UPDATE 8:45 p.m. Thursday:&nbsp;According to the Kansas High School Activities Association&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kshsaa.org/">website</a>, "After the conclusion of the quarterfinal round, the 2020 KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament will be canceled. Given the escalating concerns regarding COVID-19, the best decision for the safety of the student-athletes and spectators was to cancel the remainder of this championship tournament. The KSHSAA regrets the lost opportunity for teams and players that have worked to achieve their goals."

Currently all tournament sites are proceeding as scheduled with fans. We encourage everyone attending a state basketball tournament to continue to take the proper precautions in preventing illness transmission including proper and frequent hand washing with soap or sanitizer, covering the face when coughing or sneezing and keeping your hands away from your face. Anyone who is feeling sick or suffers from a significant health issue should stay home.

KSHSAA is continuing to monitor the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas State Department of Education regarding the rapidly evolving coronavirus situation.

All state basketball tournament sites are working diligently and taking additional precautions to provide the safest possible environment for the teams, fans and workers. We will continue to monitor new information from our public health organizations as it becomes available and make any changes to the state basketball tournaments if needed. Any updates will be provided at www.kshsaa.org and through Twitter (@KSHSAA).

<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a>

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC Coronavirus Information</a>

UPDATE 8:45 p.m. Thursday:&nbsp;According to the Kansas High School Activities Association&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kshsaa.org/">website</a>, "After the conclusion of the quarterfinal round, the 2020 KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament will be canceled. Given the escalating concerns regarding COVID-19, the best decision for the safety of the student-athletes and spectators was to cancel the remainder of this championship tournament. The KSHSAA regrets the lost opportunity for teams and players that have worked to achieve their goals."KSHSAACurrently all tournament sites are proceeding as scheduled with fans. We encourage everyone attending a state basketball tournament to continue to take the proper precautions in preventing illness transmission including proper and frequent hand washing with soap or sanitizer, covering the face when coughing or sneezing and keeping your hands away from your face. Anyone who is feeling sick or suffers from a significant health issue should stay home.KSHSAA is continuing to monitor the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas State Department of Education regarding the rapidly evolving coronavirus situation.All state basketball tournament sites are working diligently and taking additional precautions to provide the safest possible environment for the teams, fans and workers. We will continue to monitor new information from our public health organizations as it becomes available and make any changes to the state basketball tournaments if needed. Any updates will be provided at www.kshsaa.org and through Twitter (@KSHSAA).Additional Resources:<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC Coronavirus Information</a>

UPDATE: Kansas cancels state basketball tournaments

The Kansas State High School Activities Association released an announcement on Thursday night announcing that the basketball state tournaments will not be completed.

The Kansas State High School Activities Association released an announcement on Thursday night announcing that the basketball state tournaments will not be completed.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The 2020 KSHSAA State Basketball Tournament will conclude after the quarterfinal round. <a href="https://t.co/zzRl3qS81R">pic.twitter.com/zzRl3qS81R</a>&mdash; KSHSAA (@KSHSAA) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHSAA/status/1238277117298855941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

State basketball tournaments done after Thursday action in Kansas

KLETC has been carefully monitoring coronavirus developments both locally and nationally over the past few weeks. During that time we have taken precautions to ensure the health and wellness of our students, employees, and the communities we serve.

It is in those same interests that we announce that KLETC will be suspending classes for basic training and continuing education for the next three weeks (March 16, 2020 to April 6, 2020). This will allow us the time to gather the information needed to inform our next course of action. This decision was not made lightly, and was done in consultation with KLETC and KU leadership, as well as members of the law enforcement community.

KLETC training reaches law enforcement agencies throughout the state. We had to balance the critical function of law enforcement training against the risk of becoming a catalyst for the spread of the virus. Our concern not only lies with transmitting the disease to the communities, but to the law enforcement agencies that serve those communities. Suspending classes is the best preventative measure we can take.

We understand the stress this situation causes. This is why KLETC staff will continue to work during the suspension of classes to evaluate the situation and to do what is possible to reduce this new burden for the agencies.

We are following federal recommendations regarding preventative measures during this outbreak. As a result, we will also be suspending large gatherings involving KLETC graduations. We are currently working on a virtual solution for those who still want to watch the graduation ceremony.

As the Director of Police Training, I consider this as an announcement that the training center is “closed or otherwise will not conduct basic training courses” as used in KAR 106-3-2. Students, therefore, may work as an officer during this three week period.

We will continue to monitor the situation; and we are hopeful that the risks and mitigation strategies will continue to become clearer during this next three weeks.

KLETC has been carefully monitoring coronavirus developments both locally and nationally over the past few weeks. During that time we have taken precautions to ensure the health and wellness of our students, employees, and the communities we serve.It is in those same interests that we announce that KLETC will be suspending classes for basic training and continuing education for the next three weeks (March 16, 2020 to April 6, 2020). This will allow us the time to gather the information needed to inform our next course of action. This decision was not made lightly, and was done in consultation with KLETC and KU leadership, as well as members of the law enforcement community.KLETC training reaches law enforcement agencies throughout the state. We had to balance the critical function of law enforcement training against the risk of becoming a catalyst for the spread of the virus. Our concern not only lies with transmitting the disease to the communities, but to the law enforcement agencies that serve those communities. Suspending classes is the best preventative measure we can take.We understand the stress this situation causes. This is why KLETC staff will continue to work during the suspension of classes to evaluate the situation and to do what is possible to reduce this new burden for the agencies.We are following federal recommendations regarding preventative measures during this outbreak. As a result, we will also be suspending large gatherings involving KLETC graduations. We are currently working on a virtual solution for those who still want to watch the graduation ceremony.As the Director of Police Training, I consider this as an announcement that the training center is “closed or otherwise will not conduct basic training courses” as used in KAR 106-3-2. Students, therefore, may work as an officer during this three week period.We will continue to monitor the situation; and we are hopeful that the risks and mitigation strategies will continue to become clearer during this next three weeks.

Statement from KLETC Executive Director Darin Beck on COVID-19

NEW YORK ( AP) — The stock market had its biggest drop since the Black Monday crash of 1987 as fears of economic fallout from the coronavirus crisis deepened. The Dow industrials plunged more than 2,300 points, or 10%. The sell-of came despite action from the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. 

The steep drops over the last month have wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Markets have turned turbulent amid a cascade of shutdowns across the globe and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t help the weakening economy any time soon.

The deepening coronavirus crisis sent stocks into another alarming slide Thursday, extending a sell-off that has wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down more than 2,000 points, or 8.7%, in late afternoon trading. The broader S&amp;P 500 was off 8.4% and set to fall into a bear market by the close of trading, ending the longest bull market in Wall Street history — nearly 11 years.

European markets lost 12% in one of their worst days ever, even after the European Central Bank pledged to buy more bonds and offer more help for the economy.

The heavy losses came amid a cascade of cancellations and shutdowns across the globe — including Trump’s suspension of most travel to the U.S. from Europe — and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t counter the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic any time soon.

“The news just continues to get worse, and the travel ban puts an exclamation point on the weakness we’re going to see in global GDP and, in turn, the U.S.,“ said Liz Ann Sonders, chief investment strategist at Charles Schwab. “We’re starting to get a sense of how dire the impact on the economy is going to be. Each day the news doesn’t get better, it gets worse. It’s now has hit Main Street to a more significant degree.”

Stocks fell so fast on Wall Street at the opening bell that they triggered an automatic, 15-minute trading halt for the second time this week. The so-called circuit breakers were first adopted after the 1987 crash, and until this week hadn’t been tripped since 1997.

The Dow briefly turned upward and halved its losses at one point in the afternoon after the Federal Reserve announced it would step in to ease “highly unusual disruptions” in the Treasury market. But the burst of momentum quickly faded.

Trump often points proudly to the big rise on Wall Street under his administration and warned a crowd at a rally last August that “whether you love me or hate, you gotta vote for me,“ or else your 401(k) will go “down the tubes.”

Just last month, the Dow was boasting a nearly 50% gain since Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, 2017. By midafternoon Thursday, the Dow was clinging to an 8% gain, though it was still up 17.3% since just before Trump’s election in November 2016.

On Wednesday, the Dow finished the day down more than 20% from its all-time high, set just last month, officially entering what is known as a bear market for the first time in over a decade. The S&amp;P 500 was likewise in danger of finishing the day Thursday in bear market territory.

The combined health and financial crisis heightened fears of a recession.

“This is bad. The worst and fastest stock market correction in our career,“ Chris Rupkey, chief financial economist at MUFG Union, said in a research note overnight. “The economy is doomed to recession if the country stops working and takes the next 30 days off. The stock market knows it.”

NEW YORK (AP) — An early plunge of 7% on Wall Street Thursday triggered a trading halt as a sell-off slamming global markets continued. The Dow Jones industrials dropped more than 1,600 points, or 7%, the S&amp;P 500 fell a similar amount. 

Trading resumed after 15 minutes, approximately 8:50a.m. CDT.

 The rout came after President Trump imposed a travel ban on most of Europe and offered few new measures to contain the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. 

Benchmarks in Europe fell more than 7% even after the European Central Bank announced more stimulus measures. World markets are enduring violent swings amid uncertainty about how badly the outbreak will hit the economy.

NEW YORK ( AP) — The stock market had its biggest drop since the Black Monday crash of 1987 as fears of economic fallout from the coronavirus crisis deepened. The Dow industrials plunged more than 2,300 points, or 10%. The sell-of came despite action from the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. The steep drops over the last month have wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Markets have turned turbulent amid a cascade of shutdowns across the globe and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t help the weakening economy any time soon.The deepening coronavirus crisis sent stocks into another alarming slide Thursday, extending a sell-off that has wiped out most of the big run-up on Wall Street since President Donald Trump’s inauguration.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down more than 2,000 points, or 8.7%, in late afternoon trading. The broader S&amp;P 500 was off 8.4% and set to fall into a bear market by the close of trading, ending the longest bull market in Wall Street history — nearly 11 years.European markets lost 12% in one of their worst days ever, even after the European Central Bank pledged to buy more bonds and offer more help for the economy.The heavy losses came amid a cascade of cancellations and shutdowns across the globe — including Trump’s suspension of most travel to the U.S. from Europe — and rising worries that the White House and other authorities around the world can’t or won’t counter the economic damage from the coronavirus pandemic any time soon.“The news just continues to get worse, and the travel ban puts an exclamation point on the weakness we’re going to see in global GDP and, in turn, the U.S.,“ said Liz Ann Sonders, chief investment strategist at Charles Schwab. “We’re starting to get a sense of how dire the impact on the economy is going to be. Each day the news doesn’t get better, it gets worse. It’s now has hit Main Street to a more significant degree.”Stocks fell so fast on Wall Street at the opening bell that they triggered an automatic, 15-minute trading halt for the second time this week. The so-called circuit breakers were first adopted after the 1987 crash, and until this week hadn’t been tripped since 1997.The Dow briefly turned upward and halved its losses at one point in the afternoon after the Federal Reserve announced it would step in to ease “highly unusual disruptions” in the Treasury market. But the burst of momentum quickly faded.Trump often points proudly to the big rise on Wall Street under his administration and warned a crowd at a rally last August that “whether you love me or hate, you gotta vote for me,“ or else your 401(k) will go “down the tubes.”Just last month, the Dow was boasting a nearly 50% gain since Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, 2017. By midafternoon Thursday, the Dow was clinging to an 8% gain, though it was still up 17.3% since just before Trump’s election in November 2016.On Wednesday, the Dow finished the day down more than 20% from its all-time high, set just last month, officially entering what is known as a bear market for the first time in over a decade. The S&amp;P 500 was likewise in danger of finishing the day Thursday in bear market territory.The combined health and financial crisis heightened fears of a recession.“This is bad. The worst and fastest stock market correction in our career,“ Chris Rupkey, chief financial economist at MUFG Union, said in a research note overnight. “The economy is doomed to recession if the country stops working and takes the next 30 days off. The stock market knows it.”----------NEW YORK (AP) — An early plunge of 7% on Wall Street Thursday triggered a trading halt as a sell-off slamming global markets continued. The Dow Jones industrials dropped more than 1,600 points, or 7%, the S&amp;P 500 fell a similar amount. Trading resumed after 15 minutes, approximately 8:50a.m. CDT. The rout came after President Trump imposed a travel ban on most of Europe and offered few new measures to contain the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak. Benchmarks in Europe fell more than 7% even after the European Central Bank announced more stimulus measures. World markets are enduring violent swings amid uncertainty about how badly the outbreak will hit the economy.

Worst day on Wall Street since 1987 as virus fears spread

Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.

Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NCAA cancels remaining winter and spring championships: <a href="https://t.co/qzKAS4McEI">https://t.co/qzKAS4McEI</a> <a href="https://t.co/G6XreZx35E">pic.twitter.com/G6XreZx35E</a>&mdash; NCAA (@NCAA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCAA/status/1238197201928667136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

NCAA cancels March Madness, all winter and spring championships

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec’s Senior Center at Elmdale Park will be closed starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 13, and will remain closed until further notice as a precaution against COVID-19. This includes all programming out of the senior center, including ongoing activities, events and group travel.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is particularly concerned about seniors and those living with underlying health conditions as these groups appear to be about twice as likely to develop serious outcomes versus otherwise younger, healthier people.

“We need to take the necessary precautions to protect the seniors in our community,” Tony Finlay, executive director of Hutch Rec, said.

At this time, Hutch Rec Downtown and Dillon Nature Center will remain open, and activities and events are being monitored on a case-by-case basis. Currently, the Hutch Rec facilities at the Hutchinson Sports Arena are closed to the public for the 3A State Basketball Tournament. 

On Monday, March 16, Hutch Rec will announce updates regarding the Hutchinson Sports Arena as it relates to the recent postponement of the NJCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament. This will be done through a media release and on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonrecreationcommission/">Hutch Rec</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchsportsarena/">Hutchinson Sports Arena</a> Facebook pages.

Hutch Rec will announce the re-opening of the Senior Center at Elmdale Park at the appropriate time on its Hutch Rec Facebook page and will release the news through local media outlets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576695224661.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec’s Senior Center at Elmdale Park will be closed starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 13, and will remain closed until further notice as a precaution against COVID-19. This includes all programming out of the senior center, including ongoing activities, events and group travel.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is particularly concerned about seniors and those living with underlying health conditions as these groups appear to be about twice as likely to develop serious outcomes versus otherwise younger, healthier people.“We need to take the necessary precautions to protect the seniors in our community,” Tony Finlay, executive director of Hutch Rec, said.At this time, Hutch Rec Downtown and Dillon Nature Center will remain open, and activities and events are being monitored on a case-by-case basis. Currently, the Hutch Rec facilities at the Hutchinson Sports Arena are closed to the public for the 3A State Basketball Tournament. On Monday, March 16, Hutch Rec will announce updates regarding the Hutchinson Sports Arena as it relates to the recent postponement of the NJCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament. This will be done through a media release and on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonrecreationcommission/">Hutch Rec</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchsportsarena/">Hutchinson Sports Arena</a> Facebook pages.Hutch Rec will announce the re-opening of the Senior Center at Elmdale Park at the appropriate time on its Hutch Rec Facebook page and will release the news through local media outlets.

Hutch Rec closing senior center

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. —  Out of an abundance of caution concerning COVID-19 risks, effective immediately, Mennonite Friendship Communities will begin restricting visitation on its campus in South Hutchinson. 

 Access to the healthcare center, Wheaton House and the assisted living buildings will be limited to staff and residents’ primary contact person(s).  Everyone who enters these buildings will be screened for symptoms of illness and possible contact with others who are ill.  This policy will be evaluated in 30 days or sooner if circumstances warrant. If family members have any questions, they should feel free to contact the life enhancement coordinator or nurse who cares for their loved one. 

 Management is monitoring the situation closely and is participating in a number of community venues with regard to best practices for preventing the spread of the disease.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584039874125.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Out of an abundance of caution concerning COVID-19 risks, effective immediately, Mennonite Friendship Communities will begin restricting visitation on its campus in South Hutchinson. Access to the healthcare center, Wheaton House and the assisted living buildings will be limited to staff and residents’ primary contact person(s). Everyone who enters these buildings will be screened for symptoms of illness and possible contact with others who are ill. This policy will be evaluated in 30 days or sooner if circumstances warrant. If family members have any questions, they should feel free to contact the life enhancement coordinator or nurse who cares for their loved one. Management is monitoring the situation closely and is participating in a number of community venues with regard to best practices for preventing the spread of the disease.

MFC to limit visitation

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Health officials say a nursing home resident who become Kansas' first COVID-19-related death was infected at the Life Care Center of Kansas City, which is owned by the same company that owns the facility in Washington state linked to 22 fatalities. 

Kansas Health Secretary Lee Norman said a focus of the investigation is whether there has been any personnel sharing between the nursing homes in Kirkland, Washington, and the one in Kansas. 

The state also reported its sixth COVID-19 case on Friday. Norman says no other residents at the Life Center nursing home are showing symptoms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584135906321.png" alt="KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during Thursday&nbsp; press conference -image courtesy office of Kansas Governor" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman during Thursday&nbsp; press conference -image courtesy office of Kansas Governor</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Health officials say a nursing home resident who become Kansas' first COVID-19-related death was infected at the Life Care Center of Kansas City, which is owned by the same company that owns the facility in Washington state linked to 22 fatalities. Kansas Health Secretary Lee Norman said a focus of the investigation is whether there has been any personnel sharing between the nursing homes in Kirkland, Washington, and the one in Kansas. The state also reported its sixth COVID-19 case on Friday. Norman says no other residents at the Life Center nursing home are showing symptoms.

Owner of facility tied to Kansas virus death runs Washington state home

KANSAS CITY(AP) — Kansas City is banning all public events with more than 1,000 attendees as cancellations mounted around the state because of concerns over the new coronavirus.

Mayor Quinton Lucas made the announcement Thursday, shortly after organizers cancelled a St. Patrick's Day parade in the city. St. Louis and Springfield also canceled their parades.

“Protecting all of our residents remains our top priority, which means that how we interact over the weeks and months ahead will need to change dramatically as we confront our current public health challenge,” Lucas said. “I appreciate our community’s understanding during this ever-changing time and encourage all residents to continue exercising good judgment.”

So far, Missouri has one confirmed case of COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e97e57301f2a4e57d927f6b87510e0d">A woman in her 20s&nbsp;</a>who had been studying in Italy tested positive for the coronavirus after returning home to the area.

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

Several universities in the state have been moving classes online due to the virus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/52e12ca90c55b6e0c398d134a2cc286e">that WHO has now labelled&nbsp;</a>a pandemic, while Missouri Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden said on Twitter late Wednesday that the chamber was cancelling its session next week.

Meanwhile, the German agribusiness giant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d7efc608c9aa8f7a7cb744649e3e667c">Bayer&nbsp;</a>AG has reopened a suburban St. Louis campus after an employee who was tested for the new coronavirus found out the results were negative.

The campus in Creve Coeur, which is Bayer's North American headquarters for its Crop Science Division, reopened Thursday after undergoing precautionary cleaning. But the nearby office of its tech-focused subsidiary, The Climate Corporation, remains closed for cleaning, as do Bayer's campuses in Whippany and Morristown, New Jersey. The Whippany office is the company’s U.S. headquarters for all of its divisions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584040882361.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Country Club Plaza" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Country Club Plaza</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — Kansas City is banning all public events with more than 1,000 attendees as cancellations mounted around the state because of concerns over the new coronavirus.Mayor Quinton Lucas made the announcement Thursday, shortly after organizers cancelled a St. Patrick's Day parade in the city. St. Louis and Springfield also canceled their parades.“Protecting all of our residents remains our top priority, which means that how we interact over the weeks and months ahead will need to change dramatically as we confront our current public health challenge,” Lucas said. “I appreciate our community’s understanding during this ever-changing time and encourage all residents to continue exercising good judgment.”So far, Missouri has one confirmed case of COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e97e57301f2a4e57d927f6b87510e0d">A woman in her 20s&nbsp;</a>who had been studying in Italy tested positive for the coronavirus after returning home to the area.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 vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.Several universities in the state have been moving classes online due to the virus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/52e12ca90c55b6e0c398d134a2cc286e">that WHO has now labelled&nbsp;</a>a pandemic, while Missouri Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden said on Twitter late Wednesday that the chamber was cancelling its session next week.Meanwhile, the German agribusiness giant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d7efc608c9aa8f7a7cb744649e3e667c">Bayer&nbsp;</a>AG has reopened a suburban St. Louis campus after an employee who was tested for the new coronavirus found out the results were negative.The campus in Creve Coeur, which is Bayer's North American headquarters for its Crop Science Division, reopened Thursday after undergoing precautionary cleaning. But the nearby office of its tech-focused subsidiary, The Climate Corporation, remains closed for cleaning, as do Bayer's campuses in Whippany and Morristown, New Jersey. The Whippany office is the company’s U.S. headquarters for all of its divisions.___

Kansas City bans all public events with more than 1K people

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere announced today it will reschedule the events associated with the Apollo 13 50th Anniversary celebration planned for April 3 and 4 and the STS-31: Hubble 30th Anniversary celebration scheduled for May 8 and 9 in light of the growing impact of COVID-19.

“We are honored that individuals from 22 states and six foreign countries purchased tickets to the Apollo 13 event,” Jim Remar, Cosmosphere CEO, said. “It is for the safety of them and of our honored guests that we have made this decision.”

Information has been sent to all ticket holders and guests apprising them of the situation. 

The Cosmosphere will continue to be open to visitors as it monitors the situation and best practices to provide a safe environment. Should that situation change, immediate action will be taken and the public will be notified.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582575587194.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere announced today it will reschedule the events associated with the Apollo 13 50th Anniversary celebration planned for April 3 and 4 and the STS-31: Hubble 30th Anniversary celebration scheduled for May 8 and 9 in light of the growing impact of COVID-19.“We are honored that individuals from 22 states and six foreign countries purchased tickets to the Apollo 13 event,” Jim Remar, Cosmosphere CEO, said. “It is for the safety of them and of our honored guests that we have made this decision.”Information has been sent to all ticket holders and guests apprising them of the situation. The Cosmosphere will continue to be open to visitors as it monitors the situation and best practices to provide a safe environment. Should that situation change, immediate action will be taken and the public will be notified.

Cosmosphere postpones Apollo 13 event

Let’s add one more list to the various check-offs from the Centers 
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, employers and others on how to
 deal with COVID-19: Tools and tips for getting good information about 
dealing with the virus from sources you trust.

In times of crisis, from natural disasters to 9/11 and more, a free 
press has consistently delivered the goods, saving lives and asking the 
necessary and often inevitable challenging questions of the public 
officials on whom we depend for safety and security.

Put aside for now the blather about “fake news” — so politicized as 
to have no real meaning any longer. Discount President Trump’s claim 
that it’s the news media that’s leading the world’s stock markets into 
“yo-yo Dow” days. And pay less attention to the cable TV punditry and 
focus on the news reports from reporters with sources who appear by name
 in print, online or on TV.

The virus and its threat to our health is real. The market is down — 
and up and down — regardless of what’s causing it. Look for facts. Don’t
 be too accepting of information from any source, particularly on social
 media. Blog posts, tweets and public forums provide valued means of 
sharing individual information and experiences, as well as provide 
real-time data of how well government services are performing.

In the first such major crisis in which social media tools were more 
widely available, during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, the then-fledgling 
online efforts by the web alternative to New Orleans’ Times-Picayune
 newspaper provided essential information on what was happening “now.” 
Even police and Coast Guard rescuers said they had monitored <a href="https://www.nola.com/" target="_blank">NOLA.com</a>, at times sending in teams to help those posting that they were in danger. NOLA.com later won a Pulitzer Prize for its efforts.

While some are upset that what they are hearing from the 
administration and what they are reading or viewing seem to differ, a 
free press response to that situation is: “So what’s new?” Nearly 100 
years ago, President Herbert Hoover’s administration first responded to 
the 1929 stock market crash by calling it a market reset or passing 
adjustment — or at worst, part of a passing recession that would soon be
 over. Understandable perhaps as an effort to stave off worse news. But 
it’s Variety’s headline a day after “Black Tuesday” — the huge,
 one-day drop in the Dow — that let Americans know what really happened:
 “Wall Street Lays an Egg!”

From the Vietnam War — with its infamous “credibility gap” between 
what journalists saw in combat and what military leaders were saying, to
 what we now know about out-of-proportion government surveillance 
programs across decades of our nation’s history, it’s a free press that 
over time gives us the facts we need.

My colleague Barbara McCormack, who oversees the 
Freedom Forum’s Newseum Education initiative, has this advice on turning
 to a free press for information and avoiding disinformation: “Break out
 of your content bubble and make sure you’re engaging with diverse 
ideas. That includes ideas you disagree with. With a nearly infinite 
supply of information at our fingertips, it can be all too easy to start
 gravitating to sources that reinforce our beliefs and make us feel 
validated, but the less likely we are to spot propaganda that is trying 
to exploit our beliefs and biases.”

Her advice: Break out of your media rut. Try this: Create a list of 
five news sources to consult on a regular basis — not necessarily every 
day, but every week or so.

The CDC has its basic instructions on handwashing. Here’s something 
similar for getting good information you can use about COVID-19:

McCormack’s advice: “It’s OK for your sources to display a bias in 
their coverage, but make sure that all five are real, fact-based news 
and opinion organizations. If you’re not sure, you can use a resource 
like the Freedom Forum’s <a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/first-amendment-center/newstrition/" target="_blank">Newstrition</a>® or the website <a href="https://www.allsides.com/unbiased-balanced-news" target="_blank">AllSides</a>
 to evaluate your sources. Check them on a regular basis to help you see
 the world in all its complexity, not just from a single vantage point.”

The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Seattle Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Tampa Bay Times and others have removed paywalls for information about the virus crisis, or placed critical information outside their pay sites. USA TODAY, The Washington Post, The New York Times,
 CNN and the broadcast networks and many other major news outlets are 
offering COVID-19&nbsp; newsletters and medical tips on a daily basis.

A part of responding to any crisis is having enough good information 
on which to make decisions — whether you are making those for yourself 
or others. And in such times, throughout our nation’s history, a free 
press — if we care to use it — has been there on our behalf to obtain 
and report the facts we need.

For more information:&nbsp;<a href="https://newseumed.org/fact-finder-guide" target="_blank">https://newseumed.org/fact-finder-guide</a>.

Gene Policinski is president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute. He can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573872297806.png" alt="Gene Policinski is president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute." />
 <figcaption>Gene Policinski is president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute.</figcaption>
 </figure>Let’s add one more list to the various check-offs from the Centers 
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, employers and others on how to
 deal with COVID-19: Tools and tips for getting good information about 
dealing with the virus from sources you trust.In times of crisis, from natural disasters to 9/11 and more, a free 
press has consistently delivered the goods, saving lives and asking the 
necessary and often inevitable challenging questions of the public 
officials on whom we depend for safety and security.Put aside for now the blather about “fake news” — so politicized as 
to have no real meaning any longer. Discount President Trump’s claim 
that it’s the news media that’s leading the world’s stock markets into 
“yo-yo Dow” days. And pay less attention to the cable TV punditry and 
focus on the news reports from reporters with sources who appear by name
 in print, online or on TV.The virus and its threat to our health is real. The market is down — 
and up and down — regardless of what’s causing it. Look for facts. Don’t
 be too accepting of information from any source, particularly on social
 media. Blog posts, tweets and public forums provide valued means of 
sharing individual information and experiences, as well as provide 
real-time data of how well government services are performing.In the first such major crisis in which social media tools were more 
widely available, during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, the then-fledgling 
online efforts by the web alternative to New Orleans’ Times-Picayune
 newspaper provided essential information on what was happening “now.” 
Even police and Coast Guard rescuers said they had monitored <a href="https://www.nola.com/" target="_blank">NOLA.com</a>, at times sending in teams to help those posting that they were in danger. NOLA.com later won a Pulitzer Prize for its efforts.While some are upset that what they are hearing from the 
administration and what they are reading or viewing seem to differ, a 
free press response to that situation is: “So what’s new?” Nearly 100 
years ago, President Herbert Hoover’s administration first responded to 
the 1929 stock market crash by calling it a market reset or passing 
adjustment — or at worst, part of a passing recession that would soon be
 over. Understandable perhaps as an effort to stave off worse news. But 
it’s Variety’s headline a day after “Black Tuesday” — the huge,
 one-day drop in the Dow — that let Americans know what really happened:
 “Wall Street Lays an Egg!”From the Vietnam War — with its infamous “credibility gap” between 
what journalists saw in combat and what military leaders were saying, to
 what we now know about out-of-proportion government surveillance 
programs across decades of our nation’s history, it’s a free press that 
over time gives us the facts we need.My colleague Barbara McCormack, who oversees the 
Freedom Forum’s Newseum Education initiative, has this advice on turning
 to a free press for information and avoiding disinformation: “Break out
 of your content bubble and make sure you’re engaging with diverse 
ideas. That includes ideas you disagree with. With a nearly infinite 
supply of information at our fingertips, it can be all too easy to start
 gravitating to sources that reinforce our beliefs and make us feel 
validated, but the less likely we are to spot propaganda that is trying 
to exploit our beliefs and biases.”Her advice: Break out of your media rut. Try this: Create a list of 
five news sources to consult on a regular basis — not necessarily every 
day, but every week or so.The CDC has its basic instructions on handwashing. Here’s something 
similar for getting good information you can use about COVID-19:<ol>
 <li>Identify two general news sources you already look at on a regular basis and usually agree with;</li><li>Find two general news sources you don’t usually agree with;</li><li>Find one source that covers news from a specific perspective, such 
as the views of a particular demographic, religious group or profession;</li><li>Read and listen to each of them.</li>
 </ol>McCormack’s advice: “It’s OK for your sources to display a bias in 
their coverage, but make sure that all five are real, fact-based news 
and opinion organizations. If you’re not sure, you can use a resource 
like the Freedom Forum’s <a href="https://www.freedomforuminstitute.org/first-amendment-center/newstrition/" target="_blank">Newstrition</a>® or the website <a href="https://www.allsides.com/unbiased-balanced-news" target="_blank">AllSides</a>
 to evaluate your sources. Check them on a regular basis to help you see
 the world in all its complexity, not just from a single vantage point.”The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Seattle Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Tampa Bay Times and others have removed paywalls for information about the virus crisis, or placed critical information outside their pay sites. USA TODAY, The Washington Post, The New York Times,
 CNN and the broadcast networks and many other major news outlets are 
offering COVID-19&nbsp; newsletters and medical tips on a daily basis.A part of responding to any crisis is having enough good information 
on which to make decisions — whether you are making those for yourself 
or others. And in such times, throughout our nation’s history, a free 
press — if we care to use it — has been there on our behalf to obtain 
and report the facts we need.For more information:&nbsp;<a href="https://newseumed.org/fact-finder-guide" target="_blank">https://newseumed.org/fact-finder-guide</a>.Gene Policinski is president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute. He can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

FIRST FIVE: Getting good information as virus crisis unfolds


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall did his best to put on both his doctor hat and his Congressman hat in a conference call with the media Thursday morning.

"I think we're doing a good job," Marshall said. "Our local health departments are doing a great job of tracking down contacts and mitigating the spread of this virus. We're actually in better shape than I thought we would be. It's going to get worse before it gets better. Like, the President said last night, we're going to practice an overabundance of caution."

The populations that have been shown to be vulnerable should exercise caution.

"I think the schools can stay open for now," Marshall said. "No child under the age of 9 has died from this virus. Most children will have minimal symptoms, probably for two or three days, like a cold, for all practical purposes. On the other hand, if you're over the age of 60, if you have a medical problem. If you have a heart condition, a lung condition, if you have COPD, if your asthma's uncontrolled, if you have diabetes, you probably ought to be staying home."

At this point, it's about keeping the statistics at a level the medical community can absorb until new therapies finish development.

"We need to focus all of our efforts right now on flattening the curve on the health of people," Marshall said. "Making sure that when people do get sick, when they need to be in the ICU, that doctors and nurses have what they need and making sure we have plenty of test kits out there, making sure that the health departments are able to track down the contacts."

Marshall said the most important thing we can do for the economy is keep Americans at work by making sure that the curve of illness slows.

By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall did his best to put on both his doctor hat and his Congressman hat in a conference call with the media Thursday morning."I think we're doing a good job," Marshall said. "Our local health departments are doing a great job of tracking down contacts and mitigating the spread of this virus. We're actually in better shape than I thought we would be. It's going to get worse before it gets better. Like, the President said last night, we're going to practice an overabundance of caution."The populations that have been shown to be vulnerable should exercise caution."I think the schools can stay open for now," Marshall said. "No child under the age of 9 has died from this virus. Most children will have minimal symptoms, probably for two or three days, like a cold, for all practical purposes. On the other hand, if you're over the age of 60, if you have a medical problem. If you have a heart condition, a lung condition, if you have COPD, if your asthma's uncontrolled, if you have diabetes, you probably ought to be staying home."At this point, it's about keeping the statistics at a level the medical community can absorb until new therapies finish development."We need to focus all of our efforts right now on flattening the curve on the health of people," Marshall said. "Making sure that when people do get sick, when they need to be in the ICU, that doctors and nurses have what they need and making sure we have plenty of test kits out there, making sure that the health departments are able to track down the contacts."Marshall said the most important thing we can do for the economy is keep Americans at work by making sure that the curve of illness slows.

Marshall focused on flattening the curve on coronavirus

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is urging consumers to use caution against scams involving COVID-19.

“In any unsettled times, whether it be the aftermath of a devastating storm or in this case the spread of a new virus, there are those who choose to take advantage of the public’s apprehension and uncertainty,” Schmidt said in a news release Thursday. “With all the discussion and disruption in reaction to COVID-19, Kansans should be particularly vigilant for scammers and should know that our office is here to help if needed.”

Kansans should be on alert for scams related to the COVID-19 virus, more commonly known as the coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan province of China and has now spread to the United States. These scams could include bogus products advertised as coronavirus prevention measures or treatments as well as bogus charities purporting to raise money for coronavirus research or to support coronavirus patients. Schmidt said his office has received reports of these sorts of scams circulating in Kansas.

Any Kansans who have problems with scams may file a complaint with the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division at<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call (800) 432-2310 for more information.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas AG Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas AG Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is urging consumers to use caution against scams involving COVID-19.“In any unsettled times, whether it be the aftermath of a devastating storm or in this case the spread of a new virus, there are those who choose to take advantage of the public’s apprehension and uncertainty,” Schmidt said in a news release Thursday. “With all the discussion and disruption in reaction to COVID-19, Kansans should be particularly vigilant for scammers and should know that our office is here to help if needed.”Kansans should be on alert for scams related to the COVID-19 virus, more commonly known as the coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan province of China and has now spread to the United States. These scams could include bogus products advertised as coronavirus prevention measures or treatments as well as bogus charities purporting to raise money for coronavirus research or to support coronavirus patients. Schmidt said his office has received reports of these sorts of scams circulating in Kansas.Any Kansans who have problems with scams may file a complaint with the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division at<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call (800) 432-2310 for more information.&nbsp;

Kansas AG warns against coronavirus scams

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is shutting the Capitol and all House and Senate office buildings to the public until April in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. The House and Senate sergeants at arms said in a statement the closure will begin at 5 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. Lawmakers, aides, journalists and official visitors will be allowed into the buildings. 

The statement says officials are acting “out of concern for the health and safety" of congressional employees and the public. The officials say they're responding to the advice of District of Columbia health officials and of Congress' own doctors. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.

WASHINGTON (AP) — House lawmakers are expressing alarm after a private briefing on Capitol Hill with public health officials. Lawmakers are particularly frustrated that U.S. officials have tested relatively few patients suspected to be infected. 

“We’re basically, in my opinion, flying blind," said Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev. Others described the meeting as heated, testy with many lawmakers leaving flooded with graver concerns about the administration's response.

“We should be exuding confidence nationally,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. “The confusion is damaging.”

The House is expected to vote later Thursday on a multibillion-dollar aid package. It aims to provide free testing for the coronavirus, paid sick leave and strengthened unemployment insurance. Congress has decided to shut the Capitol to the public until April. And White House tours have been temporarily suspended.&nbsp;

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is shutting the Capitol and all House and Senate office buildings to the public until April in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. The House and Senate sergeants at arms said in a statement the closure will begin at 5 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. Lawmakers, aides, journalists and official visitors will be allowed into the buildings. The statement says officials are acting “out of concern for the health and safety" of congressional employees and the public. The officials say they're responding to the advice of District of Columbia health officials and of Congress' own doctors. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.------------WASHINGTON (AP) — House lawmakers are expressing alarm after a private briefing on Capitol Hill with public health officials. Lawmakers are particularly frustrated that U.S. officials have tested relatively few patients suspected to be infected. “We’re basically, in my opinion, flying blind," said Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev. Others described the meeting as heated, testy with many lawmakers leaving flooded with graver concerns about the administration's response.“We should be exuding confidence nationally,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. “The confusion is damaging.”The House is expected to vote later Thursday on a multibillion-dollar aid package. It aims to provide free testing for the coronavirus, paid sick leave and strengthened unemployment insurance. Congress has decided to shut the Capitol to the public until April. And White House tours have been temporarily suspended.&nbsp;

White House tours suspended and Capitol to close to public


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The next Democratic debate in Phoenix on Sunday will not have spectators. An Emporia State political scientist says the impact will be interesting to see.

"It's a little bit mixed," said Michael Smith. "On the one hand, the audience at these debates is asked not to cheer or boo or otherwise participate, except at the beginning and the end. There's not a lot of audience participation. In that sense, their role is limited anyway. On the other hand, the moderators reminding viewers that there's no audience will keep the issue of coronavirus front and center."

In terms of the actual impact on the Democratic primary, it's clear that Joe Biden is in control of the race at this point. A good comparison may be to a Formula One race.

"He's a good lap ahead," Smith said. "In a good race, that's very, very difficult to close, unless there's some sort of an accident or equipment failure."

The most likely thing to fell a candidate at this stage of the race is something that isn't likely to happen to Biden.

"Some type of scandal from his past that we didn't know about," Smith said. "The thing about a candidate like Biden is, he's been so vetted as a Senator and Vice President that I see that as extraordinarily unlikely. There is one wild card that's being kicked around. I'm sure you've heard about it, that's this idea that his famous Biden gaffes are getting more frequent and that may be a sign of some type of age related problem."

Biden is 77 years old. Sanders is 78. President Trump is 73.

By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The next Democratic debate in Phoenix on Sunday will not have spectators. An Emporia State political scientist says the impact will be interesting to see."It's a little bit mixed," said Michael Smith. "On the one hand, the audience at these debates is asked not to cheer or boo or otherwise participate, except at the beginning and the end. There's not a lot of audience participation. In that sense, their role is limited anyway. On the other hand, the moderators reminding viewers that there's no audience will keep the issue of coronavirus front and center."In terms of the actual impact on the Democratic primary, it's clear that Joe Biden is in control of the race at this point. A good comparison may be to a Formula One race."He's a good lap ahead," Smith said. "In a good race, that's very, very difficult to close, unless there's some sort of an accident or equipment failure."The most likely thing to fell a candidate at this stage of the race is something that isn't likely to happen to Biden."Some type of scandal from his past that we didn't know about," Smith said. "The thing about a candidate like Biden is, he's been so vetted as a Senator and Vice President that I see that as extraordinarily unlikely. There is one wild card that's being kicked around. I'm sure you've heard about it, that's this idea that his famous Biden gaffes are getting more frequent and that may be a sign of some type of age related problem."Biden is 77 years old. Sanders is 78. President Trump is 73.

Smith: No spectators at debate will put coronavirus issue at center

Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers released the following statement early Thursday&nbsp;

Currently, much of the K-State community is dispersed throughout the nation and globe during spring break. When everyone returns to campus the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus will increase. With careful planning and guidance from public health officials, there are prudent steps we can take to mitigate this risk and protect our campus and local communities.

The concept of social distancing has been shown to slow a disease outbreak during times of concern with pandemics. This means we reduce the number of times and places that people gather in large numbers or spend extensive time together. By slowing the spread of the disease, medical facilities are better able to handle the demand, which saves lives in the long run.

In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after spring break, we are taking these immediate steps:

These social distancing steps are admittedly inconvenient but have proven to be effective in other locations and will help safeguard the greater good for all. I know each of us will act responsibly to help us protect the entire K-State family and the local communities that are home to our campuses. We can meet this challenge with the strength and resiliency our university has demonstrated for over 150 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Please check our website on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">coronavirus disease (COVID-19)</a>&nbsp;for the latest information. If you have a specific question please email&nbsp;covid19@ksu.edu.

Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers released the following statement early Thursday&nbsp;Dear K-State Community:Currently, much of the K-State community is dispersed throughout the nation and globe during spring break. When everyone returns to campus the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus will increase. With careful planning and guidance from public health officials, there are prudent steps we can take to mitigate this risk and protect our campus and local communities.The concept of social distancing has been shown to slow a disease outbreak during times of concern with pandemics. This means we reduce the number of times and places that people gather in large numbers or spend extensive time together. By slowing the spread of the disease, medical facilities are better able to handle the demand, which saves lives in the long run.In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after spring break, we are taking these immediate steps:<ol>
 <li>K-State will suspend in-person classes at all campuses the week March 16-20.&nbsp;Online classes will be held as scheduled.&nbsp;During this time students are strongly encouraged to travel home or remain at home and spend the week there, if possible. For those who cannot go home, our campuses will remain open and services will be available such as student health, residence halls and dining halls. The situation may change very rapidly, based on what we’ve seen in other areas.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Beginning March 23, classes will be taught remotely (not in person) until further notice.&nbsp;The suspension of classes March 16-20 provides time for faculty members to prepare to move classes online or to teach through other alternative methods. While completing classes remotely, students are strongly encouraged to remain at their permanent homes away from campus, unless they cannot return home due to travel restrictions, financial burden, or lack of reliable internet access. We are working to accommodate learning that typically takes place in laboratories and other in-person situations. Our success will depend on the creativity and resourcefulness of our students and faculty, in which we have great faith. &nbsp;We will provide at least one week’s notice before in-person classes resume, per Kansas Board of Regents guidance.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Telecommuting may be an option for some employees.&nbsp;We have published&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/faq.html#telecommute">initial guidance for relaxed policies</a>&nbsp;and ask unit heads to determine who may be eligible to work off-campus.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Visitors are urged to postpone campus visits during this time.&nbsp;We strongly encourage visitors to reschedule planned trips to our campuses and recommend postponing previously scheduled visits. Please keep in mind that international travelers arriving from CDC-designated Level 3 countries are subject to a 14-day quarantine period.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Veterinary medicine students who are involved in clinical rotations or clinical work will receive further guidance from the College of Veterinary Medicine.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Polytechnic students who are involved in flight training or the maintenance program will receive further guidance from the College of Technology and Aviation.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Large campus community events (more than 100 people) will be handled on a case-by-case basis.&nbsp;We strongly encourage campus units to cancel events with more than 100 persons between now and March 30, please be prepared for the situation to change rapidly. Student events occurring between now and March 30 should be postponed or moved to another format. Athletic events will follow Big 12 guidance.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li><a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/travel.html">Travel policies</a>&nbsp;have not changed at this time.&nbsp; All university-sponsored international travel is banned to CDC warning level 3 or U.S. State Department Travel Advisory level 4 countries. There are no mandated restrictions for university-affiliated or sponsored domestic travel at this time, but we ask you to consider the potential risks for you and others and the possibility of trip disruption. As conditions evolve, further restrictions may be added.</li>
 </ol>These social distancing steps are admittedly inconvenient but have proven to be effective in other locations and will help safeguard the greater good for all. I know each of us will act responsibly to help us protect the entire K-State family and the local communities that are home to our campuses. We can meet this challenge with the strength and resiliency our university has demonstrated for over 150 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please check our website on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">coronavirus disease (COVID-19)</a>&nbsp;for the latest information. If you have a specific question please email&nbsp;covid19@ksu.edu.

K-State suspends in-person classes starting March 16

KANSAS CITY —Due to rising concerns over coronavirus, organizers&nbsp; made the difficult decision early Thursday to cancel the 2020 Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade, according the parade web site.

"For 48 years, the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for families, businesses, organizations and so many more. But, with the rapid developments that have occurred over the last 24 hours including the announcement from the World Health Organization and the President’s address to the nation, we feel that the most responsible thing we can do is cancel the parade.

We will spend the next 24 hours regrouping and discussing the plan for moving forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584013193851.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Due to rising concerns over coronavirus, organizers&nbsp; made the difficult decision early Thursday to cancel the 2020 Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade, according the parade web site."For 48 years, the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for families, businesses, organizations and so many more. But, with the rapid developments that have occurred over the last 24 hours including the announcement from the World Health Organization and the President’s address to the nation, we feel that the most responsible thing we can do is cancel the parade.We will spend the next 24 hours regrouping and discussing the plan for moving forward."

Organizers cancel Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade over coronavirus

MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended its season “until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas.

Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the team confirmed the presumptive positive test.

MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended its season “until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas.Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the team confirmed the presumptive positive test.

NBA suspends season until further notice, over coronavirus

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is suspending all travel between the U.S. and Europe for 30 days beginning Friday as he seeks to combat a viral pandemic.

Trump made the announcement in an Oval Office address to the nation, blaming the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the “foreign virus” and saying U.S. clusters were “seeded” by European travelers.

“We made a lifesaving move with early action on China,” Trump said. “Now we must take the same action with Europe.”

Trump said the restrictions won’t apply to the United Kingdom and the U.S. would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier.

Trump said he was also directing agencies to provide unspecified financial relief for “for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus,” and asked Congress to take action to extend it.

Trump said the U.S. will will defer tax payments for some individual and business filers for three months to lessen the impacts of the virus outbreak. He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm.

“This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”

Trump also reiterated his call on Congress to pass a cut to the federal payroll tax in order to stimulate the economy.

Trump said “we are marshaling the full power” of the government and private sector to protect the American people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583975573611.png" alt="President Trump during Wednesday's Oval Office address -White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during Wednesday's Oval Office address -White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is suspending all travel between the U.S. and Europe for 30 days beginning Friday as he seeks to combat a viral pandemic.Trump made the announcement in an Oval Office address to the nation, blaming the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the “foreign virus” and saying U.S. clusters were “seeded” by European travelers.“We made a lifesaving move with early action on China,” Trump said. “Now we must take the same action with Europe.”Trump said the restrictions won’t apply to the United Kingdom and the U.S. would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier.Trump said he was also directing agencies to provide unspecified financial relief for “for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus,” and asked Congress to take action to extend it.Trump said the U.S. will will defer tax payments for some individual and business filers for three months to lessen the impacts of the virus outbreak. He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm.“This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”Trump also reiterated his call on Congress to pass a cut to the federal payroll tax in order to stimulate the economy.Trump said “we are marshaling the full power” of the government and private sector to protect the American people.

Coronavirus battle: Trump suspends travel between US and Europe

A message from University of Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer to students, faculty and staff

KU leaders have been closely monitoring the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.ku.edu/">COVID-19</a>. We know that some members of the Jayhawk community have been in areas with reported cases, and we don’t expect to be immune from this virus. We have a strong team that is assessing conditions regionally and across the nation and is making recommendations guided by the following principles:

Delayed Resumption of In-person Classes Until March 23

To help protect the health of all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19,&nbsp;the resumption of in-person classes will be delayed until March 23.

Next week, March 16-22, we ask that faculty prepare to transition their course content, including lectures, to online instructional platforms, such as Blackboard. Every KU course already has an existing Blackboard shell available for faculty to start the process. Beginning the week of March 23, courses will be taught remotely using online tools. We anticipate needing to stay online for several weeks, however, our team will reassess the need to continue remote-only instruction each week, starting March 28.&nbsp;There will be no schedule change to courses already online.

This approach limits in-person exposure after spring break to align with the estimated COVID-19 incubation period, and allows faculty members a modest amount of time to prepare and begin the transition to online instruction. It also keeps the university functioning and helps students continue toward their educational goals.

We understand moving instruction to a solely online format will be a heavy lift for some faculty. Resources are available so no faculty member needs to make this online transition alone. KU Information Technology’s Ed Tech team, Center for Teaching Excellence, Center for Online and Distance Learning, and Office of Faculty Development and Mentoring are engaged in this process and will be available with guidance, instruction and tutorials. The team has created a new site —&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;— that provides guidance for those who are new to Blackboard, as well as next steps for faculty who are ready to do more. Individual guidance will also be available. Instructors and staff are encouraged to use Skype or Zoom to interact with students for office hours or appointments.

Faculty and instructional staff:&nbsp;You can get help to start online adaptation of courses by contacting KU IT Educational Technology Support,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itedtech@ku.edu">itedtech@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-2600. The team will assess each faculty member’s situation and either assist with Blackboard migration or refer instructors to more specialized consulting available through the Center for Online and Distance Learning.

Students:&nbsp;In the days ahead, look for a message from your instructors about what you might expect for your courses. If online learning is new to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/guide">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;for a basic guide and resources to get you started. Instructors and advisors may also use tech tools, such as Skype or Zoom as an alternative for in-person meetings or office hours.

While we move courses online, it is important to know we are keeping campus open and operating normally so we can continue to provide services to students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders.

All KU Student Housing buildings (residence halls, scholarship halls, apartments) and KU Dining venues will be open. We are encouraging students to stay home as they work on their courses. We recognize some students may need to remain on campus because they are prevented from returning home due to travel restrictions, or they need access to computers and reliable Internet service needed to complete work.

Students,&nbsp;do not return to campus if:

If any of these apply, be sure to inform your instructors of your situation.

Faculty and staff are expected to report to work unless:

Supervisors should exercise judgement and flexibility when considering requests for alternate work schedules or to telecommute, which includes requests from student employees and consideration of required staffing levels.

We notice that many national meetings have already been canceled. Out of an abundance of caution,&nbsp;all university sponsored domestic and international business-related travel and attendance at meetings, conferences, etc., is to be discontinued, effective immediately.&nbsp;Business-related travel in and around Kansas and Missouri is excluded from this restriction. Please do not make new plans for business travel during the next 60 days. Under extreme circumstances, exemptions to the travel restriction will be considered in advance by the provost or her designee. Travel appeals should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Travel%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.

Human Resource Management is preparing concise information to share with you about a variety of topics, including time-off policies, contingency preparations, remote work opportunities and more, which will be posted on the web soon. You should feel free to contact the office directly,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hrdept@ku.edu">hrdept@ku.edu</a>, or 785-864-4946.

Interviewing Prospective Employees/Students

Spring is an important time to hire new faculty and staff as well as to engage with prospective graduate students. We encourage faculty and staff to use Skype, as much as possible, to limit in-person contact and travel as you conduct interviews. Please reach out to KU IT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itcsc@ku.edu">itcsc@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-8080, if you need assistance with these technologies.

Effective immediately, university sponsored events will be limited to no more than 50 participants. Mission-critical exemptions to the attendance limit must be approved by the provost or her designee. Appeals should be sent in advance to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Event%20Attendance%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.

The Centers for Disease Control has yet to provide guidance on maximum event size, although it offers important&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html">advice to planners</a>. When an event is taking place, planners should communicate to visitors and participants the importance of exercising their personal discretion. Please advise individuals not to attend if they fall into a category recommended for quarantine, they have underlying chronic health conditions, or they are sick. Our Public Health Planning Events Workgroup is continuing to develop plans and will provide more detailed guidance soon.

Please be sure to take care of yourself. Each of us plays an important role in maintaining our personal health, which in turn helps protect our broader community. Please continue to follow CDC recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19 shared earlier by&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>. Taking action that aims to limit exposure of Jayhawks to the virus will help ensure our collective health and safety. Employees who are sick and who lack sufficient paid time off, should contact HR about the potential for using shared leave.

Our Public Health Planning Team continues to evaluate many other important questions, and we will be able to provide answers for those matters in the days ahead. This website will help keep you current.

This is a challenging time for our campus, our families and our community, and it is a time that may require additional bold measures. It will take all of us working together to ensure we emerge stronger. It also will require us to, fundamentally, be empathetic to each other, understanding we are all working through this evolving situation together. We’re confident we have the talent, the resources and the heart to rise to this challenge.

A message from University of Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer to students, faculty and staff<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Due to coronavirus concerns, KU is delaying the resumption of in-person classes following spring break. Starting Monday, March 23, all classes will be held online until further notice. Details at <a href="https://t.co/raPttxxz8z">https://t.co/raPttxxz8z</a>.&mdash; The University of Kansas (@UnivOfKansas) <a href="https://twitter.com/UnivOfKansas/status/1237921278532694016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>KU leaders have been closely monitoring the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.ku.edu/">COVID-19</a>. We know that some members of the Jayhawk community have been in areas with reported cases, and we don’t expect to be immune from this virus. We have a strong team that is assessing conditions regionally and across the nation and is making recommendations guided by the following principles:<ol>
 <li>Keep KU open so it can provide services to the fullest extent possible given unprecedented circumstances.</li><li>Maintain continuity of operations that support the academic and research missions of the university.</li><li>Prevent the spread of the disease at KU and beyond.</li><li>Protect members of the KU community through self-quarantine and social distancing, especially the three groups at greatest risk:those who may have been exposed,those who have chronic health challenges,those who are currently sick.</li><li>those who may have been exposed,</li><li>those who have chronic health challenges,</li><li>those who are currently sick.</li><li>Encourage all members of the KU community to be informed and practice healthy behaviors by following CDC recommendations.</li><li>Protect equity for our most vulnerable employees and students, as much as possible, as we respond to the situation.</li><li>Respond with agility to the fluid and changing nature of the situation.</li><li>Provide clear communications to all members of the KU community.</li><li>Provide exceptions for mission-critical activities on a case-by-case basis.</li>
 </ol><h2>Delayed Resumption of In-person Classes Until March 23</h2>To help protect the health of all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19,&nbsp;the resumption of in-person classes will be delayed until March 23.Next week, March 16-22, we ask that faculty prepare to transition their course content, including lectures, to online instructional platforms, such as Blackboard. Every KU course already has an existing Blackboard shell available for faculty to start the process. Beginning the week of March 23, courses will be taught remotely using online tools. We anticipate needing to stay online for several weeks, however, our team will reassess the need to continue remote-only instruction each week, starting March 28.&nbsp;There will be no schedule change to courses already online.This approach limits in-person exposure after spring break to align with the estimated COVID-19 incubation period, and allows faculty members a modest amount of time to prepare and begin the transition to online instruction. It also keeps the university functioning and helps students continue toward their educational goals.We understand moving instruction to a solely online format will be a heavy lift for some faculty. Resources are available so no faculty member needs to make this online transition alone. KU Information Technology’s Ed Tech team, Center for Teaching Excellence, Center for Online and Distance Learning, and Office of Faculty Development and Mentoring are engaged in this process and will be available with guidance, instruction and tutorials. The team has created a new site —&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;— that provides guidance for those who are new to Blackboard, as well as next steps for faculty who are ready to do more. Individual guidance will also be available. Instructors and staff are encouraged to use Skype or Zoom to interact with students for office hours or appointments.Faculty and instructional staff:&nbsp;You can get help to start online adaptation of courses by contacting KU IT Educational Technology Support,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itedtech@ku.edu">itedtech@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-2600. The team will assess each faculty member’s situation and either assist with Blackboard migration or refer instructors to more specialized consulting available through the Center for Online and Distance Learning.Students:&nbsp;In the days ahead, look for a message from your instructors about what you might expect for your courses. If online learning is new to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/guide">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;for a basic guide and resources to get you started. Instructors and advisors may also use tech tools, such as Skype or Zoom as an alternative for in-person meetings or office hours.<h2>Campus Remains Open</h2>While we move courses online, it is important to know we are keeping campus open and operating normally so we can continue to provide services to students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders.All KU Student Housing buildings (residence halls, scholarship halls, apartments) and KU Dining venues will be open. We are encouraging students to stay home as they work on their courses. We recognize some students may need to remain on campus because they are prevented from returning home due to travel restrictions, or they need access to computers and reliable Internet service needed to complete work.Students,&nbsp;do not return to campus if:<ol>
 <li>You are sick.</li><li>You have a chronic health condition that puts you at greater risk of the effects of COVID-19.</li><li>You have traveled internationally or domestically to areas with outbreaks, or have potentially been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If this is the case, please self-isolate or quarantine yourself for 14 days and call your healthcare provider for guidance.</li>
 </ol>If any of these apply, be sure to inform your instructors of your situation.Faculty and staff are expected to report to work unless:<ol>
 <li>You have been advised to self-isolate or quarantine because of travel or potential exposure.</li><li>You have chronic health conditions or are in another at-risk group considered more susceptible to COVID-19.</li><li>You are sick.</li>
 </ol>Supervisors should exercise judgement and flexibility when considering requests for alternate work schedules or to telecommute, which includes requests from student employees and consideration of required staffing levels.<h2>University Sponsored Travel</h2>We notice that many national meetings have already been canceled. Out of an abundance of caution,&nbsp;all university sponsored domestic and international business-related travel and attendance at meetings, conferences, etc., is to be discontinued, effective immediately.&nbsp;Business-related travel in and around Kansas and Missouri is excluded from this restriction. Please do not make new plans for business travel during the next 60 days. Under extreme circumstances, exemptions to the travel restriction will be considered in advance by the provost or her designee. Travel appeals should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Travel%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.<h2>Human Resource Management</h2>Human Resource Management is preparing concise information to share with you about a variety of topics, including time-off policies, contingency preparations, remote work opportunities and more, which will be posted on the web soon. You should feel free to contact the office directly,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hrdept@ku.edu">hrdept@ku.edu</a>, or 785-864-4946.<h2>Interviewing Prospective Employees/Students</h2>Spring is an important time to hire new faculty and staff as well as to engage with prospective graduate students. We encourage faculty and staff to use Skype, as much as possible, to limit in-person contact and travel as you conduct interviews. Please reach out to KU IT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itcsc@ku.edu">itcsc@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-8080, if you need assistance with these technologies.<h2>Events and Outreach</h2>Effective immediately, university sponsored events will be limited to no more than 50 participants. Mission-critical exemptions to the attendance limit must be approved by the provost or her designee. Appeals should be sent in advance to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Event%20Attendance%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.The Centers for Disease Control has yet to provide guidance on maximum event size, although it offers important&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html">advice to planners</a>. When an event is taking place, planners should communicate to visitors and participants the importance of exercising their personal discretion. Please advise individuals not to attend if they fall into a category recommended for quarantine, they have underlying chronic health conditions, or they are sick. Our Public Health Planning Events Workgroup is continuing to develop plans and will provide more detailed guidance soon.<h2>Stay Healthy</h2>Please be sure to take care of yourself. Each of us plays an important role in maintaining our personal health, which in turn helps protect our broader community. Please continue to follow CDC recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19 shared earlier by&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>. Taking action that aims to limit exposure of Jayhawks to the virus will help ensure our collective health and safety. Employees who are sick and who lack sufficient paid time off, should contact HR about the potential for using shared leave.Our Public Health Planning Team continues to evaluate many other important questions, and we will be able to provide answers for those matters in the days ahead. This website will help keep you current.This is a challenging time for our campus, our families and our community, and it is a time that may require additional bold measures. It will take all of us working together to ensure we emerge stronger. It also will require us to, fundamentally, be empathetic to each other, understanding we are all working through this evolving situation together. We’re confident we have the talent, the resources and the heart to rise to this challenge.Thank you to the&nbsp;

Chancellor: KU will hold all classes online until further notice


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —COVID-19 may not officially be in Reno County yet, but the Reno County Health Department is ready for it.

"The reality is with many upper respiratory viral infections, as we see with COVID-19, it's just a matter of when it gets here versus if it gets here," said Nick Baldetti, Director of the Reno County Health Department. "It is a strain of viruses that we've seen before. The public health and preparedness sections of both the health care sector and general community has planned for outbreaks and responses toward emergencies. We would use the same structure toward this."

It's not that COVID-19 is an emergency now, but if one would need to be declared, Baldetti would be the one making that recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. The purpose behind that would be to access federal and state emergency money for response.

"There are only designated labs within each state right now," Baldetti said. "For the state of Kansas, the state-run lab in Topeka is the designated lab by the CDC that can actually test for those. Any medical facility should be able to swab and send those specimens up to the state lab."

The problem is with it being flu and cold season, the start of COVID-19 is similar symptomatically and it isn't feasible to test everyone at this point, because a sample would have to go to the state lab for testing and they need to be able to use their time effectively.

"If someone presents who has a potential risk factor, then absolutely, they will be tested," Baldetti said. "That goes back to that vetting process. If, for some reason, through that vetting at that physician's clinic, there's reason to suspect that we should test for COVID-19, then it gets shipped right up to the state and that turnaround should happen within a day or two."

Baldetti was clear that the same handwashing and hygenic precautions you should already be taking for the flu are the ones that will protect against COVID-19 transmission as well. Stay home if you're sick, wash your hands, cover your mouth if you cough. All of those things still apply. This is just a new virus strain that people need to build immunity to, but for those who are unable to do that because of underlying conditions, there is a risk involved.

By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —COVID-19 may not officially be in Reno County yet, but the Reno County Health Department is ready for it."The reality is with many upper respiratory viral infections, as we see with COVID-19, it's just a matter of when it gets here versus if it gets here," said Nick Baldetti, Director of the Reno County Health Department. "It is a strain of viruses that we've seen before. The public health and preparedness sections of both the health care sector and general community has planned for outbreaks and responses toward emergencies. We would use the same structure toward this."It's not that COVID-19 is an emergency now, but if one would need to be declared, Baldetti would be the one making that recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners. The purpose behind that would be to access federal and state emergency money for response."There are only designated labs within each state right now," Baldetti said. "For the state of Kansas, the state-run lab in Topeka is the designated lab by the CDC that can actually test for those. Any medical facility should be able to swab and send those specimens up to the state lab."The problem is with it being flu and cold season, the start of COVID-19 is similar symptomatically and it isn't feasible to test everyone at this point, because a sample would have to go to the state lab for testing and they need to be able to use their time effectively."If someone presents who has a potential risk factor, then absolutely, they will be tested," Baldetti said. "That goes back to that vetting process. If, for some reason, through that vetting at that physician's clinic, there's reason to suspect that we should test for COVID-19, then it gets shipped right up to the state and that turnaround should happen within a day or two."Baldetti was clear that the same handwashing and hygenic precautions you should already be taking for the flu are the ones that will protect against COVID-19 transmission as well. Stay home if you're sick, wash your hands, cover your mouth if you cough. All of those things still apply. This is just a new virus strain that people need to build immunity to, but for those who are unable to do that because of underlying conditions, there is a risk involved.

Reno County Health Department ready if needed for COVID-19 response

WICHITA —Wesley Healthcare remains focused on preparation efforts regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19). The hospital's efforts include reinforcing appropriate infection prevention protocols and guidance from the CDC, ensuring that we have the necessary supplies and emergency preparedness, according to a media release.

In an abundance of caution, as the the hospital often does during heavy flu outbreaks, they’re implementing visitor restrictions. Starting this week, visitors and patients are being directed to use specific entrances to help staff screen those who enter the hospitals.

Visitors are asked enter at one of these locations:- Emergency department entrance, open 24/7­- Main entrance (from parking garage or Hillside doors, doors will be open to patients and visitors from 4:30am-11:00pm­- Critical care entrance, open from 6am-6pm

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583836718811.png" alt="Sign at the front entrance of Wesley Medical center in Wichita -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Sign at the front entrance of Wesley Medical center in Wichita -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Wesley Healthcare remains focused on preparation efforts regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19). The hospital's efforts include reinforcing appropriate infection prevention protocols and guidance from the CDC, ensuring that we have the necessary supplies and emergency preparedness, according to a media release.In an abundance of caution, as the the hospital often does during heavy flu outbreaks, they’re implementing visitor restrictions. Starting this week, visitors and patients are being directed to use specific entrances to help staff screen those who enter the hospitals.Visitors are asked enter at one of these locations:- Emergency department entrance, open 24/7­- Main entrance (from parking garage or Hillside doors, doors will be open to patients and visitors from 4:30am-11:00pm­- Critical care entrance, open from 6am-6pm

Coronavirus Update