The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 22 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 553 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;

As of Wednesday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.

The KDHE reported Wednesday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,357 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632934531220.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 22 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 553 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.The KDHE reported Wednesday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,357 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 22 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 21 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

There have been 531 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Monday morning, there were 16 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, up from nine Friday.

The KDHE reported Monday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,335 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632767467297.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 21 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.There have been 531 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, there were 16 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, up from nine Friday.The KDHE reported Monday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,335 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 21 new COVID cases in Ellis CO. since Friday

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 26 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

There have been 510 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Friday morning, there were nine COVID inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,314 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632504987408.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 update: Sept. 24, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nejcr-10ea7f8-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 26 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.There have been 510 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, there were nine COVID inpatients at HaysMed.The KDHE reported Wednesday 49 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,314 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙 25 new virus cases; Kennedy — 'Delta has not been a big impact'

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. vaccination drive against COVID-19 stood on the verge of a major new phase as government advisers Thursday recommended booster doses of Pfizer’s vaccine for millions of older or otherwise vulnerable Americans — despite doubts the extra shots will do much to slow the pandemic.

Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said boosters should be offered to people 65 and older, nursing home residents and those ages 50 to 64 who have risky underlying health problems. The extra dose would be given once they are at least six months past their last Pfizer shot.

Deciding who else might get one was far tougher. While there is little evidence that younger people are in danger of waning immunity, the panel offered the option of a booster for those 18 to 49 who have chronic health problems and want one.

But the advisers refused to go further and open boosters to otherwise healthy front-line health care workers who aren’t at risk of severe illness but want to avoid even a mild infection.

“We might as well just say give it to everyone 18 and older. We have a very effective vaccine and it’s like saying, ‘It’s not working.’ It is working,” said Dr. Pablo Sanchez of Ohio State University, who helped block the broadest booster option.

Still, getting the unvaccinated their first shots remains the top priority, and the panel wrestled with whether the booster debate was distracting from that goal.

All three of the COVID-19 vaccines used in the U.S. still are highly protective against severe illness, hospitalization and death, even amid the spread of the extra-contagious delta variant. But only about 182 million Americans are fully vaccinated, just 55% of the population.

“We can give boosters to people, but that’s not really the answer to this pandemic,” said Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot of Vanderbilt University. “Hospitals are full because people are not vaccinated. We are declining care to people who deserve care because we are full of unvaccinated COVID-positive patients.”

Thursday’s decision represented a dramatic scaling back of the Biden administration plan, announced last month, to dispense boosters to nearly everyone to shore up their protection. Late Wednesday, the Food and Drug Administration, like the CDC, signed off on Pfizer boosters for a much more targeted slice of the American population than the White House envisioned.

It falls to the CDC to set final U.S. policy on who qualifies for the extra shot. The CDC usually follows its advisers’ recommendations. A final decision from the agency was expected later Thursday.

The booster plan marks an important shift in the nation’s vaccination drive. Britain and Israel are already giving a third round of shots over strong objections from the World Health Organization that poor countries don’t have enough for their initial doses.

CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky opened Thursday’s meeting by stressing that vaccinating the unvaccinated remains the top goal “here in America and around the world.”

Walensky acknowledged that the data on who really needs a booster right away “are not perfect.” “Yet collectively they form a picture for us,” she said, “and they are what we have in this moment to make a decision about the next stage in this pandemic.”

The CDC panel stressed its recommendations will be changed if new evidence shows more people need a booster.

The CDC advisers expressed concern over the millions more Americans who received Moderna or Johnson &amp; Johnson shots early in the vaccine rollout. The government still hasn’t considered boosters for those brands and has no data on whether it’s safe or effective to mix-and-match and give those people a Pfizer shot.

“I just don’t understand how later this afternoon we can say to people 65 and older you’re at risk for severe illness and death but only half of you can protect yourselves right now,” said Dr. Sarah Long of Drexel University.

About 26 million Americans got their last Pfizer dose at least six months ago, about half of whom are 65 or older. It’s not clear how many more would meet the CDC panel’s initial booster qualifications.

CDC data shows the vaccines still offer strong protection for all ages, but there is a slight drop among the oldest adults. And immunity against milder infection appears to be waning months after people’s initial immunization.

For most people, if you’re not in a group recommended for a booster, “it’s really because we think you’re well-protected,” said Dr. Matthew Daley of Kaiser Permanente Colorado. “This isn’t about who deserves a booster, but who needs a booster.”

Among people who stand to benefit from a booster, there are few risks, the CDC concluded. Serious side effects from the first two Pfizer doses are exceedingly rare, including heart inflammation that sometimes occurs in younger men. Data from Israel, which has given nearly 3 million people — mostly 60 and older — a third Pfizer dose, has uncovered no red flags.

The panelists also wrestled with how to even tell when a booster is needed. While an extra dose revs up numbers of virus-fighting antibodies, those naturally wane over time and no one knows how long the antibody boost from a third Pfizer dose will last -- or how much protection it really adds, since the immune system also forms additional defenses after vaccination.

The U.S. has already authorized third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients and transplant recipients. Other Americans, healthy or not, have managed to get boosters, in some cases simply by asking.

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. vaccination drive against COVID-19 stood on the verge of a major new phase as government advisers Thursday recommended booster doses of Pfizer’s vaccine for millions of older or otherwise vulnerable Americans — despite doubts the extra shots will do much to slow the pandemic.Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said boosters should be offered to people 65 and older, nursing home residents and those ages 50 to 64 who have risky underlying health problems. The extra dose would be given once they are at least six months past their last Pfizer shot.Deciding who else might get one was far tougher. While there is little evidence that younger people are in danger of waning immunity, the panel offered the option of a booster for those 18 to 49 who have chronic health problems and want one.But the advisers refused to go further and open boosters to otherwise healthy front-line health care workers who aren’t at risk of severe illness but want to avoid even a mild infection.“We might as well just say give it to everyone 18 and older. We have a very effective vaccine and it’s like saying, ‘It’s not working.’ It is working,” said Dr. Pablo Sanchez of Ohio State University, who helped block the broadest booster option.Still, getting the unvaccinated their first shots remains the top priority, and the panel wrestled with whether the booster debate was distracting from that goal.All three of the COVID-19 vaccines used in the U.S. still are highly protective against severe illness, hospitalization and death, even amid the spread of the extra-contagious delta variant. But only about 182 million Americans are fully vaccinated, just 55% of the population.“We can give boosters to people, but that’s not really the answer to this pandemic,” said Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot of Vanderbilt University. “Hospitals are full because people are not vaccinated. We are declining care to people who deserve care because we are full of unvaccinated COVID-positive patients.”Thursday’s decision represented a dramatic scaling back of the Biden administration plan, announced last month, to dispense boosters to nearly everyone to shore up their protection. Late Wednesday, the Food and Drug Administration, like the CDC, signed off on Pfizer boosters for a much more targeted slice of the American population than the White House envisioned.It falls to the CDC to set final U.S. policy on who qualifies for the extra shot. The CDC usually follows its advisers’ recommendations. A final decision from the agency was expected later Thursday.The booster plan marks an important shift in the nation’s vaccination drive. Britain and Israel are already giving a third round of shots over strong objections from the World Health Organization that poor countries don’t have enough for their initial doses.CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky opened Thursday’s meeting by stressing that vaccinating the unvaccinated remains the top goal “here in America and around the world.”Walensky acknowledged that the data on who really needs a booster right away “are not perfect.” “Yet collectively they form a picture for us,” she said, “and they are what we have in this moment to make a decision about the next stage in this pandemic.”The CDC panel stressed its recommendations will be changed if new evidence shows more people need a booster.The CDC advisers expressed concern over the millions more Americans who received Moderna or Johnson &amp; Johnson shots early in the vaccine rollout. The government still hasn’t considered boosters for those brands and has no data on whether it’s safe or effective to mix-and-match and give those people a Pfizer shot.“I just don’t understand how later this afternoon we can say to people 65 and older you’re at risk for severe illness and death but only half of you can protect yourselves right now,” said Dr. Sarah Long of Drexel University.About 26 million Americans got their last Pfizer dose at least six months ago, about half of whom are 65 or older. It’s not clear how many more would meet the CDC panel’s initial booster qualifications.CDC data shows the vaccines still offer strong protection for all ages, but there is a slight drop among the oldest adults. And immunity against milder infection appears to be waning months after people’s initial immunization.For most people, if you’re not in a group recommended for a booster, “it’s really because we think you’re well-protected,” said Dr. Matthew Daley of Kaiser Permanente Colorado. “This isn’t about who deserves a booster, but who needs a booster.”Among people who stand to benefit from a booster, there are few risks, the CDC concluded. Serious side effects from the first two Pfizer doses are exceedingly rare, including heart inflammation that sometimes occurs in younger men. Data from Israel, which has given nearly 3 million people — mostly 60 and older — a third Pfizer dose, has uncovered no red flags.The panelists also wrestled with how to even tell when a booster is needed. While an extra dose revs up numbers of virus-fighting antibodies, those naturally wane over time and no one knows how long the antibody boost from a third Pfizer dose will last -- or how much protection it really adds, since the immune system also forms additional defenses after vaccination.The U.S. has already authorized third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients and transplant recipients. Other Americans, healthy or not, have managed to get boosters, in some cases simply by asking.___

Despite concern, US sets stage for COVID booster shots 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 28 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 484 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Wednesday morning, there were 10 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 11 Monday.

The KDHE reported Monday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,288 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632330147347.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 28 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 484 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, there were 10 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 11 Monday.The KDHE reported Monday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 60 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,288 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 28 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 14 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

The KDHE also reported an additional coronavirus-related death, bringing the total to 75.

There have been 456 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Monday morning, there were 11 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 13 Friday.

The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,260 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632158211089.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 14 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.The KDHE also reported an additional coronavirus-related death, bringing the total to 75.There have been 456 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, there were 11 COVID inpatients at HaysMed, down from 13 Friday.The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,260 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 75 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 14 new virus cases, additional death in Ellis Co. since Friday

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 20 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

There have been 442 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Friday morning, there were 13 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;

Since reporting began, there have been 4,246 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631900122244.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 20 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.There have been 442 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, there were 13 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,246 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 20 new virus cases in Ellis County since Wednesday

<a href="https://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/STAT/Dashboard/d157638.aspx?type=view">The Kansas Hospital Association on Wednesday</a> announced that new COVID case rates in its northwest Kansas region fell 22 percent over the prior week.

New cases were down 22 percent over the previous week, the KHA reported. Overall, cases throughout Kansas also were down 22 percent.

The KHA reported northwest Kansas has a 43 percent vaccination rate, near even with southeast Kansas for the lowest rate in the state and up 1 percent over the prior week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631817810691.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/STAT/Dashboard/d157638.aspx?type=view">The Kansas Hospital Association on Wednesday</a> announced that new COVID case rates in its northwest Kansas region fell 22 percent over the prior week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631817902177.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>New cases were down 22 percent over the previous week, the KHA reported. Overall, cases throughout Kansas also were down 22 percent.The KHA reported northwest Kansas has a 43 percent vaccination rate, near even with southeast Kansas for the lowest rate in the state and up 1 percent over the prior week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631818042625.png" alt="KHA" />
 <figcaption>KHA</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631291427273.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KHA: New COVID case rates in NW Kan. fall over last week

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 31 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 422 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Wednesday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;

Since reporting began, there have been 4,226 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631725337794.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 31 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 422 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;The KDHE reported Wednesday 48 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 59 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,226 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 31 new COVID cases in Ellis County since Monday

'There is no level of safety with COVID. ... What I can tell you is that we did our best to make it as safe as possible ...'

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved a modified COVID-19 mitigation plan at its meeting Monday that will allow some students who are in quarantine to return to school if they wear masks and remain symptom-free.

As of Friday, the district had 22 positive cases with another 60 students in quarantine because of close contacts.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said a large percentage of students in quarantine Monday were eligible to come back to school Tuesday under the amended policy.

He said the policy has been amended from the guidelines released prior to Labor Day.

"This is about reducing quarantining," Wilson said.&nbsp;

Jason Kennedy, Ellis County public health officer, met with the Ellis County school advisory committee on COVID, and he said this compromise will keep more children in school.

The school district is not offering remote learning this school year. Board member Craig Pallister, a former educator, said students who are out of school will likely fall behind.

"I know the people in Hays want to keep our kids in school," he said. "One way we can do that is get vaccinations in the community. The other is do the mitigation like Ron [Wilson] was saying."

The new tiered plan would be re-evaluated every week by the school COVID advisory group. If positive cases decline, a district could move to a less restrictive rung on the mitigation ladder.

"We would love to stay with the least restrictive plan, but it's probably not going to work," Wilson said. "That's based on numbers and visiting with health experts."

The revised policy also sets a benchmark of 35 positive students or staff members as the point masks would be required districtwide. That benchmark was chosen because 35 is about 1 percent of all students and staff occupying the district's buildings.

Students or staff who are vaccinated and are close contacts would not have to wear masks or quarantine as long as the district's positive COVID rate remains less than 35, Wilson said.

At 50 or more cases, the district would require masks and a 10-day quarantine for all close contacts with the option to test out after five days.

The top rung of the ladder would require masks and a 10-day quarantine for close contacts with no test-out option.

If the district's number of positive cases drops below a benchmark for two weeks, the district would return to a lower mitigation rung on the ladder.

Please see the end of this story for the complete policy.

Board President Tammy Wellbrock noted the quarantine and isolation orders from the public health officer trump any decisions by a local school board. By introducing masks as a mitigation measure, Kennedy agreed to relax quarantine guidelines.

Last school year, USD 489 had no transmission attributed to contact within schools. However, within the first two weeks of this school year, there was spread in the schools, Kennedy said.

He said this could be attributed to many factors, including the prevalence of the delta variant in the community.&nbsp;

"I don't want to quarantine healthy kids," Kennedy said. "I don't want these kids at home. I don't want nurses and doctors sitting at home watching their healthy kids not get an education while we need them somewhere else to treat patients.

"There is no level of safety with COVID. ... What I can tell you is that we did our best to make it as safe as possible, and this plan is a continuation of that — to limit impacts to our community and to limit impacts to our children."

Wellbrock said all data supports children are better off from mental, emotional, physical, safety and educational standpoints if they are being educated in school buildings.

"When we rolled out the first COVID guidelines, that has been our goal is to be in the schools," Wellbrock said. "I think it's important to share that we are doing what's best for all people.

"We represent all parents — both pro- and anti-mask parents — and we represent the children who aren't fed at home. We represent the children who are abused at home. We represent the children who don't have a regular place to stay.&nbsp;

"We are doing our best for all these parties, including the employees and the staff."

Wellbrock also urged employers to be more lenient when parents need to be home with a sick child because parents have been sending children to school sick with COVID.

"That should never happen," she said. "We should never put our school administrators, instructors and staff in that kind of position."

Board member Allen Park said he would prefer the mask policy be applied school by school and not to the district as a whole.

Wilson said there is so much co-mingling of people in the community, the COVID schools advisory group said they did not think a school-by-school policy would be effective for USD 489.

The new mitigation policy was adopted on a vote of 4-1, with Park voting against. Board member Lori Hertel was absent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628047577531.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'There is no level of safety with COVID. ... What I can tell you is that we did our best to make it as safe as possible ...'</h2>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved a modified COVID-19 mitigation plan at its meeting Monday that will allow some students who are in quarantine to return to school if they wear masks and remain symptom-free.As of Friday, the district had 22 positive cases with another 60 students in quarantine because of close contacts.Superintendent Ron Wilson said a large percentage of students in quarantine Monday were eligible to come back to school Tuesday under the amended policy.He said the policy has been amended from the guidelines released prior to Labor Day."This is about reducing quarantining," Wilson said.&nbsp;Jason Kennedy, Ellis County public health officer, met with the Ellis County school advisory committee on COVID, and he said this compromise will keep more children in school.The school district is not offering remote learning this school year. Board member Craig Pallister, a former educator, said students who are out of school will likely fall behind."I know the people in Hays want to keep our kids in school," he said. "One way we can do that is get vaccinations in the community. The other is do the mitigation like Ron [Wilson] was saying."The new tiered plan would be re-evaluated every week by the school COVID advisory group. If positive cases decline, a district could move to a less restrictive rung on the mitigation ladder."We would love to stay with the least restrictive plan, but it's probably not going to work," Wilson said. "That's based on numbers and visiting with health experts."The revised policy also sets a benchmark of 35 positive students or staff members as the point masks would be required districtwide. That benchmark was chosen because 35 is about 1 percent of all students and staff occupying the district's buildings.Students or staff who are vaccinated and are close contacts would not have to wear masks or quarantine as long as the district's positive COVID rate remains less than 35, Wilson said.At 50 or more cases, the district would require masks and a 10-day quarantine for all close contacts with the option to test out after five days.The top rung of the ladder would require masks and a 10-day quarantine for close contacts with no test-out option.If the district's number of positive cases drops below a benchmark for two weeks, the district would return to a lower mitigation rung on the ladder.Please see the end of this story for the complete policy.Board President Tammy Wellbrock noted the quarantine and isolation orders from the public health officer trump any decisions by a local school board. By introducing masks as a mitigation measure, Kennedy agreed to relax quarantine guidelines.Last school year, USD 489 had no transmission attributed to contact within schools. However, within the first two weeks of this school year, there was spread in the schools, Kennedy said.He said this could be attributed to many factors, including the prevalence of the delta variant in the community.&nbsp;"I don't want to quarantine healthy kids," Kennedy said. "I don't want these kids at home. I don't want nurses and doctors sitting at home watching their healthy kids not get an education while we need them somewhere else to treat patients."There is no level of safety with COVID. ... What I can tell you is that we did our best to make it as safe as possible, and this plan is a continuation of that — to limit impacts to our community and to limit impacts to our children."Wellbrock said all data supports children are better off from mental, emotional, physical, safety and educational standpoints if they are being educated in school buildings."When we rolled out the first COVID guidelines, that has been our goal is to be in the schools," Wellbrock said. "I think it's important to share that we are doing what's best for all people."We represent all parents — both pro- and anti-mask parents — and we represent the children who aren't fed at home. We represent the children who are abused at home. We represent the children who don't have a regular place to stay.&nbsp;"We are doing our best for all these parties, including the employees and the staff."Wellbrock also urged employers to be more lenient when parents need to be home with a sick child because parents have been sending children to school sick with COVID."That should never happen," she said. "We should never put our school administrators, instructors and staff in that kind of position."Board member Allen Park said he would prefer the mask policy be applied school by school and not to the district as a whole.Wilson said there is so much co-mingling of people in the community, the COVID schools advisory group said they did not think a school-by-school policy would be effective for USD 489.The new mitigation policy was adopted on a vote of 4-1, with Park voting against. Board member Lori Hertel was absent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631564691447.jpeg" alt="USD 489 COVID -19 Mitigation, updated Sept. 13, 2021" />
 <figcaption>USD 489 COVID -19 Mitigation, updated Sept. 13, 2021</figcaption>
 </figure>

Public health eases quarantines; Hays USD 489 sets mask benchmarks

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 20 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

There have been 391 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Monday morning, there were 14 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;

The KDHE reported Friday 47 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population is approximately 58 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,195 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631553247156.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 20 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.There have been 391 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Monday morning, there were 14 COVID inpatients at HaysMed.&nbsp;The KDHE reported Friday 47 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population is approximately 58 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,195 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 20 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Friday

ELLIS — Ellis USD 388 schools reported Friday that 49 students and staff of the district are currently under quarantine.

In his weekly COVID-19 update, Superintendent Corey Burton said six positive cases were also identified in the district this week.

The biggest impact, he said, was the football team would be unable to play this week.

The majority of the positive cases are in the combined junior and senior high school, with 5 positive cases reported there and 45 students and staff quarantined.

Enrollment at the school is only 183, meaning nearly a quarter of the student body was&nbsp;quarantined this week.

The bulk of the quarantine began Tuesday, meaning with current COVID-19 mitigation plans in the district, those students will be required to complete 10 days of isolation.

With the significant number of students out, Burton said the school board would look at the current policy at its regular meeting.

"The board could adopt a policy that the county is recommending," Burton said, "which could change that on Monday."

"That would allow students that are under quarantine for school-related exposures to come back to school in a mask and to do a check-in in the morning," Burton said.

He said the new strategy would more closely align with Hays and Victoria school districts to keep&nbsp;quarantine numbers down.

"We are working closely with the Ellis County Health Department to keep our students and staff as safe as possible," Burton said. "Our goal is to keep kids in school and keep our students, staff and community healthy.&nbsp;We will continue to monitor this situation and may need to make changes in the future to adjust for outbreaks."

In the meantime, Burton is asking parents to help the situation as much as possible by keeping ill children at home, encouraging staff and students to wear masks and social distance when possible.

"We also want to take this opportunity to remind you that one of our core values as a district is respect for and among our employees and students," Burton said. "We will treat information regarding the identity of employees/students with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 as confidential to the extent feasible and we will comply with applicable laws regarding the handling of such information.&nbsp;Further, per district policy, we will not tolerate harassment of, or discrimination or retaliation against, employees and students."&nbsp;

By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — Ellis USD 388 schools reported Friday that 49 students and staff of the district are currently under quarantine.In his weekly COVID-19 update, Superintendent Corey Burton said six positive cases were also identified in the district this week.The biggest impact, he said, was the football team would be unable to play this week.The majority of the positive cases are in the combined junior and senior high school, with 5 positive cases reported there and 45 students and staff quarantined.Enrollment at the school is only 183, meaning nearly a quarter of the student body was&nbsp;quarantined this week.The bulk of the quarantine began Tuesday, meaning with current COVID-19 mitigation plans in the district, those students will be required to complete 10 days of isolation.With the significant number of students out, Burton said the school board would look at the current policy at its regular meeting."The board could adopt a policy that the county is recommending," Burton said, "which could change that on Monday.""That would allow students that are under quarantine for school-related exposures to come back to school in a mask and to do a check-in in the morning," Burton said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631305133592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>He said the new strategy would more closely align with Hays and Victoria school districts to keep&nbsp;quarantine numbers down."We are working closely with the Ellis County Health Department to keep our students and staff as safe as possible," Burton said. "Our goal is to keep kids in school and keep our students, staff and community healthy.&nbsp;We will continue to monitor this situation and may need to make changes in the future to adjust for outbreaks."In the meantime, Burton is asking parents to help the situation as much as possible by keeping ill children at home, encouraging staff and students to wear masks and social distance when possible."We also want to take this opportunity to remind you that one of our core values as a district is respect for and among our employees and students," Burton said. "We will treat information regarding the identity of employees/students with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 as confidential to the extent feasible and we will comply with applicable laws regarding the handling of such information.&nbsp;Further, per district policy, we will not tolerate harassment of, or discrimination or retaliation against, employees and students."&nbsp;

Nearly a quarter of Ellis High students quarantined; football game canceled

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 17 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

There have been 371 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2444e15-4f2d-4541-a68c-68b51f6432ff">RELATED: New COVID case rates in NW Kansas highest in the state</a>

As of Friday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed. Of the 46 admissions at HaysMed in the month of August, 40 were unvaccinated, the hospital reported.

The KDHE also reported Friday 47 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population is approximately 58 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,175 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631293988083.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 update: Sept. 10, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hvqfv-10d840c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 17 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.There have been 371 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c2444e15-4f2d-4541-a68c-68b51f6432ff">RELATED: New COVID case rates in NW Kansas highest in the state</a>As of Friday morning, there were 15 COVID inpatients at HaysMed. Of the 46 admissions at HaysMed in the month of August, 40 were unvaccinated, the hospital reported.The KDHE also reported Friday 47 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the entire Kansas population is approximately 58 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,175 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙17 new virus cases in Ellis Co.; Kennedy talks vaccine safety

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/da409ca7-823c-4f74-add8-059b2182df5c">RELATED:&nbsp;🎙17 new virus cases in Ellis Co.; Kennedy talks vaccine safety</a>

COVID-19 cases in northwest Kansas are up 65 percent compared to mid-April, according to data compiled by the <a href="https://www.kha-net.org/CriticalIssues/HospitalPreparedness/covid-19/">Kansas Hospital Association</a>&nbsp;and published Wednesday.

It is by far the largest increase in the association's six regions, with south-central Kansas' 43 percent increase the next highest spike.

The KHA also reported that northwest Kansas has a 42 percent vaccination rate, even with southeast Kansas for the lowest rate in the state.

For more data from the Kansas Hospital Association, click <a href="https://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/STAT/Dashboard/d157638.aspx?type=view">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631290751755.png" alt="KHA" />
 <figcaption>KHA</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/da409ca7-823c-4f74-add8-059b2182df5c">RELATED:&nbsp;🎙17 new virus cases in Ellis Co.; Kennedy talks vaccine safety</a>COVID-19 cases in northwest Kansas are up 65 percent compared to mid-April, according to data compiled by the <a href="https://www.kha-net.org/CriticalIssues/HospitalPreparedness/covid-19/">Kansas Hospital Association</a>&nbsp;and published Wednesday.It is by far the largest increase in the association's six regions, with south-central Kansas' 43 percent increase the next highest spike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631291041290.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The KHA also reported that northwest Kansas has a 42 percent vaccination rate, even with southeast Kansas for the lowest rate in the state.For more data from the Kansas Hospital Association, click <a href="https://www.kha-net.org/DataProductsandServices/STAT/Dashboard/d157638.aspx?type=view">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631291427273.png" alt="KHA regions" />
 <figcaption>KHA regions</figcaption>
 </figure>

KHA: New COVID case rates in NW Kansas highest in the state

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 61 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

There was no report issued on Monday due to the Labor Day holiday.

There have been 354 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Wednesday morning, there were 14 COVID inpatients at HaysMed. Twelve of the 14 were unvaccinated, the hospital said.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,158 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

Corrected to clarify the total number of cases to date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631120244720.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 61 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.There was no report issued on Monday due to the Labor Day holiday.There have been 354 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Wednesday morning, there were 14 COVID inpatients at HaysMed. Twelve of the 14 were unvaccinated, the hospital said.Since reporting began, there have been 4,158 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.Corrected to clarify the total number of cases to date.

KDHE: 61 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Friday

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 45 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/726df760-8c28-447b-8c39-d34208107c70">RELATED:&nbsp;Stricter quarantines reinstated for Hays schools</a>

It was the highest number of new cases identified between reporting period since December. The KDHE reports on case numbers each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

There have been 293 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. As of Wednesday, the KDHE reported 46 percent of eligible residents of Ellis County were fully vaccinated.

As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed. No further updates have been posted as of noon Friday.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,097 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630689048082.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 45 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/726df760-8c28-447b-8c39-d34208107c70">RELATED:&nbsp;Stricter quarantines reinstated for Hays schools</a>It was the highest number of new cases identified between reporting period since December. The KDHE reports on case numbers each Monday, Wednesday and Friday.There have been 293 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. As of Wednesday, the KDHE reported 46 percent of eligible residents of Ellis County were fully vaccinated.As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed. No further updates have been posted as of noon Friday.Since reporting began, there have been 4,097 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 45 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

Beginning Tuesday, the Ellis County Health Department will offer&nbsp;PCR (nasal pharyngeal) COVID drive-up testing.

To schedule a test, click <a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22378331">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

For more details, see below or visit the department's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/elliscokshealth/">Facebook page</a>.

Beginning Tuesday, the Ellis County Health Department will offer&nbsp;PCR (nasal pharyngeal) COVID drive-up testing.To schedule a test, click <a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=22378331">HERE</a>.&nbsp;For more details, see below or visit the department's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/elliscokshealth/">Facebook page</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630687864202.png" alt="Ellis County Health Department" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County Health Department</figcaption>
 </figure>

Drive-up testing available at Ellis Co. Health Department next week

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,195 to a total of 373,171, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 24 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5,581.

<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.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,195 to a total of 373,171, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 24 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5,581.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630519048780.png" alt="Wednesday Sept. 1, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Sept. 1, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><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.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 4,195 new cases, 24 more COVID deaths

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 32 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.

There have been 248 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,052 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630519071392.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Wednesday reported 32 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Monday.There have been 248 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. As of Wednesday, the KDHE reported 46 percent of eligible residents of Ellis County were fully vaccinated.As of Tuesday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 4,052 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 32 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Monday

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 25 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.

There have been 216 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County in the month of August after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,020 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630342883377.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Monday reported 25 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Friday.There have been 216 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County in the month of August after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Monday, the University of Kansas Health System reported 12 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 4,020 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 25 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Friday; count tops 4,000

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 19 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday. 

There have been 191 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County in the month of August after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.

As of Friday morning, the University of Kansas Health System reported 11 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.

Since reporting began, there have been 3,995 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

<div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 update: Aug. 27, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jyu9c-10c6548-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630090401117.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 19 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday. There have been 191 new COVID-19 cases identified in Ellis County in the month of August after a lull in cases dwindled to near zero in June.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.As of Friday morning, the University of Kansas Health System reported 11 COVID-19 inpatients at HaysMed.Since reporting began, there have been 3,995 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 74 coronavirus-related deaths.

🎙KDHE: 19 COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday; Kennedy on case uptick

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Ellis County ranks in the top half — No. 47 — of the state's 105 counties for vaccination rates.

According to the KDHE, as of Wednesday, the vaccination rate in Ellis County was 45 percent.

However, Ellis County ranks in the bottom half in terms of cases — No. 55.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f8d23be-8617-406a-b060-c1c358d43a00">RELATED:&nbsp;HaysMed chief medical officer discusses state of COVID spike</a>

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Ellis County ranks in the top half — No. 47 — of the state's 105 counties for vaccination rates.According to the KDHE, as of Wednesday, the vaccination rate in Ellis County was 45 percent.However, Ellis County ranks in the bottom half in terms of cases — No. 55.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f8d23be-8617-406a-b060-c1c358d43a00">RELATED:&nbsp;HaysMed chief medical officer discusses state of COVID spike</a><a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.Russell County is near the bottom of the rankings at No. 99, with just a 39 percent vaccination rate.Several northwest Kansas counties, including Trego, Thomas, Sherman and Sheridan, were ranked among the lowest vaccination rates in the state.KDHE will update the vaccination information regularly. Three metrics are reported and ranked across each county:• Full series vaccination rate of eligible population (12+ year olds) • Seven-day daily average number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people • Seven-day daily average number of COVID-19 tests administered per 100,000 people.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001277678.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630001389487.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>

Coronavirus Update