MCKS, COVID-19 Press Releases

Press Releases - COVID-19 Notices for Mitchell County, KS

There are 16 Press Releases provided on this page in dated, numerical order...

Most recent include.... please scroll down to view all.

07-06-20, MC Board of Health Will Not Override Executive Order No. 20-52 Requiring Masks
07-02-20, Information Per Forthcoming (July 3) Executive Order Regarding Use of Masks
06-26-20, Remain Diligent As Significant Increase In Active Outbreaks Of COVID-19 In Area & State

View Full List of MCKS COVID-19 Info On This Site

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 07-06-20
MC Board of Health Will Not Override Executive Order No. 20-52 Requiring Masks
Chris Treaster, County Clerk, Mitchell County KS

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

At the weekly Mitchell County Commissioner meeting this morning it was decided the Mitchell County Board of Health will not place a resolution overriding Executive Order No. 20-52 requiring masks or other face coverings in public implemented by Governor Kelly on July 3rd, 2020. With that being said, due to enforcement limitations and a strong emphasis on the importance of personal accountability, it was furthermore decided Mitchell County will also not enforce the Executive Order.

The decisions made by the Mitchell County Board of Health does not come lightly, with understanding that further restrictions may be essential in the future based upon current events at that time. Additionally, the Board of Health does strongly recommend the use of masks while in public settings to assist with preventing the spread of COVID-19. Masks remain to only be one piece of the puzzle, continuing with the recommendations of social distancing, hand hygiene, disinfecting highly used surfaces often, limiting non-essential travel, and so on are also critical to limit exposure and decrease risk for infection.

The Mitchell County Commissioners / Board of Health does support businesses in our county that have chosen to make masks mandatory while in their facility. Many local businesses are strongly recommended or required to follow organizational guidance set forth and have worked meticulously to protect themselves and community members throughout the pandemic. As stated in previous press releases from the Mitchell County Health Department, please continue to proceed with patience and understanding in months to come.

Lastly, a significant rise in travel, events, and gatherings throughout Kansas have contributed to a noticeable increase in positive COVID-19 cases and close contacts in our state. Now, more than ever, it is important to remain steadfast in efforts to decrease the spread of infection. We would like to thank our community members for the tremendous efforts demonstrated in recent months and urge everyone to continue with the same diligence moving forward.

On behalf of the Mitchell County Commissioners,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 07-02-20
Information Per (July 3) Executive Order Regarding Use of Masks
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

Earlier this week Governor Kelly announced she will sign an Executive Order requiring the majority of Kansans to wear a mask while in a public space. The Executive Order is intended to go into effect on July 3rd, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. At the health department, we have received many questions and concerns in regards to how this will affect our community. Although the Executive Order was announced on Monday, it was not released until this morning and our staff will be working today to review the order and gain further understanding. Additionally, the Mitchell County Board of Health (County Commissioners) are also expected to address the Executive Order next week.

With that being said, businesses in our community, whether following organizational guidance or a choice made by the business owner, may require the use of masks while in their facility. The businesses in our county have put forth a tremendous effort to protect themselves and members of our community while in their facilities, and during this time it is important to continue to proceed with the same patience and understanding in the months to come.

Additionally, with an increase of positive cases throughout Kansas and an increase in events occurring within our county, we urge everyone to continue to proceed with caution. If you have acquaintances that will be traveling from outside our county please ensure all measures are being taken to reduce exposure to COVID-19 and reduce the spread of infection. While attending events or gatherings, please follow recommendations put forth by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including social distancing, hand hygiene, masks in public when appropriate, and so on.

Lastly, if you have come into contact with a known positive COVID-19 person, contact the Mitchell County Health Department for further education and guidance. If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, please call ahead to your health care provider for further instructions prior to arriving at the facility. We thank all our community members for diligence demonstrated in recent months and encourage everyone to continue the same efforts moving forward.

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 06-26-20
Remain Diligent As Significant Increase Active Outbreaks Of COVID-19 In Area & State
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

Over the last week Kansas has witnessed a significant increase in the number of active outbreaks of COVID-19 throughout the state, including an outbreak occurring in a surrounding area. While the full extent of that outbreak has yet to be determined, a notable increase of positive COVID-19 cases in our region may occur.

Currently, Mitchel County remains at four cases, none of which are active at this time. With that being said, a rise in travel, events, and activities increases the risk of exposure to our community members. We highly encourage everyone to remain diligent in protecting yourself and others as we continue to navigate through the pandemic.

As a reminder, COVID-19 is a virus that is spread from person-to-person while in close contact, within about 6 feet, through respiratory droplets produced when an infectious person sneezes, coughs or talks. To help prevent the spread of the virus it is recommended to please wash your hands often, use hand sanitizer when hand washing is not available, social distance by avoiding close contact with other individuals, cover coughs and sneezes, cover your mouth and nose with a cloth mask when around others, clean and disinfect often, and monitor changes in your health. Furthermore, be aware of travel restrictions set by KDHE requiring mandatory quarantines upon arrival back into Kansas.

Lastly, we want to again thank our community for the tremendous effort being put forth in preventing the spread of COVID-19 throughout our area. We have witnessed how quickly the virus can spread and now, more than ever, it is crucial we continue to do our part in protecting ourselves and our vulnerable population. We urge everyone to take additional precautions when making plans for future activities. Finally, if you are concerned you may have been potentially exposed or are showing symptoms of COVID-19, please call your health care provider prior to arriving at the facility.

Websites to access further information:

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 06-12-20
Mitchell County will move out of the Phase 3 Plan and into the Phase Out Plan as of June 15th
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

Dear Mitchell County Residents,
As of Monday, June 15th Mitchell County will move out of the Phase 3 Plan and into the Phase Out Plan. The recommended changes occurring from Phase 3 to Phase Out are minimal, with the main component being there will no longer be a mass gathering size identified. With that being said, we continue to urge the community to proceed with caution and continue to do your part in preventing the spread of infection. The Mitchell County Phase Out Plan was developed following Governor Kelly’s Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas.

In addition to the transition from Phase 3 to Phase Out, there are a few reminders we would like to provide going forward:

First, as a reminder the Mitchell County Health Department will no longer be providing individual press releases on all new Covid-19 cases in Mitchell County. With that being said, we will provide a press release if a situation warrants it, such as if an outbreak or cluster were to occur.
Next, local governments retain authority to impose equal or more stringent restrictions as appropriate, except as to essential functions identified in the KEFF. While Mitchell County does not have any stronger restrictions than the state at this time, it may be a possibility in the future based upon the current situation. KDHE does continue to have travel restrictions, as identified in both the Phase 3 Plan and Phase Out Plan.
Finally, businesses do possess the ability to impose stricter requirements, and we strongly encourage all business to follow the industry guidelines available at covid.ks.gov.

As the weather begins to warm up, events are being planned, and an increase in travel occurs, we want to again strongly encourage all Mitchell County residents to maintain social distancing when appropriate, continue hygiene protocols, and exercise additional caution when possible. Our community has thus far done a remarkable job in preventing the spread of COVID-19, and it is crucial we continue to do so moving forward.

The Mitchell County Health Department, Board of Health, and Health Officer will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation daily and will update as events occur. We again want to thank all the residents of Mitchell County, as we greatly appreciate the patience and diligence demonstrated in recent months.

Websites to access further information:

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 05-29-20
MC Will No Longer Impose Any Restrictions On Businesses Or Residents In Mitchell County Effective June 1st
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

May 29th, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,
First and foremost, we would like to thank the Mitchell County community for their continued efforts and diligence put forth throughout the last few months. The tremendous actions demonstrated by our residents has shown true resilience and accountability to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable population.

The Mitchell County Health Department and Health Officer, in consultation with the Board of Health, will no longer impose any restrictions on businesses or residents in Mitchell County effective June 1st, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. The current Phase 2 order for Mitchell County will remain in place until June 1st, at which time Mitchell County will strongly recommend businesses and individuals to follow the Mitchell County Phase 3 Plan with a mass gathering of no more than 90.

Mitchell County’s recommendations for businesses and individuals remain, as described by the following:

Mass gatherings of no more than 90 individuals
Masks are strongly encouraged in public settings
Maintain 6 foot social distance
Perform hand hygiene and disinfect highly used surfaces frequently
Any individuals exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 are required to stay home
Minimize or avoid nonessential travel
Follow KDHE travel and quarantine guidelines for travel to high-risk areas

As a reminder, businesses do possess the ability to impose stricter requirements. We strongly encourage all businesses to follow the industry guidelines, available at covid.ks.gov. Additionally, KDHE travel restrictions will remain in place until further notice.

We will continue with daily monitoring, with Mitchell County reserving the right to implement further restrictions if a surge of COVID-19 cases emerges. The decisions will be based on the situation at that time.

Again, we strongly recommend all businesses and individuals to follow the Mitchell County Phase 3 Plan as written. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for our community members to proceed with being accountable for our individual choices, mindful of our at-risk population, and continue to be as vigilant as we have been up to this point.

Websites to access further information:

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 05-18-20
Mitchell County & Phase 1.5 Reopening
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

Also see: Phased Reopening Plan page

May 18, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

Today we move to Phase 1.5 of Governor Kelly’s plan to reopen Kansas, this phase will last a minimum of 14 days long. As with Phase 1, Mitchell County has followed Governor Kelly’s plan closely during the develop of Phase 1.5 for our county. As stated previously, Governor Kelly’s plan provides a regulatory baseline for Kansas local governments, further allowing the local governments to possess the ability to execute additional restrictions. The Mitchell County Health Department, Mitchell County Health Officer, and Mitchell County Board of Health will continue to work with community leaders and health partners to ensure the Phase 1.5 plan created for Mitchell County meets the distinct needs of our community, while also working towards the goal of moving onto Phase 2.

Mitchell County’s Phase 1.5 Plan is similar to Phase 1, with various selected businesses being allowed to open. Key highlights of Mitchell County’s Phase 1.5 Plan include:

Mass gatherings of no more than 10 individuals are allowed
Masks are strongly encouraged in public settings
Maintain 6 foot social distance
Telework is strongly encouraged when possible
Any employees exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 are required to stay home
Minimize or avoid nonessential travel
Follow KDHE and Mitchell County’s travel and quarantine guidelines for travel to high-risk areas

As a reminder, Mitchell County does have additional orders in place at this time and will remain in place until further notice. The travel restriction orders were updated effective today, releasing three counties from the quarantine list. Please visit the Mitchell County website or the Mitchell County Health Department Facebook page to view the orders.

For further details on what businesses are allowed to open and what businesses are required to remain closed, please review Governor Kelly’s Plan to Reopen Kansas that is available on covid.ks.gov. Furthermore, additional education pieces are available on our website and Facebook page.

Websites to access further information:

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 04-30-20
KS Governor Kelly announces a plan to reopen Kansas through a series of phases
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

April 30, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,
This evening Governor Kelly announced a plan to reopen Kansas through a series of phases, with each phase lasting a minimum of 14 days long. As Governor Kelly detailed, this plan provides a regulatory baseline for Kansas local governments, further allowing the local governments to possess the ability to execute additional restrictions. Please know that the Mitchell County Health Department, Mitchell County Health Officer, and Mitchell County Board of Health will be working together with community leaders and health partners to ensure the plan released for Mitchell County meets the distinct needs of our community.

Mitchell County’s plan to reopen is scheduled to be available Friday afternoon, with greater details as to what to expect during Phase 1. Until that is available, a few key highlights of Governor Kelly’s Reopen Plan includes:

Mass gatherings of no more than 10 individuals is allowed
Masks are strongly encouraged in public settings
Maintain 6 foot social distance
Telework is strongly encouraged when possible
Any employees exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 are required to stay home
Minimize or avoid nonessential travel
Follow KDHE travel and quarantine guidelines for travel to high-risk areas

As a reminder, Mitchell County does have additional orders in place at this time and will remain in place until further notice. These currently include additional mass gathering orders and travel restrictions. Please visit the Mitchell County website or the Mitchell County Health Department Facebook page to view the orders.

For further details on what businesses are allowed to open and what businesses are required to remain closed, please review Governor Kelly’s Plan to Reopen Kansas that is available on covid.ks.gov. Furthermore, we will be providing additional education pieces on our website and Facebook page in the upcoming days.

Websites to access further information:

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 04-28-20

3rd Confirmed Positive COVID Case in Mitchell County
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

April 28, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

The Mitchell County Health Department received notification confirming our third positive case of COVID-19 in Mitchell County. We are working closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment during this time.

The case in Mitchell county is a male over the age of 20 with a recent exposure to a known confirmed case. The individual is currently maintaining in-home isolation and is stable. The Mitchell County Health Department has identified all contacts and will monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information will be given on the patient.

There are numerous questions regarding the reopening of Kansas and Mitchell County, with that being said our goal continues to be preventing and limiting exposure to our population.

If you develop respiratory symptoms (i.e. cough, fever, shortness of breath) or are a potential contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19:

Stay at home away from others in the public in order to prevent spreading infection.
Tylenol is the preferred medication for fever rather than ibuprofen.
Over-the-counter cough syrup is satisfactory for cough symptoms.
Keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
If your symptoms worsen, please call your physician, Beloit Medical Center or MCHHS Emergency Department prior to coming to either facility for direction on how best to proceed.

Most cases can be treated at home with periodic follow-up by phone. After discussion by phone, the physician will help direct you to the most appropriate place to be seen if evaluation is necessary. These actions will allow for the most efficient usage of our currently limited health care resources.

As previously stated, social distancing for everyone means don’t travel! Don’t congregate in local venues. Don’t shop in family groups where multiple members may be exposed or expose others. Don’t engage in unnecessary commercial transactions or recreational activities if you can’t maintain a degree of social distancing. If you have any questions please contact the Mitchell County Health Department or visit www.kdheks.gov.
Sincerely,

State of Kansas Press Release, 04-28-20

KS Governor Announces State’s New COVID-19 Website
Lauren Fitzgerald, Press Secretary | 785.581.4730 | lauren.fitzgerald@ks.gov

April 28th, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly on Monday announced the launch of a new and comprehensive State of Kansas website for resources regarding COVID-19.
The site, covid.ks.gov, is a centralized place for Kansans seeking resources and up-to-date information, as the state responds to, and recovers from damage done by the COVID-19 pandemic. The site is ADA compliant, mobile optimized and will be available in Spanish.

Visit the website at: covid.ks.gov

“This comprehensive website will help Kansans connect with vital information as the state moves into reopening and recovery, and still offer guidance on ways to stay healthy and stop the spread of the virus,” the Governor said.

The site includes the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) daily case rates, what to do if you experience COVID-19 symptoms, how to protect yourself and more updated information on state resources in place to help Kansans.

Kansans also can learn about volunteer efforts taking place statewide.

The KDHE site, kdheks.gov, will continue to be updated with COVID-19 related health information. As the state begins to expand beyond the medical portion of the pandemic, the new, more comprehensive ecovid.ks.gov site will provide additional resources related to the state’s recovery efforts.

The new website also features acts of kindness from across the state.

“Seeing the many ways Kansans help one another – especially during this difficult time – is truly inspirational,” Kelly said. “I’m thankful every day for those kind gestures, and we want to do more to celebrate them.”

Visit the website at covid.ks.gov

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 04-21-20

What an outbreak is and how it is affecting multiple Kansas counties.
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

April 21st, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,
With the increasing numbers of COVID-19 throughout Kansas, we felt it important to discuss what an outbreak is and how it is affecting multiple Kansas counties.

An outbreak occurs when there is an incidence of disease greater than what is expected for a particular time or place, such as in a community or county. Multiple counties in Kansas have experienced an outbreak, including care facilities, private businesses, and as a result of church gatherings. Due to the multiple outbreaks occurring in Kansas and Nebraska, additional counties have now been added to Mitchell County’s travel restriction list.

Per the most recent travel restriction order put into effect on April 21st, 2020, a mandatory 14-day home quarantine will be in place for the following:

To individuals who have traveled to areas identified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). Individuals who have traveled to the following counties in Kansas: Johnson, Wyandotte, Douglas, Leavenworth, Sedgwick, Coffey, Shawnee, Ford, and Lyon. Individuals who have traveled to the following counties in Nebraska: Hall, Douglas, Sarpy, Dawson, Adams, and Lancaster.

People subject to quarantine must comply with the KDHE home quarantine guidelines currently in place and as they are updated. Any planned travel going forward will also incur the same order for isolation and quarantine. We will continue to follow the Kansas Essential Functions Framework, please contact the Mitchell County Health Department with any questions prior to traveling.

It cannot be stressed enough the importance of staying home and only going out for essential tasks. In anticipation for May 4th and the potential release of the stay-at-home order, we will continue to monitor the current COVID-19 situation in Kansas and surrounding states throughout the following weeks. Our community needs to continue to remain diligent in preventing the spread of COVID-19, while plans are being developed for the gradual reopening of our county and state.

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 04-16-20

What This Means for MC... Stay-at-Home order is now extended until May 3rd, 2020
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

April 16th, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,
As many are aware, Governor Kelly announced yesterday the Statewide Stay-at-Home order is now extended until May 3rd, 2020.

What does this mean for Mitchell County? All residents must continue to stay in their homes or residences unless performing an essential activity. If you have a question regarding what is considered an essential activity, please call the health department prior to engaging in the activity or reference the Kansas Essential Functions Framework for a list of essential functions.

Travel restrictions remain in place for Mitchell County to include any travel to and from areas identified by KDHE, also to include the following counties in Kansas: Johnson, Wyandotte, Douglas, Leavenworth, Sedgwick, Coffey, and Shawnee. Any non-essential travel to and from those areas will result in a mandatory 14-day home quarantine upon arrival to Mitchell County. This does include non-Mitchell County residents traveling to Mitchell County from a designated area. Additionally, if someone visits your household from a designated travel restriction area, any contacts will also be placed into a minimum 7-day home quarantine.

It cannot be stressed enough the importance of staying home and only going out for essential tasks. You can reduce your risk of exposure by:

Maintaining social distancing of 6 feet or more and no mass gatherings.
Covering your face with a cloth masks when in public places.
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or more.
Using hand sanitizer and disinfecting highly used surfaces often.
Stay home if you are sick and call your healthcare provider prior to arrival.

The community has done a tremendous job thus far, but now is the time to remain diligent with response efforts to COVID-19 moving forward. It is crucial to continue to follow guidelines put in place by KDHE, the Mitchell County Health Department, and community healthcare providers to limit exposure and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 04-10-20

Urging Everyone To Continue Following Stay-At-Home Order & Travel Restrictions
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

April 10th, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,
We understand the upcoming holiday generally means a time for gathering with family, friends, and religious services, but we urge everyone to continue following the stay-at-home order and travel restrictions put in place by the State of Kansas and the Mitchell County Health Department.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial for everyone to do their part in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and limiting unnecessary exposure, especially to loved ones. This is a difficult and trying time as positive case counts for COVID-19 continue to rise throughout Kansas, but that is the reason why it is necessary to post-pone or cancel any non-essential or unnecessary travel or gatherings.

It is undeniably essential for everyone to continue to maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet apart, no mass gatherings greater than 10 and only if absolutely essential, and no travel, especially traveling to restricted areas. Additionally, continue washing your hands often, disinfecting highly used surfaces, and per the CDC recommendations, cover your mouth or nose with a cloth face cover when around others.

Remember, if you do travel to a travel restricted area identified by the Kansas Depart of Health and Environment or the Mitchell County Health Department, you will need to home quarantine for 14 days upon arrival back home. Lastly, remember to call ahead prior to arriving at any healthcare facilities if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

The community has done a tremendous job in response efforts to COVID-19, but we need to remain diligent moving forward throughout the coming weeks.

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 03-31-20

Clarifications & Changing Communications From Authorities
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

March 31, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

We continue to have changing communications from the federal, state, and local authorities and experts regarding Coronavirus, the most recent being the executive order that went into effect by Governor Kelly on Monday, March 30th placing a stay-at-home order for the state of Kansas. We understand there continues to be many questions and concerns, and we will do our best to keep the community updated and informed as we know more.

There are a few points we did want to bring forward or clear up with the most recent information released, including:

Dr. Lee Norman, secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, projects Kansas positive case counts to peak towards the end of April through the beginning of May. With that being said, we continue to highly encourage residents to social distance, perform good hygiene, disinfect highly used surfaces, and follow the stay-at-home order in place.
Governor Kelly stated no mass gatherings greater than 10, that is only if the gathering is absolutely necessary. While it may be inconvenient it is recommended to avoid any unnecessary gatherings, to limit exposure.
Finally, community members are highly advised to avoid travel for non-emergent healthcare needs. This means if you have a routine appointment with a physician outside of Mitchell County, it is advised to reschedule the appointment for another time if possible.

Not only do Mitchell County residents need to follow the stay-at-home order, but we also encourage the residents to stay up-to-date on the most recent travel restriction order put forth by the Mitchell County Health Department. If you travel to a designated area per the current order in place, you will need to home quarantine for 14 days. Lastly, remember to call ahead prior to arriving at any healthcare facilities if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.

The community has been very responsible and done a tremendous job in response efforts to COVID-19, but it is crucial in the coming weeks to remain diligent in following guidelines presented by KDHE, the Mitchell County Health Department, and community healthcare providers. Together we are #MitchellCountyStrong!

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 03-26-20

Prohibitions or restrictions regarding public gatherings
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department
Also see: Allowed / Not Allowed List

March 26, 2020

The Board of Health / Health Officer hereby issues the following prohibitions or restrictions regarding public gatherings in the County:

Prohibit all public mass gatherings until further notice.

The basis for this order is:

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that spread easily from person to person and may result in serious illness or death, and has been confirmed in Kansas and Mitchell County, resulting in serious illness and multiple deaths in in the state of Kansas. To reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Mitchell County Health Department recommend implementation of community mitigation strategies to increase containment of COIVD-19. The Mitchell County Health Department is prohibiting all public mass gatherings until further notice in efforts to reduce exposure and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

This order will remain in effect until vacated by the Board of Health or Health Officer. Any questions regarding this notice may be directed to Cortney Murrow, Mitchell County Health Department Administrator, at 785-738-5175, or in person at the Mitchell County Health Department, 310 W. 8th St Beloit, KS 67420.

I hereby certify that this notice was served in-hand to the above-named person(s) on
______________________ at ______ a.m./p.m.

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 03-25-20

2nd Positive Case of COVID-19 in Mitchell County
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

March 25, 2020

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

The Mitchell County Health Department received notification today confirming our second positive case of COVID-19 in Mitchell County. As with our first confirmed case, we are continuing to work closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment during this time.

The case in Mitchell county is a male over 60 with a recent known exposure. The individual is currently maintaining in-home isolation and is stable. The Mitchell County Health Department has identified all contacts and will monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information will be given on the patient.

If you develop respiratory symptoms (i.e. cough, fever, shortness of breath) or are a potential direct contact of someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, please contact your health care provider prior to arriving at the facility. Please do not arrive at the clinic or the hospital prior to calling ahead. These actions will reduce the chance of exposure to our health care providers, and allow for the most efficient usage of our currently limited health care resources.

Additionally, contact the Mitchell County Health Department to report any travel or a potential exposure with a positive COVID-19 patient. We will be able to provide guidance and education based on the information provided. To contact the Mitchell County Health Department, please call 785-738-5175.

Now more than ever it is important to implement social distancing, limit your risk of exposure, and do your part in preventing the spread of COVID-19. All health care providers in our community are working together to safely and efficiently address your health care needs. Thank you for your participation in keeping yourselves, your families and your communities safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 03-21-20

First Positive Case of COVID-19 in Mitchell County
Cortney Murrow, Administrator, Mitchell County KS Health Department

Dear Mitchell County Residents,

The Mitchell County Health Department received notification today confirming our first positive case of COVID-19 in Mitchell County. We are working closely with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment during this time.

The case in Mitchell county is a male over 70 with a recent travel history within the United States. The individual is currently maintaining in-home isolation and is stable. The Mitchell County Health Department has identified all contacts and will monitor for fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information will be given on the patient.

Our goal continues to be preventing and limiting exposure to our population. With that, all mass gatherings and events will now be limited to no more than 10 people, with social distancing being a priority. Per Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary of Health and Environment “Kansas should remain vigilant. It's important to live your lives, but it’s also important to take basic precautions, like exercising good hygiene practices. It is up to each of us to do our part.”

If you develop respiratory symptoms (i.e. cough, fever, shortness of breath) or are a potential contact with someone with a laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19:

Stay at home away from others in the public in order to prevent spreading infection.
Tylenol is the preferred medication for fever rather than ibuprofen.
Over-the-counter cough syrup is satisfactory for cough symptoms.
Keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
If your symptoms worsen, please call your physician, Beloit Medical Center or MCHHS Emergency Department prior to coming to either facility for direction on how best to proceed.

Most cases can be treated at home with periodic follow-up by phone. Whether it is influenza, COVID-19, or mild bacterial bronchitis the treatment will be the same.

After discussion by phone, the physician will help direct you to the most appropriate place to be seen if evaluation is necessary.
These actions will allow for the most efficient usage of our currently limited health care resources.

As previously stated, social distancing for everyone means don’t travel! Don’t congregate in local venues. Don’t shop in family groups where multiple members may be exposed or expose others. Don’t engage in unnecessary commercial transactions or recreational activities if you can’t maintain a degree of social distancing, meaning a group of 10 people or fewer and maintaining separation of 6 feet apart. If you have any questions please contact the Mitchell County Health Department or visit www.kdheks.gov.

Sincerely,

Mitchell County Kansas Press Release, 03-17-20

COVID-19

Related MC Government Documents (PDFs)

Mitchell County currently has no cases of COVID 19 but has decided to declare a COVID 19 Public Health Emergency Resolution. The emergency declaration gives Mitchell County the flexibility to manage operations in a rapidly changing environment and will make federal and state assistance available. The county’s local emergency operations plan has also been activated, allowing for collaboration between public safety organizations, local health officials and other community stakeholders.

Public gatherings larger than 50 are prohibited under CDC Guidelines and the executive order by Governor Kelly on 3-16-2020.

We are reminding the public that residents are still at low risk for infection with the new coronavirus disease. Because of the preventative measures we are taking we hope to keep this risk as low as possible.

It is really important for us as a community to focus on prevention and reducing the threat of COVID-19 in our community. Regardless of age, everyone needs to practice good habits. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. Between people who are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet). Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

For more log onto the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Below is a list of ways you can help prevent illness:

Wash your hands often with soap and water – use hand sanitizer if soap isn’t available
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs
Stay home when you are sick

Mitchell County Kansas Emergency Management
David Dohe - Director

Public Health & NC Kansas Home Health Agency
Cortney Murrow, Administrator

Center for Disease Control

Beloit Local Info & Resources