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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansasworks makes changes at centers, cancels job fairs

The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed now to donate to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

Individuals can schedule an appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., blood drive cancellations have grown at an alarming rate. To date, nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewer blood donations. More than 80% of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type.

Here in Kansas, 19 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in 728 fewer blood donations. The Red Cross is adding appointment slots at donation centers and expanding capacity at many community blood drives across the country over the next few weeks to ensure ample opportunities for donors to give.

Volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need

The Red Cross expects the number of cancellations to continue to increase, which is causing heightened concern for blood collection organizations and hospitals across the country. This blood shortage could impact patients who need surgery, victims of car accidents and other emergencies, or patients suffering from cancer.

“I am looking at the refrigerator that contains only one day’s supply of blood for the hospital,” said Dr. Robertson Davenport, director of transfusion medicine at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor. “The hospital is full. There are patients who need blood and cannot wait.”

“In our experience, the American public comes together to support those in need during times of shortage and that support is needed now more than ever during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Chris Hrouda, president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Unfortunately, when people stop donating blood, it forces doctors to make hard choices about patient care, which is why we need those who are healthy and well to roll up a sleeve and give the gift of life.”

The Red Cross is committed to blood drive safety

“We know that people want to help, but they may be hesitant to visit a blood drive during this time. We want to assure the public that blood donation is a safe process, and we have put additional precautions in place at our blood drives and donation centers to protect all who come out,” said Hrouda.

The Red Cross has implemented new measures to ensure blood drives and donation centers are even safer for our donors and staff, including:

Checking the temperature of staff and donors before entering a drive to make sure they are healthy.

Providing hand sanitizer for use before the drive, as well as throughout the donation process.

Spacing beds, where possible, to follow social distancing practices between blood donors.

Increasing enhanced disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.

At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees already follow thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including:

Wearing gloves and changing gloves with each donor.

Routinely wiping down donor-touched areas.

Using sterile collection sets for every donation.

Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub.

There is no data or evidence that this coronavirus can be transmitted by blood transfusion, and there have been no reported cases of transfusion transmission for any respiratory virus including this coronavirus worldwide.

“Volunteer donors are the unsung heroes for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. If you are healthy, feeling well and eligible to give, please schedule an appointment to give now,” added Hrouda.

To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed now to donate to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.Individuals can schedule an appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., blood drive cancellations have grown at an alarming rate. To date, nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewer blood donations. More than 80% of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type.Here in Kansas, 19 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in 728 fewer blood donations. The Red Cross is adding appointment slots at donation centers and expanding capacity at many community blood drives across the country over the next few weeks to ensure ample opportunities for donors to give.Volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in needThe Red Cross expects the number of cancellations to continue to increase, which is causing heightened concern for blood collection organizations and hospitals across the country. This blood shortage could impact patients who need surgery, victims of car accidents and other emergencies, or patients suffering from cancer.“I am looking at the refrigerator that contains only one day’s supply of blood for the hospital,” said Dr. Robertson Davenport, director of transfusion medicine at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor. “The hospital is full. There are patients who need blood and cannot wait.”“In our experience, the American public comes together to support those in need during times of shortage and that support is needed now more than ever during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Chris Hrouda, president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Unfortunately, when people stop donating blood, it forces doctors to make hard choices about patient care, which is why we need those who are healthy and well to roll up a sleeve and give the gift of life.”The Red Cross is committed to blood drive safety“We know that people want to help, but they may be hesitant to visit a blood drive during this time. We want to assure the public that blood donation is a safe process, and we have put additional precautions in place at our blood drives and donation centers to protect all who come out,” said Hrouda.The Red Cross has implemented new measures to ensure blood drives and donation centers are even safer for our donors and staff, including:Checking the temperature of staff and donors before entering a drive to make sure they are healthy.Providing hand sanitizer for use before the drive, as well as throughout the donation process.Spacing beds, where possible, to follow social distancing practices between blood donors.Increasing enhanced disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees already follow thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including:Wearing gloves and changing gloves with each donor.Routinely wiping down donor-touched areas.Using sterile collection sets for every donation.Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub.There is no data or evidence that this coronavirus can be transmitted by blood transfusion, and there have been no reported cases of transfusion transmission for any respiratory virus including this coronavirus worldwide.“Volunteer donors are the unsung heroes for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. If you are healthy, feeling well and eligible to give, please schedule an appointment to give now,” added Hrouda.Blood donation processTo donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.About the American Red CrossThe American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

American Red Cross faces severe blood shortage

HUTCHINSON – Based on the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, the Reno County Health Department (RCHD) and the White House’s “15 Days to Slow the Spread,” the City of Hutchinson is continuing to be proactive in its efforts to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic locally.

Effective March 18th, the following City facilities will be closed to the public:

· Parks and Facilities Office, 1600 S. Elm St.

· Hutchinson Zoo Gift Shop and Education Building, 6 Emerson Loop

· Carey Park Golf Course Club House, 9 Emerson Loop

· Rice Park Community Building, 44 Swarens

· The Hutchinson Sports Arena, 720 East 11th Ave

· Hutchinson Animal Shelter, 1501 South Severance

The Zoo, Golf Course, and City parks are not being closed at this time, although buildings are being closed to the public; this may be re-evaluated if any positive COVID-19 cases are reported in Reno County. Status of golf tournaments and zoo programs will be announced on a case by case basis as they approach.

“We are acting out of an abundance of caution based on the guidance of community health experts,” said John Deardoff, City Manager. “We are committed to continuing our service to the people of Hutchinson. Our facilities may be closed to the public, but we are very much open for

business. We are working to find innovative solutions that allow things to continue as smoothly as possible under these unprecedented circumstances.”

The City is encouraging water utility customers to use the following services to pay utility bills, however, utilities will not be disconnected for non-payment between now and April 15th. 

· Visit water waterbill.hutchgov.com to pay your bill online

· For help in setting up online bill pay, please visit https://www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help · Call 620-694-2621 to pay by phone

· Those who prefer paying with a check can use the drop box on the south side of City Hall, 125 East Ave B, or mail their payment to the same address.

To talk with a customer service representative, call 620-694-2621 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Our rental facilities including the Homebuilders Shelter, Rice Park Community Building, Memorial Hall, and the Hutchinson Zoo Educational Building will be closed through May 13th. Those who have reservations for an event at one of our facilities between now and then will receive a full refund due to the cancellation.

We are working on the best way to continue daily business such as permits, inspections and pet adoptions. We will share more information as it is available. In the meantime, please feel free to call city offices.

Non-essential City boards and committee meetings will likely be cancelled through March. We appreciate your patience as we navigate the situation and ask you to watch for updates as it continues to be fluid.

For questions or concerns about any of these closures or changes, please call City Hall at (620) 694-2611.

HUTCHINSON – Based on the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, the Reno County Health Department (RCHD) and the White House’s “15 Days to Slow the Spread,” the City of Hutchinson is continuing to be proactive in its efforts to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic locally.Effective March 18th, the following City facilities will be closed to the public:· City Hall, 125 East Ave B· Parks and Facilities Office, 1600 S. Elm St.· Public Works, 1500 South Plum· Hutchinson Zoo Gift Shop and Education Building, 6 Emerson Loop· Carey Park Golf Course Club House, 9 Emerson Loop· Homebuilders Shelter, 2 Emerson Loop· Rice Park Community Building, 44 Swarens· Memorial Hall, 101 S Walnut· The Hutchinson Sports Arena, 720 East 11th Ave· Hutchinson Animal Shelter, 1501 South SeveranceThe Zoo, Golf Course, and City parks are not being closed at this time, although buildings are being closed to the public; this may be re-evaluated if any positive COVID-19 cases are reported in Reno County. Status of golf tournaments and zoo programs will be announced on a case by case basis as they approach.“We are acting out of an abundance of caution based on the guidance of community health experts,” said John Deardoff, City Manager. “We are committed to continuing our service to the people of Hutchinson. Our facilities may be closed to the public, but we are very much open forbusiness. We are working to find innovative solutions that allow things to continue as smoothly as possible under these unprecedented circumstances.”Utility BillingThe City is encouraging water utility customers to use the following services to pay utility bills, however, utilities will not be disconnected for non-payment between now and April 15th. · Visit water waterbill.hutchgov.com to pay your bill online· For help in setting up online bill pay, please visit https://www.hutchgov.com/536/Online-Bill-Pay-Help · Call 620-694-2621 to pay by phone· Those who prefer paying with a check can use the drop box on the south side of City Hall, 125 East Ave B, or mail their payment to the same address.To talk with a customer service representative, call 620-694-2621 between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.Facility RentalsOur rental facilities including the Homebuilders Shelter, Rice Park Community Building, Memorial Hall, and the Hutchinson Zoo Educational Building will be closed through May 13th. Those who have reservations for an event at one of our facilities between now and then will receive a full refund due to the cancellation.Other BusinessWe are working on the best way to continue daily business such as permits, inspections and pet adoptions. We will share more information as it is available. In the meantime, please feel free to call city offices.Non-essential City boards and committee meetings will likely be cancelled through March. We appreciate your patience as we navigate the situation and ask you to watch for updates as it continues to be fluid.For questions or concerns about any of these closures or changes, please call City Hall at (620) 694-2611.

City of Hutchinson closing public facilities in response to COVID-19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas City restaurants, bars, theaters close until April 1 

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

Not everyone was adhering to the clampdowns, however.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Government issues historic restrictions amid virus outbreak

USD 309 Nickerson-South Hutchinson is instituting a grab and go food program for Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 20.

Every child ages 1-18 is eligible to receive a free breakfast and lunch through the program. The child must be present to pick up the meal.

Nickerson High School-Front Entry Nickerson Elementary School-Front Entry South Hutchinson Elementary School-Front Entry Westside Villa and 7th Street bus stop 5th and Main bus stop at the Simply Good Overstock parking lot, South Hutchinson

USD 309 Nickerson-South Hutchinson is instituting a grab and go food program for Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, March 20.Every child ages 1-18 is eligible to receive a free breakfast and lunch through the program. The child must be present to pick up the meal.Pick up sites are:Nickerson High School-Front Entry Nickerson Elementary School-Front Entry South Hutchinson Elementary School-Front Entry Westside Villa and 7th Street bus stop 5th and Main bus stop at the Simply Good Overstock parking lot, South Hutchinson

USD 309 announces meal sites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EPA expands COVID-19 disinfectant list

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some of the study’s carefully chosen healthy volunteers, ages 18 to 55, will get higher dosages than others to test how strong the inoculations should be. Scientists will check for any side effects and draw blood samples to test if the vaccine is revving up the immune system, looking for encouraging clues like the NIH earlier found in vaccinated mice.

“We don’t know whether this vaccine will induce an immune response or whether it will be safe. That’s why we’re doing a trial,” Jackson stressed. “It’s not at the stage where it would be possible or prudent to give it to the general population.”

Most of the vaccine research under way globally targets a protein aptly named “spike” that studs the surface of the new coronavirus and lets it invade human cells. Block that protein and people cannot get infected.

Researchers at the NIH copied the section of the virus’ genetic code that contains the instructions for cells to create the spike protein. Moderna encased that “messenger RNA” into a vaccine.

The idea: The body will become a mini-factory, producing some harmless spike protein. When the immune system spots the foreign protein, it will make antibodies to attack — and be primed to react quickly if the person later encounters the real virus.

That’s a much faster way of producing a vaccine than the traditional approach of growing virus in the lab and preparing shots from either killed or weakened versions of it.

But because vaccines are given to millions of healthy people, it takes time to test them in large enough numbers to spot an uncommon side effect, cautioned Dr. Nelson Michael of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, which is developing a different vaccine candidate.

“The science can go very quickly but, first, do no harm, right?” he told reporters last week.

The Seattle research institute is part of a government network that tests all kinds of vaccines and was chosen for the coronavirus vaccine study before COVID-19 began spreading widely in Washington state.

Kaiser Permanente screened dozens of people, looking for those who have no chronic health problems and are not currently sick. Researchers are not checking whether would-be volunteers already had a mild case of COVID-19 before deciding if they are eligible.

If some did, scientists will be able to tell by the number of antibodies in their pre-vaccination blood test and account for that, Jackson said. Participants will be paid $100 for each clinic visit in the study.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A clinical trial evaluating a vaccine designed to protect against the new coronavirus will begin Monday, according to a government official.

The first participant in the trial will receive the experimental vaccine on Monday, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the trial has not been publicly announced yet. The National Institutes of Health is funding the trial, which is taking place at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle, the official said.

Public health officials say it will take a year to 18 months to fully validate any potential vaccine.

Testing will begin with 45 young, healthy volunteers with different doses of shots co-developed by NIH and Moderna Inc. There’s no chance participants could get infected from the shots, because they don’t contain the virus itself. The goal is purely to check that the vaccines show no worrisome side effects, setting the stage for larger tests.

Dozens of research groups around the world are racing to create a vaccine as COVID-19 cases continue to grow. Importantly, they’re pursuing different types of vaccines — shots developed from new technologies that not only are faster to produce than traditional inoculations but might prove more potent. Some researchers even aim for temporary vaccines, such as shots that might guard people’s health a month or two at a time while longer-lasting protection is developed.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The worldwide outbreak has sickened more than 156,000 people and left more than 5,800 dead. The death toll in the United States is more than 50, while infections neared 3,000 across 49 states and the District of Columbia.

The vast majority of people recover. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three weeks to six weeks to recover.

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

 Coronavirus vaccine test opens with first doses

Jim Robb, Chair of the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale, announced on Facebook Tuesday that the sale, scheduled for April 17 and 18 is cancelled for 2020 because of the dangers posed by the contagious nature of the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. 

"This cancellation is beyond our control," Robb said. "We are sorry about this situation. We thank you, as supporting churches, sale committees, and donors for the generosity and hard work that you have put into this sale. It is hard after 50 years of sales to not come together as a community to support MCC."

The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Board will be meeting in the coming weeks to discuss how we will support the work of the Mennonite Central Committee. The cancellations of several sales and programs has put a damper on the MCC Centennial Celebrations.

Robb suggested that supporters consider donating to the MCC's 1000 for $1000 fundraising program and also pray for the board as they discuss how to help in a different manner.

Jim Robb, Chair of the Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale, announced on Facebook Tuesday that the sale, scheduled for April 17 and 18 is cancelled for 2020 because of the dangers posed by the contagious nature of the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. "This cancellation is beyond our control," Robb said. "We are sorry about this situation. We thank you, as supporting churches, sale committees, and donors for the generosity and hard work that you have put into this sale. It is hard after 50 years of sales to not come together as a community to support MCC."The Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Board will be meeting in the coming weeks to discuss how we will support the work of the Mennonite Central Committee. The cancellations of several sales and programs has put a damper on the MCC Centennial Celebrations.Robb suggested that supporters consider donating to the MCC's 1000 for $1000 fundraising program and also pray for the board as they discuss how to help in a different manner.

2020 Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Canceled

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Following a meeting Monday, Hutch Rec announced it will be closing all facilities and canceling several current and future programs until further notice.

The following Hutch Rec programs, activities, group travel and special events will be canceled effective March 17. Refunds will be issued for programs and events that cannot be rescheduled.

Specific programs and facility closures include:

Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st – effective March 17, 2020.

· Facility closed to the public until further notice

· Online registration open at <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/">hutchrec.com</a>

· Staff available from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, taking phone calls and answering emails

· Notable programs and activities canceled:

• Youth spring sports season – refunds will be issued to all participants (volleyball, soccer, SNAG golf)

• March &amp; April Third Thursday community events

• Adult spring volleyball league will not play the final two weeks of the season

•   Adaptive recreation programs, including the Adaptive Track Meet scheduled for April 17

•   For more information, call (620) 663-6179

Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Ave. – effective March 17, 2020.

·         Visitor’s Center closed to the public until further notice

· Online registration open at <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/">hutchrec.com</a>

·         Staff available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, taking phone calls and answering emails

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Following a meeting Monday, Hutch Rec announced it will be closing all facilities and canceling several current and future programs until further notice.The following Hutch Rec programs, activities, group travel and special events will be canceled effective March 17. Refunds will be issued for programs and events that cannot be rescheduled.Specific programs and facility closures include:Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st – effective March 17, 2020.· Facility closed to the public until further notice· Online registration open at <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/">hutchrec.com</a>· Staff available from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, taking phone calls and answering emails· Notable programs and activities canceled:• MINDBODY fitness classes• Youth spring sports season – refunds will be issued to all participants (volleyball, soccer, SNAG golf)• March &amp; April Third Thursday community events• Adult spring volleyball league will not play the final two weeks of the season• Adaptive recreation programs, including the Adaptive Track Meet scheduled for April 17• For more information, call (620) 663-6179Dillon Nature Center, 3002 E. 30th Ave. – effective March 17, 2020.· Visitor’s Center closed to the public until further notice· Online registration open at <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/">hutchrec.com</a>· Staff available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, taking phone calls and answering emails· Trails &amp; grounds are OPEN to the public from dawn to dusk· Notable programs and activities canceled:• Hutch Rec Job Fair scheduled for March 29• For more information, call (620) 663-7411Hutchinson Sports Arena, 13th &amp; Sesher Plaza – effective March 17, 2020.· Notable programs and activities closed to the public until further notice, including:• Community walking hours• Fitness classes• Open gym (practices, basketball shoot-around, pickle ball)Senior Center at Elmdale Park, 400 E. Ave. E – effective March 17, 2020.· Closed to the public until further notice· All ongoing activities, events, programming and group travel have been canceled.Ongoing details and updates will be shared with media outlets and on social media outlets.This decision comes based on the most recent recommendations from the Reno County Health Department, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in order to minimize the threat of COVID-19 for communities.The mission of Hutch Rec is to provide the community with lifelong wellness, cultural, natural and recreational opportunities that promote healthy minds and bodies through innovative programs, state-of-the-art facilities and protected open spaces. It is Hutch Rec's goal to be of community mindset during this time of COVID-19.

Coronavirus Update