.

While the shortfalls won't prevent unemployed workers from getting government aid, the federal loans could lead to higher taxes for businesses in future years to repay the debt.

U.S. Treasury data shows&nbsp;California,&nbsp;Connecticut&nbsp;and&nbsp;Illinois&nbsp;all expect to borrow soon from the federal government to prop up their unemployment funds. Officials in&nbsp;Massachusetts,&nbsp;New York&nbsp;and&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;confirmed to The Associated Press that they also have notified the federal government of their anticipated need for loans.

All six of those states' unemployment funds ranked among those at the greatest risk of insolvency because they didn't have adequate reserves to weather a recession, according to a U.S. Department of Labor report released before the coronavirus outbreak. Many more states also could need federal loans given the widespread economic damage.

“I can't imagine a state that's not going to have to borrow by the end of this year,” said Michele Evermore, a senior policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project, a New York-based group that advocates for low-wage workers and the unemployed.

As of mid-April, about 26 million Americans had filed unemployment claims in the first five weeks since governments began ordering people to stay home and some businesses to close as a precaution against spreading the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease. It's already the worst stretch of job losses in U.S. history. New unemployment data to be released Thursday is expected to push that total even higher.

State unemployment benefits are funded by special taxes on employers and paid through state trust funds. Each state sets its own tax rate and benefit payment amounts. When trust funds run low, states can get federal loans that must be repaid with interest. Loans taken out this year would need to be repaid by November 2022, or else the federal government could raise taxes on businesses to recoup the money.

A law signed by President Donald Trump last month waived the interest on state unemployment loans through the end of this year. But that's a shorter reprieve than was granted during the Great Recession, when interest was waived from February 2009 through December 2010.

The last recession led to the insolvency of unemployment trust funds in 35 states that collectively racked up more than $40 billion of debt to keep paying unemployed workers. It took years for states to repay that.

“Unfortunately, many of them got caught in this vicious cycle now, where they spent most of the 11 years of economic growth looking backwards, paying off the prior accrued debt rather than being able to save and invest for this current crisis,” said Jared Walczak, director of state tax policy at the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit.

From the beginning of March through mid-April, state unemployment trust funds have declined by a median of 10%, according to an AP analysis of U.S. Treasury data. But the drop has been far more dramatic in states that were among the first to shut down their economies and among the quickest to pay benefits to the unemployed.

Massachusetts, which provides among the most generous unemployment benefits nationally, saw its trust fund cut in half from early March to mid-April, from $1.6 billion to less than $750 million. That marked the largest percentage decline nationally.

In a letter to the U.S. labor secretary, Gov. Charlie Baker estimated the state could need to borrow $1.2 billion in May and June to pay unemployment benefits.

New York's unemployment trust fund also declined by nearly half during that six-week period, from almost $2.5 billion to less than $1.3 billion. The state has applied for up to $4 billion in federal loans, said New York Department of Labor spokeswoman Deanna Cohen.

How much help New York ultimately needs will depend on how many more people seek unemployment benefits and how long they are without work, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said.

“But it’s in the billions of dollars," he said. “There’s no doubt about that.”

At the start of this year, California's trust fund had barely one-fifth of the recommended amount needed to weather a recession, the worst rating among all states. It's trust fund balance fell from $3.1 billion in early March to $1.9 billion in mid-April and has continued to slide.

The state could need to start borrowing from the federal government by the beginning of May, said Barry White, a spokesman for the California Employment Development Department.

Officials in Connecticut and Texas also said they could need to start borrowing in May to pay unemployment claims.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588193128049.png" alt="Empty gas pumps at station in Kansas-google image" />
 <figcaption>Empty gas pumps at station in Kansas-google image</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A surge in unemployment stemming from the coronavirus shutdown of large parts of the U.S. economy is starting to push some state jobless funds toward insolvency.At least a half-dozen states already have notified the federal government that they could need to borrow billions of dollars to pay unemployment benefits because their own trust funds are running out of money.While the shortfalls won't prevent unemployed workers from getting government aid, the federal loans could lead to higher taxes for businesses in future years to repay the debt.U.S. Treasury data shows&nbsp;California,&nbsp;Connecticut&nbsp;and&nbsp;Illinois&nbsp;all expect to borrow soon from the federal government to prop up their unemployment funds. Officials in&nbsp;Massachusetts,&nbsp;New York&nbsp;and&nbsp;Texas&nbsp;confirmed to The Associated Press that they also have notified the federal government of their anticipated need for loans.All six of those states' unemployment funds ranked among those at the greatest risk of insolvency because they didn't have adequate reserves to weather a recession, according to a U.S. Department of Labor report released before the coronavirus outbreak. Many more states also could need federal loans given the widespread economic damage.“I can't imagine a state that's not going to have to borrow by the end of this year,” said Michele Evermore, a senior policy analyst at the National Employment Law Project, a New York-based group that advocates for low-wage workers and the unemployed.As of mid-April, about 26 million Americans had filed unemployment claims in the first five weeks since governments began ordering people to stay home and some businesses to close as a precaution against spreading the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease. It's already the worst stretch of job losses in U.S. history. New unemployment data to be released Thursday is expected to push that total even higher.State unemployment benefits are funded by special taxes on employers and paid through state trust funds. Each state sets its own tax rate and benefit payment amounts. When trust funds run low, states can get federal loans that must be repaid with interest. Loans taken out this year would need to be repaid by November 2022, or else the federal government could raise taxes on businesses to recoup the money.A law signed by President Donald Trump last month waived the interest on state unemployment loans through the end of this year. But that's a shorter reprieve than was granted during the Great Recession, when interest was waived from February 2009 through December 2010.The last recession led to the insolvency of unemployment trust funds in 35 states that collectively racked up more than $40 billion of debt to keep paying unemployed workers. It took years for states to repay that.“Unfortunately, many of them got caught in this vicious cycle now, where they spent most of the 11 years of economic growth looking backwards, paying off the prior accrued debt rather than being able to save and invest for this current crisis,” said Jared Walczak, director of state tax policy at the Tax Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit.From the beginning of March through mid-April, state unemployment trust funds have declined by a median of 10%, according to an AP analysis of U.S. Treasury data. But the drop has been far more dramatic in states that were among the first to shut down their economies and among the quickest to pay benefits to the unemployed.Massachusetts, which provides among the most generous unemployment benefits nationally, saw its trust fund cut in half from early March to mid-April, from $1.6 billion to less than $750 million. That marked the largest percentage decline nationally.In a letter to the U.S. labor secretary, Gov. Charlie Baker estimated the state could need to borrow $1.2 billion in May and June to pay unemployment benefits.New York's unemployment trust fund also declined by nearly half during that six-week period, from almost $2.5 billion to less than $1.3 billion. The state has applied for up to $4 billion in federal loans, said New York Department of Labor spokeswoman Deanna Cohen.How much help New York ultimately needs will depend on how many more people seek unemployment benefits and how long they are without work, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said.“But it’s in the billions of dollars," he said. “There’s no doubt about that.”At the start of this year, California's trust fund had barely one-fifth of the recommended amount needed to weather a recession, the worst rating among all states. It's trust fund balance fell from $3.1 billion in early March to $1.9 billion in mid-April and has continued to slide.The state could need to start borrowing from the federal government by the beginning of May, said Barry White, a spokesman for the California Employment Development Department.Officials in Connecticut and Texas also said they could need to start borrowing in May to pay unemployment claims.

Unemployment surge pushing state funds toward insolvency

New cases: 0 Current active cases: 2 Recovered cases: 6 Total cases: 8

Total cases: Total number of lab-confirmed Covid-19 patients that reside in Ellis County.

Includes both active cases and recovered cases.

Many have noticed the inconsistency between KDHE and ECHD numbers. 

KDHE has determined that a problem exists between some private labs and the KDHE lab. This does not impact notification to the ECHD. 

We are notified of all positives and begin the contact tracing immediately. 

Ellis County Health Department is the most up to date and accurate source of information regarding COVID-19 cases in Ellis County. Follow us on Facebook to ensure that you have current and correct information.

Ellis County Health DepartmentNew cases: 0 Current active cases: 2 Recovered cases: 6 Total cases: 8New cases: As reported by KDHE. Will be updated every 24 hours via press release from ECHD.Active cases: As determined by the Public Health office. Patients are currently in isolation with daily contact from the ECHD.Recovered cases: Following KDHE guidelines patients have completed isolation, have had significant improvement of symptoms and have gone 72 hours fever free with no fever-reducing medication.Total cases: Total number of lab-confirmed Covid-19 patients that reside in Ellis County.Includes both active cases and recovered cases.Many have noticed the inconsistency between KDHE and ECHD numbers. KDHE has determined that a problem exists between some private labs and the KDHE lab. This does not impact notification to the ECHD. We are notified of all positives and begin the contact tracing immediately. Ellis County Health Department is the most up to date and accurate source of information regarding COVID-19 cases in Ellis County. Follow us on Facebook to ensure that you have current and correct information.Residents and visitors of Ellis County need to remain diligent in social distancing as well as basic precautions like washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when you are ill.Continue to follow and understand guidance provided by CDC, KDHE and ECHD. Make the individual choice to protect yourself and others around you.Stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/COVID19">www.cdc.gov/COVID19</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>/. Call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. or ECHD at 628-9440.

Active COVID-19 cases in Ellis County drops by two

TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly opened her Wednesday news briefing saying she will a sign new emergency declaration on Thursday that will last through May 13.

The emergency disaster declaration was set to expire May 1.

The State Finance Council can then extend it for 30 days and the Kansas legislature would have to extend it beyond that, according to the governor. &nbsp;The stay-at-home order will end Sunday.

The governor will reveal her plans for re-opening the state at 6:30p.m. Thursday.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 247 to a total of 3738, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 125.

TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly opened her Wednesday news briefing saying she will a sign new emergency declaration on Thursday that will last through May 13.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F239470833798464%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The emergency disaster declaration was set to expire May 1.The State Finance Council can then extend it for 30 days and the Kansas legislature would have to extend it beyond that, according to the governor. &nbsp;The stay-at-home order will end Sunday.The governor will reveal her plans for re-opening the state at 6:30p.m. Thursday.The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 247 to a total of 3738, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 125.

🎥 Kan. governor will sign new emergency declaration

Cheyenne County Health Department&nbsp;

Cheyenne County–The Cheyenne County Health Department is announcing the second case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the county.&nbsp;

The case involves a male between the ages of 55-64 and remains isolated at home. The Cheyenne County Health Department is working to identify all close contacts of this individual and those who were exposed are being contacted. We have provided instruction to these case contacts to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19, to include fever and respiratory symptoms. &nbsp;No further information about the patient will be released.

KDHE has released guidelines (<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm</a>&nbsp;for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited locations in the United States where large numbers of people have contracted the disease. These guidelines are available on our website at Cheyennecountyhealth.com and our Facebook page.

Please adhere to the following recommendations:

• Avoid non-essential trips and stay home to the extent you can.

• Follow all recommendations regarding self-quarantine&nbsp;

• Avoid large gatherings (groups of more than 10)

• If you do need to go out in public, ensure you maintain six feet distance from other people.

Cheyenne County residents can stay informed regarding COVID-19 by visiting the County Health Department’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cheyennecountyhealth.com/">www.cheyennecountyhealth.com</a>&nbsp;or the Cheyenne County Health Department Facebook Page, or County Residents may obtain information from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus">http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.

For general information, contact the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:COVID-19@ks.gov">COVID-19@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;. You may also contact the County Health Department information line at 785-332-8858 or 785-332-2381.

Cheyenne County Health Department&nbsp;Cheyenne County–The Cheyenne County Health Department is announcing the second case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the county.&nbsp;The case involves a male between the ages of 55-64 and remains isolated at home. The Cheyenne County Health Department is working to identify all close contacts of this individual and those who were exposed are being contacted. We have provided instruction to these case contacts to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19, to include fever and respiratory symptoms. &nbsp;No further information about the patient will be released.KDHE has released guidelines (<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm</a>&nbsp;for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited locations in the United States where large numbers of people have contracted the disease. These guidelines are available on our website at Cheyennecountyhealth.com and our Facebook page.Please adhere to the following recommendations:• Avoid non-essential trips and stay home to the extent you can.• Follow all recommendations regarding self-quarantine&nbsp;• Avoid large gatherings (groups of more than 10)• If you do need to go out in public, ensure you maintain six feet distance from other people.Cheyenne County residents can stay informed regarding COVID-19 by visiting the County Health Department’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cheyennecountyhealth.com/">www.cheyennecountyhealth.com</a>&nbsp;or the Cheyenne County Health Department Facebook Page, or County Residents may obtain information from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus">http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.For general information, contact the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:COVID-19@ks.gov">COVID-19@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;. You may also contact the County Health Department information line at 785-332-8858 or 785-332-2381.

Second case of COVID-19 identified in Cheyenne Co.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 247 to a total of 3738, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 247 to a total of 3738, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.Coronavirus deaths were reported at 125<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588179482243.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

By
NICK GOSNELL, Hutch Post


HUTCHINSON — 
To say Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti is 
frustrated by the fact that four reported positive COVID-19 cases from 
Tuesday are as the result of one person who was supposed to voluntarily 
quarantine not doing so is the apex of understatement.

"We're 
still waiting on a few tests associated potentially with this vector," 
Baldetti said. "I'm more concerned with the actions of non-compliance 
and adherence by this particular individual and the ramifications of 
those actions than I am the third-tier downstream spread potentially."

Reno
 County District Attorney Keith Schroeder responded to the hypothetical 
of such a person infecting someone who was eventually hospitalized or 
worse. Statutes written for things like HIV spread don't really apply 
here.

"The normal statute that deals with exposing another to a 
life-threatening communicable disease wouldn't apply in this situation,"
 Schroeder said. "That only applies to transmission by either sex or 
donation of blood or by hypodermic syringes. We'll have to look at the 
facts to determine exactly what we could do."

The concern is that even a few acts of non-compliance could set the county way back in its reopening timeline.

"At
 the doorstep of a potential reopening plan, whether that be a 
state-driven plan or a locally enforced plan, regardless, the success of
 any plan that is put forth is predicated on each and every individual,"
 Baldetti said. "Whether it's a business owner, an employee, a 
proprietor, a lay individual, each one of us, each one of 61,000 and 
some odd Reno County constituents has a part to play."

The county had 72 tests outstanding in total as of Wednesday morning.

By
NICK GOSNELL, Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — 
To say Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti is 
frustrated by the fact that four reported positive COVID-19 cases from 
Tuesday are as the result of one person who was supposed to voluntarily 
quarantine not doing so is the apex of understatement."We're 
still waiting on a few tests associated potentially with this vector," 
Baldetti said. "I'm more concerned with the actions of non-compliance 
and adherence by this particular individual and the ramifications of 
those actions than I am the third-tier downstream spread potentially."Reno
 County District Attorney Keith Schroeder responded to the hypothetical 
of such a person infecting someone who was eventually hospitalized or 
worse. Statutes written for things like HIV spread don't really apply 
here."The normal statute that deals with exposing another to a 
life-threatening communicable disease wouldn't apply in this situation,"
 Schroeder said. "That only applies to transmission by either sex or 
donation of blood or by hypodermic syringes. We'll have to look at the 
facts to determine exactly what we could do."The concern is that even a few acts of non-compliance could set the county way back in its reopening timeline."At
 the doorstep of a potential reopening plan, whether that be a 
state-driven plan or a locally enforced plan, regardless, the success of
 any plan that is put forth is predicated on each and every individual,"
 Baldetti said. "Whether it's a business owner, an employee, a 
proprietor, a lay individual, each one of us, each one of 61,000 and 
some odd Reno County constituents has a part to play."The county had 72 tests outstanding in total as of Wednesday morning.

Reno Co.: One 'non-compliant' resident infected four others

A mobile COVID-19 testing initiative launched in Kansas to set-up drive-thru sites in certain communities that haven’t had access to testing is underway, according to a media release.

Mobile units will travel to &nbsp;Butler, Scott, Rooks, Reno and Saline County on a rotating basis each week to test those who are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In addition, all health care providers and first responders can be tested whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms. An appointment for testing can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.doineedacovid19test.com">www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com</a>, but on-site scheduling also will be available. The site is supported by Walmart,&nbsp;eTrueNorth and state officials.

“Testing is important to re-opening the country and the state, and we are thankful to Walmart and eTrueNorth for working with us to bring mobile testing to communities in need of more testing,” Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said. “As we prepare to implement less restrictive measures, we know we will still be working to overcome the pandemic for the next 12 to18 months, so widespread testing will be a key part of our ability to support our economy and our state.”

“Walmart is committed to supporting the state of Kansas’ efforts to expand COVID-19 testing, especially in communities that have had limited access to testing,” Ryan Irsik, Walmart Public Affairs Director for Kansas, said. “We are grateful to our pharmacists and associates who are supporting these testing sites, and to&nbsp;eTrueNorth and state and county officials as we work together to open sites that will help Kansans access timely testing.”

Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. weather permitting. State Fairgrounds, 2000 N. Popular St., Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. weather permitting. El Dorado State Park, 618 NE Bluestem Road, El Dorado.&nbsp;

Mondays and Tuesdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., weather permitting. Scott Lake State Park, 101 West Scott Lake Drive, Scott City.&nbsp;

Wednesdays and Thursdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., weather permitting. Webster State Park, 1140 10 Rd., Stockton.&nbsp;

Fridays and Saturdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. weather permitting. KHP Training Academy, 2025 East Iron Avenue, Salina.

The drive-thru site will test&nbsp;anyone who may be exhibiting symptoms of the virus. In addition, the site is available to all health care workers and first responders, whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms.

Appointments must be made through&nbsp;eTrueNorth’s online portal at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com">www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com</a>, which will screen individuals to ensure they meet&nbsp;CDC eligibility for testing. On-site scheduling will be available for those who are not able to schedule online. For questions regarding testing, call 800-635-8611.

Those being tested will need to stay in their cars for verification of eligibility criteria, ID check and self-administered test. For the safety of all those on-site, the test site is not available to walk-ups; those being tested must be in a car.

The site will use a self-administered nasal swab test that will allow those being tested to swab their own nose onsite while in their vehicles, observed by a trained medical professional to ensure the sample is taken correctly, and then dropped in the sealed sample into a container on their way out of the drive-through site.

eTrueNorth, a contractor of the U.S. Department of&nbsp;Health and Human Services&nbsp;(HHS, will handle processing test samples and communicating results to those tested and applicable Departments of Health.

The site will be staffed by volunteers, including Walmart healthcare professionals and&nbsp;eTrueNorth team members.. While individuals who are tested are awaiting results, please follow&nbsp;CDC guidelines&nbsp;and take steps to help prevent the virus from spreading to people in your home and community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588174331940.png" alt="Photo courtesy eTruth North" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy eTruth North</figcaption>
 </figure>A mobile COVID-19 testing initiative launched in Kansas to set-up drive-thru sites in certain communities that haven’t had access to testing is underway, according to a media release.Mobile units will travel to &nbsp;Butler, Scott, Rooks, Reno and Saline County on a rotating basis each week to test those who are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. In addition, all health care providers and first responders can be tested whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms. An appointment for testing can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.doineedacovid19test.com">www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com</a>, but on-site scheduling also will be available. The site is supported by Walmart,&nbsp;eTrueNorth and state officials.“Testing is important to re-opening the country and the state, and we are thankful to Walmart and eTrueNorth for working with us to bring mobile testing to communities in need of more testing,” Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said. “As we prepare to implement less restrictive measures, we know we will still be working to overcome the pandemic for the next 12 to18 months, so widespread testing will be a key part of our ability to support our economy and our state.”“Walmart is committed to supporting the state of Kansas’ efforts to expand COVID-19 testing, especially in communities that have had limited access to testing,” Ryan Irsik, Walmart Public Affairs Director for Kansas, said. “We are grateful to our pharmacists and associates who are supporting these testing sites, and to&nbsp;eTrueNorth and state and county officials as we work together to open sites that will help Kansans access timely testing.”COVID-19 testing scheduleReno County:Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. weather permitting. State Fairgrounds, 2000 N. Popular St., Hutchinson.&nbsp;Butler County:Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. weather permitting. El Dorado State Park, 618 NE Bluestem Road, El Dorado.&nbsp;Scott County:Mondays and Tuesdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., weather permitting. Scott Lake State Park, 101 West Scott Lake Drive, Scott City.&nbsp;Rooks County:Wednesdays and Thursdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., weather permitting. Webster State Park, 1140 10 Rd., Stockton.&nbsp;Saline County:Fridays and Saturdays each week; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. weather permitting. KHP Training Academy, 2025 East Iron Avenue, Salina.Additional testing information:The drive-thru site will test&nbsp;anyone who may be exhibiting symptoms of the virus. In addition, the site is available to all health care workers and first responders, whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms.Appointments must be made through&nbsp;eTrueNorth’s online portal at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com">www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com</a>, which will screen individuals to ensure they meet&nbsp;CDC eligibility for testing. On-site scheduling will be available for those who are not able to schedule online. For questions regarding testing, call 800-635-8611.Those being tested will need to stay in their cars for verification of eligibility criteria, ID check and self-administered test. For the safety of all those on-site, the test site is not available to walk-ups; those being tested must be in a car.The site will use a self-administered nasal swab test that will allow those being tested to swab their own nose onsite while in their vehicles, observed by a trained medical professional to ensure the sample is taken correctly, and then dropped in the sealed sample into a container on their way out of the drive-through site.eTrueNorth, a contractor of the U.S. Department of&nbsp;Health and Human Services&nbsp;(HHS, will handle processing test samples and communicating results to those tested and applicable Departments of Health.The site will be staffed by volunteers, including Walmart healthcare professionals and&nbsp;eTrueNorth team members.. While individuals who are tested are awaiting results, please follow&nbsp;CDC guidelines&nbsp;and take steps to help prevent the virus from spreading to people in your home and community.

Drive-through virus testing expansion includes Rooks Co.

TOPEKA, KAN. —Kansas State University has launched coronavirus testing for students, faculty and staff as confirmed cases in Kansas rose Tuesday by 4.9% to nearly 3,500.

Senate President Susan Wagle, a Wichita Republican and frequent critic of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, unveiled a proposal for reopening the state's economy, though such decisions rest with Kelly.

Kansas State said it can test up to 270 people a day and is providing testing for students, faculty or staff who show coronavirus symptoms or who have been in contact with an infected person

The university in Manhattan is relying on a laboratory used for veterinary medical testing and the Biosecurity Research Institute set up to deal with foreign animal diseases.

For most people, the novel coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two or three weeks. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.

Kansas reported four additional COVID-19-related deaths Tuesday to bring the total to 124. The state had 3,491 confirmed cases, up 163 from Monday.

The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest that people can be infected without feeling sick.

Wagle, who is also running for the U.S. Senate, called for reopening most Kansas businesses at half capacity. Kelly has said she will outline her plan Thursday.

Kelly issued a stay-at-home order that took effect March 30 and expires at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.

Wagle said stay-at-home restrictions should be retained on assisted living facilities and nursing homes, where COVID-19 outbreaks can be more lethal. She also said Kelly should permit state executive orders to expire so that county health officials can take the lead.

Wagle said that original projections of COVID-19 cases and deaths had been significantly reduced, with health officials now saying there are enough hospital and ICU beds to adequately treat those who become infected.

Public health officials say the cases and deaths have been fewer because of strong social distancing practices.

Kelly said last week that her goal is to start reopening the Kansas economy Sunday but she may not be able to do it because the state was “nowhere near” having the supplies needed for adequate coronavirus testing. The governor has said she is meeting with officials from various industries and plans to release her reopening strategy Thursday.

Before the coronavirus outbreak started, the University of Kansas Health System’s Poison Control Center averaged two calls a day. But it has been averaging three or four a day in March and April, for a 40% increase over the same time period a year ago.

Most calls are from people not following instructions when mixing and using cleaning supplies. Other calls concern children getting into cleaning supplies as they are home from school and daycare.

Dr. Steve Thornton, the center’s director, said uptick in calls is “predictable” and added that the risk going forward is people trying unproven remedies.

TOPEKA, KAN. —Kansas State University has launched coronavirus testing for students, faculty and staff as confirmed cases in Kansas rose Tuesday by 4.9% to nearly 3,500.Senate President Susan Wagle, a Wichita Republican and frequent critic of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, unveiled a proposal for reopening the state's economy, though such decisions rest with Kelly.UNIVERSITY'S TESTINGKansas State said it can test up to 270 people a day and is providing testing for students, faculty or staff who show coronavirus symptoms or who have been in contact with an infected personThe university in Manhattan is relying on a laboratory used for veterinary medical testing and the Biosecurity Research Institute set up to deal with foreign animal diseases.For most people, the novel coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two or three weeks. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.NEW NUMBERSKansas reported four additional COVID-19-related deaths Tuesday to bring the total to 124. The state had 3,491 confirmed cases, up 163 from Monday.The actual number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested and studies suggest that people can be infected without feeling sick.REOPENING THE ECONOMYWagle, who is also running for the U.S. Senate, called for reopening most Kansas businesses at half capacity. Kelly has said she will outline her plan Thursday.Kelly issued a stay-at-home order that took effect March 30 and expires at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.Wagle said stay-at-home restrictions should be retained on assisted living facilities and nursing homes, where COVID-19 outbreaks can be more lethal. She also said Kelly should permit state executive orders to expire so that county health officials can take the lead.Wagle said that original projections of COVID-19 cases and deaths had been significantly reduced, with health officials now saying there are enough hospital and ICU beds to adequately treat those who become infected.Public health officials say the cases and deaths have been fewer because of strong social distancing practices.Kelly said last week that her goal is to start reopening the Kansas economy Sunday but she may not be able to do it because the state was “nowhere near” having the supplies needed for adequate coronavirus testing. The governor has said she is meeting with officials from various industries and plans to release her reopening strategy Thursday.FEARS OF SELF-POISONINGBefore the coronavirus outbreak started, the University of Kansas Health System’s Poison Control Center averaged two calls a day. But it has been averaging three or four a day in March and April, for a 40% increase over the same time period a year ago.Most calls are from people not following instructions when mixing and using cleaning supplies. Other calls concern children getting into cleaning supplies as they are home from school and daycare.Dr. Steve Thornton, the center’s director, said uptick in calls is “predictable” and added that the risk going forward is people trying unproven remedies.

KSU offers virus tests; Senate Pres. unveils reopening plan

Cheyenne County Health Department

Cheyenne County–The Cheyenne County Health Department is announcing the first case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in County.&nbsp;

The case involves a female between the ages of 45-54 who is isolated at home. 

The Cheyenne County Health Department is working to identify all close contacts of this individual and those who were exposed are being contacted. 

We have provided instruction to these case contacts to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19, to include fever and respiratory symptoms. 

No further information about the patient will be released.

KDHE has released guidelines (<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm</a>&nbsp;for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited locations in the United States where large numbers of people have contracted the disease.

These guidelines are available on our website at <a href="http://www.Cheyennecountyhealth.com">Cheyennecountyhealth.com</a> and our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cheyennecountyhealth/">Facebook page @cheyennehealth.</a>

Please adhere to the following recommendations:

Cheyenne County residents can stay informed regarding COVID-19 by visiting the County Health Department’s website at Cheyennecountyhealth.com or the Cheyenne County Health Department Facebook Page, or County Residents may obtain information from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus">http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.

For general information, contact the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:COVID-19@ks.gov">COVID-19@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;.

You may also contact the County Health Department information line at 785-332-2381 or 785-332-8858 or email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:healthdept@cncoks.us" target="_blank">healthdept@cncoks.us</a>

Cheyenne County Health DepartmentCheyenne County–The Cheyenne County Health Department is announcing the first case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in County.&nbsp;The case involves a female between the ages of 45-54 who is isolated at home. The Cheyenne County Health Department is working to identify all close contacts of this individual and those who were exposed are being contacted. We have provided instruction to these case contacts to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19, to include fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information about the patient will be released.KDHE has released guidelines (<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm">http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/COVID-19_Resource_Center.htm</a>&nbsp;for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited locations in the United States where large numbers of people have contracted the disease. These guidelines are available on our website at <a href="http://www.Cheyennecountyhealth.com">Cheyennecountyhealth.com</a> and our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cheyennecountyhealth/">Facebook page @cheyennehealth.</a>Please adhere to the following recommendations:• Avoid non-essential trips and stay home to the extent you can.• Follow all recommendations regarding self-quarantine&nbsp;• Avoid large gatherings (groups of more than 10)• If you do need to go out in public, ensure you maintain six feet distance from other people.Cheyenne County residents can stay informed regarding COVID-19 by visiting the County Health Department’s website at Cheyennecountyhealth.com or the Cheyenne County Health Department Facebook Page, or County Residents may obtain information from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus">http://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.For general information, contact the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF) or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:COVID-19@ks.gov">COVID-19@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;. You may also contact the County Health Department information line at 785-332-2381 or 785-332-8858 or email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:healthdept@cncoks.us" target="_blank">healthdept@cncoks.us</a>

First case of COVID-19 identified in Cheyenne County

WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General William Barr on Monday ordered federal prosecutors across the U.S. to identify coronavirus-related restrictions from state and local governments “that could be violating the constitutional rights and civil liberties of individual citizens.”

The memo to U.S. attorneys directs the head of the Justice Department’s civil rights division and the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan to coordinate the department’s efforts to monitor state and local policies and take action if needed.

“If a state or local ordinance crosses the line from an appropriate exercise of authority to stop the spread of COVID-19 into an overbearing infringement of constitutional and statutory protections, the Department of Justice may have an obligation to address that overreach in federal court.”

Barr’s memo comes about two weeks after the Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/93201a33ee3f73017f02d273f868bfba">filed a statement of interest</a>&nbsp;in a civil case in Mississippi, siding with a Christian church where local officials had tried to stop Holy Week services broadcast to congregants sitting in their cars in the parking lot.

The directive also comes as many stay-at-home orders are set to expire and governors eager to rescue their economies are moving to ease restrictions meant to control the spread of the coronavirus, even as new hot spots emerge and experts warn that moving too fast could prove disastrous.

At the same time, protesters have staged demonstrations against stay-at-home orders, and in recent weeks, President Donald Trump has urged supporters to “liberate” three states led by Democratic governors.

Trump was asked at Monday’s coronavirus briefing about the strategy behind the decision by the Justice Department.

“Well, you’d have to ask Attorney General Barr, but I think he wants to see — like everybody, he wants to see people get back and he wants to see people get back to work,” Trump said. “He doesn’t want people to be held up when there’s no reason for doing it. In some cases, perhaps it’s too strict. He wants to make sure people have the rights and they maintain the rights, very importantly.”

The Justice Department argued in the Mississippi filing that officials in Greenville appeared to be targeting religious conduct by singling churches out as the only essential service, as designated by the state of Mississippi, that may not operate despite following all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state recommendations regarding social distancing.

In an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt last week, Barr said the Justice Department could support legal action against states that impose strict measures as the number of coronavirus cases begins to subside.

“The idea that you have to stay in your house is disturbingly close to house arrest,” Barr said. “I’m not saying it wasn’t justified. I’m not saying in some places it might still be justified. But it’s very onerous, as is shutting down your livelihood.”

Barr said he believes there is a sufficient basis for social distancing rules that have been put in place, but he has cautioned that there may be concern if the restrictive measures continue too long. He has said the U.S. must find a way to allow business to adapt and reopen.

“I think we have to allow people to figure out ways of getting back to work and keep their workers and customers safe,” Barr said in an interview with Fox News earlier this month. “I’m not suggesting we stop social distancing overnight. There may come a time where we have to worry less about that.”

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death. The vast majority of people recover.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585143176510.png" alt="Attorney General William Barr during a Coronavirus Task Force Briefing earlier this month -image courtesy White H ouse" />
 <figcaption>Attorney General William Barr during a Coronavirus Task Force Briefing earlier this month -image courtesy White H ouse</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General William Barr on Monday ordered federal prosecutors across the U.S. to identify coronavirus-related restrictions from state and local governments “that could be violating the constitutional rights and civil liberties of individual citizens.”The memo to U.S. attorneys directs the head of the Justice Department’s civil rights division and the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan to coordinate the department’s efforts to monitor state and local policies and take action if needed.“If a state or local ordinance crosses the line from an appropriate exercise of authority to stop the spread of COVID-19 into an overbearing infringement of constitutional and statutory protections, the Department of Justice may have an obligation to address that overreach in federal court.”Barr’s memo comes about two weeks after the Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/93201a33ee3f73017f02d273f868bfba">filed a statement of interest</a>&nbsp;in a civil case in Mississippi, siding with a Christian church where local officials had tried to stop Holy Week services broadcast to congregants sitting in their cars in the parking lot.The directive also comes as many stay-at-home orders are set to expire and governors eager to rescue their economies are moving to ease restrictions meant to control the spread of the coronavirus, even as new hot spots emerge and experts warn that moving too fast could prove disastrous.At the same time, protesters have staged demonstrations against stay-at-home orders, and in recent weeks, President Donald Trump has urged supporters to “liberate” three states led by Democratic governors.Trump was asked at Monday’s coronavirus briefing about the strategy behind the decision by the Justice Department.“Well, you’d have to ask Attorney General Barr, but I think he wants to see — like everybody, he wants to see people get back and he wants to see people get back to work,” Trump said. “He doesn’t want people to be held up when there’s no reason for doing it. In some cases, perhaps it’s too strict. He wants to make sure people have the rights and they maintain the rights, very importantly.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587679047074.png" alt="Protesters mounted a slow-moving caravan around the Statehouse April 23 to push for an end to Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order." />
 <figcaption>Protesters mounted a slow-moving caravan around the Statehouse April 23 to push for an end to Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Justice Department argued in the Mississippi filing that officials in Greenville appeared to be targeting religious conduct by singling churches out as the only essential service, as designated by the state of Mississippi, that may not operate despite following all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state recommendations regarding social distancing.In an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt last week, Barr said the Justice Department could support legal action against states that impose strict measures as the number of coronavirus cases begins to subside.“The idea that you have to stay in your house is disturbingly close to house arrest,” Barr said. “I’m not saying it wasn’t justified. I’m not saying in some places it might still be justified. But it’s very onerous, as is shutting down your livelihood.”Barr said he believes there is a sufficient basis for social distancing rules that have been put in place, but he has cautioned that there may be concern if the restrictive measures continue too long. He has said the U.S. must find a way to allow business to adapt and reopen.“I think we have to allow people to figure out ways of getting back to work and keep their workers and customers safe,” Barr said in an interview with Fox News earlier this month. “I’m not suggesting we stop social distancing overnight. There may come a time where we have to worry less about that.”For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death. The vast majority of people recover.

AG to prosecutors: Look for unconstitutional virus rules

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House released new guidelines Monday aimed at answering criticism that America’s coronavirus testing has been too slow, and President Donald Trump tried to pivot toward a focus on “reopening” the nation.

The new testing targets would ensure states had enough COVID-19 tests available to sample at least 2.6% of their populations each month — a figure already met by a majority of states. Areas that have been harder hit by the virus would be able to test at double that rate, or higher, the White House said.

The testing issue has bedeviled the administration for months. Trump told reporters on March 6 during a visit to the CDC in Atlanta that “anybody that wants a test can get a test,” but the reality has proved to be vastly different.

The initial COVID-19 test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was contaminated, and early kits operated only on platforms able to perform a small number of tests per day. While the rate of testing increased as tests developed for higher-capacity platforms, they were still limited by shortages of supplies, from nasal swabs to the reagents used to process the samples.

Administration officials maintained Monday that the limiting factor now is actually the availability of samples from people who have been tested — either because guidelines on who could be tested are too stringent or because there are not enough health workers able to take nasal swab samples from them.

The CDC moved to address one of those concerns Monday, expanding the list of people to be prioritized for virus testing to include those who show no symptoms but are in high-risk settings like nursing homes. And Trump met with leaders of businesses including CVS, Walmart and Kroger, who said they were working to expand access to tests across the country.

“Testing is not going to be a problem at all,” Trump said later in the Rose Garden.

However, many of the administration’s past pledges and goals on testing have not been met.

Jeremy Konyndyk, a disaster preparedness expert who helped lead the Obama administration response to Ebola, said the administration’s testing plans are well short of what is needed.

Researchers at Harvard have estimated the country needs to be testing a minimum of 500,000 people per day, and possibly many more. Konyndyk said the aim should be 2 million to 3 million per day. Trump said the current total, up sharply in recent days, is over 200,000 per day.

Konyndyk said: “Over the past month, we’ve doubled or if you want to be really generous tripled the testing capacity in this country. We need to take where we are now and expand it tenfold.”

The testing blueprint for states provides details missing from the administration’s guidelines for them to return to normal operations, which were released more than a week ago. It includes a focus on surveillance testing as well as “rapid response” programs to isolate those who test positive and identify those with whom they had come in contact. The administration aims to have the market “flooded” with tests for the fall, when COVID-19 is expected to recur alongside the seasonal flu.

Trump and administration medical experts outlined the plan on a call with governors Monday afternoon, before unveiling them publicly in a Rose Garden press conference.

The White House announcements came as Trump sought to regain his footing after weeks of criticism and detours created in part by his press briefings.

Days after he set off a firestorm by publicly musing that scientists should explore the injection of toxic disinfectants as a potential virus cure, Trump said he found little use for his daily task force briefings, where he has time and again clashed with medical experts and reporters. Trump’s aides had been trying to move the president onto more familiar and, they hope, safer, ground: talking up the economy in more tightly controlled settings.

Republican Party polling shows Trump’s path to a second term depends on the public’s perception of how quickly the economy rebounds from the state-by-state shutdowns meant to slow the spread of the virus.

On Monday, the White House initially announced there would be a Trump briefing, but canceled it as Trump’s greatest asset in the reelection campaign — his ability to dominate headlines with freewheeling performances — was increasingly seen as a liability.

But hours later, it became clear Trump had other ideas. He held court in the Rose Garden for a bit less than an hour.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025544339.png" alt="Admiral Brett Giroir, M.D.,&nbsp;Assistant Secretary for Health during Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>Admiral Brett Giroir, M.D.,&nbsp;Assistant Secretary for Health during Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House released new guidelines Monday aimed at answering criticism that America’s coronavirus testing has been too slow, and President Donald Trump tried to pivot toward a focus on “reopening” the nation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025311828.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The new testing targets would ensure states had enough COVID-19 tests available to sample at least 2.6% of their populations each month — a figure already met by a majority of states. Areas that have been harder hit by the virus would be able to test at double that rate, or higher, the White House said.The testing issue has bedeviled the administration for months. Trump told reporters on March 6 during a visit to the CDC in Atlanta that “anybody that wants a test can get a test,” but the reality has proved to be vastly different.The initial COVID-19 test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was contaminated, and early kits operated only on platforms able to perform a small number of tests per day. While the rate of testing increased as tests developed for higher-capacity platforms, they were still limited by shortages of supplies, from nasal swabs to the reagents used to process the samples.Administration officials maintained Monday that the limiting factor now is actually the availability of samples from people who have been tested — either because guidelines on who could be tested are too stringent or because there are not enough health workers able to take nasal swab samples from them.The CDC moved to address one of those concerns Monday, expanding the list of people to be prioritized for virus testing to include those who show no symptoms but are in high-risk settings like nursing homes. And Trump met with leaders of businesses including CVS, Walmart and Kroger, who said they were working to expand access to tests across the country.“Testing is not going to be a problem at all,” Trump said later in the Rose Garden.However, many of the administration’s past pledges and goals on testing have not been met.Jeremy Konyndyk, a disaster preparedness expert who helped lead the Obama administration response to Ebola, said the administration’s testing plans are well short of what is needed.Researchers at Harvard have estimated the country needs to be testing a minimum of 500,000 people per day, and possibly many more. Konyndyk said the aim should be 2 million to 3 million per day. Trump said the current total, up sharply in recent days, is over 200,000 per day.Konyndyk said: “Over the past month, we’ve doubled or if you want to be really generous tripled the testing capacity in this country. We need to take where we are now and expand it tenfold.”The testing blueprint for states provides details missing from the administration’s guidelines for them to return to normal operations, which were released more than a week ago. It includes a focus on surveillance testing as well as “rapid response” programs to isolate those who test positive and identify those with whom they had come in contact. The administration aims to have the market “flooded” with tests for the fall, when COVID-19 is expected to recur alongside the seasonal flu.Trump and administration medical experts outlined the plan on a call with governors Monday afternoon, before unveiling them publicly in a Rose Garden press conference.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025311828.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The White House announcements came as Trump sought to regain his footing after weeks of criticism and detours created in part by his press briefings.Days after he set off a firestorm by publicly musing that scientists should explore the injection of toxic disinfectants as a potential virus cure, Trump said he found little use for his daily task force briefings, where he has time and again clashed with medical experts and reporters. Trump’s aides had been trying to move the president onto more familiar and, they hope, safer, ground: talking up the economy in more tightly controlled settings.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025386191.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Republican Party polling shows Trump’s path to a second term depends on the public’s perception of how quickly the economy rebounds from the state-by-state shutdowns meant to slow the spread of the virus.On Monday, the White House initially announced there would be a Trump briefing, but canceled it as Trump’s greatest asset in the reelection campaign — his ability to dominate headlines with freewheeling performances — was increasingly seen as a liability.But hours later, it became clear Trump had other ideas. He held court in the Rose Garden for a bit less than an hour.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588069680758.png" alt="President Trump makes his way to the microphone to open Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump makes his way to the microphone to open Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>Spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said briefings would be held later in the week but “they might have a new look to them, a new focus to them.”Trump said he hoped that virus deaths would end up no more than 60,000 to 70,000, slightly revising upward his public estimate of recent days as the U.S. toll neared 56,000 on nearly 1 million cases. Still, he claimed a victory given dire, tenfold-higher predictions if the U.S. hadn’t adopted restrictive social distancing measures.On his conference call with governors, Trump suggested that many states should consider reopening schools before the end of the academic year, easing the way for parents to go back to work.“Some of you might start thinking about school openings because a lot of people are wanting to have the school openings,” Trump told the governors. The Associated Press obtained an audio recording of the call.Meanwhile, the CDC was beginning to release more detailed guidelines on reopening schools, restaurants and other establishments. Draft guidelines sent by the CDC to Washington include a long list of recommendations for organizations as they begin to reopen, such as closing break rooms at offices, spacing desks six feet apart at schools and using disposable plates and menus at restaurants. The draft guidance was obtained by The Associated Press from a federal official who was not authorized to release it.<a href="https://apnews.com/fbc35dc7c386447347d7254597b95b3b">Some states</a>&nbsp;have started to ease closure orders, and Trump is expected to spend coming days highlighting his administration’s efforts to help businesses and employees. Aides said the president would hold more frequent roundtables with CEOs, business owners and beneficiaries of the trillions of dollars in federal aid already approved by Congress, and begin to outline what he hopes to see in an additional recovery package.Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c52eb7fc343906ac2dbb9c60b3cf423e">last left the White House complex</a>&nbsp;a month ago, and plans are being drawn up for a limited schedule of travel within the next few weeks, aides said. It would be a symbolic show that the nation is beginning to reopen.The shift toward the economy comes in conjunction with what the White House sees as encouraging signs across the country, with the pace of new infections stabilizing and deaths declining.Still, medical experts warn that the virus will continue to haunt the country at least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b89077d3a652cc564a5b01083de8dbce">until a vaccine</a>&nbsp;is developed. And they say the risk of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c5cbe2bb3160af9054a1ea5249fff091">severe second wave&nbsp;</a>is high if&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/fa1fda126fe191425abc20ab461dfbe7">social distancing</a>&nbsp;measures are relaxed too quickly or if testing and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/588a99e650336bd3e2dda838e0725a67">contact tracing</a>&nbsp;schemes aren’t developed before people return to normal behaviors.___

Coronavirus Update