The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Tuesday formally announced the launch of the agency’s <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">online resource center</a> for Kansans to learn more about COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, get answers to commonly asked questions about the virus and review other helpful information. The site is part of KDHE’s ongoing efforts to inform Kansans about the latest COVID-19 news and correct misinformation about the virus.

“The best thing Kansans can do is be informed,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “COVID-19 is a new virus and, as a result, many people have questions about it and how to keep their families safe. The COVID-19 resource center will provide a centralized location for Kansans to go to learn the most up-to-date information.”

The public can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303794120&amp;sdata=ONVhZgK4SWX0ks%2BSufTr5AnvJPJkwLFHUT%2BQF9wkzDc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the virus. The site contains detailed information, answers to frequently asked questions and updated videos from Secretary Norman. Information will also be shared on KDHE’s social media channels.

“KDHE is working closely with local and federal authorities to ensure that every effort is made to keep Kansans safe and healthy,” Norman said. “In addition to educating yourself about the virus, the public can also take precautions to prevent the spread of it by doing simple things like washing your hands, practicing good hygiene techniques and staying home if you’re sick. This is the best defense to COVID-19.”

The 2019 novel coronavirus infections were initially diagnosed in Wuhan City, China and have now been reported in 60 locations internationally, including cases in the United States.&nbsp;KDHE, along with its community partners, continue to investigate this illness.

If you have recently traveled to areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.

For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">here </a>

at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=fwnjjuUbRxXb2sL4b4iZzLikkIlMuZcHPIx1Y6ZYvdA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=rYvh%2FeufH1CQeznk9UcprNdO4kD0mVJs2hvigGTAZ50%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583198146602.jpeg" alt="Coronavirus&nbsp; -CDC image" />
 <figcaption>Coronavirus&nbsp; -CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Tuesday formally announced the launch of the agency’s <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">online resource center</a> for Kansans to learn more about COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, get answers to commonly asked questions about the virus and review other helpful information. The site is part of KDHE’s ongoing efforts to inform Kansans about the latest COVID-19 news and correct misinformation about the virus.“The best thing Kansans can do is be informed,”&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “COVID-19 is a new virus and, as a result, many people have questions about it and how to keep their families safe. The COVID-19 resource center will provide a centralized location for Kansans to go to learn the most up-to-date information.”The public can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303794120&amp;sdata=ONVhZgK4SWX0ks%2BSufTr5AnvJPJkwLFHUT%2BQF9wkzDc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;to learn more about the virus. The site contains detailed information, answers to frequently asked questions and updated videos from Secretary Norman. Information will also be shared on KDHE’s social media channels.“KDHE is working closely with local and federal authorities to ensure that every effort is made to keep Kansans safe and healthy,” Norman said. “In addition to educating yourself about the virus, the public can also take precautions to prevent the spread of it by doing simple things like washing your hands, practicing good hygiene techniques and staying home if you’re sick. This is the best defense to COVID-19.”The 2019 novel coronavirus infections were initially diagnosed in Wuhan City, China and have now been reported in 60 locations internationally, including cases in the United States.&nbsp;KDHE, along with its community partners, continue to investigate this illness.If you have recently traveled to areas including China, Iran, Italy, Japan and South Korea and have developed fever with lower respiratory symptoms including cough and shortness of breath within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.For more information about COVID-19, visit KDHE’s website and Frequently Asked Questions <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/">here </a>at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=fwnjjuUbRxXb2sL4b4iZzLikkIlMuZcHPIx1Y6ZYvdA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cbc88b3b6ac16441853ca08d7bfcc068d%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637188755303804115&amp;sdata=rYvh%2FeufH1CQeznk9UcprNdO4kD0mVJs2hvigGTAZ50%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus</a>.###

KDHE launches Coronavirus online resource center

LAWRENCE —University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod announced Monday the university is suspending all travel to China,&nbsp;Iran, South Korea and Italy in line with CDC guidelines.&nbsp;

In a statement to faculty and staff, Girod wrote, "As the circumstances surrounding the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) evolve, I would like to update you on how the university is monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and refining strategies to keep our community healthy.

First, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Kansas or on any University of Kansas campus. At this time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people in the United States will have little immediate risk of exposure to this virus.

However, it is important to note that global circumstances suggest it is likely this virus will cause a pandemic. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and the risk assessment will be updated. At this time, the CDC emphasizes that everyday preventive measures such as handwashing can help prevent the spread of disease.

For updates, we recommend you visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC’s coronavirus page</a>. Information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>&nbsp;and our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/coronavirus-updates">International Affairs</a>&nbsp;office.

Earlier this year, both the Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center campus emergency management teams turned their attention to the emerging coronavirus situation and began regular monitoring and planning. These campus teams continue to meet at regular intervals and are in constant contact with national, state and local health officials, as well as colleagues at other universities.

In addition to monitoring developments, these groups continue to plan for potential scenarios that could affect our campuses in the weeks ahead. While COVID-19 is distinct in many ways, it should be noted that KU and its partners have longstanding processes in place for this type of public health situation.

The Lawrence campus emergency management team and the Office of International Programs at KU Medical Center continue to review university-sponsored travel decisions, including suspension and reinstatement of out-bound and inbound programming for faculty, staff and students.

On January 31, in light of the U.S. Department of State issuing a&nbsp;Level 4: Do Not Travel warning to China, the university issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://chancellor.ku.edu/news/2020/jan31">restriction</a>&nbsp;on institution-related travel to China for faculty, staff and students.

Last week, in accordance with&nbsp;<a href="http://policy.ku.edu/international-programs/travel-to-high-risk-locations">university policy</a>, KU began the process of suspending study abroad in countries classified as&nbsp;Warning Level 3: Avoid Non-Essential Travel&nbsp;by the CDC, which includes China, Iran, South Korea, and Italy.

As of today, the university will suspend all institution-related travel to and from countries or regions with a&nbsp;Level 3&nbsp;advisory from the CDC or a&nbsp;Level 4&nbsp;advisory from the U.S. Department of State due to COVID-19.

Additionally, it is crucial that all Lawrence campus-sponsored international and domestic out-of-state travel be registered in advance, per guidelines and best practices. For international travel, employees should complete our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/2">International Travel</a>&nbsp;form. For domestic-out-of-state travel, Lawrence campus employees should contact their Shared Service Center prior to travel. Students traveling internationally on university-affiliated activities must register through the&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>.

Additionally, visiting scholars should be registered in advance of their visit via our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/3">KU Visitor Registration</a>&nbsp;form.

Collectively, these processes will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support on and off campus as circumstances evolve.

For questions related to travel, contact our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/">KU International Affairs Office</a>&nbsp;in Lawrence, the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>&nbsp;at KU Medical Center, or the&nbsp;<a href="https://gos.ku.edu/">Office of Global Operations and Security</a>.

With Spring Break approaching, we encourage you to be thoughtful about personal travel. Specifically, we strongly encourage you to reconsider any personal international travel you may have planned. The reality is, there are two circumstances you need to consider if you travel: 1) you might become ill, and 2) as countries evaluate travel into and out of their regions, limitations and bans are being put into effect, often with little or no warning.

If you do plan to travel internationally for personal reasons, we appreciate you registering with KU ahead of time. Again, this will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support as circumstances evolve.

Students can register via our&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>. Lawrence campus employees can send an email summarizing their planned travel to the&nbsp;<a href="mailto:adminfin@ku.edu">Administration and Finance</a>&nbsp;unit, while KU Medical Center students and employees should contact the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>.

If you travel to areas that are experiencing community spread or in countries with Level 3 or Level 4 advisories, you are encouraged to contact your personal primary care provider to determine whether a self-quarantine is necessary upon your return.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583199779683.png" alt="Chancellor Doug Girod-photo University of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Chancellor Doug Girod-photo University of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE —University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod announced Monday the university is suspending all travel to China,&nbsp;Iran, South Korea and Italy in line with CDC guidelines.&nbsp;In a statement to faculty and staff, Girod wrote, "As the circumstances surrounding the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) evolve, I would like to update you on how the university is monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and refining strategies to keep our community healthy.First, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Kansas or on any University of Kansas campus. At this time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people in the United States will have little immediate risk of exposure to this virus.However, it is important to note that global circumstances suggest it is likely this virus will cause a pandemic. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and the risk assessment will be updated. At this time, the CDC emphasizes that everyday preventive measures such as handwashing can help prevent the spread of disease.For updates, we recommend you visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">CDC’s coronavirus page</a>. Information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>&nbsp;and our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/coronavirus-updates">International Affairs</a>&nbsp;office.Planning and monitoringEarlier this year, both the Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center campus emergency management teams turned their attention to the emerging coronavirus situation and began regular monitoring and planning. These campus teams continue to meet at regular intervals and are in constant contact with national, state and local health officials, as well as colleagues at other universities.In addition to monitoring developments, these groups continue to plan for potential scenarios that could affect our campuses in the weeks ahead. While COVID-19 is distinct in many ways, it should be noted that KU and its partners have longstanding processes in place for this type of public health situation.Institution-related travelThe Lawrence campus emergency management team and the Office of International Programs at KU Medical Center continue to review university-sponsored travel decisions, including suspension and reinstatement of out-bound and inbound programming for faculty, staff and students.On January 31, in light of the U.S. Department of State issuing a&nbsp;Level 4: Do Not Travel warning to China, the university issued a&nbsp;<a href="https://chancellor.ku.edu/news/2020/jan31">restriction</a>&nbsp;on institution-related travel to China for faculty, staff and students.Last week, in accordance with&nbsp;<a href="http://policy.ku.edu/international-programs/travel-to-high-risk-locations">university policy</a>, KU began the process of suspending study abroad in countries classified as&nbsp;Warning Level 3: Avoid Non-Essential Travel&nbsp;by the CDC, which includes China, Iran, South Korea, and Italy.As of today, the university will suspend all institution-related travel to and from countries or regions with a&nbsp;Level 3&nbsp;advisory from the CDC or a&nbsp;Level 4&nbsp;advisory from the U.S. Department of State due to COVID-19.Additionally, it is crucial that all Lawrence campus-sponsored international and domestic out-of-state travel be registered in advance, per guidelines and best practices. For international travel, employees should complete our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/2">International Travel</a>&nbsp;form. For domestic-out-of-state travel, Lawrence campus employees should contact their Shared Service Center prior to travel. Students traveling internationally on university-affiliated activities must register through the&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>.Additionally, visiting scholars should be registered in advance of their visit via our&nbsp;<a href="https://deptsec.ku.edu/~gosforms/forms/form/3">KU Visitor Registration</a>&nbsp;form.Collectively, these processes will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support on and off campus as circumstances evolve.For questions related to travel, contact our&nbsp;<a href="https://international.ku.edu/">KU International Affairs Office</a>&nbsp;in Lawrence, the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>&nbsp;at KU Medical Center, or the&nbsp;<a href="https://gos.ku.edu/">Office of Global Operations and Security</a>.Personal travelWith Spring Break approaching, we encourage you to be thoughtful about personal travel. Specifically, we strongly encourage you to reconsider any personal international travel you may have planned. The reality is, there are two circumstances you need to consider if you travel: 1) you might become ill, and 2) as countries evaluate travel into and out of their regions, limitations and bans are being put into effect, often with little or no warning.If you do plan to travel internationally for personal reasons, we appreciate you registering with KU ahead of time. Again, this will enable the university to help Jayhawks who may be traveling and provide tailored support as circumstances evolve.Students can register via our&nbsp;<a href="http://studyabroad.ku.edu/student-international-travel-registry">Student International Travel Registry</a>. Lawrence campus employees can send an email summarizing their planned travel to the&nbsp;<a href="mailto:adminfin@ku.edu">Administration and Finance</a>&nbsp;unit, while KU Medical Center students and employees should contact the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kumc.edu/office-of-international-programs.html">Office of International Programs</a>.If you travel to areas that are experiencing community spread or in countries with Level 3 or Level 4 advisories, you are encouraged to contact your personal primary care provider to determine whether a self-quarantine is necessary upon your return.

KU suspends university travel to 4 countries over coronavirus

TOPEKA —With recent, widespread media coverage surrounding COVID-19 – commonly known as the coronavirus – Governor Laura Kelly shared what the state is doing&nbsp; to protect Kansans’ health and well-being.&nbsp;

The state of Kansas currently has no COVID-19 cases and the second person under investigation (PUI) did not test positive for the virus, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. 

The KDHE did not release the location or identifying information regarding the patient.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>

TOPEKA —With recent, widespread media coverage surrounding COVID-19 – commonly known as the coronavirus – Governor Laura Kelly shared what the state is doing&nbsp; to protect Kansans’ health and well-being.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With recent, widespread media coverage surrounding COVID-19 – commonly known as the coronavirus – it’s important to share what we are doing here at home to protect Kansans’ health and well-being. Please watch this video to learn more about our efforts. <a href="https://t.co/SFHizXaGgS">pic.twitter.com/SFHizXaGgS</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1233596020900143104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 29, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The state of Kansas currently has no COVID-19 cases and the second person under investigation (PUI) did not test positive for the virus, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The KDHE did not release the location or identifying information regarding the patient.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>Click an item for more details:<ol>
 <li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/Novel_coronavirus_FAQ.pdf">Frequently Asked Questions – COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus)</a></li><li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/College_Fact_Sheet.pdf">College and University Fact Sheet</a></li><li><a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/toolkit/COVID-19_Toolkit.pdf">COVID-19 Toolkit</a>&nbsp;- Full Document</li>
 </ol>

🎥 Governor shares what state is doing in Coronavirus fight

DECATUR COUNTY —Authorities in northwest Kansas are alerting residents that meth could be contaminated with a virus — and to bring it into their office for testing.

According to a social media warning from the Decatur County Sheriff's office in Oberlin, "If you have recently purchased meth locally, it may be contaminated with the Coronavirus.

"Please take it to the Sheriff's Office or Police Department and they will test it for free. If you're not comfortable going into an office, please contact any officer and they'll test your meth in the privacy of your home. Please spread the word!"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582827978726.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DECATUR COUNTY —Authorities in northwest Kansas are alerting residents that meth could be contaminated with a virus — and to bring it into their office for testing.According to a social media warning from the Decatur County Sheriff's office in Oberlin, "If you have recently purchased meth locally, it may be contaminated with the Coronavirus."Please take it to the Sheriff's Office or Police Department and they will test it for free. If you're not comfortable going into an office, please contact any officer and they'll test your meth in the privacy of your home. Please spread the word!"

NW Kan. sheriff: We will test your meth for Coronavirus

Topeka, Kan. —The state of Kansas currently has no Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and no Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) for the virus.

The Kansas Department of Health was notified<a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6"> that a map of </a>Coronavirus&nbsp;cases by John Hopkins University identified 36 cases in Kansas.

According to the KDHE, these cases actually represent the cases from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and were inaccurately placed on the map.

The KDHE reached out to John Hopkins to correct the map and they did.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>

People in the United States commonly get infected with human coronaviruses and there are four types that are the most common. These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is the newly identified COVID-19 first detected in Wujan, China.

<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582718908755.png" alt="Updated map <a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6">from John Hopkins University</a>" />
 <figcaption>Updated map <a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6">from John Hopkins University</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka, Kan. —The state of Kansas currently has no Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and no Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) for the virus.The Kansas Department of Health was notified<a href="https://www.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6"> that a map of </a>Coronavirus&nbsp;cases by John Hopkins University identified 36 cases in Kansas. According to the KDHE, these cases actually represent the cases from the Diamond Princess cruise ship and were inaccurately placed on the map.The KDHE reached out to John Hopkins to correct the map and they did.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There is currently no reported community spread of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> in the US. People should follow everyday measures to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, such as staying home when sick and washing hands with soap and water. Stay informed; visit <a href="https://t.co/1ifchVyxUM">https://t.co/1ifchVyxUM</a>.&mdash; CDC (@CDCgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov/status/1232431332220784640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>People in the United States commonly get infected with human coronaviruses and there are four types that are the most common. These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is the newly identified COVID-19 first detected in Wujan, China.<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/download/COVID-19_One_Pager.pdf">COVID-19 (2019 Novel Coronavirus) Fact Sheet</a>

KDHE: Error created confusion about coronavirus in Kansas

OMAHA (AP) — Officials at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha said Monday they have received 13 people from a cruise ship in Japan who were part of a larger group of American citizens brought back to the U.S.

Chris Kratochvil, an executive director of the Global Center for Health Security at the medical center, said 12 of the people are in quarantine. They currently have no symptoms of the coronavirus.

One man is in a biocontainment unit to receive a higher level of care because he had a cough and other symptoms in addition to another chronic illness that places him at higher risk for complications.

All the travelers will remain at the university hospital for at least 14 days. The new patients came as 57 US evacuees continued to be quarantined at a Nebraska National Guard training base just southwest of Omaha.

In the latest case, the hospital received a call from federal officials at 2 a.m. Monday indicating they would be receiving patients, many of whom had initially tested positive for the coronavirus. The Omaha facility has a contract with the federal government to provide quarantine facilities for disease outbreaks. The 13 patients have been retested and results should be known in a matter of hours.

Hospital officials said although all were tired from lengthy travel, the patients were in good spirits upon arrival.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581978968362.png" alt="Inside bio-containment unit -image courtesy Nebraska Medical Center Omaha" />
 <figcaption>Inside bio-containment unit -image courtesy Nebraska Medical Center Omaha</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA (AP) — Officials at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha said Monday they have received 13 people from a cruise ship in Japan who were part of a larger group of American citizens brought back to the U.S.Chris Kratochvil, an executive director of the Global Center for Health Security at the medical center, said 12 of the people are in quarantine. They currently have no symptoms of the coronavirus.One man is in a biocontainment unit to receive a higher level of care because he had a cough and other symptoms in addition to another chronic illness that places him at higher risk for complications.All the travelers will remain at the university hospital for at least 14 days. The new patients came as 57 US evacuees continued to be quarantined at a Nebraska National Guard training base just southwest of Omaha.In the latest case, the hospital received a call from federal officials at 2 a.m. Monday indicating they would be receiving patients, many of whom had initially tested positive for the coronavirus. The Omaha facility has a contract with the federal government to provide quarantine facilities for disease outbreaks. The 13 patients have been retested and results should be known in a matter of hours.Hospital officials said although all were tired from lengthy travel, the patients were in good spirits upon arrival.

13 cruise passengers exposed to coronavirus arrive in Nebraska

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Hospital officials say an evacuee from the virus zone in China being held in quarantine in Nebraska who had developed a mild cough has tested negative for a new virus that has infected more than 67,000 people globally. 

The woman is one of 57 US evacuees being quarantined at a Nebraska National Guard training base just southwest of Omaha. She was taken Friday to a special isolated unit of an Omaha medical center to undergo testing after developing a mild cough. Officials with Nebraska Medicine said Saturday that tests came back negative for COVID-19.

OMAHA, NEB. (AP) — ONE&nbsp;of 57 evacuees from the virus zone in China who is being held in quarantine in Nebraska&nbsp;was transported Friday to a special isolation unit of an Omaha medical center to undergo testing after developing a mild cough overnight.

Officials with Nebraska Medicine said the woman's symptoms are “extremely mild” and that she did not have a fever when she was taken to the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus' federally funded National Quarantine Unit. The woman had samples taken Friday out of an abundance of caution," officials said, and the samples will be tested for COVID-19.

The unit is separate from any of the buildings on campus where patients receive care.

The group of evacuees was flown into to Omaha on Feb. 7 and is be quarantined at a Nebraska National Guard training base just southwest of Omaha.

In addition, a second wave of flu is hitting the U.S., turning this into one of the nastiest seasons for children in a decade. Health officials Friday said 92 flu-related deaths have already been reported in children. Experts say it is potentially a bad time for an extended flu season, given concerns about the new coronavirus out of China. 

If the coronavirus starts spreading in the U.S., there could be confusion about whether people are getting sick with it or the flu. But health officials are trying to use labs that test for flu to check for coronavirus, too.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Hospital officials say an evacuee from the virus zone in China being held in quarantine in Nebraska who had developed a mild cough has tested negative for a new virus that has infected more than 67,000 people globally. The woman is one of 57 US evacuees being quarantined at a Nebraska National Guard training base just southwest of Omaha. She was taken Friday to a special isolated unit of an Omaha medical center to undergo testing after developing a mild cough. Officials with Nebraska Medicine said Saturday that tests came back negative for COVID-19.----------OMAHA, NEB. (AP) — ONE&nbsp;of 57 evacuees from the virus zone in China who is being held in quarantine in Nebraska&nbsp;was transported Friday to a special isolation unit of an Omaha medical center to undergo testing after developing a mild cough overnight.Officials with Nebraska Medicine said the woman's symptoms are “extremely mild” and that she did not have a fever when she was taken to the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus' federally funded National Quarantine Unit. The woman had samples taken Friday out of an abundance of caution," officials said, and the samples will be tested for COVID-19.The unit is separate from any of the buildings on campus where patients receive care.The group of evacuees was flown into to Omaha on Feb. 7 and is be quarantined at a Nebraska National Guard training base just southwest of Omaha.In addition, a second wave of flu is hitting the U.S., turning this into one of the nastiest seasons for children in a decade. Health officials Friday said 92 flu-related deaths have already been reported in children. Experts say it is potentially a bad time for an extended flu season, given concerns about the new coronavirus out of China. If the coronavirus starts spreading in the U.S., there could be confusion about whether people are getting sick with it or the flu. But health officials are trying to use labs that test for flu to check for coronavirus, too.

Update: Woman quarantined in Neb. tests negative for coronavirus 

A doctor with Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph believes China
will be successful in cutting off a major city from the rest of the world in an
effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

The city of Wuhan, China is being isolated in wake of the
virus which has been spreading wildly there.

Dr. Junping Yang, who works in Endocrinology at Mosaic,
studied medicine in Wuhan and lived there for nine years before moving to the United
States in the late 80s to study at Harvard.

Yang says it might not be as difficult to isolate a city of 11
million than you might think.

“If they close the road, close the train, and airport, I think
it’s quite effective in a sense,” Yang tells reporters. “But I sent some advice
to my friends and family to tell them not to go to a public place. If you don’t
have to go to it, just stay at home.”

Yang has traveled the Wuhan since leaving. He says some of his
medical school classmates are on the front lines in the fight against the
virus.

There have been more than 20,000 confirmed cases of
coronavirus, nearly all in China, where more than 400 deaths have been
confirmed.&nbsp; Eleven cases have been
confirmed in the United States.

Yang says he understands people question the veracity of news
being distributed by the communist government in China.

“I think it is reasonable to have that concern,” Yang says. “But
it is getting harder now, because of the Internet, the social media. So, there’s
more information that can get out. So, it is harder for the government to
control (the news).”

The United States has declared a public health emergency and
barred foreign national from entering the country within two weeks of visiting
China, unless they have immediate family who are United States citizens or
permanent residents.

The State Department is warning Americans against all travel
to China, even as it helps U.S. citizens evacuate China.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580833070416.jpeg" alt="Dr. Junping Yang of Mosaic speaks to a Chinese audience/Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Junping Yang of Mosaic speaks to a Chinese audience/Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA doctor with Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph believes China
will be successful in cutting off a major city from the rest of the world in an
effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.The city of Wuhan, China is being isolated in wake of the
virus which has been spreading wildly there.Dr. Junping Yang, who works in Endocrinology at Mosaic,
studied medicine in Wuhan and lived there for nine years before moving to the United
States in the late 80s to study at Harvard.Yang says it might not be as difficult to isolate a city of 11
million than you might think.“If they close the road, close the train, and airport, I think
it’s quite effective in a sense,” Yang tells reporters. “But I sent some advice
to my friends and family to tell them not to go to a public place. If you don’t
have to go to it, just stay at home.”Yang has traveled the Wuhan since leaving. He says some of his
medical school classmates are on the front lines in the fight against the
virus.There have been more than 20,000 confirmed cases of
coronavirus, nearly all in China, where more than 400 deaths have been
confirmed.&nbsp; Eleven cases have been
confirmed in the United States.Yang says he understands people question the veracity of news
being distributed by the communist government in China.“I think it is reasonable to have that concern,” Yang says. “But
it is getting harder now, because of the Internet, the social media. So, there’s
more information that can get out. So, it is harder for the government to
control (the news).”The United States has declared a public health emergency and
barred foreign national from entering the country within two weeks of visiting
China, unless they have immediate family who are United States citizens or
permanent residents.The State Department is warning Americans against all travel
to China, even as it helps U.S. citizens evacuate China.

Mosaic doctor with ties to China watches coronavirus fight from afar

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, in conjunction with community health partners, continue their investigation for potential exposure to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdc7014880c3f436f2a2008d7a42fe2af%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637158397873688916&amp;sdata=Any%2FoXb2%2Bvz3fBwh6rWeAviFsZb5W5v5e4ujR5gXVsg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">2019 novel coronavirus</a>&nbsp;(2019-nCoV) in a Lawrence resident.

Specimens were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for testing on Tuesday and KDHE expects to receive results by the weekend, according to KDHE Secretary Lee Norman, M.D.

The patient is currently in isolation at a hospital as a precaution. The patient returned to the U.S. within the last two weeks after traveling from Wuhan City, China, where an outbreak of 2019-nCoV has been underway since December 2019. The patient became symptomatic in recent days and sought healthcare Monday.

While we have not confirmed this as a case of the 2019 novel coronavirus, we believe it is important to keep the public informed and educated on this new virus. Please know that there are a number of details we are unable to share to keep this individual’s privacy.

The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak of new virus from China a global emergency after the number of infected people spiked more than tenfold in a week. The United Nations health agency made the determination on Thursday as more cases of human-to-human transmission were being reported worldwide.

Health officials are also reporting the first U.S. case of person-to-person spread of the new virus from China. The latest patient is the husband of the Chicago woman who got sick after she returned from a trip to China. The new case announced Thursday is the sixth in the United States.

KDHE is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, LMH Health and the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department to identify and contact all of those who may have come into contact with the individual so that we can begin monitoring them for fever and respiratory symptoms, should this be a confirmed case.

The 2019 novel coronavirus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after exposure and consist of fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. Those considered at risk for contracting the virus are individuals with travel to Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, or individuals in close contact with a person infected with the 2019 novel coronavirus.

We are also advising residents that flu and other respiratory diseases are circulating in our state and are recommending everyone get a flu shot and follow basic prevention guidelines.

Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and staying home when sick.

The best ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses are to:

If you have recently traveled to Wuhan, China and have developed fever with respiratory symptoms within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone who is suspected to have 2019 Novel Coronavirus, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at&nbsp;1-877-427-7317&nbsp;if you believe you may have been affected.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE, in conjunction with community health partners, continue their investigation for potential exposure to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7Cdc7014880c3f436f2a2008d7a42fe2af%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637158397873688916&amp;sdata=Any%2FoXb2%2Bvz3fBwh6rWeAviFsZb5W5v5e4ujR5gXVsg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">2019 novel coronavirus</a>&nbsp;(2019-nCoV) in a Lawrence resident. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An update regarding possible case of the 2019 novel coronavirus. Find the latest information from the CDC: <a href="https://t.co/zOtF4W3hZK">https://t.co/zOtF4W3hZK</a> <a href="https://t.co/WwrrdBTyPS">pic.twitter.com/WwrrdBTyPS</a>&mdash; Lee Norman (@SecNorman) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecNorman/status/1222899048207679491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Specimens were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for testing on Tuesday and KDHE expects to receive results by the weekend, according to KDHE Secretary Lee Norman, M.D.The patient is currently in isolation at a hospital as a precaution. The patient returned to the U.S. within the last two weeks after traveling from Wuhan City, China, where an outbreak of 2019-nCoV has been underway since December 2019. The patient became symptomatic in recent days and sought healthcare Monday.While we have not confirmed this as a case of the 2019 novel coronavirus, we believe it is important to keep the public informed and educated on this new virus. Please know that there are a number of details we are unable to share to keep this individual’s privacy.The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak of new virus from China a global emergency after the number of infected people spiked more than tenfold in a week. The United Nations health agency made the determination on Thursday as more cases of human-to-human transmission were being reported worldwide.Health officials are also reporting the first U.S. case of person-to-person spread of the new virus from China. The latest patient is the husband of the Chicago woman who got sick after she returned from a trip to China. The new case announced Thursday is the sixth in the United States.KDHE is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, LMH Health and the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department to identify and contact all of those who may have come into contact with the individual so that we can begin monitoring them for fever and respiratory symptoms, should this be a confirmed case.The 2019 novel coronavirus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after exposure and consist of fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. Those considered at risk for contracting the virus are individuals with travel to Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, or individuals in close contact with a person infected with the 2019 novel coronavirus.We are also advising residents that flu and other respiratory diseases are circulating in our state and are recommending everyone get a flu shot and follow basic prevention guidelines.Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and staying home when sick.The best ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses are to:<ol>
 <li>Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.</li><li>Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.</li><li>Avoid close contact with people who are sick.</li><li>Stay home when you are sick.</li><li>Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>If you have recently traveled to Wuhan, China and have developed fever with respiratory symptoms within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone who is suspected to have 2019 Novel Coronavirus, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at&nbsp;1-877-427-7317&nbsp;if you believe you may have been affected.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥 KDHE provides update on possible novel coronavirus in Kansas

Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph will begin screening for the
coronavirus which has caused more than 100 deaths in China.

The Centers for Disease Control confirmed five cases in the
United States and is keeping track of 110 potential cases, all from people who
recently visited Wuhan, China. None of the cases are from Missouri. There is a
potential case reported in Kansas.

Director of Infectious Diseases at Mosaic Life Care in St.
Joseph, Dr. Scott Folk, says the virus has the attention of the medical
community.

“The uncertainty, right now, with the Wuhan coronavirus, is
how well the virus will adapt to human-to-human transmission,” Folk tells
reporters during a news conference at Mosaic. “We know it can occur, but we don’t
know well and how long that’s going to happen. And that’s why everyone is on
edge right now.”

The virus has spread quickly since first reported in Wuhan
last month. The number of confirmed cases jumped to 5,974 Wednesday, surpassing
the 5,327 in mainland China during the SARS outbreak of 2002 and 2003.

Wuhan is a city of 11 million in east-central China.

Folk says much is unknown about the virus, including whether
patients are contagious during the incubation period.

“Their risk of acquiring this infection is going to be based
on exposure, that’s the bottom line,” Folk says. “So, exposure determines risk.
If someone has been to Wuhan in the last two weeks, then yes, they are at risk.
It doesn’t mean they necessarily have the infection, but they are at risk for
sure.”

Folk says Mosaic will begin asking those admitted to the
hospital whether they have traveled to Wuhan, China in the last two weeks. If
no, Mosaic will ask if the patient has been in contact with someone who has
been to Wuhan in the last 14 days.

Folk says it is the unknown about the coronavirus which concerns
the medical community.

“And that’s why people are on edge and there’s a lot of
uncertainty about this,” according to Folk. “That’s why the markets are being rattled
right now, because there’s still a lot of uncertainty about this. There’s a lot
of certainty, on the other hand, about the flu, but there’s a lot of
uncertainty about this. That’s why everyone’s still pretty nervous.”

Folk says he is waiting on information from the Centers for
Disease Control before deciding how best to fight the coronavirus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580311133546.jpeg" alt="Dr. Scott Folk speaks with reporters during a news conference at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Scott Folk speaks with reporters during a news conference at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care in St. Joseph will begin screening for the
coronavirus which has caused more than 100 deaths in China.The Centers for Disease Control confirmed five cases in the
United States and is keeping track of 110 potential cases, all from people who
recently visited Wuhan, China. None of the cases are from Missouri. There is a
potential case reported in Kansas.Director of Infectious Diseases at Mosaic Life Care in St.
Joseph, Dr. Scott Folk, says the virus has the attention of the medical
community.“The uncertainty, right now, with the Wuhan coronavirus, is
how well the virus will adapt to human-to-human transmission,” Folk tells
reporters during a news conference at Mosaic. “We know it can occur, but we don’t
know well and how long that’s going to happen. And that’s why everyone is on
edge right now.”The virus has spread quickly since first reported in Wuhan
last month. The number of confirmed cases jumped to 5,974 Wednesday, surpassing
the 5,327 in mainland China during the SARS outbreak of 2002 and 2003.Wuhan is a city of 11 million in east-central China.Folk says much is unknown about the virus, including whether
patients are contagious during the incubation period.“Their risk of acquiring this infection is going to be based
on exposure, that’s the bottom line,” Folk says. “So, exposure determines risk.
If someone has been to Wuhan in the last two weeks, then yes, they are at risk.
It doesn’t mean they necessarily have the infection, but they are at risk for
sure.”Folk says Mosaic will begin asking those admitted to the
hospital whether they have traveled to Wuhan, China in the last two weeks. If
no, Mosaic will ask if the patient has been in contact with someone who has
been to Wuhan in the last 14 days.Folk says it is the unknown about the coronavirus which concerns
the medical community.“And that’s why people are on edge and there’s a lot of
uncertainty about this,” according to Folk. “That’s why the markets are being rattled
right now, because there’s still a lot of uncertainty about this. There’s a lot
of certainty, on the other hand, about the flu, but there’s a lot of
uncertainty about this. That’s why everyone’s still pretty nervous.”Folk says he is waiting on information from the Centers for
Disease Control before deciding how best to fight the coronavirus.

Mosaic to begin screening for coronavirus

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Kansas currently has no confirmed cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. However,&nbsp; one person is under investigation and being investigated for the virus in Douglas County.&nbsp;

The patient was in China where there is a lot of the virus and thought it would be wise to let officials know that they had symptoms including fever and cough typical of the virus,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">according to KDHE&nbsp;</a>Secretary Lee Norman, M.D.&nbsp;

The patient is doing well and remains in isolation, according to Norman. Tests have been sent to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The test results have not come back yet, according Norman. They are expected Thursday or Friday.

"We've had an all hands meeting with local health officials, the hospital where the patient is in isolation and state health officials and I think we have a really good plan for monitoring this and if necessary to trace down any contacts."

State health officials continue to work with CDC and other health agencies to learn more about this virus. If you have influenza-like symptoms and have recently been to or around Wuhan, China or around someone who has been to Wuhan, China and was sick, we encourage you to contact your health provider.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. For update information on the outbreak, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>

People in the United States commonly get infected with human coronaviruses and there are four types that are the most common. These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is the newly identified 2019-nCoV first detected in Wujan, China. This coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, would not be detected on the respiratory virus panels commonly used in the United States and can only be tested for at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Kansas currently has no confirmed cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. However,&nbsp; one person is under investigation and being investigated for the virus in Douglas County.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Message regarding possible case of the 2019 novel coronavirus. <a href="https://t.co/y5tqk6aSqv">pic.twitter.com/y5tqk6aSqv</a>&mdash; Lee Norman (@SecNorman) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecNorman/status/1222244031360532481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The patient was in China where there is a lot of the virus and thought it would be wise to let officials know that they had symptoms including fever and cough typical of the virus,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htm">according to KDHE&nbsp;</a>Secretary Lee Norman, M.D.&nbsp;The patient is doing well and remains in isolation, according to Norman. Tests have been sent to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The test results have not come back yet, according Norman. They are expected Thursday or Friday."We've had an all hands meeting with local health officials, the hospital where the patient is in isolation and state health officials and I think we have a really good plan for monitoring this and if necessary to trace down any contacts."State health officials continue to work with CDC and other health agencies to learn more about this virus. If you have influenza-like symptoms and have recently been to or around Wuhan, China or around someone who has been to Wuhan, China and was sick, we encourage you to contact your health provider.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus, which has resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of countries internationally. The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. For update information on the outbreak, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>People in the United States commonly get infected with human coronaviruses and there are four types that are the most common. These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is the newly identified 2019-nCoV first detected in Wujan, China. This coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, would not be detected on the respiratory virus panels commonly used in the United States and can only be tested for at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

KDHE: Possible case of novel coronavirus in Kansas

TOPEKA –&nbsp;While the state of Kansas as of January 24 does not have any reported cases of the&nbsp;2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment wants to provide information and facts regarding this new virus.

“The&nbsp;risk to the general public is low,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This new strain of coronavirus was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. If you have been to Wuhan, China, in recent weeks or have been around someone who has, and are displaying influenza-like symptoms, please call your healthcare provider.”

Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus in&nbsp;December 2019, which has since resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan City, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of other countries. The first case in the U.S. was announced January 21 in Washington State and a second case was reported January 24 in Illinois. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. For updated information on the outbreak, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C331539c3251243bebc4f08d7a1147b5c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637154981762715854&amp;sdata=asNT%2F1cXg8kaXCrrleQiHMH6i4n1lwsOhcmd4EikdW4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>

<a>To help you protect yourself, KDHE encourages you to:</a>

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recognize the symptoms of illness and understand how it is transmitted.

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seek care if you have recently traveled within the affected region and are experiencing these symptoms (below).

3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Always practice good hygiene, wash hands, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid sharing food, cups or utensils.

4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Follow CDC Travel Guidance if you have or are planning to travel to China.

Symptoms can include a fever and respiratory symptoms such as cough or difficulty breathing, similar to what you may feel with influenza or a bad cold. Symptoms usually start within 14 days of an exposure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Transmission of this illness is believed to be person-to-person or animal-to-person. It cannot be transmitted from inanimate objects (such as items or packages purchased from China).

Anyone who has traveled from Wuhan City, China or has been in contact with someone who is ill from Wuhan City, China, within the last 14 days and is experiencing a respiratory illness should immediately call their healthcare provider.

Those who have not recently visited China but are experiencing influenza-like illness, with fever greater than 100.3, and symptoms, including cough, body aches, severe sore throat or runny nose, should consider seeking medical attention for the possibility of the flu, especially if symptoms worsen. Please contact your healthcare provider.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the flu shot cannot protect from this novel coronavirus, we are recommending that everyone (six months of age or older) and especially those who travel receive a flu vaccination. With the current seasonal influenza activity, there may be confusion as persons with influenza will exhibit similar signs and symptoms such as fever and cough.

Information for International Travelers

<a>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued&nbsp;</a><a></a><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fprotect-us.mimecast.com%2Fs%2FkotwCKr25vF4jnovCAOcPT%3Fdomain%3Dlinks.georgetown.mkt6170.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C331539c3251243bebc4f08d7a1147b5c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637154981762725852&amp;sdata=Hn1OQBCv%2B4J62jVPl7W71A%2B29apYO3eM0EGCn21uMzE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;for those planning to travel to China.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is important that all travelers adhere to these precautions in order to protect the health and safety of our communities. For additional information about coronavirus, including signs and symptoms, transmission and risk of exposure, and what to do if you are exhibiting symptoms, please refer to the&nbsp;<a></a><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fprotect-us.mimecast.com%2Fs%2FaL8HCPN95Ac37xwrhmyswS%3Fdomain%3Dlinks.georgetown.mkt6170.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C331539c3251243bebc4f08d7a1147b5c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637154981762735850&amp;sdata=pOrfVRKqLq0qVDdMBdqqGJoe6HVampyFLxuftZYYQoE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">CDC website</a>.&nbsp;

“It’s important to note that four types of human coronavirus are common in the U.S.,” Dr. Norman said. “These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is this newly identified 2019-nCoV. This coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, is not detected on the respiratory virus panels commonly used in the United States and can only be tested for at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at this time.”

TOPEKA –&nbsp;While the state of Kansas as of January 24 does not have any reported cases of the&nbsp;2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment wants to provide information and facts regarding this new virus.“The&nbsp;risk to the general public is low,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This new strain of coronavirus was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. If you have been to Wuhan, China, in recent weeks or have been around someone who has, and are displaying influenza-like symptoms, please call your healthcare provider.”Chinese authorities identified the new coronavirus in&nbsp;December 2019, which has since resulted in hundreds of confirmed cases in China, including cases outside Wuhan City, with additional cases being identified in a growing number of other countries. The first case in the U.S. was announced January 21 in Washington State and a second case was reported January 24 in Illinois. This is an ongoing investigation and information is changing rapidly. For updated information on the outbreak, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Findex.html&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C331539c3251243bebc4f08d7a1147b5c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637154981762715854&amp;sdata=asNT%2F1cXg8kaXCrrleQiHMH6i4n1lwsOhcmd4EikdW4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a><a>To help you protect yourself, KDHE encourages you to:</a>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Recognize the symptoms of illness and understand how it is transmitted.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seek care if you have recently traveled within the affected region and are experiencing these symptoms (below).3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Always practice good hygiene, wash hands, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid sharing food, cups or utensils.4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Follow CDC Travel Guidance if you have or are planning to travel to China.SymptomsSymptoms can include a fever and respiratory symptoms such as cough or difficulty breathing, similar to what you may feel with influenza or a bad cold. Symptoms usually start within 14 days of an exposure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Transmission of this illness is believed to be person-to-person or animal-to-person. It cannot be transmitted from inanimate objects (such as items or packages purchased from China).Seek CareAnyone who has traveled from Wuhan City, China or has been in contact with someone who is ill from Wuhan City, China, within the last 14 days and is experiencing a respiratory illness should immediately call their healthcare provider.Those who have not recently visited China but are experiencing influenza-like illness, with fever greater than 100.3, and symptoms, including cough, body aches, severe sore throat or runny nose, should consider seeking medical attention for the possibility of the flu, especially if symptoms worsen. Please contact your healthcare provider.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Flu ShotsWhile the flu shot cannot protect from this novel coronavirus, we are recommending that everyone (six months of age or older) and especially those who travel receive a flu vaccination. With the current seasonal influenza activity, there may be confusion as persons with influenza will exhibit similar signs and symptoms such as fever and cough.Information for International Travelers<a>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued&nbsp;</a><a></a><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fprotect-us.mimecast.com%2Fs%2FkotwCKr25vF4jnovCAOcPT%3Fdomain%3Dlinks.georgetown.mkt6170.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C331539c3251243bebc4f08d7a1147b5c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637154981762725852&amp;sdata=Hn1OQBCv%2B4J62jVPl7W71A%2B29apYO3eM0EGCn21uMzE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;for those planning to travel to China.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is important that all travelers adhere to these precautions in order to protect the health and safety of our communities. For additional information about coronavirus, including signs and symptoms, transmission and risk of exposure, and what to do if you are exhibiting symptoms, please refer to the&nbsp;<a></a><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fprotect-us.mimecast.com%2Fs%2FaL8HCPN95Ac37xwrhmyswS%3Fdomain%3Dlinks.georgetown.mkt6170.com&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C331539c3251243bebc4f08d7a1147b5c%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637154981762735850&amp;sdata=pOrfVRKqLq0qVDdMBdqqGJoe6HVampyFLxuftZYYQoE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">CDC website</a>.&nbsp;“It’s important to note that four types of human coronavirus are common in the U.S.,” Dr. Norman said. “These types of coronaviruses can be detected on respiratory virus panels that are commonly performed at many hospitals and clinical laboratories. Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve and make people sick and become a new human coronavirus. An example of this is this newly identified 2019-nCoV. This coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, is not detected on the respiratory virus panels commonly used in the United States and can only be tested for at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at this time.”