TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 5,853 to a total of 128,594 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,326, an increase of 60

<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 5,853 to a total of 128,594 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,326, an increase of 60<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/2020/11/1605725430339.png" alt="Wednesday Nov. 18, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Nov. 18, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators on Tuesday allowed emergency use of the first rapid coronavirus test that can be <a href="https://www.lucirahealth.com/">performed entirely at home</a> and delivers results in 30 minutes.

The announcement by the Food and Drug Administration represents an important step in U.S. efforts to expand testing options for COVID-19 beyond health care facilities and testing sites. However, the test will require a prescription, likely limiting its initial use.

The FDA granted emergency authorization to the single-use <a href="https://www.lucirahealth.com/">test kit from Lucira Health</a>, a California manufacturer.

The company’s test allows users to swab themselves to collect a nasal sample. The sample is then swirled in a vial of laboratory solution that plugs into a portable device. Results are displayed as lights labeled positive or negative.

To date, the FDA has authorized nearly 300 tests for coronavirus. The vast majority require a nasal swab performed by a health professional and must be processed at laboratories using high-tech equipment. A handful of tests allow people to collect their own sample at home — a nasal swab or saliva — that’s then shipped to a lab, which usually means waiting days for results.

Health experts have called for options to allow people to test themselves at home, reducing turnaround times and the potential spread of the virus to others, including health care workers. Rapid test results are critical to quickly quarantining those who are infected and tracing their contacts. But for months, U.S. testing has been plagued by slow results due to bottlenecks as testing laboratories. There are other rapid tests but most require a small, special machine operated by a health professional to develop results

“Now, more Americans who may have COVID-19 will be able to take immediate action, based on their results, to protect themselves and those around them,” Dr. Jeff Shuren, director of the FDA’s devices center, said in a statement.

Lucira did not immediately respond to a request for additional details after business hours Tuesday.

The Lucira COVID-19 test grew out of research the company was doing to develop an at-home flu test, according to the company’s website. Lucira adapted its technology to detect COVID-19 after the outbreak.

The test uses technology similar to genetic laboratory-based tests that are the standard tool for COVID-19 screening. That’s different than most rapid tests currently used in the U.S., which look for viral proteins called antigens — not the virus itself.

Anyone that tests positive should isolate and seek care from a health professional, the FDA said in its release. Those who test negative but still have coronavirus symptoms should consult a doctor; a negative result does not rule out COVID-19 infection.

The FDA said Lucira’s test was also authorized for use in doctor’s offices and testing sites. Currently all U.S. testing sites must report results to state and federal health authorities tracking the pandemic. Doctors will be required to report the home test results.

“If the results are not reported back, it may be difficult to figure out what is happening in the community at large,” said Dr. Alberto Gutierrez, former head of the FDA’s testing office, in an interview before the announcement.

More than two dozen companies have been racing for months to develop the first, rapid home-based test for COVID-19. However, the FDA outlined a number of study requirements for manufacturers.

These hurdles have less to do with COVID-19 specifically, and more to do with decades-long concerns about whether people without any medical training can accurately screen themselves and interpret the results.

The FDA has only ever approved one home test for an infectious disease — an HIV test. And even commonplace over-the-counter tests— such as home pregnancy kits — were subject to years of scrutiny before FDA allowed their use in the 1970s.

Experts say that careful approach is warranted for coronavirus.

“I think increased testing closer to patients, including in the home, is the way of the future,” said Dr. Robin Patel of the Mayo Clinic, in an interview before the announcement was made. “But there are considerations that have to be addressed to make sure that this is done in a safe and effective way.”

FDA regulators authorized the new test using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental products during public health crises. In normal times, the FDA requires evidence of safety and effectiveness before clearing a new test. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards.

The FDA release did not disclose the test’s accuracy or the study results that regulators used to make the decision.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605699600232.png" alt="photo courtesy Lucira Health" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Lucira Health</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators on Tuesday allowed emergency use of the first rapid coronavirus test that can be <a href="https://www.lucirahealth.com/">performed entirely at home</a> and delivers results in 30 minutes.The announcement by the Food and Drug Administration represents an important step in U.S. efforts to expand testing options for COVID-19 beyond health care facilities and testing sites. However, the test will require a prescription, likely limiting its initial use.The FDA granted emergency authorization to the single-use <a href="https://www.lucirahealth.com/">test kit from Lucira Health</a>, a California manufacturer.The company’s test allows users to swab themselves to collect a nasal sample. The sample is then swirled in a vial of laboratory solution that plugs into a portable device. Results are displayed as lights labeled positive or negative.To date, the FDA has authorized nearly 300 tests for coronavirus. The vast majority require a nasal swab performed by a health professional and must be processed at laboratories using high-tech equipment. A handful of tests allow people to collect their own sample at home — a nasal swab or saliva — that’s then shipped to a lab, which usually means waiting days for results.Health experts have called for options to allow people to test themselves at home, reducing turnaround times and the potential spread of the virus to others, including health care workers. Rapid test results are critical to quickly quarantining those who are infected and tracing their contacts. But for months, U.S. testing has been plagued by slow results due to bottlenecks as testing laboratories. There are other rapid tests but most require a small, special machine operated by a health professional to develop results“Now, more Americans who may have COVID-19 will be able to take immediate action, based on their results, to protect themselves and those around them,” Dr. Jeff Shuren, director of the FDA’s devices center, said in a statement.Lucira did not immediately respond to a request for additional details after business hours Tuesday.The Lucira COVID-19 test grew out of research the company was doing to develop an at-home flu test, according to the company’s website. Lucira adapted its technology to detect COVID-19 after the outbreak.The test uses technology similar to genetic laboratory-based tests that are the standard tool for COVID-19 screening. That’s different than most rapid tests currently used in the U.S., which look for viral proteins called antigens — not the virus itself.Anyone that tests positive should isolate and seek care from a health professional, the FDA said in its release. Those who test negative but still have coronavirus symptoms should consult a doctor; a negative result does not rule out COVID-19 infection.The FDA said Lucira’s test was also authorized for use in doctor’s offices and testing sites. Currently all U.S. testing sites must report results to state and federal health authorities tracking the pandemic. Doctors will be required to report the home test results.“If the results are not reported back, it may be difficult to figure out what is happening in the community at large,” said Dr. Alberto Gutierrez, former head of the FDA’s testing office, in an interview before the announcement.More than two dozen companies have been racing for months to develop the first, rapid home-based test for COVID-19. However, the FDA outlined a number of study requirements for manufacturers.These hurdles have less to do with COVID-19 specifically, and more to do with decades-long concerns about whether people without any medical training can accurately screen themselves and interpret the results.The FDA has only ever approved one home test for an infectious disease — an HIV test. And even commonplace over-the-counter tests— such as home pregnancy kits — were subject to years of scrutiny before FDA allowed their use in the 1970s.Experts say that careful approach is warranted for coronavirus.“I think increased testing closer to patients, including in the home, is the way of the future,” said Dr. Robin Patel of the Mayo Clinic, in an interview before the announcement was made. “But there are considerations that have to be addressed to make sure that this is done in a safe and effective way.”FDA regulators authorized the new test using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental products during public health crises. In normal times, the FDA requires evidence of safety and effectiveness before clearing a new test. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards.The FDA release did not disclose the test’s accuracy or the study results that regulators used to make the decision.___

FDA allows 1st rapid virus test that gives results at home

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Public health officials in two of Kansas’ most populous counties on Thursday tightened restrictions on gatherings, and public schools in the state’s capital city scrapped at least two weeks of in-person classes in favor online learning amid a statewide surge in coronavirus cases.

In Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, gatherings will be limited to 10 people whether they are held indoors or outdoors, starting Friday. An order from Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, dropped the limits from 25 for indoor gatherings and 45 for outdoor gatherings, said bars and restaurants that can hold 100 or more people must operate at 50% of their capacities, and said bars must close at 11 p.m. every day, rather than remaining open until midnight four nights a week.

The limit on gatherings also will drop Friday to 15 from 45 in neighboring Douglas County, home to the main University of Kansas campus under an order issued by the county health officer, Dr. Thomas Marcellino.

With their orders, at least seven of the state’s 105 counties have issued more restrictive rules this week. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly issued an order requiring people statewide to wear masks in public, but state law allows counties to opt out, and most still have. Shawnee County is one of fewer than 30 with a mask mandate.

“The exponential rise in cases has been due to both small and large gatherings across the board,” said Craig Barnes, a Shawnee County Health Department spokesman. “We’re trying to, with this order, minimize the opportunities in the areas where people can congregate in small settings, especially indoor small settings.”

Kansas had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-kansas-topeka-3cf7f250ce53ff022500a2554ba515d0">a record daily average</a>&nbsp;of 2,430 new confirmed and probable cases during the seven days that ended Wednesday, according state Department of Health and Environment data. The state also averaged a record 38 new COVID-19-related hospitalizations per day during that period, along with 18 new deaths a day.

Kansas has had more than 109,000 coronavirus cases, 4,200 hospitalizations and 1,200 deaths since the pandemic reached the state in early March, according to the health department.

The Topeka public school district, with about 13,000 students and 2,400 staff, announced that it would suspend in-person classes for at least two weeks, starting Monday. The district, one of the largest in the state, had students splitting four days a week between in-person and online classes, with online classes Wednesdays.

The district has reported 36 students and 25 staff members testing positive for coronavirus, but officials said the bigger issue is others being forced to quarantine because of potential exposures to the virus outside school. While some teachers can cover others’ classes, it cuts into their planning time, and it’s becoming harder to find outside substitutes because of the pandemic, said Rebecca Morrisey, Topeka High School’s principal.

“Most of our subs tend to be retired, and they have — many of them — been a little bit apprehensive about coming into the buildings,” she said. “It is a real challenge to cover classes.”

Public health officials blame the big surge in coronavirus cases on people being lax about wearing masks in public and still attending gatherings, including private family ones, such as birthday parties, baby showers and even informal get-togethers. They’re worried that the state will see an even larger spike in cases after Thanksgiving.

The chairman of the Republican Party in Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, confirmed in a Facebook post Thursday that at least one person attending its election night victory party tested positive for coronavirus. Public health officials have expressed concerns about the possibility of an outbreak from a similar GOP election night party in Topeka, attended by about 100 people, including U.S. Sen.-elect Roger Marshall.

Meanwhile, University of Kansas Health System doctors said during a morning video briefing that they’re working to see which patients can safely delay surgeries,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/covid-19-impact-university-of-kansas-health-system-beginning-to-delay-small-number-of-surgeries/34657404" target="_blank">KMBC-TV reports.</a>&nbsp;Hospitals in other parts of the state are stressed as well, most notably in south-central Kansas, which is home to the state’s largest city, Wichita.

In Finney County, in southwestern Kansas, the county seat of Garden City approved a mask mandate Wednesday, but the county has no plans to follow suit,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2020/11/12/garden-city-requires-masks-finney-county-doesnt/" target="_blank">KWCH-TV reported.&nbsp;</a>Finney County Commission Chairman Duane Drees said in a statement Thursday that the city’s decision was “appropriate and reasonable,” but county commissioners believe in letting those more-local officials make such decisions.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Public health officials in two of Kansas’ most populous counties on Thursday tightened restrictions on gatherings, and public schools in the state’s capital city scrapped at least two weeks of in-person classes in favor online learning amid a statewide surge in coronavirus cases.In Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, gatherings will be limited to 10 people whether they are held indoors or outdoors, starting Friday. An order from Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, dropped the limits from 25 for indoor gatherings and 45 for outdoor gatherings, said bars and restaurants that can hold 100 or more people must operate at 50% of their capacities, and said bars must close at 11 p.m. every day, rather than remaining open until midnight four nights a week.The limit on gatherings also will drop Friday to 15 from 45 in neighboring Douglas County, home to the main University of Kansas campus under an order issued by the county health officer, Dr. Thomas Marcellino.With their orders, at least seven of the state’s 105 counties have issued more restrictive rules this week. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly issued an order requiring people statewide to wear masks in public, but state law allows counties to opt out, and most still have. Shawnee County is one of fewer than 30 with a mask mandate.“The exponential rise in cases has been due to both small and large gatherings across the board,” said Craig Barnes, a Shawnee County Health Department spokesman. “We’re trying to, with this order, minimize the opportunities in the areas where people can congregate in small settings, especially indoor small settings.”Kansas had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-kansas-topeka-3cf7f250ce53ff022500a2554ba515d0">a record daily average</a>&nbsp;of 2,430 new confirmed and probable cases during the seven days that ended Wednesday, according state Department of Health and Environment data. The state also averaged a record 38 new COVID-19-related hospitalizations per day during that period, along with 18 new deaths a day.Kansas has had more than 109,000 coronavirus cases, 4,200 hospitalizations and 1,200 deaths since the pandemic reached the state in early March, according to the health department.The Topeka public school district, with about 13,000 students and 2,400 staff, announced that it would suspend in-person classes for at least two weeks, starting Monday. The district, one of the largest in the state, had students splitting four days a week between in-person and online classes, with online classes Wednesdays.The district has reported 36 students and 25 staff members testing positive for coronavirus, but officials said the bigger issue is others being forced to quarantine because of potential exposures to the virus outside school. While some teachers can cover others’ classes, it cuts into their planning time, and it’s becoming harder to find outside substitutes because of the pandemic, said Rebecca Morrisey, Topeka High School’s principal.“Most of our subs tend to be retired, and they have — many of them — been a little bit apprehensive about coming into the buildings,” she said. “It is a real challenge to cover classes.”Public health officials blame the big surge in coronavirus cases on people being lax about wearing masks in public and still attending gatherings, including private family ones, such as birthday parties, baby showers and even informal get-togethers. They’re worried that the state will see an even larger spike in cases after Thanksgiving.The chairman of the Republican Party in Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, confirmed in a Facebook post Thursday that at least one person attending its election night victory party tested positive for coronavirus. Public health officials have expressed concerns about the possibility of an outbreak from a similar GOP election night party in Topeka, attended by about 100 people, including U.S. Sen.-elect Roger Marshall.Meanwhile, University of Kansas Health System doctors said during a morning video briefing that they’re working to see which patients can safely delay surgeries,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/covid-19-impact-university-of-kansas-health-system-beginning-to-delay-small-number-of-surgeries/34657404" target="_blank">KMBC-TV reports.</a>&nbsp;Hospitals in other parts of the state are stressed as well, most notably in south-central Kansas, which is home to the state’s largest city, Wichita.In Finney County, in southwestern Kansas, the county seat of Garden City approved a mask mandate Wednesday, but the county has no plans to follow suit,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2020/11/12/garden-city-requires-masks-finney-county-doesnt/" target="_blank">KWCH-TV reported.&nbsp;</a>Finney County Commission Chairman Duane Drees said in a statement Thursday that the city’s decision was “appropriate and reasonable,” but county commissioners believe in letting those more-local officials make such decisions.

Kansas counties tighten COVID rules; more schools online

Barton County continues to experience rising numbers of Covid-19 cases. Over the course of the past two days, the Health Department has been notified of in excess of 100 individuals testing positive for COVID-19. Due to this large increase, and the 4 to 5 hours required to trace each case, the Health Department does not have the resources to contact trace every case on the day it is received. 

Barton County has added two full-time nurses and two contract part time nurses to assist during this pandemic, as well as volunteers from other county departments. Therefore, if you were tested at the Health Department, Barton County will notify you of your test results. If you were tested at another facility, that facility should notify you of your test results. 

Regardless of who contacts you, any individual that has received a positive COVID-19 test result should remain in isolation for 10 days or 72 hours without a fever, whichever is longer, after the onset of symptoms. It is recommended that close contacts of the positive case, including affected household members, quarantine immediately.

Isolation and recommended quarantine orders will continue to be generated and delivered as timely as possible.

If you have any questions regarding an order please email COVID19@bartoncounty.org and someone will respond as soon as possible, or visit the KDHE COVID-19 website for the latest guidance. Please do not call the health department regarding orders as the phone call overload makes it impossible to respond in a timely manner. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.

Social distancing and infection control measures continue to be encouraged.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605023393813.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From Barton County...Barton County continues to experience rising numbers of Covid-19 cases. Over the course of the past two days, the Health Department has been notified of in excess of 100 individuals testing positive for COVID-19. Due to this large increase, and the 4 to 5 hours required to trace each case, the Health Department does not have the resources to contact trace every case on the day it is received. Barton County has added two full-time nurses and two contract part time nurses to assist during this pandemic, as well as volunteers from other county departments. Therefore, if you were tested at the Health Department, Barton County will notify you of your test results. If you were tested at another facility, that facility should notify you of your test results. Regardless of who contacts you, any individual that has received a positive COVID-19 test result should remain in isolation for 10 days or 72 hours without a fever, whichever is longer, after the onset of symptoms. It is recommended that close contacts of the positive case, including affected household members, quarantine immediately.Isolation and recommended quarantine orders will continue to be generated and delivered as timely as possible.If you have any questions regarding an order please email COVID19@bartoncounty.org and someone will respond as soon as possible, or visit the KDHE COVID-19 website for the latest guidance. Please do not call the health department regarding orders as the phone call overload makes it impossible to respond in a timely manner. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911.Social distancing and infection control measures continue to be encouraged.

Barton County continues to see rising numbers of COVID-19 cases

Barton County coronavirus update: 312 active cases

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605028876196.png" alt="The County reports 128 new cases since the last update on&nbsp; Friday, November 5, 2020.&nbsp; After receiving the required documentation, also reported are 5 additional confirmed deaths associated with COVID-19." />
 <figcaption>The County reports 128 new cases since the last update on&nbsp; Friday, November 5, 2020.&nbsp; After receiving the required documentation, also reported are 5 additional confirmed deaths associated with COVID-19.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Barton County reports 5 additional deaths associated with COVID-19

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials have allowed emergency use of the first antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19, an experimental approach against the virus that has killed more than 238,000 Americans.

The Food and Drug Administration on Monday cleared the experimental <a href="https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-neutralizing-antibody-bamlanivimab-ly-cov555-receives-fda">drug from Eli Lilly</a> for people 12 and older with mild or moderate COVID-19 not requiring hospitalization. It’s a one-time treatment given through an IV.

The therapy is still undergoing additional testing to establish its safety and effectiveness. It is similar to a treatment President Donald Trump received after contracting the virus last month.

Lilly’s studies of the antibody drug are continuing. Early results suggest it may help clear the coronavirus sooner and possibly cut hospitalizations in people with mild to moderate COVID-19. A study of it in hospitalized patients was stopped when independent monitors saw the drug did not seem to be helping in that situation.

The government previously reached an agreement to buy and supply much of the early production of Lilly’s drug.

Only one drug -- Gilead Sciences’ remdesivir -- has full FDA approval for treating COVID-19. Government treatment guidelines also back using dexamethasone and other steroids for certain severely ill, hospitalized patients.

One other treatment has an emergency use designation now — convalescent plasma, or the blood of COVID-19 survivors. No large studies have shown it to be more effective than usual care alone, however.

The new drug is part of an emerging family of biologic therapies that offer a promising new approach to preventing serious disease and death from COVID-19. Experts say the infused drugs could serve as a therapeutic bridge to help manage the virus until vaccines are widely available.

The drugs are laboratory-made versions of antibodies, blood proteins which the body creates to help target and eliminate foreign infections. The new therapies are concentrated versions of the antibodies that proved most effective against the virus in patient studies.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. also has asked for emergency authorization for an antibody drug it is testing, the one Trump received.

FDA regulators authorized the Lilly drug using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental drugs and other medical products during public health crises.

In normal times the FDA requires “substantial evidence” to show that a drug is safe and effective, usually through one or more large, rigorously controlled patient studies. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards and require only that an experimental treatment’s potential benefits outweigh its risks.

The emergency authorization functions like a temporary approval for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. To win full approval, Lilly will have to submit additional research to fully define the drug’s safety and benefit for patients.

The government has signed an agreement with Lilly to spend $375 million to buy 300,000 vials of the drug. How many doses that would provide is unclear. Each vial contains 70 milligrams and that dose proved ineffective in the early results. It took four times that amount — 2,800 milligrams — to show any effect.

The Lilly drug is authorized for people 12 and older who weigh at least 40 kilograms (about 88 pounds), and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. This includes those who are 65 years of age or older, or who have certain chronic medical conditions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604973355245.png" alt="Photo courtesy Eli Lilly" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Eli Lilly</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health officials have allowed emergency use of the first antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19, an experimental approach against the virus that has killed more than 238,000 Americans.The Food and Drug Administration on Monday cleared the experimental <a href="https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-neutralizing-antibody-bamlanivimab-ly-cov555-receives-fda">drug from Eli Lilly</a> for people 12 and older with mild or moderate COVID-19 not requiring hospitalization. It’s a one-time treatment given through an IV.The therapy is still undergoing additional testing to establish its safety and effectiveness. It is similar to a treatment President Donald Trump received after contracting the virus last month.Lilly’s studies of the antibody drug are continuing. Early results suggest it may help clear the coronavirus sooner and possibly cut hospitalizations in people with mild to moderate COVID-19. A study of it in hospitalized patients was stopped when independent monitors saw the drug did not seem to be helping in that situation.The government previously reached an agreement to buy and supply much of the early production of Lilly’s drug.Only one drug -- Gilead Sciences’ remdesivir -- has full FDA approval for treating COVID-19. Government treatment guidelines also back using dexamethasone and other steroids for certain severely ill, hospitalized patients.One other treatment has an emergency use designation now — convalescent plasma, or the blood of COVID-19 survivors. No large studies have shown it to be more effective than usual care alone, however.The new drug is part of an emerging family of biologic therapies that offer a promising new approach to preventing serious disease and death from COVID-19. Experts say the infused drugs could serve as a therapeutic bridge to help manage the virus until vaccines are widely available.The drugs are laboratory-made versions of antibodies, blood proteins which the body creates to help target and eliminate foreign infections. The new therapies are concentrated versions of the antibodies that proved most effective against the virus in patient studies.Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. also has asked for emergency authorization for an antibody drug it is testing, the one Trump received.FDA regulators authorized the Lilly drug using their emergency powers to quickly speed the availability of experimental drugs and other medical products during public health crises.In normal times the FDA requires “substantial evidence” to show that a drug is safe and effective, usually through one or more large, rigorously controlled patient studies. But during public health emergencies the agency can lower those standards and require only that an experimental treatment’s potential benefits outweigh its risks.The emergency authorization functions like a temporary approval for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. To win full approval, Lilly will have to submit additional research to fully define the drug’s safety and benefit for patients.The government has signed an agreement with Lilly to spend $375 million to buy 300,000 vials of the drug. How many doses that would provide is unclear. Each vial contains 70 milligrams and that dose proved ineffective in the early results. It took four times that amount — 2,800 milligrams — to show any effect.The Lilly drug is authorized for people 12 and older who weigh at least 40 kilograms (about 88 pounds), and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. This includes those who are 65 years of age or older, or who have certain chronic medical conditions.___

US allows 1st emergency use of a COVID-19 antibody drug

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/06/hospitals-near-breaking-point-as-covid-19-patients-multiply/">Kansas Reflector</a>

As Steve Stites, the chief
 medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, tried to 
get the message out Friday that hospital resources are more scarce than 
previously thought, he began to pound his desk.

Kansas City area hospitals
 are approaching the point where they will have to choose they provide 
care to, he said, because there isn’t enough staff to care for the 
continuously rising number of COVID-19 patients. Hospitals have had to 
refuse transfers of COVID-19 patients from the state’s rural areas, he 
said, which also have run out of space.

“At our institution, now, 
COVID is the leading admission diagnosis,” Stites said. “I mean, a year 
ago, there was nothing. And now it is the leading reason to come in the 
hospital.”

He began to emphasis his 
words with the drumming of his fist: “Not cancer, not heart attack, not 
heart failure, not COPD or emphysema. The No. 1 reason is COVID. Well, 
that’s a big change for us. And we’re headed right smack into the cold 
and other flu season, etc. We know this is always when hospital capacity
 is stretched. It’s not unusual for us to be full this time of the year.
 But now we’ve got 10 to 15% more patients from just one disease.”

Health officials from 
private and public entities, local and state, have struggled for months 
to get more of the public to take preventative measures seriously. The 
consequences are dire.

The Kansas Department for 
Health and Environment on Friday said 79 deaths and 5,418 new infections
 had been reported since its last update, two days ago.

KDHE’s online dashboard 
shows 33% of intensive care unit beds remain available across the state,
 including 36% in Kansas City. But health officials say the actual 
number of available beds is much lower because hospitals lack the staff 
to care for more patients.

At one point this week, 
there were 32 empty ICU beds at 11 Kansas City area hospitals, but KU 
Health said the number that could actually be staffed was just 22. 
Stites said within the KU Health System there were 277 patients 
hospitalized for COVID-19 as of Monday. By Friday, the number was 318 
“and climbing.”

Hospital officials are 
looking to delay surgeries and extend workloads for nurses in 
anticipation that the pandemic will continue to get exponentially worse.

David Wild, vice president
 of performance improvement for KU Health, said it wasn’t clear how long
 it would take before hospitals no longer have the resources to treat 
new patients.

“Is it tomorrow? No, I don’t think so,” Wild said. “Could it be? Well, maybe. But it’s more likely weeks.”

In a separate briefing, 
Shawnee County health officials sounded similar alarms about 
overstressed hospitals and uncontrolled community transmission of 
COVID-19.

Gianfranco Pezzino, the 
Shawnee County health officer, said the past two weeks have been the 
worst of the pandemic to date. Last week, the county saw a 70.4% 
increase in cases and the percent that tested positive nearly doubled, 
from 5.4% to 10.7%, exceeding all previous marks. There were so many new
 cases, health officials are unable to do contact tracing for some of 
them. Of the new infections, health officials have no idea how 82% 
acquired their infections.

Topeka hospitals were at 81.7% capacity, Pezzino said, but actual space was far less because of staffing limitations.

“I can tell you today 
there was a hospital with only one ICU bed available,” Pezzino said. “I 
don’t know you, but that gives me chills. It’s just like being one car 
wreck away on I-70 from a major crisis, because you don’t have ICU beds 
or acute care beds to put patients.”

He stressed the importance
 to consider not just mass gatherings but a multitude of other ways the 
virus is commonly spread: sleepovers, birthday parties, weddings, 
funerals, Halloween, family reunions, tailgate parties, car shows, 
business meetings, trade conventions, sports events.

“You get the idea,” he 
said. “Every situation that brings two or three people, or you know a 
certain number of people, together is a risk for the transmission.”

He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers continue to get worse, and that “it doesn’t need to be like this.”

“It will depend in large 
part, once again, on the extent to which his community and its leaders 
are willing to make some more sacrifices now to prevent more problems in
 the future,” Pezzino said.

Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604690551401.png" alt="Steve Stites, the chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, says the number of COVID-19 patients who need to be hospitalized has increased exponentially, putting hospitals in the Kansas City area in danger of not being able to treat patients. (Screenshot from virtual news briefing/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Steve Stites, the chief medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, says the number of COVID-19 patients who need to be hospitalized has increased exponentially, putting hospitals in the Kansas City area in danger of not being able to treat patients. (Screenshot from virtual news briefing/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/06/hospitals-near-breaking-point-as-covid-19-patients-multiply/">Kansas Reflector</a>As Steve Stites, the chief
 medical officer for the University of Kansas Health System, tried to 
get the message out Friday that hospital resources are more scarce than 
previously thought, he began to pound his desk.Kansas City area hospitals
 are approaching the point where they will have to choose they provide 
care to, he said, because there isn’t enough staff to care for the 
continuously rising number of COVID-19 patients. Hospitals have had to 
refuse transfers of COVID-19 patients from the state’s rural areas, he 
said, which also have run out of space.“At our institution, now, 
COVID is the leading admission diagnosis,” Stites said. “I mean, a year 
ago, there was nothing. And now it is the leading reason to come in the 
hospital.”He began to emphasis his 
words with the drumming of his fist: “Not cancer, not heart attack, not 
heart failure, not COPD or emphysema. The No. 1 reason is COVID. Well, 
that’s a big change for us. And we’re headed right smack into the cold 
and other flu season, etc. We know this is always when hospital capacity
 is stretched. It’s not unusual for us to be full this time of the year.
 But now we’ve got 10 to 15% more patients from just one disease.”Health officials from 
private and public entities, local and state, have struggled for months 
to get more of the public to take preventative measures seriously. The 
consequences are dire.The Kansas Department for 
Health and Environment on Friday said 79 deaths and 5,418 new infections
 had been reported since its last update, two days ago.KDHE’s online dashboard 
shows 33% of intensive care unit beds remain available across the state,
 including 36% in Kansas City. But health officials say the actual 
number of available beds is much lower because hospitals lack the staff 
to care for more patients.At one point this week, 
there were 32 empty ICU beds at 11 Kansas City area hospitals, but KU 
Health said the number that could actually be staffed was just 22. 
Stites said within the KU Health System there were 277 patients 
hospitalized for COVID-19 as of Monday. By Friday, the number was 318 
“and climbing.”Hospital officials are 
looking to delay surgeries and extend workloads for nurses in 
anticipation that the pandemic will continue to get exponentially worse.David Wild, vice president
 of performance improvement for KU Health, said it wasn’t clear how long
 it would take before hospitals no longer have the resources to treat 
new patients.“Is it tomorrow? No, I don’t think so,” Wild said. “Could it be? Well, maybe. But it’s more likely weeks.”In a separate briefing, 
Shawnee County health officials sounded similar alarms about 
overstressed hospitals and uncontrolled community transmission of 
COVID-19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604690610487.png" alt="Gianfranco Pezzino, the Shawnee County health officer, said the potential for the pandemic to worsen depends on the community’s willingness to make some sacrifices. (Screenshot from virtual briefing/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gianfranco Pezzino, the Shawnee County health officer, said the potential for the pandemic to worsen depends on the community’s willingness to make some sacrifices. (Screenshot from virtual briefing/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Gianfranco Pezzino, the 
Shawnee County health officer, said the past two weeks have been the 
worst of the pandemic to date. Last week, the county saw a 70.4% 
increase in cases and the percent that tested positive nearly doubled, 
from 5.4% to 10.7%, exceeding all previous marks. There were so many new
 cases, health officials are unable to do contact tracing for some of 
them. Of the new infections, health officials have no idea how 82% 
acquired their infections.Topeka hospitals were at 81.7% capacity, Pezzino said, but actual space was far less because of staffing limitations.“I can tell you today 
there was a hospital with only one ICU bed available,” Pezzino said. “I 
don’t know you, but that gives me chills. It’s just like being one car 
wreck away on I-70 from a major crisis, because you don’t have ICU beds 
or acute care beds to put patients.”He stressed the importance
 to consider not just mass gatherings but a multitude of other ways the 
virus is commonly spread: sleepovers, birthday parties, weddings, 
funerals, Halloween, family reunions, tailgate parties, car shows, 
business meetings, trade conventions, sports events.“You get the idea,” he 
said. “Every situation that brings two or three people, or you know a 
certain number of people, together is a risk for the transmission.”He said he wouldn’t be surprised if the numbers continue to get worse, and that “it doesn’t need to be like this.”“It will depend in large 
part, once again, on the extent to which his community and its leaders 
are willing to make some more sacrifices now to prevent more problems in
 the future,” Pezzino said.Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.

Kan. hospitals near breaking point as COVID-19 patients multiply

Barton County coronavirus update: 212 active cases

Press release from the Barton County Health Department...

Over the course of the last several days, a serious situation has developed in Barton County concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. The Barton County Health Department, in an effort to inform and warn the general public, feels that a special press release is required to address the situation. 

The Health Department has seen a dramatic increase of positive coronavirus cases. In the last six days, we have recorded 131 positive cases. This is an unprecedented number for Barton County. 

Each case requires investigation and follow-up, further consuming county resources. It is evident the virus has become community spread.

Because of limited personnel and other services provided by our department, it has become evident we will need to streamline some services. We will be limiting outreach services and may be restricting other services such as flu vaccination and other testing services to certain days and times. WIC services will continue as normal. The new schedule of services will be available next Monday afternoon.

As always, the health and safety of the citizens of Barton County is paramount. We are doing our utmost to make efficient use of the resources available. We expect this trend will continue and will deal with the situation as it develops. 

This is a very serious and sometimes deadly virus. We strongly encourage the public to take this pandemic seriously by practicing social distancing and staying home if at all possible. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600896779586.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Press release from the Barton County Health Department...Over the course of the last several days, a serious situation has developed in Barton County concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. The Barton County Health Department, in an effort to inform and warn the general public, feels that a special press release is required to address the situation. The Health Department has seen a dramatic increase of positive coronavirus cases. In the last six days, we have recorded 131 positive cases. This is an unprecedented number for Barton County. Each case requires investigation and follow-up, further consuming county resources. It is evident the virus has become community spread.Because of limited personnel and other services provided by our department, it has become evident we will need to streamline some services. We will be limiting outreach services and may be restricting other services such as flu vaccination and other testing services to certain days and times. WIC services will continue as normal. The new schedule of services will be available next Monday afternoon.As always, the health and safety of the citizens of Barton County is paramount. We are doing our utmost to make efficient use of the resources available. We expect this trend will continue and will deal with the situation as it develops. This is a very serious and sometimes deadly virus. We strongly encourage the public to take this pandemic seriously by practicing social distancing and staying home if at all possible.

Barton County warning citizens of dramatic increase in COVID-19 cases

Barton County coronavirus update: 80 active cases (238 quarantines)

By ANNE CHRISTIANSEN-BULLERS KUMC News

KANSAS CITY - The struggle to breathe is well-documented symptom for those battling COVID-19, so how is the disease best treated for those with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma?

A study to address that question, along with other research related to lung issues, is being supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/" target="_blank">American Lung Association</a>&nbsp;and its research arm, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/airways-clinical-research-centers" target="_blank">Airways Clinical Research Centers Network&nbsp;</a>(ACRC).

The University of Kansas Medical Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/acrc-expands">recently expanded its position&nbsp;</a>in the ACRC from member to consortium hub, which gives KU Medical Center the responsibility to mentor and lead other universities in its group.

<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/internal-medicine/clinical-divisions/pulmonary-critical-care-and-sleep-medicine/faculty/mario-castro-md.html" target="_blank">Mario Castro</a>, MD, MPH, division chief for pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will act as principal investigator. He brings this role with him from a previous position at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

The ACRC is the nation's largest not-for-profit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease. Its member centers have advanced research in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

"The ACRC Network is an incredibly valuable resource in pulmonology research," Castro said. "The network has answered some of the most important clinical questions we need to manage our patients with asthma, COPD and chronic cough. Now we are leveraging this expertise to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic."

KU Medical Center will be one of nine hub leaders for the ACRC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/about-our-research/covid19-action-initiative" target="_blank">COVID-19 Action Initiative</a>, a $25 million project from the American Lung Association. The initiative's goals are to:

American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer said the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the importance of ongoing lung disease research championed by the ACRC. "Clinical research allows us to advance scientific knowledge from the lab to the patient's bedside swiftly, directly impacting patient care," he said.

A second major ACRC initiative, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/lung-health-study" target="_blank">Lung Health Cohort Study</a>&nbsp;of millennials (ages 25-35 years old), will examine the effect of environmental exposures on respiratory health in young people. These environmental exposures will include urgent, timely and relevant factors, such as COVID-19 and vaping.

Castro said KU Medical Center is honored to play a role in the initiative, which is funded by a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.

"Often, when we think of breathing problems, we focus on the very young or the very old," Castro said. "The Lung Health Cohort Study provides an opportunity to research exposure risk within a young person's environment, so that all generations can benefit moving forward."

"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence."

Locally, KU Medical Center is teaming up with Children's Mercy Kansas City for a clinical trial to be conducted by the ACRC. The trial, called "Improving&nbsp;Medication&nbsp;Adherence with&nbsp;Telehealthcare Medication Therapy Management to&nbsp;Change&nbsp;Health Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults with Asthma," goes by the acronym MATCH and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Participants will include 300 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-30) who have a difficult time controlling their asthma.

All participants in the clinical trial will receive sensors that attach to their corticosteroid inhalers and a software application for their smartphone or computer.

When the medication is taken, the sensors relay information to the software so the clinical trial participant and the trial administrator can review it. With that data, both can see how well the participant is sticking to the medication plan.

Some participants will get extra support to adhere to their medication plan. In addition to the sensors and software, these participants will have video consultations with a pharmacist trained in medication therapy management. These telehealth visits will offer the participant periodic feedback and encouragement.

The clinical trial will measure which group has fewer asthma flare-ups. It also will figure out the cost-benefit analysis of the telehealth consultations.

"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence," Castro said. "Being able to test that hypothesis as well as measure its costs - especially against the costs associated with an emergency-room visit or hospitalization - could provide insight into a new approach to this common chronic disease, especially in these days of the pandemic where telehealth provides definite advantages to patient care."

In April 2020, the number of member institutions within ACRC nearly doubled, from 22 sites to 39. Universities within the current KU Medical Center consortium hub include the university itself as well as:

"As our nation faces the COVID-19 public health crisis, this framework of the ACRC is needed today more than ever," ALA's Wimmer said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603750350464.jpeg" alt="The University of Kansas Medical Center will take a leadership role in the Airways Clinical Research Centers Network (ACRC), the research arm of the American Lung Association." />
 <figcaption>The University of Kansas Medical Center will take a leadership role in the Airways Clinical Research Centers Network (ACRC), the research arm of the American Lung Association.</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANNE CHRISTIANSEN-BULLERS KUMC NewsKANSAS CITY - The struggle to breathe is well-documented symptom for those battling COVID-19, so how is the disease best treated for those with existing respiratory problems, such as asthma?A study to address that question, along with other research related to lung issues, is being supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/" target="_blank">American Lung Association</a>&nbsp;and its research arm, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/airways-clinical-research-centers" target="_blank">Airways Clinical Research Centers Network&nbsp;</a>(ACRC).The University of Kansas Medical Center&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/media/press-releases/acrc-expands">recently expanded its position&nbsp;</a>in the ACRC from member to consortium hub, which gives KU Medical Center the responsibility to mentor and lead other universities in its group.<h2>Importance of ACRC Network</h2><a href="http://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/internal-medicine/clinical-divisions/pulmonary-critical-care-and-sleep-medicine/faculty/mario-castro-md.html" target="_blank">Mario Castro</a>, MD, MPH, division chief for pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, will act as principal investigator. He brings this role with him from a previous position at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.The ACRC is the nation's largest not-for-profit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease. Its member centers have advanced research in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."The ACRC Network is an incredibly valuable resource in pulmonology research," Castro said. "The network has answered some of the most important clinical questions we need to manage our patients with asthma, COPD and chronic cough. Now we are leveraging this expertise to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic."<h2>COVID-19 Action Initiative</h2>KU Medical Center will be one of nine hub leaders for the ACRC's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/research/about-our-research/covid19-action-initiative" target="_blank">COVID-19 Action Initiative</a>, a $25 million project from the American Lung Association. The initiative's goals are to:<ul>
 <li>Expand respiratory research</li><li>Fund grants for coronavirus vaccines and other prevention measures</li><li>Provide additional grants for research evaluating the effects of COVID-19 on patients with chronic lung disease</li><li>Enhance key public health measures through education and advocacy</li>
 </ul>American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer said the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the importance of ongoing lung disease research championed by the ACRC. "Clinical research allows us to advance scientific knowledge from the lab to the patient's bedside swiftly, directly impacting patient care," he said.<h2>Millennial Lung Health Cohort Study</h2>A second major ACRC initiative, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lung.org/blog/lung-health-study" target="_blank">Lung Health Cohort Study</a>&nbsp;of millennials (ages 25-35 years old), will examine the effect of environmental exposures on respiratory health in young people. These environmental exposures will include urgent, timely and relevant factors, such as COVID-19 and vaping.Castro said KU Medical Center is honored to play a role in the initiative, which is funded by a $24.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health."Often, when we think of breathing problems, we focus on the very young or the very old," Castro said. "The Lung Health Cohort Study provides an opportunity to research exposure risk within a young person's environment, so that all generations can benefit moving forward."<h2>Clinical trial for those with asthma</h2><figure>
 <img src="http://www.kumc.edu/Images/news/Castro,%20M%20Pulmonary%20Disease.jpg" alt="Mario Castro" />
 <figcaption>Mario Castro</figcaption>
 </figure>"We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence."Locally, KU Medical Center is teaming up with Children's Mercy Kansas City for a clinical trial to be conducted by the ACRC. The trial, called "Improving&nbsp;Medication&nbsp;Adherence with&nbsp;Telehealthcare Medication Therapy Management to&nbsp;Change&nbsp;Health Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults with Asthma," goes by the acronym MATCH and is funded by the National Institutes of Health.Participants will include 300 adolescents and young adults (ages 14-30) who have a difficult time controlling their asthma.All participants in the clinical trial will receive sensors that attach to their corticosteroid inhalers and a software application for their smartphone or computer.When the medication is taken, the sensors relay information to the software so the clinical trial participant and the trial administrator can review it. With that data, both can see how well the participant is sticking to the medication plan.Some participants will get extra support to adhere to their medication plan. In addition to the sensors and software, these participants will have video consultations with a pharmacist trained in medication therapy management. These telehealth visits will offer the participant periodic feedback and encouragement.The clinical trial will measure which group has fewer asthma flare-ups. It also will figure out the cost-benefit analysis of the telehealth consultations."We hypothesize that the telehealth visits will reduce asthma attacks and lead to better medication adherence," Castro said. "Being able to test that hypothesis as well as measure its costs - especially against the costs associated with an emergency-room visit or hospitalization - could provide insight into a new approach to this common chronic disease, especially in these days of the pandemic where telehealth provides definite advantages to patient care."<h2>About the ACRC expansion</h2>In April 2020, the number of member institutions within ACRC nearly doubled, from 22 sites to 39. Universities within the current KU Medical Center consortium hub include the university itself as well as:<ul>
 <li>Vanderbilt University</li><li>University of Wisconsin-Madison</li><li>Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina</li>
 </ul>"As our nation faces the COVID-19 public health crisis, this framework of the ACRC is needed today more than ever," ALA's Wimmer said.

KUMC selected for COVID-19, lung health research

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

TOPEKA—The State Finance Council (SFC) Thursday unanimously approved investing up to $45 million more in COVID-19 testing across Kansas and to provide $20 million more for small businesses, according to a media release from the governor's office. “Today’s actions will bolster our Unified Testing Strategy and allow us to provide up to one million COVID-19 tests by the end of the year,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“I want to thank the State Finance Council for supporting the health priorities of our state and increasing funds for small businesses, which are essential for our economic recovery.” The $65 million approved today is from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF), which is part of the federal CARES Act. After receiving proposals from public and private labs across the state, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment determined it could invest up to $95 million to implement its unified testing strategy. Previously, SFC had authorized $50 million for COVID-19 testing, and with today’s actions, the Office of Recovery will have the ability to invest up to $95 million in testing. SFC approved an additional $20 million for small business grants. About $35 million has already been awarded in small business grants. Additionally, SFC approved providing the Office of Recovery the authority to redistribute any unused funds among previously approved programs. The CRF requires funds to be used by the December 30, 2020 deadline. The Office of Recovery oversees all the CRF programs and will shift dollars from program to program based on need, demand, and the ability to implement by the deadline. “With only 39 working days remaining before December 30, we need a dynamic approach, and I want to thank State Finance Council for providing us the flexibility to deliver timely investments to Kansans,”&nbsp;Executive Director Julie Lorenz said.&nbsp;“We know our state’s needs exceed the funds available, and we’re committed to leveraging these dollars to help as many Kansans as we can.” Approximately $25 million of the CRF remains in reserve. SFC will meet again next month to approve the final investments.

$65M approved for more COVID-19 testing in Kansas

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 3,369 to a total of 82,045 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1007, an increase of&nbsp; 31.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 3,369 to a total of 82,045 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1007, an increase of&nbsp; 31.<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/2020/10/1603905113410.png" alt="Wednesday Oct. 28, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Oct. 28, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicare will cover the yet-to-be approved coronavirus vaccine free for older people under a policy change expected to be announced shortly, a senior Trump administration official said Tuesday.

The coming announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aims to align the time-consuming process for securing Medicare coverage of a new vaccine, drug or treatment with the rapid campaign to have a coronavirus vaccine ready for initial distribution once it is ready, possibly as early as the end of the year.

It’s questionable under normal circumstances if Medicare can pay for a drug that receives emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, as expected for the eventual coronavirus vaccine. Emergency use designation is a step short of full approval.

The administration official said Medicare’s announcement will try to resolve several legal technicalities that could conceivably get in the way of delivering free vaccines to millions of seniors, a high-risk group for COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The official spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss a pending regulation.

President Donald Trump and lawmakers of both parties in Congress have spelled out their intention that all Americans will be able to get the vaccine for free. But the official said a series of potential legal obstacles that could get in the way of Medicare payment never got unscrambled.

Earlier this month, Medicare administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/seema-verma">Seema Verma</a>&nbsp;said her agency was close to resolving the issue.

“I think we’ve figured out a path forward,” Verma said at the HLTH conference, a forum for innovators. “It was very clear that Congress wants to make sure that Medicare beneficiaries have this vaccine and that there isn’t any cost-sharing.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3988cd848c818b3e7317df306b926cc">$1.8 trillion CARES Act</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress in March called for free vaccination for all Americans, from seniors covered by Medicare to families with employer-sponsored health insurance.

A White House-backed initiative called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/756e5b743058701c4a2ebefd0af1ade4">“Operation Warp Speed”</a>&nbsp;is pushing to have a vaccine ready for distribution in the coming months. The government is spending billions of dollars to manufacture vaccines even before they receive FDA approval, thereby cutting the timeline for delivery. Officials at the FDA have committed that the program will not interfere with their own science-based decisions. Vaccines that don’t meet the test for approval would be discarded.

States have already begun submitting their plans for vaccine distribution to the federal government.

Initially, it’s expected vaccines will go to people in high-risk groups such as medical personnel, frontline workers and nursing home residents and staff. Older people are also high on the priority list because their risks of serious illness and death from the coronavirus — which has&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html" target="_blank">killed more than 225,000 people</a>&nbsp;in the United States — are much higher. It could be well into next year before a vaccine is widely available.

Medicare’s impending announcement was first reported by Politico.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Medicare will cover the yet-to-be approved coronavirus vaccine free for older people under a policy change expected to be announced shortly, a senior Trump administration official said Tuesday.The coming announcement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services aims to align the time-consuming process for securing Medicare coverage of a new vaccine, drug or treatment with the rapid campaign to have a coronavirus vaccine ready for initial distribution once it is ready, possibly as early as the end of the year.It’s questionable under normal circumstances if Medicare can pay for a drug that receives emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration, as expected for the eventual coronavirus vaccine. Emergency use designation is a step short of full approval.The administration official said Medicare’s announcement will try to resolve several legal technicalities that could conceivably get in the way of delivering free vaccines to millions of seniors, a high-risk group for COVID-19, the disease caused by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The official spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss a pending regulation.President Donald Trump and lawmakers of both parties in Congress have spelled out their intention that all Americans will be able to get the vaccine for free. But the official said a series of potential legal obstacles that could get in the way of Medicare payment never got unscrambled.Earlier this month, Medicare administrator&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/seema-verma">Seema Verma</a>&nbsp;said her agency was close to resolving the issue.“I think we’ve figured out a path forward,” Verma said at the HLTH conference, a forum for innovators. “It was very clear that Congress wants to make sure that Medicare beneficiaries have this vaccine and that there isn’t any cost-sharing.”“Stay tuned,” she added.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3988cd848c818b3e7317df306b926cc">$1.8 trillion CARES Act</a>&nbsp;passed by Congress in March called for free vaccination for all Americans, from seniors covered by Medicare to families with employer-sponsored health insurance.A White House-backed initiative called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/756e5b743058701c4a2ebefd0af1ade4">“Operation Warp Speed”</a>&nbsp;is pushing to have a vaccine ready for distribution in the coming months. The government is spending billions of dollars to manufacture vaccines even before they receive FDA approval, thereby cutting the timeline for delivery. Officials at the FDA have committed that the program will not interfere with their own science-based decisions. Vaccines that don’t meet the test for approval would be discarded.States have already begun submitting their plans for vaccine distribution to the federal government.Initially, it’s expected vaccines will go to people in high-risk groups such as medical personnel, frontline workers and nursing home residents and staff. Older people are also high on the priority list because their risks of serious illness and death from the coronavirus — which has&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html" target="_blank">killed more than 225,000 people</a>&nbsp;in the United States — are much higher. It could be well into next year before a vaccine is widely available.Medicare’s impending announcement was first reported by Politico.

Medicare finalizing coverage policy for coronavirus vaccine

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.

Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.

Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.

&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.

The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.

“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

Kansas City sees record number of virus deaths 

Barton County coronavirus update: 59 active cases

Barton County coronavirus update: 83 cases reported

WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.

The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.

Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.

The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.

“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.

The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.

Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.

Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.

So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603450089080.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. regulators on Thursday approved the first drug to treat COVID-19: remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to hospitalized patients through an IV.The drug, which California-based Gilead Sciences Inc. is calling Veklury, cut the time to recovery by five days — from 15 days to 10 on average — in a large study led by the U.S. National Institutes of Health.It had been authorized for use on an emergency basis since spring, and now becomes the first drug to win full Food and Drug Administration approval for treating COVID-19. President Donald Trump received it when he was sickened earlier this month.Veklury is approved for people at least 12 years old and weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms) who are hospitalized for a coronavirus infection. For patients younger than 12, the FDA will still allow the drug’s use in certain cases under its previous emergency authorization.The drug works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to make copies of itself. Certain kidney and liver tests are required before starting patients on it to ensure it’s safe for them and to monitor for any possible side effects. And the label warns against using it with the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine, because that can curb its effectiveness.“We now have enough knowledge and a growing set of tools to help fight COVID-19,” Gilead’s chief medical officer, Dr. Merdad Parsey, said in a statement.The drug is either approved or has temporary authorization in about 50 countries, he noted.Its price has been controversial, given that no studies have found it improves survival. Last week, a large study led by the World Health Organization found the drug did not help hospitalized COVID-19 patients, but that study did not include a placebo group and was less rigorous than previous ones that found a benefit. The FDA’s approval statement noted that, besides the NIH-led one, two other studies found the drug beneficial.Gilead charges $2,340 for a typical treatment course for people covered by government health programs in the United States and other developed countries, and $3,120 for patients with private insurance. The amount that patients pay out of pocket depends on insurance, income and other factors.So far, only steroids such as dexamethasone have been shown to cut the risk of dying of COVID-19. The FDA also has given emergency authorization to using the blood of survivors, and two companies are currently seeking similar authorization for experimental antibody drugs.___

FDA approves the first drug for treating COVID-19

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.

For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.

The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.

The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.

It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.

The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.

An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.

The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.

In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.

“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.

The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.

The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591480312815.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials Wednesday redefined what counts as close contact with someone with COVID-19 to include briefer but repeated encounters.For months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said close contact meant spending a solid 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for coronavirus. On Wednesday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html" target="_blank">CDC changed&nbsp;</a>it to a total of 15 minutes or more — so shorter but repeated contacts that add up to 15 minutes over a 24-hour period now count.The CDC advises anyone who has been in close contact with a COVID-19 patient to quarantine for two weeks.The change may prompt health departments to do contact tracing in cases where an exposure might previously have been considered too brief, said Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University infectious diseases expert.It also serves notice that the coronavirus can spread more easily than many people realize, he added.The definition change was triggered by a report on that case of a 20-year-old Vermont correctional officer, who was diagnosed with a coronavirus infection in August. The guard, who wore a mask and goggles, had multiple brief encounters with six transferred prisoners before test results showed they were positive. At times, the prisoners wore masks, but there were encounters in cell doorways or in a recreational room where prisoners did not have them on, the report said.An investigation that reviewed video footage concluded the guard’s brief interactions totaled 17 minutes during an 8-hour shift.The report didn’t identify the prison but Vermont officials have said that in late July, six inmates tested positive when they arrived at the Marble Valley Correctional Facility in Rutland.In a statement, CDC officials said the case highlights again the importance of wearing masks to prevent transmission, and that the agency’s guidance can change as new information comes in.“As we get more data and understand this COVID we’re going to continue to incorporate that in our recommendations,” CDC Director Robert Redfield said at a press conference in Atlanta.The CDC also says close contact can include hugging and kissing, sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone infected, and providing home care to someone who is sick. Someone sneezing or coughing on you also counts.The risk of spread is considered to be lower outdoors, but the CDC guidance update “makes scientific sense,” said Dr. Michael Saag, an infectious disease researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.___

CDC redefines COVID-19 close contact, adds brief encounters

Barton County coronavirus update: 70 active cases

Barton County coronavirus update: 147 active cases

By AMY RICKER Great Bend Post

Seven months ago, Barton County received its first official case of COVID-19 on March 30, 2020.&nbsp;As of Oct. 19, the Barton County Health Department has investigated a total of 695 confirmed cases of the virus. There have also been seven deaths attributed to COVID-19 with more deaths pending physician confirmation reported to the Office of Vital Statistics.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

At the Barton County Commissioners Board meeting,&nbsp;Public Health Director, Karen Winkleman says the State of Kansas provides a positivity rate for Barton County and that rate is used in a variety of ways.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It is defined as the number of positive cases, PCR positive in a week’s timeframe.&nbsp; That information is out there, available to the public on the KDHE website.&nbsp;It’s based on laboratory test dates and it’s intended to be used as a guideline for different entities.”&nbsp;

Winkleman says that data is used by long-term-care facilities that are mandated by CMS&nbsp;to determine how often they have to test staff and residents. Schools&nbsp;and communities&nbsp;also use this information for guidance&nbsp;at the rates go up and down to make decisions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I pulled just the last three that were available and in Barton County on Sept. 27, we were at 15.49% positivity.&nbsp;In Kansas, it was 6.37%. A week later we were at 14.97% so that went down slightly&nbsp;and the state went up slightly, 7.51%. On the Oct. 11, which was a week ago, Barton County was at 18.2% and the state of Kansas is at 8.49%.”&nbsp;

Winkleman said&nbsp;that&nbsp;the last local health&nbsp;update from&nbsp;the Kansas Health Department that she participated in was last Friday&nbsp;and there were some minimal indications that there may be some changes in the recommendations of quarantine guidelines this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603127733919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By AMY RICKER Great Bend PostSeven months ago, Barton County received its first official case of COVID-19 on March 30, 2020.&nbsp;As of Oct. 19, the Barton County Health Department has investigated a total of 695 confirmed cases of the virus. There have also been seven deaths attributed to COVID-19 with more deaths pending physician confirmation reported to the Office of Vital Statistics.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the Barton County Commissioners Board meeting,&nbsp;Public Health Director, Karen Winkleman says the State of Kansas provides a positivity rate for Barton County and that rate is used in a variety of ways.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“It is defined as the number of positive cases, PCR positive in a week’s timeframe.&nbsp; That information is out there, available to the public on the KDHE website.&nbsp;It’s based on laboratory test dates and it’s intended to be used as a guideline for different entities.”&nbsp;Winkleman says that data is used by long-term-care facilities that are mandated by CMS&nbsp;to determine how often they have to test staff and residents. Schools&nbsp;and communities&nbsp;also use this information for guidance&nbsp;at the rates go up and down to make decisions.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I pulled just the last three that were available and in Barton County on Sept. 27, we were at 15.49% positivity.&nbsp;In Kansas, it was 6.37%. A week later we were at 14.97% so that went down slightly&nbsp;and the state went up slightly, 7.51%. On the Oct. 11, which was a week ago, Barton County was at 18.2% and the state of Kansas is at 8.49%.”&nbsp;Winkleman said&nbsp;that&nbsp;the last local health&nbsp;update from&nbsp;the Kansas Health Department that she participated in was last Friday&nbsp;and there were some minimal indications that there may be some changes in the recommendations of quarantine guidelines this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Coronavirus Update