Archived: Sedgwick County COVID-19 Update – October 16, 2020

COVID-19 Overall Case Count
Confirmed cases as of noon October 16, 2020
U.S. cases – Johns Hopkins University & Medicine
Kansas and counties cases – Kansas Department of Health & Environment
Sedgwick County cases – Sedgwick County Health Department

 *Sedgwick County’s data reflects people who test positive with nasopharyngeal (NP) swab molecular testing (confirmed COVID-19 cases). The KDHE dashboard differs because it also includes people who are IgM antibody test or antigen test positive if they are linked to a confirmed case or if they have COVID-19 symptoms.

Sedgwick County Health Department Update

• The Sedgwick County Health Department’s drive-through sampling site will be open from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 17. Sampling with nasopharyngeal (NP) swab.
  • Residents can be tested at no cost for COVID-19 by appointment regardless of symptoms. Appointments can be made by dialing United Way of the Plains at 2-1-1. Walk-ins will not be allowed on Saturday.

• Regular hours at the drive-through sampling site for NP swab and saliva specimens are as follows:
• Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 5 p.m.
• Tuesday and Thursday – 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 7 p.m.

• The SCHD offers no-cost testing of symptomatic residents, contacts of COVID-19 positive people, and people working in certain high-risk professions.
  • Same day afternoon appointments are available if residents dial 2-1-1 United Way of the Plains and are reached by Health Department staff before noon.
  • Residents may receive their results in four to six days.

• The SCHD Mobile Outreach Team will provide no-cost COVID-19 testing for symptomatic residents, contacts of COVID-19 positive people, or people in certain high-risk professions from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the dates listed below. 
• Monday, October 19 at Central Riverside Park, 720 N. Nims St., Wichita
• Tuesday, October 20 at Cheney Fire Department, 525 N. Main, Cheney
• Wednesday, October 21 at Garden Plain Football Field, 720 Sedgwick, Garden Plain
• Thursday, October 22 at Christ Lutheran Church, 5356 N. Hillside, Wichita

Sedgwick County Updates

• The current local health order is in effect until Wednesday, October 21.
• A new order will take effect on Thursday, October 22.

• There was a discussion of the CARES Act.
• The portal for non-profits to apply for funding is reopened and available for other, health or social services organizations.
• The safe operating grant portal is open to businesses and to other non-profits, not related to social services or public health.
• Businesses and non-profits located in the Sedgwick County are able to pick up PPE kits at no cost.
• Information about the kits and a request form can be found here.
• Commissioners approved an agreement with WSU for its molecular lab today during a special meeting.
• View the discussion here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-_gNvtLy40

Prevention Measures

• Remember the three W’s to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
  • Wash your hands with soap and water often
  • Wear a mask or face covering
  • Watch your distance – keep six feet of space between you and others who are not in your household

Mental Health Support

• COMCARE of Sedgwick County is offering a Support Line for individuals who may be experiencing an elevation in mental health symptoms.
• Individuals may call (316) 660-1111 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
• They’ll receive resources, coping skill ideas, and encouragement to keep doing what they need to do to stay healthy, emotionally and physically.
• Residents who are experiencing a mental health crisis should call (316) 660-7500.

All questions from media should be directed to Communications at (316) 660-9370 or communications@sedgwick.gov.