Sedgwick County COVID-19 Update – October 9, 2020

COVID-19 Overall Case Count
Confirmed cases as of noon October 9, 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 10 newly reported deaths on the dashboard occurred mostly in late August and September; these deaths came after a routine data reconciliation with KDHE.
• Sedgwick County Health Department (SCHD) staff will take nasopharyngeal (NP) swab and saliva specimens at the drive-through sampling site (DTSS) at the following hours:

• 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.

• Over 117,000 COVID-19 tests have been conducted in Sedgwick County.
  • 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.

• SCHD services, including the drive-through sample site, will be open on Monday, October 12 even though many County departments will be closed in observance of Columbus Day.
• The 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 at the below dates and times.
• From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 13 at Colonial Heights Church, 5200 S. Broadway Ave., Wichita.
• From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 14 at Former Atwoods Parking Lot, 6235 N. Broadway Ave., Park City
• From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 15 at Haysville Community Building, 130 E. 2^nd St. South, Haysville

Sedgwick County Updates

• The current local health order is in effect until Wednesday, October 21.
• Nearly 1,000 applications have been received for a safe operating grant.
  • Commissioners voted to open the safe operating grant portal to other non-profits, not related to social services or public health.
• The portal for PPE Kit reservations remains open and is open to non-profit organizations. Distribution will begin Monday at various locations.
  • Non-profits are also able to request PPE kits through Sedgwick County.

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.