TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 401 to a total of 315,500, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 16 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5103.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 401 to a total of 315,500, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 16 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5103.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
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KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

St. Joseph health officials report nine new cases of COVID-19
with one additional death.

Buchanan County has recorded 10,579 total cases since the
pandemic began with 183 deaths. Health officials say a man in his 60s died of a
coronavirus-related illness.

The St. Joseph Health Department reports 20% of Buchanan
County residents have initiated the coronavirus vaccination with a total of
15,565 completing their vaccinations.

Mosaic Life Care continues to report a minimal number of coronavirus
patients and says on its website it will not issue numbers until the system patient
population reaches at least 10.

Andrew County has recorded a total of 2,072 coronavirus cases
since the pandemic began with two additional cases. Andrew County health
officials report 10 active cases. Andrew County has recorded 21 coronavirus-related
deaths.

Total cases of COVID-19 have topped one thousand in Doniphan
County, Kansas with health officials there reporting 1,012 total cases.

Missouri health officials report 510,968 total coronavirus
cases since the pandemic began, resulting in 9,081 deaths. State officials say
51.7% of the adult population has received at least one shot of the coronavirus
vaccine.

Kansas health officials report 41.6% of the state population
has initiated the COVID-19 vaccination. Kansas has recorded a total of 313,720
COVID-19 cases and 5,067 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report nine new cases of COVID-19
with one additional death.Buchanan County has recorded 10,579 total cases since the
pandemic began with 183 deaths. Health officials say a man in his 60s died of a
coronavirus-related illness.The St. Joseph Health Department reports 20% of Buchanan
County residents have initiated the coronavirus vaccination with a total of
15,565 completing their vaccinations.Mosaic Life Care continues to report a minimal number of coronavirus
patients and says on its website it will not issue numbers until the system patient
population reaches at least 10.Andrew County has recorded a total of 2,072 coronavirus cases
since the pandemic began with two additional cases. Andrew County health
officials report 10 active cases. Andrew County has recorded 21 coronavirus-related
deaths.Total cases of COVID-19 have topped one thousand in Doniphan
County, Kansas with health officials there reporting 1,012 total cases.Missouri health officials report 510,968 total coronavirus
cases since the pandemic began, resulting in 9,081 deaths. State officials say
51.7% of the adult population has received at least one shot of the coronavirus
vaccine.Kansas health officials report 41.6% of the state population
has initiated the COVID-19 vaccination. Kansas has recorded a total of 313,720
COVID-19 cases and 5,067 deaths.

St. Joseph records an additional coronavirus-related death

While most counties in northwest Missouri are seeing their COVID-19 case rates drop, a couple of them are seeing their highest surges since the pandemic started.

Livingston County reported 103 new cases last week and 36 more since Monday. Livingston County's rate of 381 new cases per 100,000 people in the last week is the highest of any county in the state.

Linn County, Livingston's neighbor to the east, has seen 96 new cases in the last seven days. Linn County's rate of 218 new cases per 100,000 people in the last week is the second highest statewide.

"We had 133 active cases here in Livingston as of Tuesday," said Ann Burchett, the public information supervisor for the Livingston County Health Center. "Our high was previously 94 back in January."

Livingston County saw only 12 new cases of COVID-19 in April, and only&nbsp;10 new cases in the first 11 days of May.

They've now seen 157 new cases between May 12-May 25 -&nbsp;an increase of 986 percent.

Burchett says the overall positive tone of COVID coverage from a statewide and national level is not reflective of what's happening in her county.

"Everything looks better, things are great, Missouri's rates are some of the lowest in the country," Burchett said. "But, that just doesn't ring true for north central Missouri right now."

Livingston County's positivity rate ranks No. 1 in the state at 21.35 percent. Linn County is right behind them at 20.93 percent.

Burchett says the cause of this recent outbreak is unclear. The Health Center has sent some testing samples to labs to see if a variant is circulating through the area.

The U.K. variant, sometimes referred to as B.1.1.7., has been confirmed in Missouri, and studies show it to be far more contagious and more likely to impact younger people than the original virus.

About 33.3 percent of the Livingston County population has initiated vaccination, and 29 percent have completed it.

While these rates are about middle-of-the-pack compared to the other counties in the state, Burchett says many of the new cases have been detected in younger groups - a population that hasn't been vaccinated as much.

"When you couple a lower vaccination rate, not wearing masks and getting back to normal, it's a perfect storm for things like this to happen," Burchett said. "Once you have a few cases, which is what we saw, they just compound themselves."

Burchett says immunity against any disease can only work if enough of the population gets vaccinated. When there's an outbreak amongst people who are not immunized, cases can pile up quickly and can even impact those who are vaccinated.

As of May 24, Livingston County identified 12 breakthrough COVID cases in fully vaccinated people.

"And pretty soon, if you get enough cases going, then you have breakthrough infections in vaccinated people," Burchett said. "Because, you don't have your herd immunity protection anymore and those people even who are vaccinated can get sick."

The recent surge in Livingston County caused the Chillicothe School District to move to virtual learning for summer school classes through June 4.

Livingston's neighbor to the north, Grundy County, is watching the situation closely. While its rate isn't as high as Livingston's, Grundy County has reported 16 new cases since May 18.

At 11.88 percent, Grundy County's positivity rate is the fifth highest in the state. Its rate of 122 new cases per 100,000 people over the last seven days is the third highest.

Grundy County has seen 25.6 percent of its population initiate vaccination - well behind the statewide rate of 43.3 percent.

Grundy County Health Administrator Elizabeth Gibson is hopeful that the easy access to the vaccine will encourage those who haven't yet to roll up their sleeves.

"We'd like to see our vaccination rates improve in Grundy County," Gibson said. "We hope now that it's readily available. And it's pretty easy to get. We have a weekly vaccination clinic at our health department (in Trenton). It's also available at local pharmacies. We also have all three types of the vaccine available in the county."

Life has returned to normal for many. Nationwide cases and deaths are down. In Missouri alone, there's been an 8.1 percent drop in new cases and a 33 percent drop in deaths in the last week, while the state's positivity rate hovers just under four percent.

While there's reason for optimism, Burchett says the situation in Livingston County is a shining example of what could happen if not enough people get vaccinated and don't take proper precautions.

"It's too early to celebrate the end of the pandemic," Burchett said. "You can look at our county and see the danger is all too real and it's really not that far away from anyone in the state."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612987994248.png" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWhile most counties in northwest Missouri are seeing their COVID-19 case rates drop, a couple of them are seeing their highest surges since the pandemic started.Livingston County reported 103 new cases last week and 36 more since Monday. Livingston County's rate of 381 new cases per 100,000 people in the last week is the highest of any county in the state.Linn County, Livingston's neighbor to the east, has seen 96 new cases in the last seven days. Linn County's rate of 218 new cases per 100,000 people in the last week is the second highest statewide."We had 133 active cases here in Livingston as of Tuesday," said Ann Burchett, the public information supervisor for the Livingston County Health Center. "Our high was previously 94 back in January."Livingston County saw only 12 new cases of COVID-19 in April, and only&nbsp;10 new cases in the first 11 days of May.They've now seen 157 new cases between May 12-May 25 -&nbsp;an increase of 986 percent.Burchett says the overall positive tone of COVID coverage from a statewide and national level is not reflective of what's happening in her county."Everything looks better, things are great, Missouri's rates are some of the lowest in the country," Burchett said. "But, that just doesn't ring true for north central Missouri right now."Livingston County's positivity rate ranks No. 1 in the state at 21.35 percent. Linn County is right behind them at 20.93 percent.Burchett says the cause of this recent outbreak is unclear. The Health Center has sent some testing samples to labs to see if a variant is circulating through the area.The U.K. variant, sometimes referred to as B.1.1.7., has been confirmed in Missouri, and studies show it to be far more contagious and more likely to impact younger people than the original virus.About 33.3 percent of the Livingston County population has initiated vaccination, and 29 percent have completed it.While these rates are about middle-of-the-pack compared to the other counties in the state, Burchett says many of the new cases have been detected in younger groups - a population that hasn't been vaccinated as much."When you couple a lower vaccination rate, not wearing masks and getting back to normal, it's a perfect storm for things like this to happen," Burchett said. "Once you have a few cases, which is what we saw, they just compound themselves."Burchett says immunity against any disease can only work if enough of the population gets vaccinated. When there's an outbreak amongst people who are not immunized, cases can pile up quickly and can even impact those who are vaccinated.As of May 24, Livingston County identified 12 breakthrough COVID cases in fully vaccinated people."And pretty soon, if you get enough cases going, then you have breakthrough infections in vaccinated people," Burchett said. "Because, you don't have your herd immunity protection anymore and those people even who are vaccinated can get sick."The recent surge in Livingston County caused the Chillicothe School District to move to virtual learning for summer school classes through June 4.Livingston's neighbor to the north, Grundy County, is watching the situation closely. While its rate isn't as high as Livingston's, Grundy County has reported 16 new cases since May 18.At 11.88 percent, Grundy County's positivity rate is the fifth highest in the state. Its rate of 122 new cases per 100,000 people over the last seven days is the third highest.Grundy County has seen 25.6 percent of its population initiate vaccination - well behind the statewide rate of 43.3 percent.Grundy County Health Administrator Elizabeth Gibson is hopeful that the easy access to the vaccine will encourage those who haven't yet to roll up their sleeves."We'd like to see our vaccination rates improve in Grundy County," Gibson said. "We hope now that it's readily available. And it's pretty easy to get. We have a weekly vaccination clinic at our health department (in Trenton). It's also available at local pharmacies. We also have all three types of the vaccine available in the county."Life has returned to normal for many. Nationwide cases and deaths are down. In Missouri alone, there's been an 8.1 percent drop in new cases and a 33 percent drop in deaths in the last week, while the state's positivity rate hovers just under four percent.While there's reason for optimism, Burchett says the situation in Livingston County is a shining example of what could happen if not enough people get vaccinated and don't take proper precautions."It's too early to celebrate the end of the pandemic," Burchett said. "You can look at our county and see the danger is all too real and it's really not that far away from anyone in the state."<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLivCoHealthCtr%2Fposts%2F1732476700271800&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="510" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Livingston County seeing highest COVID surge since the pandemic began

St. Joseph health
officials report just one new case of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Friday, the
last report issued by the St. Joseph Health Department prior to the weekend.

There have been 25 new
cases since last Monday, but no new coronavirus-related deaths for the last
couple of weeks.

Mosaic Life Care also
continues to report a minimal number of COVID-19 inpatients in its system and
states on its website it will not report patient numbers unless they reach more
than ten.

More than 17,200
people in Buchanan County have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine. More than 15,400 people have finished vaccination.

Still, just under 20% of Buchanan County’s population has been vaccinated, while over 50% of Missouri adults have had at least one dose.

Nearly 25% of
Andrew County’s population has gotten their first dose. Roughly 1,800 Atchison County, Kansas residents have gotten their first dose as well.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health
officials report just one new case of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Friday, the
last report issued by the St. Joseph Health Department prior to the weekend.There have been 25 new
cases since last Monday, but no new coronavirus-related deaths for the last
couple of weeks.Mosaic Life Care also
continues to report a minimal number of COVID-19 inpatients in its system and
states on its website it will not report patient numbers unless they reach more
than ten.More than 17,200
people in Buchanan County have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine. More than 15,400 people have finished vaccination.Still, just under 20% of Buchanan County’s population has been vaccinated, while over 50% of Missouri adults have had at least one dose.Nearly 25% of
Andrew County’s population has gotten their first dose. Roughly 1,800 Atchison County, Kansas residents have gotten their first dose as well.

Buchanan County reports low COVID-19 numbers as well as low vaccination numbers

St. Joseph health officials report five new cases of COVID-19, bringing
the Buchanan County total to 10,548.

Buchanan County has recorded 182 coronavirus-related deaths
since the pandemic began.

Andrew County reports one new case on its dashboard. Andrew
County has had 21 coronavirus-related deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 970 COVID-19 cases.

Mosaic Life Care reports that its COVID-19 patient count is
minimal. Mosaic states on its website it will not report a coronavirus patient count
until it has more than 10 COVID-19 patients in its system.

Missouri health officials report more than half a million cases
of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with the latest figure pegged at 508,968.
Missouri has recorded a total of 9,005 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 312,591 total coronavirus cases,
resulting in 5,053 deaths.

Meanwhile, Kansas is changing its
strategy for reaching herd immunity from COVID-19 from holding mass
immunization clinics to doctor’s offices and pharmacies give shots. Public
health officials say the change will make getting the shots more convenient for
some people or tap into their existing trust in their doctors to overcome
hesitation about getting vaccinated. 

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report five new cases of COVID-19, bringing
the Buchanan County total to 10,548.Buchanan County has recorded 182 coronavirus-related deaths
since the pandemic began.Andrew County reports one new case on its dashboard. Andrew
County has had 21 coronavirus-related deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 970 COVID-19 cases.Mosaic Life Care reports that its COVID-19 patient count is
minimal. Mosaic states on its website it will not report a coronavirus patient count
until it has more than 10 COVID-19 patients in its system.Missouri health officials report more than half a million cases
of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with the latest figure pegged at 508,968.
Missouri has recorded a total of 9,005 deaths.Kansas health officials report 312,591 total coronavirus cases,
resulting in 5,053 deaths.Meanwhile, Kansas is changing its
strategy for reaching herd immunity from COVID-19 from holding mass
immunization clinics to doctor’s offices and pharmacies give shots. Public
health officials say the change will make getting the shots more convenient for
some people or tap into their existing trust in their doctors to overcome
hesitation about getting vaccinated.

St. Joseph reports only five new COVID-19 cases

Buchanan County received a huge sum of money from the CARES Act in 2020. Now, the county will get an even bigger allotment in 2021 from the American Rescue Plan.

After getting&nbsp; $10.2 million from the CARES Act, Buchanan County is set to receive another $16.9 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan - a $1.9 trillion COVID relief stimulus that passed through Congress earlier this year.

Lee Sawyer, Buchanan County's presiding commissioner, says the county will see its first allotment of that money within a week's time. The first payment will exceed $8 million.

"We will come up with the different programs that we think fit within the guidelines," Sawyer said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Hopefully, as we did with the CARES Act, we want to affect as many people as we possibly can, and do the types of things that hopefully have some longer-term impacts. That's one of the things from a personal standpoint I'd like to see."

Much like the CARES Act, Rescue Plan funding is intended to help any business, entity or household that has struggled financially as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sawyers says the commissioners are still figuring out how to best allocate this latest round of COVID relief across the county. One such area this funding can go toward, for example, is the Buchanan County Academy, which has an aging ventilation system.

"We have not very good air circulation out there," Sawyer said. "It's an older system. That fits very well with what they've said about, you know, from a health standpoint - improving infrastructure to help with public health."

Sawyer says this funding can also be put toward virus mitigation efforts, like vaccines and PPE, should the need arise.

"We can still put money toward vaccination programs if that was needed," Sawyer said. "Testing, all of those things. PPE purchases for the protective equipment."

The city of St. Joseph has been <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/10be13b9-92a8-4201-87f3-bda72116f7f5">allocated $39.7 million</a> from the American Rescue Plan, and is set to receive its first payment of $19.5 million in the coming days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605719076983.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County received a huge sum of money from the CARES Act in 2020. Now, the county will get an even bigger allotment in 2021 from the American Rescue Plan.After getting&nbsp; $10.2 million from the CARES Act, Buchanan County is set to receive another $16.9 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan - a $1.9 trillion COVID relief stimulus that passed through Congress earlier this year.Lee Sawyer, Buchanan County's presiding commissioner, says the county will see its first allotment of that money within a week's time. The first payment will exceed $8 million."We will come up with the different programs that we think fit within the guidelines," Sawyer said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Hopefully, as we did with the CARES Act, we want to affect as many people as we possibly can, and do the types of things that hopefully have some longer-term impacts. That's one of the things from a personal standpoint I'd like to see."Much like the CARES Act, Rescue Plan funding is intended to help any business, entity or household that has struggled financially as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.Sawyers says the commissioners are still figuring out how to best allocate this latest round of COVID relief across the county. One such area this funding can go toward, for example, is the Buchanan County Academy, which has an aging ventilation system."We have not very good air circulation out there," Sawyer said. "It's an older system. That fits very well with what they've said about, you know, from a health standpoint - improving infrastructure to help with public health."Sawyer says this funding can also be put toward virus mitigation efforts, like vaccines and PPE, should the need arise."We can still put money toward vaccination programs if that was needed," Sawyer said. "Testing, all of those things. PPE purchases for the protective equipment."The city of St. Joseph has been <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/10be13b9-92a8-4201-87f3-bda72116f7f5">allocated $39.7 million</a> from the American Rescue Plan, and is set to receive its first payment of $19.5 million in the coming days.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Buchanan County could see its first American Rescue Plan payment within the next week

Hy-Vee is dropping its mandatory mask policy for fully-vaccinated shoppers. The grocery store chain made that announcement Tuesday in a written statement.

Hy-Vee's announcement follows several other retailers’ decision to make masks non-mandatory.

Hy-Vee says customers who are not fully vaccinated should still wear masks. Company employees who have not gotten the shot will still have to wear face coverings. 

Hy-Vee will also maintain its Plexiglas barriers at all checkout counters. Social distancing signage will remain in places where lines tend to form. Extra hand sanitizer/cart wipes will remain stationed throughout stores as well. Hy-Vee Pharmacy also have walk-in COVID-19 vaccines available. They're also hosting pop-up vaccination clinics at community events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583950135186.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hy-Vee is dropping its mandatory mask policy for fully-vaccinated shoppers. The grocery store chain made that announcement Tuesday in a written statement.Hy-Vee's announcement follows several other retailers’ decision to make masks non-mandatory.Hy-Vee says customers who are not fully vaccinated should still wear masks. Company employees who have not gotten the shot will still have to wear face coverings. Hy-Vee will also maintain its Plexiglas barriers at all checkout counters. Social distancing signage will remain in places where lines tend to form. Extra hand sanitizer/cart wipes will remain stationed throughout stores as well. Hy-Vee Pharmacy also have walk-in COVID-19 vaccines available. They're also hosting pop-up vaccination clinics at community events.

Hy-Vee dropping mandatory mask policy for vaccinated shoppers

The head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday defended the decision to ease mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people, stressing that increasing political pressure had nothing to do with the abrupt shift in guidelines.

“I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals. And it evolved," CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said on FOX News Sunday. “I deliver it as soon as I can when we have that information available.”

Under the new guidelines released last week, fully vaccinated people — those who are two weeks past their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine — can quit wearing masks outdoors in crowds and in most indoor settings and give up social distancing.

However, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people should continue wearing masks, the agency said. The guidance also still calls for masks in crowded indoor settings including buses, airplanes, hospitals, prisons and homeless shelters.

The sudden change sparked praise from those eager to return to pre-pandemic life, particularly those who see the new guidelines as a way to reopen workplaces, schools and other venues that went dark during the pandemic.

Yet concerns have been raised from those who say there's no easy way for businesses and others to determine who is fully vaccinated and who is not. Instead, many will have to rely on an honor system as many states and communities have already been lifting mask mandates amid improving virus numbers and as more Americans have been shedding face coverings after getting shots.

“I would imagine within a period of just a couple of weeks, you’re going to start to see significant clarification of some of the actually understandable and reasonable questions that people are asking,” Dr. Anthony Fauci, the face of the U.S. government’s pandemic response, said on Face the Nation.

The timing of the change has also faced questions. Just days earlier, Walensky had defended the agency's strict mask guidance in front of a Senate committee where some Republicans on the panel described the CDC's guidance as “unworkable.”

When pressed about the quick turnaround on the agency's stance on mask wearing, Walensky said the agency was not giving in to pressure but instead needed time to review evolving science.

“I can tell you it certainly would have been easier if the science had evolved a week earlier and I didn’t have to go to Congress making those statements. But I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals,” she said.

To date more than 156 million Americans, or more than 47% of the population, have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and more than 121 million are fully vaccinated.

Walensky cautioned that even with the new guidelines, it was still too early to “declare victory,” but added that she was “cautiously optimistic" about the pandemic.

“We have to remain humble. We’ve had way too many curveballs in this pandemic come to us. But I am really cautiously optimistic that we are in a good place right now, that cases continue to come down,” she said.

But, she added, even though the guidance has changed, “there’s no need for everybody to start ripping off their masks."

“There is no mandate to take it off. What we’re saying is, now this is safe," she said. “Work at your own speed, work with your own family and your own businesses to remove them when necessary."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621194714478.png" alt="Walensky during a White House briefing last week said, "We have all longed for this moment - when we can get back to some sense of normalcy – and that moment has come for those who are fully vaccinated!"&nbsp; Photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Walensky during a White House briefing last week said, "We have all longed for this moment - when we can get back to some sense of normalcy – and that moment has come for those who are fully vaccinated!"&nbsp; Photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIMBERLEE KRUESI, Associated PressThe head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday defended the decision to ease mask-wearing guidance for fully vaccinated people, stressing that increasing political pressure had nothing to do with the abrupt shift in guidelines.“I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals. And it evolved," CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said on FOX News Sunday. “I deliver it as soon as I can when we have that information available.”Under the new guidelines released last week, fully vaccinated people — those who are two weeks past their final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine — can quit wearing masks outdoors in crowds and in most indoor settings and give up social distancing.However, partially vaccinated or unvaccinated people should continue wearing masks, the agency said. The guidance also still calls for masks in crowded indoor settings including buses, airplanes, hospitals, prisons and homeless shelters.The sudden change sparked praise from those eager to return to pre-pandemic life, particularly those who see the new guidelines as a way to reopen workplaces, schools and other venues that went dark during the pandemic.Yet concerns have been raised from those who say there's no easy way for businesses and others to determine who is fully vaccinated and who is not. Instead, many will have to rely on an honor system as many states and communities have already been lifting mask mandates amid improving virus numbers and as more Americans have been shedding face coverings after getting shots.“I would imagine within a period of just a couple of weeks, you’re going to start to see significant clarification of some of the actually understandable and reasonable questions that people are asking,” Dr. Anthony Fauci, the face of the U.S. government’s pandemic response, said on Face the Nation.The timing of the change has also faced questions. Just days earlier, Walensky had defended the agency's strict mask guidance in front of a Senate committee where some Republicans on the panel described the CDC's guidance as “unworkable.”When pressed about the quick turnaround on the agency's stance on mask wearing, Walensky said the agency was not giving in to pressure but instead needed time to review evolving science.“I can tell you it certainly would have been easier if the science had evolved a week earlier and I didn’t have to go to Congress making those statements. But I’m delivering the science as the science is delivered to the medical journals,” she said.To date more than 156 million Americans, or more than 47% of the population, have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and more than 121 million are fully vaccinated.Walensky cautioned that even with the new guidelines, it was still too early to “declare victory,” but added that she was “cautiously optimistic" about the pandemic.“We have to remain humble. We’ve had way too many curveballs in this pandemic come to us. But I am really cautiously optimistic that we are in a good place right now, that cases continue to come down,” she said.But, she added, even though the guidance has changed, “there’s no need for everybody to start ripping off their masks."“There is no mandate to take it off. What we’re saying is, now this is safe," she said. “Work at your own speed, work with your own family and your own businesses to remove them when necessary."

CDC director defends decision to ditch masks

The St. Joseph Health Department will hold Pfizer COVID vaccine clinics at Civic Arena in May and June, and anyone age 12 or older will be eligible.

Anyone 12-17 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The vaccine is free for all, and proof health health insurance and government ID are not required. Appointments can be scheduled online at <a href="https://signup.com/go/tNdgirq">this link</a>., or by calling the health department at 816-271-4636.

The clinic dates and times are: May 18 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. May 25 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. June 1 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. June 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The corresponding second dose clinics are scheduled on Thursdays, June 17-July 8. The second dose clinics will be held during the same time frame as the initial dose clinic was offered.

The St. Joseph Health Department held mass Moderna clinics on both May 4 and 11 at Civic Arena. About 100 first doses were administered at each clinic.

COVID cases have gone up slightly in Buchanan County recently. Health officials reported 14 new cases Thursday and 42 new cases this week.

The county's positivity rate is currently 4.85 percent - up from 4.2 percent last week.

Over 16,900 people in Buchanan County have initiated vaccination and nearly 15,300 have completed it. Only 19.4 percent of the county's population have initiated vaccination so far, while 41.7 percent of Missouri's population has received at least one dose.

So far, 24.5 percent of Andrew County's population has initiated vaccination, while 23.3 percent in Atchison County, Kansas have received at least one dose.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618856566652.jpg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Health Department will hold Pfizer COVID vaccine clinics at Civic Arena in May and June, and anyone age 12 or older will be eligible.Anyone 12-17 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.The vaccine is free for all, and proof health health insurance and government ID are not required. Appointments can be scheduled online at <a href="https://signup.com/go/tNdgirq">this link</a>., or by calling the health department at 816-271-4636.The clinic dates and times are: May 18 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. May 25 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. June 1 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. June 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.The corresponding second dose clinics are scheduled on Thursdays, June 17-July 8. The second dose clinics will be held during the same time frame as the initial dose clinic was offered.The St. Joseph Health Department held mass Moderna clinics on both May 4 and 11 at Civic Arena. About 100 first doses were administered at each clinic.COVID cases have gone up slightly in Buchanan County recently. Health officials reported 14 new cases Thursday and 42 new cases this week.The county's positivity rate is currently 4.85 percent - up from 4.2 percent last week.Over 16,900 people in Buchanan County have initiated vaccination and nearly 15,300 have completed it. Only 19.4 percent of the county's population have initiated vaccination so far, while 41.7 percent of Missouri's population has received at least one dose.So far, 24.5 percent of Andrew County's population has initiated vaccination, while 23.3 percent in Atchison County, Kansas have received at least one dose.

St. Joseph Health Department announces Pfizer vaccine clinics, anyone 12 and up eligible

The city of St. Joseph has been allocated $39.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act that was approved by Congress earlier this year.

The city council is now deciding how to best allocate this funding to those who need it most.

The council met with city manager Bryan Carter as well as Planning and Community Development Director Clint Thompson in a work session at City Hall Thursday to review the amount and how it will be allocated.

The city will receive this funding in two increments. The first $19.5 million payment will come within days, while the next $19.5 million will come in a year.

Any business, entity or household that has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for this funding. St. Joseph mayor Bill McMurray hopes that low-income families and individuals can benefit from this relief funding especially.

"If there's any way we can help some of the poorer families in our community who have been knocked in the head," McMurray said. "First, it was the flood, then it was COVID. If we can help them build a good case in their application with the supporting documentation, I really want to do that."

The city has received funding applications from 18 different entities and businesses from around town. These 18 applicants have requested a combined $13 million. Meanwhile, various departments within the city's government has requested $20 million.

McMurray also pointed out that this money can also be put toward water, sewer and broadband infrastructure within the city.

But, the mayor urges any individual who believes they are eligible for relief funds to get an application in as soon as they can.

"We have a one-page application," he said. "Clint Thompson and our Planning and Community Development Department can get that to somebody if they feel their organization or they individually or a small business needs it. We have some opportunities. It has to be the harmful affect of COVID is where this comes from."

Thompson noted that the city has until the end of 2024 to allocate this $39.7 million amount. The council discussed the idea of forming a five-member citizen's committee comprised of either small business owners and/or people who work for organizations like CAP St. Joe that serve low-income individuals.

This committee will likely be discussed in greater detail at the next council meeting on May 17 and would be put on the agenda as a resolution.

The initial deadline to apply for this American Rescue Plan Funding was April 30. But with half of the $39.7 million coming to the city next year, McMurray urges anyone in need to apply for this money - whether their application is granted this year or next.

"If somebody feels like they would like to apply, get an application from our Planning Community and Development department," McMurray noted. "Get the supporting documentation and get it in there so we can crunch the numbers."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620955932852.jpeg" alt="Members of the St. Joseph City Council listen in on a presentation from Community Planning and Development Director Clint Thompson regarding the city's latest COVID relief funding at a work session at City Hall Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Members of the St. Joseph City Council listen in on a presentation from Community Planning and Development Director Clint Thompson regarding the city's latest COVID relief funding at a work session at City Hall Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe city of St. Joseph has been allocated $39.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act that was approved by Congress earlier this year.The city council is now deciding how to best allocate this funding to those who need it most.The council met with city manager Bryan Carter as well as Planning and Community Development Director Clint Thompson in a work session at City Hall Thursday to review the amount and how it will be allocated.The city will receive this funding in two increments. The first $19.5 million payment will come within days, while the next $19.5 million will come in a year.Any business, entity or household that has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for this funding. St. Joseph mayor Bill McMurray hopes that low-income families and individuals can benefit from this relief funding especially."If there's any way we can help some of the poorer families in our community who have been knocked in the head," McMurray said. "First, it was the flood, then it was COVID. If we can help them build a good case in their application with the supporting documentation, I really want to do that."The city has received funding applications from 18 different entities and businesses from around town. These 18 applicants have requested a combined $13 million. Meanwhile, various departments within the city's government has requested $20 million.McMurray also pointed out that this money can also be put toward water, sewer and broadband infrastructure within the city.But, the mayor urges any individual who believes they are eligible for relief funds to get an application in as soon as they can."We have a one-page application," he said. "Clint Thompson and our Planning and Community Development Department can get that to somebody if they feel their organization or they individually or a small business needs it. We have some opportunities. It has to be the harmful affect of COVID is where this comes from."Thompson noted that the city has until the end of 2024 to allocate this $39.7 million amount. The council discussed the idea of forming a five-member citizen's committee comprised of either small business owners and/or people who work for organizations like CAP St. Joe that serve low-income individuals.This committee will likely be discussed in greater detail at the next council meeting on May 17 and would be put on the agenda as a resolution.The initial deadline to apply for this American Rescue Plan Funding was April 30. But with half of the $39.7 million coming to the city next year, McMurray urges anyone in need to apply for this money - whether their application is granted this year or next."If somebody feels like they would like to apply, get an application from our Planning Community and Development department," McMurray noted. "Get the supporting documentation and get it in there so we can crunch the numbers."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620956040061.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Community Development and Planning Director Clint Thompson addresses the St. Joseph City Council at a Thursday work session. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Community Development and Planning Director Clint Thompson addresses the St. Joseph City Council at a Thursday work session. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph City Council discusses latest COVID relief funding in Thursday work session

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa —&nbsp;Hy-Vee, Inc. announces Thursday that all Hy-Vee pharmacy locations are now administering free COVID-19 vaccines to individuals ages 12 to 15, per the U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recent approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for this age group. Hy-Vee has been offering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to individuals 16 and older for several weeks.

Minors must have parental or guardian consent in order to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Hy-Vee asks that a parent or guardian accompany minors to both their first and second dose COVID-19 vaccinations. Individuals can walk in to receive the vaccine, or make an appointment in advance online.

For those who prefer to make a vaccine appointment in advance, they can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine" target="_blank">www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine</a>, select “Find Appointments” and complete the digital vaccine informed consent form and appointment selection. COVID-19 vaccines are free for everyone, regardless of whether they have insurance or Medicare Part B coverage.

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa —&nbsp;Hy-Vee, Inc. announces Thursday that all Hy-Vee pharmacy locations are now administering free COVID-19 vaccines to individuals ages 12 to 15, per the U.S. Food &amp; Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recent approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for this age group. Hy-Vee has been offering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to individuals 16 and older for several weeks.Minors must have parental or guardian consent in order to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Hy-Vee asks that a parent or guardian accompany minors to both their first and second dose COVID-19 vaccinations. Individuals can walk in to receive the vaccine, or make an appointment in advance online.For those who prefer to make a vaccine appointment in advance, they can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine" target="_blank">www.hy-vee.com/covidvaccine</a>, select “Find Appointments” and complete the digital vaccine informed consent form and appointment selection. COVID-19 vaccines are free for everyone, regardless of whether they have insurance or Medicare Part B coverage.

Hy-Vee Pharmacies: Free COVID vaccines for ages 12-15

WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. health advisers endorsed use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in kids as young as 12 on Wednesday, just as expected new guidelines say it’s OK for people of any age to get the shot at the same time as other needed vaccinations.

The sprint to vaccinate millions of middle and high school students has already started in parts of the country, as a long line of kids rolled up their sleeves in suburban Atlanta for a first dose Wednesday. But much of the nation was awaiting recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that Pfizer’s vaccine, already used for months in those 16 and older, was a good choice for 12- to 15-year-olds, too. The CDC was expected to accept its advisers’ recommendation.

“It just felt like a flu shot, honestly,” said Meredith Rogers, a 14-year-old middle school student from Decatur, Georgia, after getting her vaccination.

Michelle Rogers, Meredith’s mother, said she hoped the youth vaccinations would help bring some normalcy back.

“A little apprehensive, but you know what? This is a step towards getting life back to normal so, we’re all in,” Michelle Rogers said with a slight fist pump.

Earlier in the week, the Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of the two-shot vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech. A study of more than 2,000 12- to 15-year-olds found the same dose adults use is safe and strongly protective in the kids, too.

Among the outstanding questions: Is it OK to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at the same doctor’s visit as people receive some routine vaccinations? That’s an urgent back-to-school concern especially for the 12- to 15-year-olds, who have missed out on regularly scheduled vaccines during the pandemic — but also an issue for adults, too.

The CDC until now has recommended not getting other vaccinations within two weeks of a COVID-19 shot, mostly as a precaution so that safety monitors could spot if any unexpected side effects crop up. But the CDC said Wednesday it is changing that advice because the COVID-19 vaccines have proved so safe — and that health workers can decide to give another needed vaccine at the same time.

The American Academy of Pediatrics on Wednesday also endorsed the Pfizer vaccine for the 12-and-up crowd — and agreed that it’s fine to give more than one vaccine at the same time, especially for kids who are behind on their regular vaccinations.

In the Pfizer study, there were no cases of COVID-19 among volunteers given the two-shot vaccination compared with 16 in the group given dummy shots. Kids also developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than vaccinated adults. Side effects are the same as adults experience, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal the immune system is revving up.

Vaccinating Americans of all ages will be critical to getting back to normal, and there’s plenty of supply for the nation’s nearly 17 million 12- to 15-year-olds.

In addition to the mass vaccination sites and health department rollouts that were key for adults, many states will be offering kids more familiar options -- shipping doses to pediatricians and even to schools.

Pfizer is not the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects, data the FDA will need to scrutinize.

As for even younger children, both companies have begun tests in youngsters ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore if different doses are needed at the youngest ages, and FDA plans to hold a public meeting next month to debate exactly what evidence is needed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608677701818.png" alt="A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 photo courtesyTruman Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 photo courtesyTruman Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. health advisers endorsed use of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine in kids as young as 12 on Wednesday, just as expected new guidelines say it’s OK for people of any age to get the shot at the same time as other needed vaccinations.The sprint to vaccinate millions of middle and high school students has already started in parts of the country, as a long line of kids rolled up their sleeves in suburban Atlanta for a first dose Wednesday. But much of the nation was awaiting recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that Pfizer’s vaccine, already used for months in those 16 and older, was a good choice for 12- to 15-year-olds, too. The CDC was expected to accept its advisers’ recommendation.“It just felt like a flu shot, honestly,” said Meredith Rogers, a 14-year-old middle school student from Decatur, Georgia, after getting her vaccination.Michelle Rogers, Meredith’s mother, said she hoped the youth vaccinations would help bring some normalcy back.“A little apprehensive, but you know what? This is a step towards getting life back to normal so, we’re all in,” Michelle Rogers said with a slight fist pump.Earlier in the week, the Food and Drug Administration authorized emergency use of the two-shot vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech. A study of more than 2,000 12- to 15-year-olds found the same dose adults use is safe and strongly protective in the kids, too.Among the outstanding questions: Is it OK to get vaccinated against COVID-19 at the same doctor’s visit as people receive some routine vaccinations? That’s an urgent back-to-school concern especially for the 12- to 15-year-olds, who have missed out on regularly scheduled vaccines during the pandemic — but also an issue for adults, too.The CDC until now has recommended not getting other vaccinations within two weeks of a COVID-19 shot, mostly as a precaution so that safety monitors could spot if any unexpected side effects crop up. But the CDC said Wednesday it is changing that advice because the COVID-19 vaccines have proved so safe — and that health workers can decide to give another needed vaccine at the same time.The American Academy of Pediatrics on Wednesday also endorsed the Pfizer vaccine for the 12-and-up crowd — and agreed that it’s fine to give more than one vaccine at the same time, especially for kids who are behind on their regular vaccinations.In the Pfizer study, there were no cases of COVID-19 among volunteers given the two-shot vaccination compared with 16 in the group given dummy shots. Kids also developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than vaccinated adults. Side effects are the same as adults experience, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal the immune system is revving up.Vaccinating Americans of all ages will be critical to getting back to normal, and there’s plenty of supply for the nation’s nearly 17 million 12- to 15-year-olds.In addition to the mass vaccination sites and health department rollouts that were key for adults, many states will be offering kids more familiar options -- shipping doses to pediatricians and even to schools.Pfizer is not the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects, data the FDA will need to scrutinize.As for even younger children, both companies have begun tests in youngsters ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore if different doses are needed at the youngest ages, and FDA plans to hold a public meeting next month to debate exactly what evidence is needed.

US advisers endorse Pfizer COVID shot for kids 12 and up

Missouri Western State University President Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy experienced her first commencement as president last week. She credits the school's COVID response team for making the in-person event possible.

"We had a reduction in COVID cases in our students," Kennedy said during KFEQ's The Hotline. "Our numbers were always low, but they fell by 85 percent from the fall semester to the spring semester...which allowed us to have a wonderful commencement."

Missouri Western held commencement inside Civic Arena. It was moved from Spratt Stadium to the arena due to the possibility of rain. The University held two separate ceremonies to allow for social distancing, and to allow for all students and guests to take part.

"It's my favorite day of the semester," Kennedy continued. "It represents the culmination of our work, the faculty's work and everyone at the University. We're all part of the Griffon family. It was a beautiful event and I'm quite pleased with how it turned out."

Before the school year started, MWSU assembled a COVID response team comprised of multiple staff members from the science department, as well as marketing and athletics, that met with administration to determine the best path forward.

"We have all of these folks who meet to talk about what are we doing and pay attention to the best practices and following the science," Kennedy said. "Which I think has served us well. There was a time last November where cases were really going up in the city and we saw that on campus, but we were able to mitigate it."

Kennedy says that mitigation effort went beyond mask requirements, social distancing and hand sanitizer stations.

"We kind of closed the doors to outside groups coming to campus," she said. "We minimized how we did activities. We made sure everything was physically distanced, the mask mandate and those kinds of things. So, we were really able to maintain it."

Kennedy says MWSU spent a portion of its CARES Act funding to replace aging air handling and HVAC systems in buildings across campus. Studies have shown that proper air flow and ventilation are key components in slowing the spread of COVID-19&nbsp;

The systems that were replaced were between 25-45 years old, according to Kennedy.

Thanks to these efforts over the last 14 months or so, Kennedy says students and faculty can look forward to a more normal fall semester coming up.

"For fall, we have 85 percent of our classes will have a face-to-face component," she said. "Seventy percent of those will be 100 percent face-to-face in a traditional format. Now, they'll be in the room, but we'll still have some degree of physical distancing and those types of things going on."

Numerous colleges and universities across the country are requiring students to be vaccinated before coming back to school. Kennedy says Missouri Western will not require the vaccine, but rather make the shot more accessible to students.

"We're looking at ways to bring vaccination clinics to campus," Kennedy said. "So, during the summer before the semester starts. Of course, it depends on what vaccine you can get. So, those are questions we have to deal with."

All-in-all, Kennedy strikes an optimistic tone as she gets ready to start her first full school year as the University's president.

"We're open, we're back and we'll be in person," she said. "You will have the collegiate experience that you're looking for and we provide affordable excellence."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614613496364.jpeg" alt="MWSU President Elizabeth Kennedy. Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>MWSU President Elizabeth Kennedy. Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University President Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy experienced her first commencement as president last week. She credits the school's COVID response team for making the in-person event possible."We had a reduction in COVID cases in our students," Kennedy said during KFEQ's The Hotline. "Our numbers were always low, but they fell by 85 percent from the fall semester to the spring semester...which allowed us to have a wonderful commencement."Missouri Western held commencement inside Civic Arena. It was moved from Spratt Stadium to the arena due to the possibility of rain. The University held two separate ceremonies to allow for social distancing, and to allow for all students and guests to take part."It's my favorite day of the semester," Kennedy continued. "It represents the culmination of our work, the faculty's work and everyone at the University. We're all part of the Griffon family. It was a beautiful event and I'm quite pleased with how it turned out."Before the school year started, MWSU assembled a COVID response team comprised of multiple staff members from the science department, as well as marketing and athletics, that met with administration to determine the best path forward."We have all of these folks who meet to talk about what are we doing and pay attention to the best practices and following the science," Kennedy said. "Which I think has served us well. There was a time last November where cases were really going up in the city and we saw that on campus, but we were able to mitigate it."Kennedy says that mitigation effort went beyond mask requirements, social distancing and hand sanitizer stations."We kind of closed the doors to outside groups coming to campus," she said. "We minimized how we did activities. We made sure everything was physically distanced, the mask mandate and those kinds of things. So, we were really able to maintain it."Kennedy says MWSU spent a portion of its CARES Act funding to replace aging air handling and HVAC systems in buildings across campus. Studies have shown that proper air flow and ventilation are key components in slowing the spread of COVID-19&nbsp;The systems that were replaced were between 25-45 years old, according to Kennedy.Thanks to these efforts over the last 14 months or so, Kennedy says students and faculty can look forward to a more normal fall semester coming up."For fall, we have 85 percent of our classes will have a face-to-face component," she said. "Seventy percent of those will be 100 percent face-to-face in a traditional format. Now, they'll be in the room, but we'll still have some degree of physical distancing and those types of things going on."Numerous colleges and universities across the country are requiring students to be vaccinated before coming back to school. Kennedy says Missouri Western will not require the vaccine, but rather make the shot more accessible to students."We're looking at ways to bring vaccination clinics to campus," Kennedy said. "So, during the summer before the semester starts. Of course, it depends on what vaccine you can get. So, those are questions we have to deal with."All-in-all, Kennedy strikes an optimistic tone as she gets ready to start her first full school year as the University's president."We're open, we're back and we'll be in person," she said. "You will have the collegiate experience that you're looking for and we provide affordable excellence."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

President Kennedy - COVID cases on MWSU campus fell by 85 percent in spring

St. Joseph health officials report 23 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County since Friday, including 19 new cases Monday.

 Buchanan County’s case total is now 10,492.

Mosaic Life Care is now reporting 10 COVID-19 inpatients - 9 in St. Joseph and one in Maryville. This is the first time in several weeks that Mosaic is reporting a double-digit amount of COVID patients.

Over 16,800 Buchanan County residents have initiated vaccination with more than 15,100 residents completing it.

The St. Joseph Health Department is holding a second mass vaccination clinic at Civic Arena Tuesday from 9-11 a.m.

 Meanwhile, Over 4,300 people in Andrew County have initiated vaccination. Andrew County has not had a new COVID case since April 19.

In Doniphan County, Kansas, over 1,700 people have gotten their first dose of the vaccine.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 23 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County since Friday, including 19 new cases Monday. Buchanan County’s case total is now 10,492.Mosaic Life Care is now reporting 10 COVID-19 inpatients - 9 in St. Joseph and one in Maryville. This is the first time in several weeks that Mosaic is reporting a double-digit amount of COVID patients.Over 16,800 Buchanan County residents have initiated vaccination with more than 15,100 residents completing it.The St. Joseph Health Department is holding a second mass vaccination clinic at Civic Arena Tuesday from 9-11 a.m. Meanwhile, Over 4,300 people in Andrew County have initiated vaccination. Andrew County has not had a new COVID case since April 19.In Doniphan County, Kansas, over 1,700 people have gotten their first dose of the vaccine.

Mosaic Life Care reporting increase in COVID-19 patients

WASHINGTON (AP) —COVID-19 vaccines finally are headed for more kids as U.S. regulators on Monday expanded use of Pfizer’s shot to those as young as 12, sparking a race to protect middle and high school students before they head back to class in the fall.

Shots could begin as soon as a federal vaccine advisory committee issues recommendations for using the two-dose vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds, expected Wednesday.

Vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to a return to normalcy. Most COVID-19 vaccines rolling out worldwide have been authorized for adults. Pfizer’s vaccine is being used in multiple countries for teens as young as 16, and Canada recently became the first to expand use to 12 and up. Parents, school administrators and public health officials elsewhere are anxiously awaiting the shot to become available to more kids.

“This is a watershed moment in our ability to fight back the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Bill Gruber, a Pfizer senior vice president who’s also a pediatrician, told The Associated Press.

The Food and Drug Administration declared the Pfizer vaccine is safe and offers strong protection for younger teens based on testing of more than 2,000 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15. The study found no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among kids given dummy shots. More intriguing, researchers found the kids developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than earlier studies measured in young adults.

The younger teens received the same vaccine dosage as adults and had the same side effects, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal a revved-up immune system, especially after the second dose.

Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech recently requested similar authorization in the European Union, with other countries to follow.

The latest news is welcome for U.S. families struggling to decide what activities are safe to resume when only the youngest family members remain unvaccinated.

“I can’t feel totally comfortable because my boys aren’t vaccinated,” said Carrie Vittitoe, a substitute teacher and freelance writer in Louisville, Kentucky, who is fully vaccinated as are her husband and 17-year-old daughter.

The FDA decision means her 13-year-old son soon could be eligible, leaving only her 11-year-old son who would be unvaccinated. The family hasn’t yet resumed going to church, and summer vacation will be a road trip so they don’t have to get on a plane.

“We can’t really go back to normal because two-fifths of our family don’t have protection,” Vittitoe said.

Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects. Another U.S. company, Novavax, has a COVID-19 vaccine in late-stage development and just began a study in 12- to 17-year-olds as well.

Next up is testing whether the vaccine works for even younger children. Both Pfizer and Moderna have begun U.S. studies in children ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore whether babies, preschoolers and elementary-age kids will need different doses than teens and adults. Gruber said Pfizer expects its first results sometime in the fall.

Outside of the U.S., AstraZeneca is studying its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.

Children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill from COVID-19 yet they still have been hard-hit by the pandemic. They represent nearly 14% of the nation’s coronavirus cases. At least 296 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 15,000 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

That’s not counting the toll of family members becoming ill or dying -- or the disruption to school, sports and other activities so crucial to children’s overall well-being.

“Children right now are struggling,” Gruber said. Plus, “we need as many people in the country who have the potential to transmit the virus to be protected.”

Experts say children must get the shots if the country is to vaccinate the 70% to 85% of the population necessary to reach what’s called herd immunity.

In the meantime, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says unvaccinated people -- including children -- should continue taking precautions such as wearing masks indoors and keeping their distance from other unvaccinated people outside of their households.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608677701818.png" alt="A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 -Photo courtesy Truman Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 -Photo courtesy Truman Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —COVID-19 vaccines finally are headed for more kids as U.S. regulators on Monday expanded use of Pfizer’s shot to those as young as 12, sparking a race to protect middle and high school students before they head back to class in the fall.Shots could begin as soon as a federal vaccine advisory committee issues recommendations for using the two-dose vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds, expected Wednesday.Vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to a return to normalcy. Most COVID-19 vaccines rolling out worldwide have been authorized for adults. Pfizer’s vaccine is being used in multiple countries for teens as young as 16, and Canada recently became the first to expand use to 12 and up. Parents, school administrators and public health officials elsewhere are anxiously awaiting the shot to become available to more kids.“This is a watershed moment in our ability to fight back the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Bill Gruber, a Pfizer senior vice president who’s also a pediatrician, told The Associated Press.The Food and Drug Administration declared the Pfizer vaccine is safe and offers strong protection for younger teens based on testing of more than 2,000 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15. The study found no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among kids given dummy shots. More intriguing, researchers found the kids developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than earlier studies measured in young adults.The younger teens received the same vaccine dosage as adults and had the same side effects, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal a revved-up immune system, especially after the second dose.Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech recently requested similar authorization in the European Union, with other countries to follow.The latest news is welcome for U.S. families struggling to decide what activities are safe to resume when only the youngest family members remain unvaccinated.“I can’t feel totally comfortable because my boys aren’t vaccinated,” said Carrie Vittitoe, a substitute teacher and freelance writer in Louisville, Kentucky, who is fully vaccinated as are her husband and 17-year-old daughter.The FDA decision means her 13-year-old son soon could be eligible, leaving only her 11-year-old son who would be unvaccinated. The family hasn’t yet resumed going to church, and summer vacation will be a road trip so they don’t have to get on a plane.“We can’t really go back to normal because two-fifths of our family don’t have protection,” Vittitoe said.Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects. Another U.S. company, Novavax, has a COVID-19 vaccine in late-stage development and just began a study in 12- to 17-year-olds as well.Next up is testing whether the vaccine works for even younger children. Both Pfizer and Moderna have begun U.S. studies in children ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore whether babies, preschoolers and elementary-age kids will need different doses than teens and adults. Gruber said Pfizer expects its first results sometime in the fall.Outside of the U.S., AstraZeneca is studying its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.Children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill from COVID-19 yet they still have been hard-hit by the pandemic. They represent nearly 14% of the nation’s coronavirus cases. At least 296 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 15,000 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics.That’s not counting the toll of family members becoming ill or dying -- or the disruption to school, sports and other activities so crucial to children’s overall well-being.“Children right now are struggling,” Gruber said. Plus, “we need as many people in the country who have the potential to transmit the virus to be protected.”Experts say children must get the shots if the country is to vaccinate the 70% to 85% of the population necessary to reach what’s called herd immunity.In the meantime, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says unvaccinated people -- including children -- should continue taking precautions such as wearing masks indoors and keeping their distance from other unvaccinated people outside of their households.___

US children age 12-15 can now get Pfizer COVID shot 

Buchanan County continues to see a recent increase in COVID-19 cases. 

The St. Joseph Health Department reported 90 new cases in the county last week - nearly tripling the 33 cases reported the week before that.

Of the 90 new cases, 66 of those were reported in people age 49 or younger. People between age 20-29 accounted for 24 of those new cases.

"It's anybody's guess," said St. Joseph Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita on why the younger demographic is seeing more cases. "Why that age range is being impacted more at this time with new positive cases."

There was only one new case reported over the weekend, but 14 new cases were reported Monday.

The county's positivity rate has also increased to 4.22 percent. That's up from 2.81 percent last week.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618845715069.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County continues to see a recent increase in COVID-19 cases. The St. Joseph Health Department reported 90 new cases in the county last week - nearly tripling the 33 cases reported the week before that.Of the 90 new cases, 66 of those were reported in people age 49 or younger. People between age 20-29 accounted for 24 of those new cases."It's anybody's guess," said St. Joseph Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita on why the younger demographic is seeing more cases. "Why that age range is being impacted more at this time with new positive cases."There was only one new case reported over the weekend, but 14 new cases were reported Monday.The county's positivity rate has also increased to 4.22 percent. That's up from 2.81 percent last week.St. Joseph Health Department spokeswoman Stephanie Malita is hopeful that a mass vaccination clinic at the Civic Arena on Tuesday can help bring these case numbers back down."It's open to anybody," Malita said of the clinic. "Anyone that's 18 or older who lives in Missouri. We would welcome you at our clinic. The vaccine is free, there's no charge to you and we're trying to make it as convenient as possible."People can still sign up for a vaccine by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/6270244045251540109/false#/invitation">this link</a>&nbsp;or by calling the St. Joseph Health Department at 816-271-4636. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins will be accepted from 9-11 a.m. Tuesday.The department also added a clinic for May 11 - also at Civic Arena. There are 100 doses of the Moderna vaccine available for each clinic.&nbsp;Government ID and proof of health insurance are not required to get the vaccine. A second dose clinic planned for Thursday, June 3 at the same location.&nbsp;While the COVID-19 vaccine is available at pharmacies across St. Joseph, the health department is offering a new opportunity for more citizens to get the vaccine, since the Mosaic Community Clinic at the East Hills Shopping Center stopped giving first doses of the shot due to falling demand."In the meantime, some of the urgency has waned," Malita said of the vaccination rate. "People are not getting signed up to get those shots like they were at one point."Buchanan County's vaccination rate remains low with 18.8 percent of residents initiating vaccination and only 15.3 percent of the population completing it.Malita says the downtown location of this mass vaccination clinic Tuesday could be more convenient for those who live and work in the area and are still seeking a vaccine. She adds the department has access to more than enough doses of vaccine to hold several more clinics into the summer if needed."We're prepared to do one weekly into early summer if we have the demand for it," Malita said. "Our hope is we'll see a good response and have people sign up and get vaccinated. If we have that, then we'll add more dates."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Coronavirus Update