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The Morgan County Health Department is issuing a warning about a possible COVID 19 exposure.
Officials say a person who’s tested positive attended the Basketball/Court Warming game on Friday at the Morgan County R-2 High School in Versailles.
This same person also visited the Laurie Westside Lanes between the 19th and the 20th.
Health Officials encourage everyone who may have been in those areas to monitor symptoms, but they do not suggest self-isolation as the chance of spread is low.
The Pulaski County Health Center say’s they are planning a Vaccination Clinic later this week.
Officials say the National Guard will be helping vaccinate those 65 and older.
It’s scheduled to take place on the 29th through the 30th from 8AM to 6PM.
Additional details are expected to be released later this week.
A new medical Marijuana dispensary is opening in the Ozarks.
Blue Sage celebrated it’s grand opening this weekend for their new location at 1210 Deadra Drive in Lebanon.
The company offers an assortment of seven different strains of flower, CBD products and their accessories.
***Press Release***
Blue Sage Cannabis announced yesterday that they will open for business at their Lebanon, Missouri dispensary on Friday, January 22. Lebanon will be the first of two locations to open under the Blue Sage brand and Friday’s grand opening will no doubt be well attended by Missouri medical marijuana patients in the region.
CEO and co-owner LeAnne Dickerson, an independent pharmacist, has extensive experience with patients, which she hopes will translate in the medical marijuana space. With over 80+ years combined experience in the medical field, the team at Blue Sage will bring best practices to the Missouri cannabis industry.
Blue Sage’s dispensary staff was trained by the Cannabis Care Team, clinicians who have been providing dispensary training for employees in multiple dispensary locations in Missouri and Oklahoma. CCT’s training incorporates the importance of not providing medical advice to patients, but instead how to best serve patients with education about the plant’s anatomy and potential therapeutic benefits.
“We are a family operated business and we are committed to providing a patient-focused experience, as we’ve done in independent pharmacies in the past,” said Dickerson. “Our employees are local and we’re a part of this community in every sense.”
“For our opening, we’ll only have flower, but will add additional products to our lineup,” said Dickerson. Cannabis flower from cultivators C4 and Solhaus will be available in person or for online ordering and pickup and strains will be visible at their website before Friday’s opening.
Blue Sage Cannabis plans to offer more product types in the weeks to come and as the year progresses, and their Carthage location will be open for business soon.
The EPA is extending what started off as a 60-day public comment period as it considers adding Lake of the Ozarks to its list of impaired waterways in Missouri.
High nutrient levels in the lake are why the discussion’s happening.
Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Warren Witt with Ameren Missouri points out Lake of the Ozarks had high water levels in 2018 due to flooding and that dynamic can create high nutrient levels due to sediments.
The public notice was given December 7th, but the 45-days extension will now continue the public comment period until March 22nd.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has extended until March 22, 2021, the public comment period on its decision to add 40 waters to Missouri’s CWA Section 303(d) List.
EPA issued a public notice on December 7, 2020, providing for a 60-day public comment period on 40 additions to Missouri’s CWA Section 303(d) List. This public comment period has been extended 45 days until March 22, 2021. After considering any comments received, EPA may make revisions, as appropriate, and will transmit its listings to Missouri for incorporation into Missouri’s water quality management plan. The public notice as well as the decision letter can be found here: https://www.epa.gov/mo/state-
Current data shows encouraging signs on the COVID front in Missouri.
But Governor Mike Parson also says hospitalizations remain high in Missouri.
Parson says the Missouri National Guard will be assisting the Department of Health and Senior Services with vaccination efforts throughout the state.
Governor Parson Announces Mass Vaccination, Targeted Vaccination Sites Across the State
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today during a briefing at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri National Guard will begin assisting the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and other state partners in establishing COVID-19 vaccination sites across the state.
A mass vaccination team will be assigned to each of Missouri’s nine Highway Patrol regions.
“The Missouri National Guard is once again answering the call to help Missourians in time of need,” said Governor Parson. “The purpose of these vaccination teams is to support our existing vaccinators and provide an additional vaccination source for eligible Missourians that may otherwise have a hard time receiving a vaccine.”
The Missouri National Guard is providing teams of Soldiers and Airmen to assist in establishing and staffing mass vaccination and targeted vaccination sites. The National Guard will also be deploying administrative teams to assist local agencies and other providers with data backlogs.
Missouri National Guard mass vaccination teams consist of 30 support personnel, who provide assistance in the form of traffic control, administrative support, and data input. Targeted vaccination teams consist of four-person teams with one vaccinator and three support staff to assist with administrative duties. Administrative support teams consist of three personnel to assist providers with paperwork and data backlogs due to vaccination entry requirements.
“We are proud to be a small part of the whole-of-government effort to provide the COVID-19 vaccine to our fellow Missourians,” said Maj. Gen. Levon Cumpton, Missouri National Guard Adjutant General. “This effort is truly a team effort, led by DHSS and consisting of multiple physicians, hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, local governments and others.”
A mass vaccination site is scheduled to begin this week in the Southeastern region, and other sites will be operational in the remaining eight Highway Patrol regions by the end of January. These sites have the capability to provide up to 2,500 doses per day, per team. More details concerning dates and locations will be released once finalized.
Targeted vaccination sites provide vaccines to populations outside the reach of mass vaccination sites, as designated by DHSS. Target vaccination teams will work with clergies and community leaders in the Kansas City and St. Louis regions to vaccinate vulnerable populations. Teams staffing these sites have the capability to provide up to 160 doses per day, per team.
Vaccine supply remains extremely limited. Current demand for the vaccine far outweighs the current supply that the state is allotted by the federal government. These mass vaccination and target vaccination sites will ensure that vaccines are being administered as efficiently as possible and that every Missourian will have the opportunity to eventually receive a vaccine regardless of where they live.
Missourians are encouraged to visit MoStopsCOVID.com to see the latest vaccine updates, find out when they are eligible for the vaccine, and locate available vaccinators in their area.
Hot Pocket lovers, listen up.
There’s a recall affecting the Pepperoni products, as they main contain pieces of glass or hard plastic.
According to the USDA’s Food and Safety service, over 760,000 boxes are being recalled with a “best buy” date of February 2022.
It’s recommended you throw it away or return it for a full refund.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2021– Nestlé Prepared Foods, a Mt. Sterling, Ky. establishment, is recalling approximately 762,615 pounds of not-ready-to-eat (NRTE) pepperoni hot pockets product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of glass and hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The frozen NRTE pepperoni hot pockets product was produced from Nov. 13, 2020 through Nov. 16, 2020. The product has a shelf life of 14 months. The following product is subject to recall: [View Labels (PDF Only)]:
The product subject to recall bears establishment number “EST. 7721A” inside the USDA mark of inspection. The product was shipped to retail locations nationwide.
The problem was discovered when the firm received four consumer complaints of extraneous material in the pepperoni hot pocket product.
The firm has received one report of a minor oral injury associated with consumption of this product. FSIS has received no additional reports of injury or illness from consumption of this product. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.
FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased this product are urged not to consume it. This product should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Nestlé consumer services at (800) 350-5016. Members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Dana Stambaugh, Corporate Communications for Nestlé at (571) 457-3803 or at Dana.Stambaugh@us.nestle.com.
Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) or live chat via Ask USDA from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Consumers can also browse food safety messages at Ask USDA or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.
Photo by Zach Reiner on Unsplash
Smoking cigarettes in the Lake Area can be expensive, as proven by a new study by WalletHub.com.
New numbers show the average cost of a one-pack-per day smoker in Missouri is over a million dollars.
Jill Gonzales with WalletHub tells KRMS News health-care costs for a Lake Area smoker over a lifetime average over $150-thousand dollars.
But the average total amount of money lost over a lifetime for a Lake Area smoker could be as high as $1.7 million dollars when factoring in health care costs and other financial opportunities missed.
Gonzales was interviewed by Christian Blood on The Ozarks Today.
With smokers having an elevated risk of severe symptoms from COVID-19 and the economic and societal costs of smoking totaling more than $300 billion per year, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on The Real Cost of Smoking by State, as well as accompanying videos.
To encourage the estimated 34.2 million tobacco users in the U.S. to kick this dangerous habit, WalletHub calculated the potential monetary losses — including the lifetime and annual costs of a cigarette pack per day, health care expenditures, income losses and other costs — brought on by smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
The Financial Cost of Smoking in Missouri (1=Lowest, 25=Avg.):
For the full report, please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/the-
School of the Osage is moving ahead with plans for an on-campus clinic.
Central Ozark Medical Center will handle staffing and billing for the new location in the old field house by the football stadium.
Superintendent Dr. Laura Nelson tells KRMS News the clinic will be for students and staff at School of the Osage.
She also says the new location is for the school, and will not be replacing the main business location near HyVee and Target in Osage Beach.
More than 250 Hy-Vee Pharmacy locations will be offering COVID 19 rapid antibody tests starting Monday.
Officials say patients can expect to receive same-day results, possibly as fast as 15-minutes.
The tests are available for everyone and will cost $25.
Patients must register ahead of time on the Hy-Vee website.
At this time the Osage Beach Location is not offering the test, but Columbia and Springfield locations are.
Supplies of the COVID-19 vaccine are about to go up in Lake of the Ozarks.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson is announcing Phase 1B –Tier 1 of the vaccination plan, which will open up the vaccine to law enforcement, firefighters and other public health professionals.
Tier-2 of Phase 1B goes into effect Monday, which prioritizes people 65 and older and others with health issues that place them at greater risk.
You can learn more about the latest on the COVID-19 online at http://MOStopsCovid.com.
Governor Parson Announces Activation of First Tier of Phase 1B of Missouri’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced the activation of Phase 1B – Tier 1 of Missouri’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan.
Federal partners have informed the state that they plan to significantly increase vaccine supply next week and that individuals 65 and older and those with comorbidities should be prioritized. This news allows the state to begin the process of activating Phase 1B tiers.
“Beginning the activation of Phase 1B is all about saving lives and protecting those most vulnerable to exposure and illness from this virus,” Governor Parson said. “We are looking forward to increased vaccine supply in the coming weeks as supply is the leading factor that dictates our movement through our plan. The more supply we receive, the quicker we can reach our goal of making vaccines available to every Missourians who wants one.”
The activation of Phase 1B – Tier 1 reflects the guidance the state has received from federal partners as well as information gathered from stakeholders across the state. Phase 1B – Tier 1 is activated today, and Phase 1B – Tier 2 will be activated on Monday, January 18.
Tier 1 of Phase 1B focuses on protecting those who keep Missourians safe, including law enforcement, fire service, and public health professionals, among others.
Tier 2 of Phase 1B focuses on protecting those who are at increased risk for severe illness, including individuals aged 65 and older and any adult with cancer, chronic kidney disease, COPD, or intellectual and/or developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, heart conditions, a weakened immune system due to organ transplant, severe obesity, pregnancy, sickle cell disease, or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
“We recognize and appreciate that there are a variety of individuals on the frontlines who have a greater risk of exposure each day they go to work,” Governor Parson said. “We are grateful for the tireless and selfless efforts of our health care providers and first responders who risk their own safety to protect the health and well-being of Missourians.”
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) Director Dr. Randall Williams issued a statewide health order today regarding the vaccination of individuals in Phase 1A, Phase 1B – Tier 1, and Phase 1B – Tier 2. The order outlines who can be vaccinated as part of the state’s determined phases and applies to those administering the federally-funded COVID-19 vaccines. To view the order, please see attachment.
Although initial tiers within Phase 1B are being activated today and Monday, there are currently not enough vaccines for everyone included in these groups. As additional supplies arrive, this activation will allow for the greatest vaccine coverage where it is most needed. It will also allow vaccinators and organizations to continue planning effectively for future tiers and phases.
Individuals in Phase 1A and Phase 1B – Tier 1 should work through their employer and/or association to access the vaccine. Individuals in Phase 1B – Tier 2 should contact their local pharmacy or health care provider or visit MOStopsCovid.com to learn when vaccines may be available and how to receive them.
A list of vaccinators and regional vaccine implementation teams will be made available at www.MOstopsCovid.com on January 15. DHSS encourages employers and associations representing individuals in activated phases to use the list to connect with a vaccinator or regional vaccine implementation team in their area and make a plan for vaccinating their teams.
“We know one of the most common questions among Missourians right now is when it will be their turn to be vaccinated, and we are greatly encouraged by the interest in the vaccines from the public,” Dr. Williams. “Each day, our team is monitoring the amount of vaccine available and making sure it is distributed so that people can receive the vaccine as quickly as possible. We are so thankful to our hundreds of clinical partners throughout the state who are making that happen.”
Based on reporting from providers, at least 27 percent of Phase 1A has received the first dose of the vaccine. This includes residents and staff of long-term care facilities and health care workers, including dentists, EMS, school nurses, and those working in hospital or clinic settings, among others. These individuals will continue to be vaccinated.
Missourians began receiving first doses of COVID-19 vaccines last month. More than 160,000 individuals have received an initial dose, and more than 22,000 have now been fully vaccinated with the 2-dose series. Vaccine supply continues to be the rate-limiting factor for vaccine administration throughout the state. State vaccine allocations are determined by Operation Warp Speed.
Additional details on phases and tiers beyond Phase 1B – Tier 2 can be found at www.MOStopsCovid.com. Public announcements will be made as later phases in the state’s vaccination plan are activated.
A white sheet summarizing Phase 1B Tiers is attached. More information regarding COVID-19 vaccines and Missouri’s vaccination plan can be found at www.MOstopsCovid.com.
With the winter weather in the Lake Area, officials are urging caution for those who must travel on the roadways.
One way to stay safe is preparing your car with items you may need.
Rob Odenwald with Mid-County Fire.
He tells KRMS News it’s smart to pack a bag of warm clothing, socks and blankets.
You should also consider bringing a container of ice melt, gloves and a first aid kit, in case you get stuck on the roadway.
Lake Regional is releasing details about how to get the COVID 19 vaccine.
In a letter, the hospital says they’re setting up a website where people can join the waiting list, as they roll through the phases recommended by the CDC.
The Lake area is currently in the Phase 1A & begging to shift to phase 1B, which is for doctors, medical staff, the elderly and those at extreme risk.
Officials with the hospital say they are setting this up for when they do receive additional doses of the vaccine.
You can log on to http://lakeregional.com/vaccine or call the hospital and leave a request for someone to contact you back for the waiting list.
The cost of the vaccine is free, but there is a small administration fee charged to offset expenses.
Lake Regional Health System is preparing to expand its COVID-19 vaccination offering, once rollout is authorized from the state and vaccines are made available.
“We understand many people in our service area are eager to receive this vaccine and the protection it brings,” said Michael Dow, Pharm.D., director of Ancillary Services at Lake Regional. “Although we do not currently have vaccines to distribute, we want to be ready to quickly schedule recipients when we do receive more vaccines.”
Community members interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine can join a waiting list at lakeregional.com/vaccine. People will self-select their appropriate category: phase 1A, 1B, 2 or 3. The State of Missouri will determine when vaccine administrators may move from one phase to the next. A Lake Regional representative will use the waiting lists to schedule appointments once they become available.
Community members who do not have access to the internet may call 573.348.7444 and leave a request for a Lake Regional representative to contact them.
The cost of the vaccine is free; however, because Lake Regional is a non-government and non-profit entity, there will be a small administration fee to help offset expenses to provide this community service.
To learn more about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the phased rollout, visit mostopscovid.com. To learn more about Lake Regional’s COVID-19 response, visit lakeregional.com/covid19.
Lake Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to residents and visitors throughout the mid-Missouri region. The hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, Level II STEMI (heart attack) Center and Level III Trauma Center. Lake Regional also provides a wide range of specialties, including cancer care, heart care, orthopedics and women’s health. Plus, Lake Regional operates primary care clinics, Express Care clinics, rehab therapy clinics, programs for home health and hospice, and retail pharmacies. To learn more, visit lakeregional.com.
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There’s a new director of the Intensive Care Unit at Lake Regional Hospital.
Angela Kenig will now be responsible for the ICU, respiratory therapy and dialysis.
Kenig takes over for interim ICU director Shawn Andreasen.
Lake Regional Hospital renovated it’s 18-bed ICU unit with numerous updates in 2020.
Lake Regional Announces ICU Director
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Health System is pleased to welcome Angela Kenig, R.N., MSN, CNML, as the ICU director. Kenig will be responsible for overseeing the Intensive Care Unit, Respiratory Therapy and Dialysis.
“The ICU has always been vital in providing critical care to our patients, and the current health crisis made it even more important that we select the right person to lead this department,” said Melissa Hunter, R.N., MSN, executive vice president and chief nursing officer at Lake Regional. “Angela is a servant-leader with a strong work ethic, and she will be an exceptional addition to our Lake Regional team.”
Kenig has extensive experience in the health care industry. Before joining Lake Regional, she most recently served as director of Nursing at North Kansas City Hospital. Kenig has a master’s degree in nursing management and leadership from Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Shawn Andreasen, R.N, served as the interim ICU director.
“We are thankful to Shawn for his leadership and continued commitment to Lake Regional,” Hunter said.
Lake Regional’s 18-bed ICU was renovated in 2020 with facility and technological updates to allow for a better patient experience.
Lake Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to residents and visitors throughout the mid-Missouri region. To learn more, visit lakeregional.com.
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CAPTION: Angela Kenig, R.N., MSN, CNML, ICU director
HyVee is being told by the Federal EPA to stop selling the “Outlaw Germ Justice Disinfectant Wipes” immediately.
Officials say the company that manufactures the wipes, MJB Worldwide, failed to register the product with the EPA and they continue to be non-compliant.
Companies like MJB who manufacture a pesticide, including ones that like pathogens, must register with the EPA for consumer use.
EPA Officials have told HyVee it must remove the product and it will not be allowed to sell it moving forward.
Customers who’ve already purchased the item are asked to return it for a full refund.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Lenexa, Kan., Jan. 12, 2021) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ordered MJB Worldwide LLC and Hy-Vee Inc. to stop the sale and distribution of disinfectant wipes that EPA says are noncompliant with federal law and may represent a danger to consumers.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, EPA has observed increased production and sale of unregistered products claiming to kill viruses and other pathogens,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “The Agency is determined to protect consumers from these unlawful and potentially dangerous products.”
EPA issued the “Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Orders” to MJB Worldwide and Hy-Vee on Jan. 11, 2021. These orders require immediate termination of all distribution and sales of Outlaw Germ Justice Disinfectant Wipes and prohibit all future sales of the product at any Hy-Vee locations in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska.
MJB Worldwide LLC produces and distributes “Outlaw Germ Justice Disinfectant Wipes,” claiming the product kills bacteria and viruses. According to EPA, the company failed to register the product in violation of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act. Under the law, any manufacturer of a pesticide – including those intended to kill pathogens – must register the product with EPA. The registration process protects public health by evaluating the product’s ingredients; where it is to be used; the amount, frequency and timing of its use; and product storage and disposal practices.
After EPA contacted MJB Worldwide in November 2020 about an unregistered product, the company assured the Agency that it had recalled all Outlaw disinfectant products and that any future production would be done in compliance with federal law. However, on Jan. 6, 2021, an EPA inspector discovered a reformulated version of Outlaw wipes available for sale at a Hy-Vee grocery store in Overland Park, Kansas. The inspector also identified that the product’s label described concentrations of chemicals that could cause severe eye and skin irritation if used improperly.
For more information about EPA’s authority and COVID-19, visit: www.epa.gov/coronavirus.
For more information about EPA-registered disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes the disease COVID-19, visit: www.epa.gov/pesticide-
A Camdenton Registered Nurse was the first one to receive the Pfizer Vaccine at Fort Leonard Wood this week.
Serena Detlie has worked with Fort Wood’s General Community Hospital for 8 years now in the emergency department.
Detlie is a survivor of a rare form of lung cancer and had been working in a special care unit, until COVID 19, when she returned to the emergency department, in order to help keep it from overloading with backlogs of COVID patients.
Officials with the General Hospital started administering the vaccines on Tuesday, after receiving a limited number from the FDA’s emergency use authorization.
FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital began administering COVID-19 vaccinations today after receiving a limited number of vaccines following the FDA’s recent Emergency Use Authorization.
Individuals, representing Fort Leonard Wood’s medical community, law enforcement and fire department were vaccinated, following a prioritization strategy established at the Department of Defense level to be used here as vaccines are received.
According to Col. Aaron Pitney, GLWACH commander, while there is limited vaccine availability, vaccination distribution prioritization will focus on those providing direct medical care, maintaining essential national security and installation functions, deploying forces and those beneficiaries at the highest risk for developing severe illness from COVID-19.
In step with the DoD strategy, GLWACH’s first vaccine recipient was Serena Detlie.
Detlie, from nearby Camdenton, Missouri, has been a registered nurse for more than 25 years and has worked in GLWACH’s emergency department for eight years. She is also a survivor of pulmonary colloid adenocarcinoma, a rare form of lung cancer that left her upper left lobe significantly scarred and minimally functional.
She said due to her health issues she transferred to the relatively lower-stress post-anesthesia care unit a year ago but requested to return to the ED in March “because that is where the need is greatest.”
“Our hospital, like hospitals all across the country — across the world — was hit by COVID-19,” she said. “My co-workers were stretched to the limit; the number of critical patients was rising. Nursing is a calling. Our job is to alleviate suffering and help people. The best way I could do that was to go back to the ED.”
Getting the vaccine is important, Detlie said, because she’s seen what the virus can do to people of all ages.
“Symptom severity varies, but the bad cases are really bad,” she said. “Every breath is a battle. Life is short — nothing is guaranteed — but I want to do everything I can to tip the scales in my favor; in favor of all my friends, family and patients. That includes educating patients, correcting misinformation, wearing a mask, washing my hands and social distancing. And now that it is available, I will take the vaccine.”
According to Defense Health Agency officials, TRICARE beneficiaries enrolled at a DoD military treatment facility are eligible to receive the vaccine at a DoD MTF. TRICARE beneficiaries who receive care at DoD MTFs on a space-available basis can alternately receive the vaccine through the local civilian jurisdiction.
Every service member at Fort Leonard Wood is encouraged to take the vaccine, as it becomes available, “to protect their health, their families, this community and lower the public health risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic,” Pitney said.
“I know that many in our community are anxious to receive the vaccine; we are excited to start administering it,” he added. “Even as we work through our directed priorities of who we vaccinate, we need everyone to continue the practice of social distancing, wearing face masks and handwashing. That, along with vaccines, will turn the tide against COVID. Our team at GLWACH will continue to keep everyone informed of vaccine availability in our area.”
For more information on the DoD COVID-19 vaccination plan, go to www.health.mil/covidvaccine.
There is a major recall underway for dog and cat food sold under the Midwestern Pet Foods name.
That includes the popular SportMix, ProPac, Nunn Better and Splash Fat Cat dry bagged foods.
Company officials report the bags have been found to have very high levels of aflatoxins, a mold fungus that grows on corn and can cause sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice and/or diarrhea.
The FDA Reports that more than 70 dogs have already died from eating the food, and another 80 dogs and cats are currently sick.
The bags affected include those with an expiration date of July 9th 2022, and have an “05” in the date code.
The FDA says you should stop feeding your animals this food immediately and you can return it for a full refund.
Additional Details:
Midwestern Pet Foods, Inc., of Evansville, IN is expanding its December 30, 2020 voluntary recall of certain dog and cat food products produced in our Chickasha Operations Facility to include all dog and cat pet food products made with corn products because those products may contain aflatoxin levels which exceed acceptable limits. Products were distributed nationally to online distributors and retail stores nationwide. Midwestern Pet Foods is expanding its voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution to help protect the health and safety of pets. The products recalled cover all that expire on or before July 9, 2022, depicted as “07/09/22” in the date code on the product, as discussed below. Products with expiration dates after 07/09/22 are not included in the recall.
Aflatoxin is a toxin produced by the mold Aspergillus flavus, which can grow on corn and other grains used as ingredients in pet food. At high levels, aflatoxin can cause illness and death in pets.
There have been reports of illnesses and deaths in dogs associated with certain lots of products. No human illnesses have been reported. Out of an abundance of caution, we have expanded this recall to cover all corn products containing pet foods with expiration dates prior to 07/09/22.
If your pet shows signs of aflatoxin poisoning including sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting jaundice (yellowish tint to the eyes, gums, or skin due to liver damage), and/or diarrhea, contact a veterinarian immediately. Provide a full diet history to your veterinarian. It may be helpful to take a picture of the pet food label, including the lot number and best buy date.
Lot code information may be found on the back of bag and will appear in a three‐line code, with the top line in format “EXP 03/03/22/05/L#/B###/HH:MM”.
As explained above, this recall covers ONLY product manufactured at Midwestern Pet Food’s Chickasha, Oklahoma facility. Note that the unique Chickasha Facility identifier is located in the date code as a
“05” and “REG. OK‐PFO‐0005” at the end of the date code.
In addition, the only Midwestern Pet Foods facility that produces product bearing a three‐line date code is our Chickasha Facility (See first image below).
Retailers and distributors should immediately pull recalled lots from their inventory and shelves. Do not sell or donate the recalled products. Retailers are encouraged to contact consumers who have purchased the recalled products, if you have the means to do so (frequent buyer cards, etc.).
Pet parents: do not feed the recalled products to your pets or any other animals. Destroy the food in a way that children, pets and wildlife cannot access them. Wash and sanitize pet food bowls, cups, and storage containers. Always ensure you wash and sanitize hands after handling recalled food or any utensils which have contacted recalled food. Contact Midwestern Pet Foods Consumer Affairs at 800‐474‐4163, ext. 455 from 7AM to 4PM Central Time, Monday through Friday, or by email at info@midwesternpetfoods.com for additional information.
This voluntary recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. All other Midwestern Pet Foods products are unaffected by this recall action.
Recalled products are as follows, with lot codes found in Expanded Recall Lot Numbers:
The FDA says there’s an ongoing investigation underway.
***Update to previous story:
We’re now learning more details about the coming expansion of Lake Regional Health System in Lebanon.
Lake Regional Health System CEO Dane Henry.
He tells KRMS News the new building will replace the current location.
Henry says new services like physical and occupational therapy will be offered at the new location off I-44 on Cowan Drive.
A groundbreaking is scheduled for Springtime and the grand opening expected in 2022.
*****Previous story……
A new Lake Regional Health System campus will be coming to Lebanon in 2022.
It’ll sit on 12-and-a-half acre tract off I-44 on Cowman Drive.
Lake Regional first started offering service at the current location in 2017 and the coming facility will offer the same services currently offered.
But the new building will add house rehabilitation therapies.
A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for springtime and Lake Regional says it’s already been through the permitting process in the City of Lebanon.
Lake Regional Announces Construction Plans for New Lebanon Campus
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Health System announces plans to open a new Lebanon campus in 2022. This campus, located at 755 Cowan Drive, near I-44 Exit 130, will include all of the services Lake Regional currently provides in Lebanon, as well as a few additions.
“Lake Regional is committed to caring for Lebanon, and this new campus will provide greater convenience for our patients, along with excellent care from people who are fully invested in this community,” said Lake Regional CEO Dane W. Henry, FACHE.
Currently, Lake Regional’s services in Lebanon include family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, walk-in care, occupational medicine, orthopedics and cardiology. The new location also will house rehabilitation therapies.
The construction project began taking shape following a donation by The Williams Family Trust last year. Lebanon residents Bill and Janet C. Williams donated a portion of the 12.5-acre tract where Lake Regional plans to build the two-story, 30,000-square-foot facility.
“We were honored to receive this gift from a local family who, like our team, wants greater access to top-quality health care services in the community,” Henry said.
Lake Regional’s commitment to Lebanon stems from the close ties its providers and employees have to the area. The health system first began offering services in Lebanon in 2017 and has continually expanded to meet the community’s needs.
“Our care team is local; they have roots here,” Henry said. “They are excited to build a healthier future for their friends and neighbors.”
The primary care team — Drs. Neil Schwartzman and Jeffrey Fears, and Nurse Practitioners Dan Johnson and Laura Seaman — and Express Care provider Ryan Rogers, P.A., have long cared for patients from Lebanon and the surrounding area, even before joining Lake Regional Health System.
“We are so excited for the new Lebanon campus,” said Laura Seaman, FNP, who provides care for all ages at Lake Regional Clinic – Lebanon. “I don’t know what says commitment more than putting in bricks and mortar right here in town.”
In addition to completing the land agreement, Lake Regional already has taken several first steps on the construction project, including permitting by the City of Lebanon and initial clearing of the property. Groundbreaking is planned for this spring, with a goal of opening the facility in 2022. Lebanon-based True Construction Inc. has been named the project’s general contractor.
“Our vision for Lebanon is to continue building relationships and to offer quality health care from providers the community knows and trusts,” Henry said. “Our commitment to Lebanon runs deep.”
According to a statement from the City of Lebanon, the mayor welcomes the construction project.
“Since 2017, Lake Regional has provided the citizens of Lebanon and the surrounding area great health care and with their new facility their services will be able to grow to provide even more in the future,” said Mayor Jared Carr. “Lebanon is grateful to Lake Regional Health System for their commitment to the health of our community.”
To keep up with construction progress and see the future of health care in Lebanon built in real time, visit lakeregional.com/Lebanon. The site also includes interviews with some of Lake Regional’s care team. For additional project updates, follow Lake Regional Health System at facebook.com/lakeregional.
Lebanon Campus Rendering: Lake Regional Health System announced today plans to build a new Lebanon campus at 755 Cowan Drive. Construction begins this spring on the two-story, 30,000-square-foot facility, where Lake Regional will provide family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, walk-in care, occupational medicine, specialty care and rehabilitation therapies.
There’s a nationwide recall underway for the Soho Fresh rubbing Alcohol brand.
Officials with Essar Incorporated say they’re recalling a specific lot sold in stores due to contamination with methanol.
They say you should not open the bottle at all, and should return it for a full refund.
***Press Release***
Essaar Inc. is voluntarily recalling lot 200528303 of Soho Fresh 70% Rubbing Alcohol in 33.81 oz. clear plastic bottles to the consumer level. FDA analysis of the product revealed it is contaminated with methanol.
Substantial methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system, or death. Although all persons using these products on their hands are at risk, young children who accidentally ingest these products and adolescents and adults who drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute, are most at risk for methanol poisoning. To date, Essar Inc. has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.
The product is used as an external purpose use rubbing alcohol and is packaged in 33.81 oz. clear plastic bottles with lot number 200528303 and UPC 7502268987367.
Soho Fresh was distributed nationwide to retail stores. Essaar Inc. is notifying its distributors and customers by email and mail and is arranging for the return of all recalled product to Essaar Inc. Consumers that have product which is being recalled should stop using and discard or return to place of purchase or to Essaar Inc. contacting via email or phone or mailing address mentioned above for arrangements of return.
Consumers who have purchased this product should not open the package or use the contents. Instead, they should return the product to the location of purchase for a full refund or call Essaar Inc. at 201-647-7606 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Eastern Standard Time. Essaar Inc. can also be reached via email at essaarinc@yahoo.com. Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this drug product.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach. Photo Courtesy of MO STATE PARKS
A new water quality standard is putting Lake of the Ozarks on the EPA’s list of impaired waterways.
Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Jeff Robichaud with the EPA says Missouri adopted the nutrient criteria in 2018.
He also says the lake’s water condition shouldn’t affect tourism in 2021.
Robichaud says he thinks the fix for Lake of the Ozarks water quality will come at the local level.
The Truman reservoir west of the Lake Area is also on Missouri’s list of impaired waterways.
The COVID 19 Vaccination Program is underway across the Lake area and the Show Me State.
Now the state is preparing for the next round of vaccines, after all of the front-line healthcare workers finish getting their shots.
The next round of vaccinations is expected to include seniors and essential workers.
The CDC says that would be people 75 years and older and essential workers such as first responders, including police, firefighters and teachers.
After that, the CDC has recommended those 65 to 74 and those with underlying health conditions.
Health care providers are expected to use online patient portals to connect with patients and coordinate the vaccinations.
The secure portal gives a person, 24 our access to the health information online.
Pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS say that they’re expecting the vaccine to be available this spring for most citizens, and it’s expected you could make an appointment at the pharmacy to get the vaccination.
Officials with Lake Regional say most of their staff have been vaccinated.
Administrators with the four area county health departments are also still providing the vaccinations for those in the 1-A category, but you must make an appoint to get the vaccine.
It’s almost New Year’s Eve in Lake of the Ozarks, and local law enforcement is reminding you not drink and drive.
Captain Chris Twitchel with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office.
He’s in studio this morning for a Drinking and Driving Awareness Feature during the Ozarks This Morning on KRMS.
KB taking a drink every 15 minutes to demonstrate how too much alcohol can affect people.
Twitchel will be joined by Corporal Brian Geier (Guy-er) with the Missouri State Highway Patrol who says taking a Taxi or Uber is cheaper than being caught with a DWI.
They’ll also be joined by attorney Gary Smith and Dr. Carl Doerhoff.
You can view the live-stream on our website, Facebook Page, YouTube Channel or Vimeo.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 1:15 at the State Capitol.
He’s expected to address distribution of the COVID-19 vaccination, health care system capacity and other topics.
The press briefing will be live-streamed on Governor Parson’s Facebook page.
We’ll also be following the discussion here on KRMS.
Governor Parson to Hold Missouri Update Briefing
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – This week, Governor Mike Parson will conduct various official meetings with Cabinet members and senior staff at the State Capitol.
Governor Parson will also hold one briefing on Wednesday, December 30 at 1:15 p.m. to provide an update on current events in Missouri, including COVID-19 vaccine distribution and health care system capacity. The briefing will be live-streamed on Governor Parson‘s Facebook Page.
A big change is coming to the Missouri WIC program on January 1st.
Officials with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says they will be changing the brand of standard infant formulas from Enfamil to Similac.
WIC federal regulations require all state agencies to enter into a competitive cost-containment contract for the purchase of infant formula.
The infant formula rebate maximizes the program’s ability to provide nutrition services and supplemental food benefits to all WIC participants.
A bill pre-filed by State Representative Suzie Pollock, who represents part of the Lake community, will impact vaccine requirements for school children.
Pollock says the legislation removes requirements that force parents to have their child vaccinated, in order to attend school.
The provisions would be in place of all school-age children at all Lake area schools and colleges.
Another bill pre-filed by Pollock also aims to help identify any child deaths related to the vaccine, by requiring the county medical examiner, physician or coroner to refer all cases related to the vaccine within 36 hours.
The bill also requires they indicate their vaccinations at the time of death.
Nestlé is recalling over 92,000 pounds of Lean Cuisine’s baked chicken meals nationwide, because there could be plastic contamination inside.
The frozen dinners contain white meat chicken with stuffing, red skin mashed potatoes and gravy.
The U.S. Agriculture Department’s Food Safety and Inspection Service says bits of a broken conveyor belt may be in the potatoes.
The meals were produced and packaged on September 2nd and have an expiration date of October 2021.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 19, 2020 – Nestlé Prepared Foods, a Springville, Utah establishment, is recalling approximately 92,206 pounds of LEAN CUISINE Baked Chicken meal products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of white hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.
The baked chicken meal products were produced and packaged on September 2, 2020. The following product is subject to recall: [View Label (PDF only)]
8 5/8-oz. (244g) carton trays of “LEAN CUISINE Baked Chicken, white meat chicken with stuffing, red skin mashed potatoes and gravy” with a lot code of 0246595911 and “Best Before” date of October 2021.
The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. P-9018” on the side of the case near the lot number. These items were shipped to retailers and distributors nationwide.
The problem was discovered on December 18, 2020, by the firm, after receiving five consumer complaints involving hard white plastic found in the product. The firm believes the mashed potatoes used in the production of the baked chicken meals products had pieces of a plastic conveyor belt that broke during production.
FSIS has received no reports of injury or illness from consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.
FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers’ freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Nestlé Prepared Foods, at (800) 993-8625. Members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Corporate Communications, Dana Stambaugh, at dana.stambaugh@us.nestle.com or (571) 457-3803.
Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) or live chat via Ask USDA from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Consumers can also browse food safety messages at Ask USDA or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach. Photo Courtesy of MO STATE PARKS
The Lake Area might be entering another dispute with the Federal Government.
This time the EPA’s taking a look at the water quality of Lake of the Ozarks.
Speaking with KB on the Morning Magazine, Presiding Commissioner Greg Hasty says there’s a disconnect.
Hasty says the Camden County Commission was notified of the EPA action by the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.
He also says a 60-day comment period about Lake of the Ozarks water quality is already happening.
Lake Regional Pulmonologist Harjyot “Joe” Sohal, M.D., was the first Lake Regional employee to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Sohal cares for COVID-19 patients in Lake Regional’s Intensive Care Unit.
The first round of COVID 19 Vaccines are being administered to staff at Lake Regional Hospital.
Officials say they started distributing the vaccine on Monday, as soon as it was ready.
According to Lake Regional CEO Dane Henry, his staff raced around the clock to secure the proper freezers for storage, and scheduled all staff to administer the doses.
The CDC guidelines require that all areas receiving the vaccine do a “Phase 1A” program first, before moving onto Phase 1B, Phase 2 and Phase 3, which is the general population.
Phase 1A includes Hospital Staff, long term care residents and staff, physicians, nurses, dentists, physical therapists, mental health workers and others in similar fields.
The Camden County Health Department indicated yesterday on Facebook that they had received 300 doses of the Vaccine.
***Press Release***
On Monday, Dec. 21, Lake Regional Health System began administering COVID-19 vaccination to its staff members.
Distribution of this vaccine follows careful planning to ensure we provide the most protection possible with the supplies we receive,” said Lake Regional CEO Dane W. Henry, FACHE. “This vaccine is precious to our frontline workers, who have worked tirelessly throughout this pandemic, and we are thankful that we can offer it to every Lake Regional team member, as well as other local health care workers.”
COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out nationwide in phases, per CDC guidelines. In Phase 1a, the vaccine is available to health care personnel and residents of long-term care facilities. In addition to vaccinating its own team, Lake Regional is coordinating with public health agencies and other health care providers across its service area to provide them with COVID-19 vaccination beginning next week.
“Our team has worked through immense challenges to provide vaccination now – from securing the freezers required for storage to scheduling staff to administer the doses,” Henry said. “We’re excited to be a part of this effort to control COVID-19.”
Learn more about Lake Regional’s COVID-19 response at lakeregional.com/covid19.
If you’re still on the hunt for a job, you’ll want to mark this date on your calendar.
On December 22nd, the Missouri Office of Workforce Development will host a virtual job fair.
They are specifically seeking job candidates to fill entry-level clinical and non-clinical positions throughout Missouri, in partnership with over 300 medical groups and the Missouri Hospital Association.
Some of the positions open include food prep, janitorial work and housekeeping, patient care technicians, clerical support as well as medical and nurse assistants.
The fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m and you can register below:
Fair to focus on filling clinical and non-clinical entry-level positions
On Tuesday, Dec. 22, the Missouri Office of Workforce Development (OWD) will host its last Return Strong Virtual Job Fair of the year. This fair is specifically seeking job candidates to fill entry-level clinical and non-clinical positions throughout Missouri, and is being held in partnership with the Missouri Hospital Association.
A total of 300 health care employers are participating in next week’s fair.
“The demand for workers at health care facilities across the state is huge,” said Mardy Leathers, director of workforce development. “It’s clear that employers are ready to hire – we just need more job seekers to fill these positions. We hope by getting the word out, we can connect candidates to these valuable career options.”
Job seekers statewide will be able to search job listings, meet with hiring companies in the health care sector, receive tips for resume writing and job interviews, and learn more about Missouri Job Center services and training opportunities.
Many of the jobs being featured in the Dec. 22 fair do not require prior experience or training. Openings for the following jobs (and many more), will be listed at this event:
“Hospitals are hiring,” said Jill Williams, MHA Vice President of Workforce Initiatives. “A virtual job fair is a safe and effective way to reach workers during COVID-19 and to ensure hospitals have the workforce needed to deliver and support care — now and in the future.”
Job seekers can register for the fair at returnstrongmo.
Registration for employers to participate closed Wednesday, Dec. 16.
The Return Strong Virtual Job Fairs are part of the state’s efforts to help Missourians skill up and get back to work following the economic downturn caused by layoffs from the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about Return Strong at https://jobs.mo.gov/return-
Officials report that someone stole two catalytic converters from their mobile units, making it more difficult for the county to administer the COVID 19 vaccine when it becomes available.
They say the health department van was even worse, as the vandals cut holes in the floor boards and did damage to several areas of the van, which they believe will cause the van to be considered a total loss.
This is the third time they’ve been hit this year, which has prompted the department to ask healthcare workers to bring their vehicles home with them, to keep them safe.
If you have any information on this vandalism, please contact the Pulaski County Sheriff’s office immediately.
Now that the COVID 19 Vaccine has arrived in Missouri, a few front-line healthcare workers are getting the shot.
Officials at Mercy in Springfield delivered the state’s first administered shots to two nurses who’ve been caring for COVID patients since the pandemic started.
Those nurses are Wanda Brown and Tracy Hill, of which Hill stated the shot was “painless” indicating she “felt nothing at all.”
Other hospitals across the state are beginning to receive the vaccine as well.
As of Tuesday Morning, there was no word on when Lake Regional, Bothwell, Mercy in Lebanon, Capital Region or St. Mary’s hospitals would receive and administer their vaccines.
The medical industry in the US and Missouri says the Coronavirus is causing extreme mental stress.
A new study finds a correlation between financial stresses and higher levels of depression during the Coronavirus.
Boston university researchers found those with low assets and high covid-19 financial stressors had four times more depression- suggesting that health gaps are widening during the Coronavirus.
Researchers say the results show it’s important for lawmakers to provide economic help – especially to low-income groups, to prevent more mental health issues.
There are a number of free resources offered in the Lake Area and throughout Missouri, including free counseling, financial management and even phone calls for people who simply need to talk.
f your health organization is one of these groups offering free help, please email us at newsroom@krmsradio.com so we can feature it on our website.
From our news partner CBS:
According to the study, conducted by researchers from Oxford University, a diagnosis of COVID-19 was associated with increased incidence of being diagnosed with several psychiatric conditions and disorders including anxiety, insomnia and dementia.
The researchers said the mental health consequences of having COVID-19 have not yet accurately been measured — but have been widely predicted.
“We were interested primarily in the question if people who were diagnosed with COVID-19 were going to be at greater risk of developing mental health disorders,” University of Oxford professor Paul Harrison, who worked on the study, told CBS News.
The researchers sought to answer this question by looking at the rates of psychiatric diagnoses in patients in the three months after they were diagnosed with COVID-19, Harrison said.
The group used the TriNetX Analytics Network, which collects data from electronic medical records from 54 health care organizations in the U.S. This includes data on 69.8 million patients — 62,354 of whom were diagnosed with COVID-19 between January 20 and August 1. They then looked how many of these patients had been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder.
For comparison, the researchers also measured the rate of psychiatric disorder diagnoses in patients who experienced six other health events like the flu, respiratory tract infections, or a large bone fracture.
“That’s important to try and tease out what might be due to COVID itself or what might be due to the environment we’re living in,” Harrison explained.
The researchers looked for diagnoses of dementia, insomnia, anxiety and mood disorders in the COVID-19 patients as well as in those diagnosed with the six other health conditions, who served as a control group.
“In the 90 days after diagnoses, about 18% or almost 1 in 5 of people who had COVID received a psychiatric diagnosis of one kind or another — the highest being an anxiety disorder,” Harrison said.
He said about 6% of COVID-19 patients who had never been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder before were diagnosed with one within three months of getting COVID-19. The most common, again, was anxiety.
Harrison said there are two probable causes of psychiatric disorders associated with COVID-19. “One possibility is that there could be some direct effect of the virus producing the symptoms. Perhaps what the virus might be doing in the brain in some people, or the way some people’s immune systems have responded to fight the virus,” he said.
“There’s some hint that that might be a biological explanation for some people.”
The other possible cause may be the psychological reactions people have to being diagnosed with the virus, Harrison said.
“The psychological reactions people have to having COVID, having worried about their life perhaps for the first time, having worried about the future — in a way, COVID is simply acting as another major stressor event, rather than some direct viral effect,” he said.
Compared to the six other illnesses and health events, COVID-19 led to more first-time diagnoses of psychiatric disorder, according to the study.
“It’s possible to speculate that in the moment, you’re more stressed when someone tells you you’ve got COVID than you would be if someone tells you that you have most other things wrong with you,” Harrison said, adding that it is too difficult to know whether this is a definite reason.
Harrison said there are still more questions to be answered after the Oxford study. He also said that he suspects people diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder after a COVID-19 diagnosis can recover from it.
“If you look at almost every other cause of anxiety and depression I can think of, a significant proportion of people do get better, either with time and/or with treatment,” he said. “In my own clinical practice, in the COVID survivors I’ve seen, I’ve certainly seen some people who are clearly getting better and some who clearly aren’t.”
“I suspect there will be a range of outcomes and we’ll need longer-term studies where we can actually measure that with time,” he continued.
Harrison said the second part of the Oxford study was to ask: Are people who already have a psychiatric diagnosis more at risk of getting COVID-19 than people without a psychiatric diagnosis?
“To my surprise, the answer is yes,” Harrison said. “People who had a psychiatric diagnosis in the year before COVID came along … they were about 65% more like to receive a diagnosis of COVID than people without psychiatric diagnosis.”
Harrison said he and his colleagues were puzzled by that finding. “Is that just because people with psychiatric problems also tend to have worse physical health problems?” he questioned.
To determine this, the group of researchers controlled for the physical health factors — and the effect didn’t go away. “So, there does seem to be some connection between having a psychiatric diagnosis and your risk of COVID-19,” Harrison said.
“A bit like the first part of the study, there’s really two explanations for that,” he continued. “One is that there is a connection between the factors that make you vulnerable to psychiatric illness and the factors that make you vulnerable to COVID.” For example, he explained, inflammation might play a role in both those conditions.
But other factors that are hard to measure, like lifestyle or behavior, may play a role in both psychiatric illness and other illnesses like COVID-19. “That might explain why they are more vulnerable to catching COVID,” he said. “To take a simple possibility, it might be that they live in slightly more crowded circumstances and therefore there’s more chance of catching the virus.”
“The important thing is that it may or may not be having a psychiatric illness that puts you at risk of COVID, it might be one of these related factors,” Harrison said.
Another study published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal in June looked at 153 patients who were hospitalized with severe cases of COVID-19 to see if they experienced any neurological and psychiatric complications associated with the virus. The study found that 125 of the patients did.
Over 60% of the patients had strokes, a majority of which occurred in patients age 60 or older.
About a third of patients experienced “an altered mental state such as brain inflammation, psychosis and dementia-like symptoms,” according to the June study. This includes signs of confusion or changes in behavior.
Almost a quarter of patients with an altered mental state were diagnosed with psychiatric conditions, the “vast majority” of which were found to be newly developed. However, researchers say it is possible some may have been simply undiagnosed before the patient developed the virus.
The Coronavirus Vaccine is on its way to the Show Me State.
The FDA Clearing the way on Friday for Pfizer with an emergency approval, meaning front line workers and those in nursing homes will be seeing the vaccine by next week.
Speaking with KY 3 TV, Dr. Randall Williams says between the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, everyone should see protection by Mid-April next year, except pregnant women and children.
He says they’ve ordered over 2 million doses of the vaccine to start with and that they are watching the side affects closely, as Great Britain has reported allergic reactions to the vaccine.
Officials at Lake Regional say they cannot comment on the procedures for administrating the vaccine yet, as too many processes remain very fluid at this time.
Temperatures are going to drop in the coming days, especially overnight.
That could mean danger on the lake, as colder temperatures can be a problem if you find yourself in the water.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Division says when your body is in cold water, your blood vessels constrict to conserve body heat.
But that means you’ll start losing control of your arms and legs.
Your body looses heat 25 times faster in the water than in the air.
The Patrol says problems can also compound in cold water when one person jumps in to try to help another.
Overnight lows in the Lake Area will fall below 30 degrees over the weekend.
EMPHASIS: Patrol Addresses Cold Weather Water Safety
Cold weather means cold rivers and lakes. If you have plans to be near or on one of the state’s many bodies of water, please be careful and stay alert!
When someone is suddenly immersed in cold water, they are at risk for cold shock and hypothermia. Cold shock occurs when the body is suddenly immersed in cold water. Once the trunk of the body goes under, the blood vessels constrict to conserve core body heat. This will quickly limit the use of a person’s arms and legs. Likewise, these conditions may cause a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure—in some cases resulting in cardiac arrest. Cold shock can cause involuntary gasping reflex. When the body hits the water, cold shock can cause the person to gasp for air, but inhale water and result in drowning.
The body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in the air. Lifejacket use becomes even more important in cold water because hypothermia can quickly rob the body of the ability to perform the most basic tasks and drowning is always a concern. If you take an unexpected plunge into cold water, it is vital to get out of the water and into dry clothes as soon as possible. If dry clothes are not an option leave the wet ones on. Even wet clothes will offer some insulation and trap body heat. A warm drink can be given to someone suffering from hypothermia if they are conscious. Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided. Drinks with sugars for quick energy are preferable. Hypothermia can be deadly even if you are wearing a PFD, so it is important to never go boating alone in the winter. If no one knows you are in trouble, no one can help.
Many cold weather anglers use lakes or ponds for winter recreational activities. Youngsters are often attracted to ice covered private ponds for skating and playing. Theoretically, the only “safe” ice is at a skating rink. The ice forming on lakes, rivers, and ponds place a person at much greater risk due to natural variables. It’s impossible to judge the strength of ice by its appearance or daily temperature. Missouri weather moves from single digit temperatures to the upper 40s within short time periods, which will greatly affect the construction of ice.
Adults should educate children about the dangers of playing on ice and always supervise them when they play on or near ice. Make sure they understand the dangers of being on the ice and insist that they wear a lifejacket/PFD. Never let them play on ponds or lakes unattended.
Many ice victims start out as would-be rescuers. To prevent this from happening, do not go onto the ice to rescue another person or retrieve a pet. To aid someone who has fallen through the ice the first step should be calling for emergency services. A local fire department should have the quickest response time, the proper equipment, and have trained to handle ice emergencies. Rather than going onto the ice to attempt rescuing someone, you should extend a ladder, pole, or rope to a victim along with something that will float.
If you find yourself in the position of needing to be rescued, there are techniques that should be followed for self-rescue. Try not to panic. Face the direction you came from and spread your arms out on the unbroken ice. Kick your feet and try to pull yourself onto the ice. Once out of the water, do not attempt to stand. Lying on the ice keeps your weight distributed. Roll away from the hole then crawl across the ice back to solid land.
Adults should never mix alcohol and winter ice recreational activities. Alcohol impairs your judgment and speeds up the development of hypothermia.
Another winter water safety concern is related to docks. Ice and heavy snow combinations have caused major damage to boat docks in the past. The extra weight of snow and ice can cause such structures to collapse. The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to caution dock owners about attempting to remove snow and ice from their docks during inclement weather. It is easy to end up in the water accidentally. Due to the extreme cold water, hypothermia can set in quickly and render a person helpless in the water.
If dock owners insist on being on docks during icy conditions, life jackets should always be worn. Use the buddy system to make sure that someone is there to assist you if you end up in the water. Remember that damaged electric wires around docks should be treated as if they are live. Any boats operating in areas where major dock damage has occurred are encouraged to operate at no wake idle speed, to prevent further damage to docks already under the added stress off heavy snow and ice.
Troopers encourage everyone to remain vigilant around water. If you are on or near the water and an emergency occurs, call *55 on your cellular phone to reach the nearest troop headquarters. Marine enforcement troopers and emergency response services will respond.
Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!
Two new directors being named at Lake Regional Hospital.
Todd Bailey takes over as director of neuroscience and he’ll be responsible for growth and oversight of Lake Regional Neurology.
Bailey previously served as the Chief Operations Officer at Central Ozarks Medical Center.
Angela Humphries is also being promoted to director of Lake Regional Quality.
Humphries has been with Lake Regional since 2004 as a nurse, clinical documentation specialist and clinical systems analyst.
Lake Regional Announces 2 New Directors
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Health System is pleased to announce the start of two new directors within the organization.
Todd Bailey has joined Lake Regional as director of neurosciences. Bailey will be responsible for the oversight and growth of Lake Regional Neurology, Lake Regional Sleep Medicine and Lake Regional Sleep Center. Bailey has more than 25 years of health care experience. Before joining Lake Regional, he served as chief operations officer for Central Ozarks Medical Center. He has a wealth of experience in operations, management and IT implementation projects. Bailey lives in Richland.
Angela Humphreys, R.N., BSN, CPHQ, LSSBB, has been promoted to director of Lake Regional Quality. Humphreys will be responsible for all areas of Quality Management, including Quality, Regulatory Compliance, Medical Staff Services, Infection Control and Patient Safety. A Lake Regional employee since 2004, Humphreys has worked in the organization as a nurse, clinical documentation specialist and clinical systems analyst. She is a certified professional in health care quality and holds a black belt in Lean Six Sigma. Humphreys lives in Ulman.
Lake Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to residents and visitors throughout the mid-Missouri region. To learn more, visit lakeregional.com.
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CAPTION: Angela Humphreys, R.N., BSN, CPHQ, LSSBB, director of Quality / Todd Bailey, director of neurosciences
The Miller County Health Department is making some changes to their contact tracing procedures.
According to Administrator Michael Herbert, the county will no longer be directly contacting close contacts of positive Coronavirus cases.
That’s because the case load has skyrocketed, making it extremely challenging for them to keep up with all the calls.
Instead, the health department is encouraging residents who’ve tested positive for COVID 19, to do their own contact tracing and let their friends, families and those who’ve had close contact with them, be informed of the situation.
The County says they will still reach out to those who have tested positive, and will be working to do contact tracing at larger facilities, such as area nursing homes and schools.
More details on what you can do to help can be found below:
COVID-19 Contact Tracing Update in Miller County, Missouri
As COVID-19 rapid testing becomes more accessible and cases increase across the state, most, if not all, health departments struggle to keep up with contact tracing. This is also the case in Miller County. Delay in tracing has resulted from a number of factors:
Miller County Health Center and other health departments have worked tirelessly to contact each and every positive case as well as all of their close contacts as quickly as possible. However, cases continue to rise, and this strategy has become more challenging. We have modified our approach to contact tracing which will allow positive residents to immediately notify their contacts as soon as they receive positive lab results.
Moving forward, Miller County residents do not need to wait for us to begin notifying people they have exposed. Positive residents should refer to the “COVID-19: What happens after I get tested?” document that can be found on Miller County Health Center’s website and Facebook page. An e-mailed copy can be requested by calling 573-369-2400 or emailing us at mchc@millercountyhealth.com.
While we will still be completing case investigations for positive cases that are reported, the positive resident will have the responsibility to notify their contacts. This will eliminate the wait time and hopefully, stop people from unknowingly spreading the virus. We are also hopeful that people will feel more comfortable telling their contacts about their positive result versus a stranger on the phone.
Miller County Health Center will continue to assist places where outbreaks are more likely to occur, such as: businesses, schools, and long-term care facilities.
Miller County Health Center will no longer be directly calling close contacts of positive cases. We will focus efforts on case investigations and household contact quarantine.
If you get a call from your doctor with a positive result, you need to take immediate action to slow the spread of the virus within your friends, family and coworkers by following the outlined steps on our “COVID-19: What happens after I get tested?” handout. Please DO NOT wait for a call from the health department to implement your own contact tracing.
You will need to notify everyone with whom you have had close contact with starting two days prior to becoming symptomatic. A close contact is anyone that you were within 6 feet of for more than 15 minutes, regardless of cloth face coverings; or more intimate contact such as hugging, kissing, or contact sports. If you never had symptoms, begin 2 days prior to the day you were tested.
If you had to do this today, how many people would be on your list? Please act now to reduce that number on a daily basis. Keeping your distance from those outside of your household is important in limiting the spread of COVID-19.
Your close contacts need to quarantine for 14 days after the most recent date they were with you. There are some new CDC recommendations to reduce the days from 14 to 10 as long as you remain symptom free. It could be reduced to as less as 7 with a negative test taken five or more days after the exposure to an infected person AND as long as no symptoms develop. Persons who qualify for reduced quarantine must continue to wear a mask, practice social distancing, and limit contacts until the end of the 14th day.
We are urging everyone to continue to take responsibility for their own health and to protect others. Please reconsider hosting or attending gatherings that bring together people that are outside of your normal interactions, especially if physical distancing cannot be maintained. These activities are high risk for transmission of the virus.
In addition to limiting social gatherings, the Miller County Health Center is still strongly recommending that everyone take these precautionary measures to reduce the spread of the virus.
Stay home if you are sick.
Cloth face coverings are not considered an acceptable substitute for social distancing. Interactions within six (6) feet of a positive case for more than fifteen (15) minutes will be considered exposure regardless if either person is wearing a cloth face covering.
Cloth face coverings should be washed after each use. Cloth face coverings should be replaced frequently as consistent washing will degrade the fabric and decrease the effectiveness.
It is important to always remove face coverings correctly and wash your hands after handling or touching a used face covering. For more information, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
Testing options are available at every health care provider in the county, some also have rapid testing capabilities. It is recommended that you call first and ask what is necessary to get tested.
We will continue to update our website’s dashboard almost daily at http://millercountyhealth.com. Like Miller County Health Center on http://Facebook.com/millercountyhealth.
Residents on Missouri Food Stamps will continue to receive their maximum benefits until the end of the year.
The USDA is approving Missouri’s waver request to pay out the maximum SNAP benefits until December 31st.
Officials say in total, more than 752,000 Missourians received SNAP benefits for the year 2020.
The increase averages out to a little more than $50 more per month per family.
There are no schools in the Lake Area working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the CDC to study COVID-19 strategies.
The office of Governor Mike Parson says schools that are participating with the ‘first of its kind’ study are in St. Charles, St. Louis and Greene counties.
The project is a pilot program being tested in December until schools go on winter break.
It’s unknown if the project will be expanded into the Lake area in 2021.
Ribbons of all colors are now being seen around the Lake Area, and they’re a show of support to frontline workers dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stephanie Dehner with Lake Regional Health System tells KRMS News the white ribbons show support for frontline workers.
Blue ribbons are placed by people who are on the frontlines.
And Dehner says schools can also get involved.
You can learn more about the Frontline Ribbon Campaign below.
Our community is working harder than ever as we fight against COVID-19. Let’s come together with a white ribbon campaign to show our gratitude to our local frontline workers, including health care workers, first responders, teachers, grocery store workers and others on the frontline of the pandemic.
You can create a fabric ribbon, or even easier, download our ribbon template to print a paper ribbon. The main thing is to display your white ribbon proudly for others to see.
You also can show your support on social media. Use the hashtag #supportfrontlineheroes and download this graphic to use on your social media pages or posts. And don’t forget to tag Lake Regional Health System in your post.
Keep up with us at facebook.com/lakeregional
Let your community know you are #stillafrontlinehero by displaying a blue ribbon. Or display a ribbon of your school color, if you work on the frontlines at our local schools.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To Our Community:
New cases of COVID-19 are increasing in every state, and hospitalizations are on the rise. Mid-Missouri is following the national trend. Locally, COVID numbers are now higher than they have ever been following a summer season when positivity rates and inpatient admissions were more manageable.
Because more people are now feeling sick or have been exposed to known COVID cases, testing also is on the rise. For the seven-day period ending Nov. 10, a total of 1,058 people sought testing at one of Lake Regional’s facilities, an average of 150 tests per day. On Nov. 9, Lake Regional Express Care staff tested 194 individuals for COVID-19, our largest single day of testing this month.
As health care providers prepare to meet this surge in demand for COVID-19 testing and treatment, along with flu season, we believe it is important for area residents to stay informed and to take precautions to protect their health.
The Facts
During the seven-day period ending Nov. 13, a total of 623 individuals tested positive in Camden, Laclede, Miller, Morgan and Pulaski counties, which comprise Lake Regional’s service area. Sadly, COVID-19 deaths increased by five during the same week, bringing the total to 114 COVID-19 deaths in the five counties since March.
Camden County had the most new cases. From Nov. 7 to Nov. 13, Camden County added 205 new COVID-19 cases. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the county’s positivity rate was 55.7 percent for the seven-day period. To date, 43 Camden County residents have died from this virus.
Hospitalizations also are climbing across the Midwest and our region. Experts expect the trend to continue and worry that we are edging toward a tipping point. On Nov. 12, the Missouri Hospital Association released a statement saying: “Every region of the state is experiencing increases in positive cases, and hospitalizations are surging. This is putting incredible stress on doctors, nurses, therapists, custodians, and food services and support staff who will continue to suffer additional stress and risk their own infection, illness and mortality.”
You see, it’s not simply the number of COVID-19 patients that stresses the health care system at all levels. It’s the additional resources needed to care for COVID patients appropriately that eventually affects other patients and caregivers. Hospitals throughout Missouri and the country are concerned about bed and staffing availability, and staffing fatigue because of the recent surge.
Locally, Lake Regional’s daily census of COVID-19 positive patients has been trending upward since July. It has been 10 or greater daily since late September. On Oct. 14, we hit a high of 27 inpatient cases. Today, our inpatient census is 85; 24 of those patients are COVID-19 positive. That’s 1 in 4. Throughout the fall, we have treated hundreds more COVID-19 cases in our Emergency Department and Express Care locations.
Here’s What You Can Do
Help each other. If you’re not already, please do two simple things consistently: practice social distancing and wear masks in public. And as you make Thanksgiving plans, please keep in mind that COVID-19 can be especially harmful for seniors and individuals who have underlying health conditions. Take precautions to keep your loved ones safe.
Help those on the front line. As fatigue sets in for all us managing life changes brought about by COVID-19, one of the things that means the most to our caregivers and others on the front line of this fight is your support. It helps to know we are not alone in this crisis.
As we look ahead, please join us now in showing our gratitude for frontline workers in our community, including health care workers, first responders, teachers, grocery store workers and others, by displaying a white ribbon of support at your home or business. In addition, employees of area schools and the hospital will be displaying their own pride ribbons of maroon, purple or blue. Watch Lake Regional’s Facebook page for details, and please tell these individuals you are thankful for their service to our community.
Our Commitment Runs Deep,
Dane W. Henry, FACHE
CEO, Lake Regional Health System
Governor Mike Parson says more help is one the way for hospitals across the state and here in the Lake Area.
Parson says the state will pick up a part of the costs until the end of December.
The Governor says along with the additional staffing, they expect to expand bed capacity.
Parson also says to help with immediate needs, they’ve deployed the military.
COVID 19 cases have recently started to spike across the state and here in the lake area.
In the four-county region, our active totals cases went from around 400 per day to nearly 1,000 per day over the past two weeks.
Governor Parson Announces Partnership with Health Care Services Company Vizient to Expand Statewide Hospital Capacity
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – As hospitals across Missouri continue to face staffing challenges due to COVID-19, Governor Mike Parson today announced a 12-week partnership with Vizient, the nation’s leading health care performance improvement company, to bring in additional staff and further expand statewide hospital capacity.
“Since the start of COVID-19, we have continually monitored Missouri’s statewide health care system and focused on supporting our hospitals and health care workers as much as possible,” Governor Parson said. “Staffing continues to be one of the biggest challenges right now, and we are currently doing everything we can at the state level to assist.”
“Other states like Arizona have worked with Vizient through the COVID-19 crisis, so we are hopeful that this will provide meaningful support for our hospitals and the people of Missouri,” Governor Parson continued.
Through the partnership, Vizient will deploy up to 760 additional staff members through its contracted agencies to multiple, geographically dispersed hospitals across the state, including registered nurses, respiratory therapists, and certified nurse assistants. When fully deployed, the plan will add nearly 600 hospital beds to Missouri’s statewide bed capacity.
The state will fund the first phase of the project through the end of this year using CARES Act funding, and hospital partners will fund the remainder.
“The state’s new partnership with Vizient will allow rapid deployment of staff to support hospital capacity in all regions of the state,” said Missouri Hospital Association President and CEO Herb Kuhn. “In the days and weeks ahead, these agency staff workers will provide essential support to our hospitals. We thank Governor Parson for his efforts to deliver these skilled caregivers to help address the staff shortages that present a threat to hospitals’ capacity to provide care to the critically ill.”
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Governor’s Office has worked closely with MHA, infectious disease doctors, and numerous other health care providers across the state to monitor Missouri’s health care system and ensure adequate resources and capacity.
Since March, the state has waived over 600 regulations, including many to help hospitals and health care providers with staffing needs and other COVID-19 challenges. Missouri has also granted and secured numerous other waivers to expand hospital capabilities and allow more personnel to care for COVID-19 patients.
Additionally, the state has distributed more than 50 million units of PPE, allocated over $5 million to expand broadband for telehealth across the state, and removed barriers to allow doctors to treat more patients through telemedicine.
To learn more about Missouri’s COVID-19 response, please click here. To learn more about the Show Me Strong Recovery Plan and view the state’s COVID-19 dashboards, visit showmestrong.mo.gov. For information and updates regarding a COVID-19 vaccine, visit mostopscovid.com.
There’s a critical shortage of blood in Lake of the Ozarks.
Chris Pilgrim with Community blood Center of the Ozarks.
He tells KRMS News you could win a new Nissan Kick if you give blood during the ‘Drive 2 Save Lives Blood Drive,’ which runs through January.
Pilgrim also says more than 40 local healthcare facilities get their blood and plasma from Community Blood Center of the Ozarks.
You can donate blood on Monday at Camdenton United Methodist Church from 11:30 until 5:30.
CBCO is giving one lucky blood donor a new car in the Drive 2 Save Lives Blood Drive
Contest will feature weekly finalists for a chance to win the grand prize of a 2020 Nissan Kicks
November 30, 2020 – Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO), the exclusive not-for-profit provider of blood and plasma for patients at 44 area healthcare facilities, invites blood donors to “Get their Kicks” during the Drive 2 Save Lives Blood Drive, which runs during December and January at all CBCO blood drives and donor centers.
Beginning December 1, every participant at a CBCO blood drive will be automatically entered to win a 2020 Nissan Kicks compact SUV. Weekly finalists will be drawn, with one of those finalists driving away in the grand prize during the culmination at the giveaway event on February 6. All successful blood donors during the Drive to Save Lives promotion will also receive a comfortable long-sleeved T-shirt, perfect for those colder days.
“We are so excited to present this opportunity to our loyal blood donors,” CBCO Executive Director Anthony Roberts said. “The pandemic has taken a toll on blood donations and our hope is that donors will be excited about this chance of making someone’s dream come true – winning a new car while saving local lives.”
Weekly drawing finalists will be selected each Monday afternoon during the contest, which runs through January 31. The grand prize drawing will be on February 6. For full contest rules, go to www.cbco.org/drive/.
On behalf of local hospital patients, CBCO thanks blood donors from across the region for giving life to your community.
The CDC will be in the Show Me State this Monday to start a “First of it’s Kind” COVID 19 student study at numerous K-12 schools in the state.
Missouri’s top Doctor Randall Williams says the state pitched the idea to the CDC and that two groups of students will be tested over a 30-day period.
The other group being tested are students considered close contacts that are required to Quarantine for 14 days, regardless of if they wore a mask or not.
Dr. Williams says he does not know the number of schools involved and the results of the study will be published.
Heads up holiday cookers.
If you’re planning to fire up that crock pot multi-cooker you just bought, you may want to think again.
Sunbeam products is recall more than 900,000 of their 6-quart express cookers because the lid can pop off suddenly, creating a burn hazard.
Officials say when the lid isn’t fully locked, it could eject hot liquid and would burn the user.
It’s recommended you return it for a full refund.
This recall involves Crock-Pot 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers, Model Number SCCPPC600-V1, which is shown on label on bottom of unit. The multi-cookers were manufactured between July 1, 2017 and October 1, 2018, with date codes K196JN through K365JN and L001JN through L273JN. The date code is engraved on one of the prongs of the electrical plug and on the bottom of the base.
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Crock-Pot in pressure cooker mode, but may continue to use for slow cooking and sautéing. Consumers should contact Crock-Pot immediately to obtain a free replacement lid. Consumers who continue using the multi-cooker in pressure cooker mode while waiting for the replacement lid should be certain the lid is securely turned to the fully locked position by aligning the arrow on the lid with the lock symbol on the base.
Sunbeam Products has received 119 reports of lid detachment, resulting in 99 burn injuries ranging in severity from first-degree to third-degree burns.
Walmart, Target and other retail stores nationwide and online at Amazon and other online retailers from July 2017 through November 2020 for between $70 to $100.
Sunbeam Products, Inc., of Boca Raton, Fla.
As the trusted name in slow cooking for nearly 50 years, Crock-Pot® puts consumer safety first. In partnership with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Crock-Pot® is voluntarily recalling and replacing the lids of the Crock-Pot® 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cooker with a manufacture date from July 1, 2017 to October 1, 2018 with date codes K196JN through K365JN and L001JN through L273JN.
All of our products are rigorously and routinely tested for consumer safety and are in full compliance with established industry standards. However, Crock-Pot® has identified that the lids of select 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers can detach during use if not used in accordance with the owner’s manual.
We’ve made two changes to enhance our consumers’ experience with this product, based on their feedback. First, we developed a new lid with updated iconography and quick-reference instructions to help avoid these common misuses. Second, we made design changes to the new lid that prohibit the unit from starting unless the lid is properly secured.
We encourage all consumers who own a Crock-Pot® 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cooker to carefully review the instructions below to verify if your product is affected by the recall and if necessary complete the order form to request a free replacement lid with quick-reference instructions on the label.
Crock-Pot® is committed to the safety of those who use and love our products, and we sincerely apologize to those who may have experienced any inconvenience. If you have any questions, please call the Crock-Pot® consumer services team at 1-800-323-9519 (Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm EST for consumers in the U.S. and Canada).
Hy-Vee is recalling two of it’s “Short Cuts” vegetable mixes, due to possible contamination from Listeria.
Officials say it was discovered during a routine safety sampling.
The recall includes the “Pot Roast” and “Grill/Oven Ready” mixes.
Additionally, the Dole company is recalling their “Organic Romaine Hearts” in bags, due to a risk of E Coli.
The bags have a best buy date of December 3rd and were sold at all grocery stores in the Lake area between October 23rd and 26th.
About the Hy-Vee recall:
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Nov. 24, 2020) — Hy-Vee, Inc., based in West Des Moines, Iowa, is voluntarily recalling two of its Hy-Vee Short Cuts vegetable mix products across its eight-state region (IL, IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, SD, and WI) due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The potential for contamination was discovered during routine safety sampling at Hy-Vee’s Short Cuts production facility. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with these products.
Listeria monocytogenes is an organism, which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
Out of an abundance of caution, Hy-Vee is recalling the following products from all of its stores:
All affected products have a “Best if Used By” date through Dec. 3, 2020. Photos of the affected product labels are attached. No other Hy-Vee Short Cuts products or products used in Hy-Vee stores are affected by this recall.
Customers who purchased any of these products with these dates should not consume them. Customers are being asked to discard these items or return them to their local Hy-Vee store for a full refund.
Consumers with questions may contact Hy-Vee Customer Care representatives 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (800) 772-4098.
About the Dole recall:
Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. is voluntarily recalling a limited number of cases of organic romaine hearts. The products being recalled are Dole™ Organic Romaine Hearts 3pk (UPC 0-71430-90061-1), combined English/French packaging, with Harvested-On dates of 10-23-20 and 10-26-20, and Wild Harvest Organic Romaine Hearts (UPC 7-11535-50201-2), with Harvested-On dates of 10-23-20 and 10-26-20. The recall is being conducted due to a possible health risk from E. coli in the two products. Dole Fresh Vegetables is coordinating closely with regulatory officials. No illnesses have been reported to date in association with the recall.
Pathogenic E. coli can cause diarrhea, severe stomach cramps and vomiting. Most people recover within a week, but some illnesses can last longer and can be more severe.
The Harvested-On sticker is located on the upper right corner of each bag and the UPC code is located on the bottom right corner of the back of each bag. The Dole package contains three organic romaine hearts and the Wild Harvest product is packaged in a 12oz bag. The impacted products were distributed in AZ, HI, IA, IL, IN, KS, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND and VA. These products were harvested and packed nearly 4 weeks ago and should no longer be in commerce. Consumers are advised to check product they have in their homes and discard any product matching the production description, UPC codes and Harvested-On dates listed above.
This precautionary recall notification is being issued due to an isolated instance in which a package of Dole™ Organic Romaine Hearts – 3pk yielded a positive result for pathogenic non-O157 E.coli STEC in a routine sample collected at a retail store by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. There is no indication at this time that this positive result is related to any illnesses nor consumer complaints and it is not associated with the strains connected to the ongoing outbreaks currently under regulatory investigation.
No other Dole products are included in the recall. This voluntary recall does not apply to any bagged or clamshell salad romaine product. Only the specific Organic Romaine Hearts listed, with the exact UPC codes and Harvested-On dates identified above, are included in the recall. Consumers who have any remaining product with these UPC codes and Harvested-On dates should not consume it, but rather discard it. Retailers and consumers with questions may call the Dole Consumer Center at 1-800-356-3111, which is open 24 hours a day.
The Show Me State has a new COVID 19 vaccine website.
Governor Mike Parson says http://mostopscovid.com has the latest information on the vaccines, research, production and when lake area residents will be eligible to receive it.
State and Local officials have been working on the COVID vaccine plan since August, and it was both submitted and approved by the CDC back in October.
The Vaccine is expected to arrive just before the end of 2020.
Governor Parson Announces Launch of New COVID-19 Vaccine Website for Missourians
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – As research and development of multiple COVID-19 vaccines continue to show promising safety and effectiveness findings, Governor Mike Parson today announced the launch of a new vaccine website for Missouri residents.
MOStopsCOVID.com provides Missourians with information regarding the safety of the vaccines, research and production processes, and when they may be eligible for vaccination. The website will also offer additional functionality as vaccines become available.
“It’s been remarkable to learn about the work that has been going on for many months now among scientists and researchers, many of whom are right here in Missouri,” Governor Parson said. “The most important thing we’ve learned about the accelerated development process is that steps have not been eliminated but are instead occurring simultaneously. Safety is not being sacrificed, and it’s important for Missourians to understand this.”
The new website includes answers to common questions Missouri residents may have, such as when they will be able to receive the vaccine and how well it works. It also clarifies misinformation that citizens may have heard about the vaccines.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and partners across the state continue to make preparations in advance of a vaccine arrival, which is anticipated to occur prior to the end of 2020. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has identified the purposes of a COVID-19 vaccine as:
A vaccine will initially become available in a limited quantity once it is proven safe and effective, approved for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA, and when the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has provided its recommendations on the use of the vaccines.
In August, a large group of more than 75 state team members, 10 Missouri National Guardsmen, and 50 federal and local partners began working together to develop Missouri’s COVID-19 vaccine response plan. The plan was finalized and submitted to the CDC in October.
“Missouri got a very early start preparing for vaccinations because we think it’s our best path to getting to a better place,” DHSS Director Dr. Randall Williams said. “This process is one that has continued to evolve, and we are committed to providing Missourians with the information they need as quickly as we can provide it. Information is empowering, and personal choices made during this public health emergency can positively impact yourself, those around you, and your entire community.”
To learn more about COVID-19 vaccine developments, visit MOStopsCOVID.com.
School of the Osage is announcing a partnership with Central Ozarks Medical Center.
Dr. Laura Nelson tells KRMS News the clinic is not just a response to COVID-19 as other issues like sore throat, ear aches and other illnesses still need attention.
She also says with the holiday season upon us, we should all give thanks.
Dr. Nelson says she wasn’t sure back in August all buildings would be open by Thanksgiving, but they are.
The School of the Osage was recently given a clean bill of financial health after results of an audit were announced during this week’s school board meeting.
Lake Regional’s CEO Dane Henry is appealing to the community to make smart choices as the number of COVID 19 cases continue to rise.
In a letter, Henry states that current numbers are higher than they were during the summer and testing has been off the charts.
Henry says in one location alone, they saw over 1,000 tests done in a single day.
Lake Regional facilities over the past week, have seen more than 600 positive tests in their service areas, which include Camden, Miller and Morgan along with Laclede and Pulaski.
Currently the positivity rate for Camden county alone is at 55%.
New cases of COVID-19 are increasing in every state, and hospitalizations are on the rise. Mid-Missouri is following the national trend. Locally, COVID numbers are now higher than they have ever been following a summer season when positivity rates and inpatient admissions were more manageable.
Because more people are now feeling sick or have been exposed to known COVID cases, testing also is on the rise. For the seven-day period ending Nov. 10, a total of 1,058 people sought testing at one of Lake Regional’s facilities, an average of 150 tests per day. On Nov. 9, Lake Regional Express Care staff tested 194 individuals for COVID-19, our largest single day of testing this month.
As health care providers prepare to meet this surge in demand for COVID-19 testing and treatment, along with flu season, we believe it is important for area residents to stay informed and to take precautions to protect their health.
The Facts
During the seven-day period ending Nov. 13, a total of 623 individuals tested positive in Camden, Laclede, Miller, Morgan and Pulaski counties, which comprise Lake Regional’s service area. Sadly, COVID-19 deaths increased by five during the same week, bringing the total to 114 COVID-19 deaths in the five counties since March.
Camden County had the most new cases. From Nov. 7 to Nov. 13, Camden County added 205 new COVID-19 cases. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the county’s positivity rate was 55.7 percent for the seven-day period. To date, 43 Camden County residents have died from this virus.
Hospitalizations also are climbing across the Midwest and our region. Experts expect the trend to continue and worry that we are edging toward a tipping point. On Nov. 12, the Missouri Hospital Association released a statement saying: “Every region of the state is experiencing increases in positive cases, and hospitalizations are surging. This is putting incredible stress on doctors, nurses, therapists, custodians, and food services and support staff who will continue to suffer additional stress and risk their own infection, illness and mortality.”
You see, it’s not simply the number of COVID-19 patients that stresses the health care system at all levels. It’s the additional resources needed to care for COVID patients appropriately that eventually affects other patients and caregivers. Hospitals throughout Missouri and the country are concerned about bed and staffing availability, and staffing fatigue because of the recent surge.
Locally, Lake Regional’s daily census of COVID-19 positive patients has been trending upward since July. It has been 10 or greater daily since late September. On Oct. 14, we hit a high of 27 inpatient cases. Today, our inpatient census is 85; 24 of those patients are COVID-19 positive. That’s 1 in 4. Throughout the fall, we have treated hundreds more COVID-19 cases in our Emergency Department and Express Care locations.
Here’s What You Can Do
Help each other. If you’re not already, please do two simple things consistently: practice social distancing and wear masks in public. And as you make Thanksgiving plans, please keep in mind that COVID-19 can be especially harmful for seniors and individuals who have underlying health conditions. Take precautions to keep your loved ones safe.
Help those on the front line. As fatigue sets in for all us managing life changes brought about by COVID-19, one of the things that means the most to our caregivers and others on the front line of this fight is your support. It helps to know we are not alone in this crisis.
As we look ahead to Thanksgiving, please join us now in showing our gratitude for frontline workers in our community, including health care workers, first responders, teachers, grocery store workers and others, by displaying a white ribbon of support at your home or business. In addition, employees of area schools and the hospital will be displaying their own pride ribbons of maroon, purple or blue. Watch Lake Regional’s Facebook page for details, and please tell these individuals you are thankful for their service to our community.
Our Commitment Runs Deep,
Dane W. Henry, FACHE
CEO, Lake Regional Health System
General Motors is recalling over 6 million vehicles in the US, related to the ongoing issues with Takata air bags.
Officials say they include numerous trucks and SUV’s.
The company has been fighting a recall notice from the Federal Government for nearly 4 years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says in a statement that it analyzed data on the air bags, including engineering and statistical analyses, aging tests and field data.
“Based on this information and information provided to the petition’s public docket, NHTSA concluded that the GM inflators in question are at risk of the same type of explosion after long-term exposure to high heat and humidity as other recalled Takata inflators,” according to the agency.
The company has 30 days to give NHTSA a schedule for notifying vehicle owners in the recall.
GM claims the recall isn’t warranted based on the factual and scientific records, however they will abide by NHTSA’s decision.
The recall is expected to cost GM around $1.2 billion dollars.
The previous Takata recalls caused the Japanese company brought on numerous criminal charges, causing the company to fall into bankruptcy.
To see if your vehicle is on the recall list, go to the NHTSA website https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and search your vehicle’s 17 Digit VIN number.
Photo by Sandy Millar on Unsplash
If you’re starting your Christmas Shopping for the kiddos, here are a few Toys you may want to leave off the list.
The World Against Toys Causing Harm company has revealed their top 10 worst toys for 2020, which they say can hurt children with potential dangers such as projectiles, toxic substances and inaccurate warning labels.
The list includes top toys like Marvel’s Avengers Vibranium Claw, WWE Jumbo Fists, My Sweet Love Babies Minis and Star Wars Mandalorian Darksabers.
Here’s the full “10 Worst Toys of 2020” list from World Against Toys Causing Harm Inc.
1. Calico Critters Nursery Friends. Potential choking hazards.
2. Missile Launcher. Potential for eye and facial injuries.
3. Marvel Avengers Vibranium Power FX Claw. Potential for eye and facial injuries.
4. Gloria Owl. Potential for ingestion.
5. WWE Jumbo Superstar Fists. Potential for blunt force and impact injuries.
6. Sci-Fi Slime. Potential for chemical-related injuries.
7. Boomerang Interactive Stunt UFO. Potential for propeller-related injury.
8. Boom City Racers. Potential for eye and facial injuries.
9. My Sweet Love Lots of Love Babies Minis. Potential choking hazard.
10. Star Wars Mandalorian Darksaber. Potential for blunt force and eye injuries.
The Toy Association, who represents toy manufacturers, says the WATCH list is “needlessly alarmist” and that their “allegations appear to be based on their misrepresentation of the mandatory toy standards.”
Flu season is beginning in the Lake Area and throughout Missouri, and Governor Mike Parson is taking action as cases of COVID-19 continue to rise in the Midwest.
Parson is not imposing a mask mandate, but he is concerned about the health care system in Missouri.
He says numerous options are being looked at, including help from the military or medical personnel from out-of-state.
The Governor is also tackling the debate of whether to limit gatherings for the Holidays, he says you should decide who comes over for Thanksgiving or not.
Governor Parson also says he supports people who choose to wear masks, but he says it’s not his place to force anyone to cover their face.
He thinks those decisions should be made by people at the local level.
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – As COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise in Missouri and across the Midwest, Governor Mike Parson today signed Executive Order 20-19 extending the state of emergency in Missouri through March 31, 2021.
This will allow continued flexibility in deploying critical resources around the state as well as the continued utilization of the Missouri National Guard and easing of regulatory burdens to further assist Missouri’s COVID-19 response efforts.
“Missouri and the Midwest region remain central to the extreme COVID-19 outbreak our country is currently experiencing,” Governor Parson said. “If we do not slow the spread of the virus, our health care system will quickly become overwhelmed. This creates a major risk not only for COVID-19 patients but anyone requiring health care support, from emergency situations such as car accidents to the treatment of serious health conditions such as cancer.”
“Missouri is at a turning point, and if we are going to change the outcome, we must change our behavior,” Governor Parson continued.
With the onset of flu season and the winter months, respiratory illnesses will begin to spread more rapidly, and COVID-19 is following the same pattern. Due to these extreme risks, Governor Parson has issued a statewide public health warning outlining expectations for all individuals living and working in the state, including guidance for personal behavior, businesses, and travel.
The health warning also includes community level guidance and action plans based on three risk categories – extreme risk, critical risk, and serious risk. The Governor’s Office will be communicating with mayors, county commissioners, and local leaders across the state to explain and help implement the appropriate guidance in their communities.
Wearing a mask, social distancing, and proper hand hygiene remain the three major COVID-19 mitigation strategies. Other key guidance includes the following:
It should be noted that given the minimal transmission of COVID-19 taking place in schools, especially those that have implemented mask mandates, the social gathering recommendations outlined in the health warning are NOT intended to limit in-person learning.
“This is a critical time for our state. Everyone is affected. Every community is at risk, and until a vaccine is widely available to the public, the best weapon we have against COVID-19 is prevention,” Governor Parson said. “This means that we all have to step up and do the right thing.”
“Our actions do make an impact. The actions we take today will determine where we are weeks from now,” Governor Parson continued. “The bottom line is that COVID-19 is still here, it is serious, and we need every Missourian to take responsibility and do their part. The safety of our state and our citizens depend on it.”
To view Executive Order 20-19, click here. To view the full public health warning, please see attachment.
The document will also be available on the Department of Health and Senior Services website, the Governor’s Office website, and the Show Me Strong Recovery website.
A well-known Doctor from Osage Beach has died at the age of 69.
Dr. Miles David Neis was an Internal Medicine Specialist, whose office has been located in Osage Beach in the Ezard’s Ace Hardware plaza for several decades.
Dr. Neis graduated with honors in 1977 from Pittsburgh State University and served seven years as a Physician in the US Air Force, before coming to the Lake.
At this time, his family is planning a private funeral service at a later date.
Doctor Miles Neis, 69, of Osage Beach, Missouri, passed away on November 10, 2020 in the comfort of his home.
Miles was born on October 27 1951, in Harrisonville, Missouri, to Harry and Ethel Neis. He went to Olathe High School and graduated from Pittsburgh State University. He continued his education and obtained a medical degree. He then spent six years in the Air Force as a physician.
Miles was a loving husband, father, brother, son, friend and most memorably, an incredible doctor. He dedicated his life to medicine starting in the Air Force. After leaving the services, he continued to practice medicine in Osage Beach, Missouri for many years. His bedside manner was respected and adored by all. Miles had a hilarious sense of humor and was always seen driving the sports cars he loved. He will be incredibly missed by all of the many, many lives he’s touched.
Miles is survived by his wife, Neenah Duenke-Neis, his daughter and son-in-law Kimberly and Brandon Custer, daughter Kirsten Duncan, his two grandsons Brayden and Breckin Custer, his mother Ethel June Neis, and his two brothers Thomas Neis and HB Neis. And, of course, his beloved dogs.
He is predeceased by his father Harry Neis.
The family held a private memorial last weekend and asks that any donations made in Miles’ honor go towards The American Humane Society, The Best Friends Animal Society, Doctors Without Borders and to End The Backlog
The annual “Gloves for Love” campaign is underway in Lake Ozark.
Officials with the Police Department say they’re collecting gloves, hats, mittens and more for children who are in need.
The Clothing is donated to School of the Osage, who then distributes it before Christmas break.
Residents can bring their winter items to City Hall on Bagnell Dam Boulevard during regular offices hours Monday through Friday.
Helping decorate the tree with items collected so far are LOPD Officers Kelly Lowe (left) and Mark Kordula.
The Lake Ozark Police Department has kicked off its annual Gloves for Love campaign.
The LOPD collects gloves, hats, mittens, etc., for children who might not have warm items for the cold winter months. The winter clothing is then donated to School of the Osage Heritage School before the Christmas break.
Area residents can drop off winter items at the Lake Ozark City Hall, 3162 Bagnell Dam Blvd., during regular office hours, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
The number of COVID 19 patients in Springfield is causing trouble for our regional hospitals.
CoxHealth CEO Steve Edwards tells KY 3 TV they’re overloaded because of a special rule called a “Forced Open.”
That includes transfers from Lake Regional.
Officials say rural hospitals like the Lake Area care facilities, are having to either handle the situation in house, or send patients to a hospital that can handle it in Kansas City, St. Louis or even another state.
Similar situations are beginning to occur in Columbia and Jefferson City as well.
Researchers in Britain are looking at whether aspirin may be a possible treatment for COVID 19.
They say the common painkiller is also used as a blood thinner, and that’s what interests’ researchers, because COVID 19 patients are at higher risk of blood clots.
This is part of the British recovery trial that has already shown a cheap and widely available steroid can help save the lives of patients seriously ill with covid 19.
From our news partner CBS Radio and WebMD:
Now research indicates aspirin – a cheap, over-the-counter drug – may help COVID patients survive by helping to prevent those blood clots.
A British researcher, professor Peter Horby of Oxford University, told a committee in Parliament that aspirin is the latest drug added to the Randomised Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy (RECOVERY) trial, which is looking at multiple treatments, the Pharmaceutical Journal reported.
Aspirin appears to help stop blood clotting in the lungs, he said.
“Clotting is a big problem” with the coronavirus, he said. “Aspirin is a widely available, cheap drug which, if it were to work, would be a huge boost.”
Meanwhile, a study overseen by the University of Maryland School of Medicine showed that COVID patients had fewer complications when they took aspirin.
Researchers examined 412 patients who had coronavirus, according to the study published in Anesthesia and Analgesia. The study said 98 of those patients received aspirin a week before hospital admission, or within 24 hours of admission. The others didn’t.
The patients given aspirin were 43% less likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), 44% less likely to be placed on mechanical ventilation, and 47% less likely to die in the hospital, the study concluded, according to a news release from the medical school.
“This is a critical finding that needs to be confirmed through a randomized clinical trial,” study leader Jonathan Chow, MD, an assistant professor of anesthesiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine said, according to a news release. “If our finding is confirmed, it would make aspirin the first widely available, over-the-counter medication to reduce mortality in COVID-19 patients.”
Heads up families.
Target is recalling a set of children’s snow boots, after it’s discovered they have a potential choking hazard.
Officials say the “Cat and Jack” toddler boots, sizes 5 through 12, have a toggle used to keep snow out and it can detach and pose a choking hazard.
So far, no injuries are reported, but it’s recommended that you return the boots to the store for a full refund.
Governor Mike Parson has a message for the state in his first press briefing since being elected Governor.
The Governor says a special session is now underway on the Supplemental Budget.
He also says he’s focused on the COVID-19 pandemic while addressing hospital staffing issues and work being done in Missouri on a new Coronavirus vaccine.
Governor Parson says more than 5-million dollars has been given for expanded broadband for Telehealth across Missouri.
Parson also says doctors are treating more patients with telemedicine.
If you were worried Santa wouldn’t be visiting this year due to COVID 19, never fear.
Officials with Simon malls and Bass Pro Shops say Santa is coming, but he is laying down a few rules to keep children safe.
That includes social distancing, temperature checks and mask wearing.
You’ll also be asked to request a reservation at both locations, in order to have a spot in the limited line.
Officials with Bass Pro say Santa will start seeing children November 7th at all their locations, including Springfield and Columbia.
Simon officials say Santa will arrive on November 27th near the JC Penney location at Battlefield Mall in Springfield.
There will be no visits from Santa this year at Simon’s Osage Outlet Marketplace here in Osage Beach.
Read more from Bass Pro here:
201021-Santas-Wonderland-2020-release
Simon Malls Requirements:
Santa will be available from:
https://reservations.cherryhillprograms.com/scheduling/Y7jsjQbZ:battlefield-mall
The annual Bass Pro Shops Fitness series is set for this Sunday in Springfield.
Officials say over 1,700 runners have already signed up for the event, and there will be some new COVID 19 rules in place.
Speaking to our news partner KY 3 TV, Bass Pro’s Mellissa Bondy says there will also be temperature screenings conducted before the race starts.
She says they had to reduce the number of runners allowed in this year’s event, however the race is still a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.
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A new way to fight COVID-19 is coming to Hy-Vee in the Lake Area.
Now shopping carts will be sanitized automatically.
Dawn Buzynski with Hy-Vee tells KY3 TV the shopping carts will go through a machine that sanitizes all shopping carts with hospital-grade disinfectant.
More than 200 stores across Hy-Vee’s eight-state region will have the new cart cleaning system.
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Oct. 27, 2020) — Hy-Vee, Inc. is introducing an automated cleaning system that fully cleans and sanitizes shopping carts after every use. By mid-November, more than 200 Hy-Vee stores across its eight-state region will have a Sterile Cart system in operation. Hy-Vee is the first grocery chain to implement the fully automated sanitization system across its company.
This innovative system cleans several carts quickly and consistently, eliminating the need for store employees to manually clean each cart throughout the day. Additionally, it cleans and sanitizes the entire cart and not just the handles and high-touch areas.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, it has been our desire to put Hy-Vee customers’ minds at ease with thorough sanitization measures. We are always looking at innovative ways to improve store operations, improve the shopping experience for customers and, most importantly, ensure the health and safety of our customers and our employees,” said Randy Edeker, chairman, CEO and president of Hy-Vee, Inc.
Sterile Cart is manufactured by Minnesota-based IZZA Manufacturing and distributed by Ultra Green Packaging. Kristin Davidson of Ultra Green said the system was conceived and designed specifically to help mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.
“The Sterile Cart system uses a hospital-grade disinfectant that is proven to kill 99.9% of germs and viruses that cause illnesses, including coronavirus,” said Davidson. “The system ships fully assembled, takes up minimal space and sanitizes 1-2 carts per second. The Sterile Cart system provides peace of mind knowing that the carts are cleaned after every use.”
The Sterile Cart system uses a low-pressure spray system and a dry-in-place disinfectant. It has a small footprint (6×4 feet) and can easily be installed where shopping carts are returned and staged for customer use. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Hy-Vee stores regularly clean carts throughout the day, and have sanitation wipes available where customers grab a cart. This new system eliminates the need to manually clean each cart while providing a more consistent and thorough disinfecting process.
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Hy-Vee, Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 275 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of $11 billion annually. The supermarket chain is synonymous with quality, variety, convenience, healthy lifestyles, culinary expertise and superior customer service. Hy-Vee ranks in the Top 10 Most Trusted Brands and has been named one of America’s Top 5 favorite grocery stores. The company’s more than 85,000 employees provide “A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle” to customers every day. For additional information, visit www.hy-vee.com.
Pulaski County’s first case of Chronic Wasting Disease has been detected by the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Officials say this case involves an adult male deer that was harvested by a hunter near Waynesville.
The disease affects the Deer’s brain and causes the animal to grow thin, act abnormally and eventually will kill the animal.
At this time there is no vaccine or cure for it.
Chronic Wasting Disease affects Deer throughout the Midwest.
Over 300 school districts around Missouri are getting a new COVID-19 test kits.
Mallory McGowin with DESE tells KRMS News about how the test kit works.
McGowin also says the tests are intended for students who are feeling sick at school and the tests can only be given with the permission of a parent or guardian.
Lake area schools who are receiving the tests include the following.
In Camden County, Camdenton R3, Macks Creek R5 and Stoutland R-2.
In Morgan County, Both Morgan R1 and R2 schools.
In Miller County, Eldon R1, Iberia R5, Miller R3 and St. Elizabeth R4.
In Benton County only Lincoln R2.
Also, in Laclede County, Laclede R1 and Lebanon R3
And in Pulaski County, Crocker R2, Laquey R5, Richland R4 and Swedeborg R3.
Here’s a full list of schools statewide:
Antigen-Testing-Participants-10-26-20State officials began shipping thousands of antigen test kits to public and private schools across the state today. Nearly 330 districts/schools applied to participate in Missouri’s BinaxNOW Antigen Testing Program for K-12 Institutions, requesting a total of nearly 583,000 test kits for use among symptomatic students and school personnel. These minimally invasive nasal swab tests must be administered by a health professional (e.g. a school nurse), and yield results in just 15 minutes. Many districts/schools will perform these rapid tests onsite, after receiving the appropriate consent from the staff member or the student’s parent/guardian. Some districts/schools have partnered with their local health department or another medical provider in their community to assist in administering these tests. Positive and negative test results will be reported electronically to the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) within 24 hours.
“The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) continues to work hard to make any and all resources available to school leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven. “We believe these rapid antigen tests, in conjunction with other mitigation strategies, could be instrumental in helping schools provide onsite learning opportunities safely. We appreciate colleagues at DHSS and the State Emergency Management Agency for working quickly with our team on this important initiative.”
Districts/schools that applied will receive the number of test kits requested (up to one test per student and staff member, due to limited inventory) in incremental shipments over the coming months. In the state’s current inventory, there are approximately 240,000 test kits available to distribute to K-12 schools that have provided the required assurances and documentation.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services prioritized public and private K-12 schools to receive the Abbott BinaxNOW rapid antigen test kits free of charge, along with higher education institutions and long-term care facilities. Missouri is expected to receive a total of 1.84 million Abbott BinaxNOW antigen test kits.
Heads up Deli meat lovers.
The CDC is issuing a warning over an outbreak of Listeria hitting the nation involving deli meat.
Officials say 10 people across 3 states have already been sickened by the meat, including one person who died.
So far, the CDC has yet to identify specific meats involved or who the suppler is.
They recommend that you avoid eating deli meat if you are 65 or older, or you are at high risk of infection, unless the meat is heated first.
Read more from the CDC
CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) are investigating a multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections.
Public health investigators are using the PulseNet system to identify illnesses that may be part of this outbreak. PulseNet is the national subtyping network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by CDC. DNA fingerprinting is performed on Listeria bacteria isolated from ill people by using a standardized laboratory and data analysis method called whole genome sequencing (WGS). CDC PulseNet manages a national database of these sequences that are used to identify possible outbreaks. WGS gives investigators detailed information about the bacteria causing illness. In this investigation, WGS showed that bacteria isolated from ill people were closely related genetically. This means that people in this outbreak are more likely to share a common source of infection.
As of October 22, 2020, a total of 10 people infected with the outbreak strain of Listeria monocytogenes have been reported from three states. A list of the states and the number of cases in each can be found on the Map of Reported Cases page.
Listeria samples from ill people were collected from August 6, 2020, to October 3, 2020. Ill people range in age from 40 to 89 years, with a median age of 81 years. Eighty percent of ill people are female. All 10 ill people were hospitalized. One death has been reported from Florida.
Epidemiologic evidence shows that deli meat is a likely source of this outbreak.
State and local public health officials interviewed ill people about the foods they ate in the month before they became ill. Of the nine people interviewed, all reported eating Italian-style deli meats, such as salami, mortadella, and prosciutto. They reported purchasing prepackaged deli meats and meats sliced at deli counters at various locations.
Listeria bacteria can spread easily to other foods and surfaces. The bacteria in a contaminated deli product may spread to other deli meats and cheeses in shared display cases or equipment at deli counters. A traceback investigation is ongoing to determine if there is a specific type of deli meat or a common supplier linked to illness.
People who are higher risk of getting sick from Listeria should avoid eating deli meats, unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot just before serving.
This investigation is ongoing. CDC will provide updates when more information becomes available.
Students at Warsaw Middle School and High School now have access to free food thanks to the efforts of a school counselor.
According to the Benton County Enterprise, Counselor Tyler Richardson was worried students were not getting proper nutrition at home because the buddy pack program is only available for Elementary school students.
Richardson reached out to the Food Bank in Columbia and launched a new program for older students, which began this month.
Students are called from their class to shop and take “whatever they feel they need” during this pandemic.
A snack program was also implemented as students are spending longer days in the classroom, due to the 4-day school schedules initiated by the district.
Halloween is just around the corner and officials with the Pulaski County Sheriff’s office have a word of caution for parents.
Sheriff Jimmy Bench says parents should always check the candy before children consume it, in case there have been metals or other dangerous items placed into the candy.
Just last week during a traffic stop, Bench says a deputy found Marijuana Edibles that mimicked popular candy often given out for Halloween.
Some of the candy included Sour Skittles and Sour Infused Gushers.
Walgreens and CVS are working with the Federal Government in an effort to supply the coronavirus vaccine, once one is approved, directly to long-term care facilities like nursing homes.
According to a release, Deputy Chief of staff for the Health and Human Services Department Paul Mango called the two major drug chains “The best place to send the mobile units” in order to vaccinate seniors and other vulnerable people.
The vaccinations are a voluntary program for every nursing home and it will be left up to the drugstore chains to determine the best way to deliver and store these vaccines, as well as how to collect fees in order to keep the vaccines free of charge.
Public schools throughout Missouri may soon get a rapid COVID-19 antigen test for students.
According to officials at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the tests can provide a result within 15 minutes.
They say that districts must request these tests by Wednesday at Noon to get one.
Already 180 districts across the state have submitted their request for the new tests.
DESE officials expect the tests to be delivered by the end of the month.
For more information on the tests, see below:
COVID ANTIGEN TEST
The latest weekly report from the Missouri Hospital Association shows ventilator capacity nearing the red zone.
Officials say the recommended capacity is 22 ventilators per 100,000 people, but Missouri is currently at 24 machines per 100,000 people.
The association says the state has 1,665 ventilators available out of the 2,384 machines they have in stock.
Additionally, the report shows ICU availability at 30.57% and regular beds at 41.71%.
Lake Regional Hospital is celebrating Emergency Team week, as Christian Blood reports.
Each year, Lake Regional Hospital recognizes numerous professionals in its Emergency Department, including nurses, patient care techs, health unit coordinators and physicians.
Emergency Team Week continues through Saturday.
Emergency personnel give 24-hour support and treat more than 33-thousand patients each year.
Lake Regional Hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, a Level II Heart Attack Center and a Level III Trauma Center.
No other hospital between Springfield and Columbia fits all three of those categories.
Lake Regional Celebrates Emergency Team Week
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Health System recognizes Emergency Department employees during Emergency Team Week, Oct. 11-17.
This week celebrates the dedication and expertise of Lake Regional’s Emergency Department nurses, patient care technicians, health unit coordinators, mid-level providers and physicians. Lake Regional holds the observance annually to coincide with National Emergency Nurses Week.
“We have such a dedicated group within our Emergency Department, and I could not be more proud of the work they do,” said Amy Funderburk, R.N., Lake Regional Emergency Department director. “The members of our Emergency Department staff are incredibly strong, and we come together every day dedicated to saving and improving lives.”
Lake Regional Health System’s Emergency Department provides 24-hour emergency medical service and treats more than 33,000 patients annually. The nursing staff maintains certifications in basic life support, advanced cardiac life support and pediatric life support, as well as specialized training in stroke and heart attack care, pediatrics, and trauma. The hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, Level II STEMI (heart attack) Center and Level III Trauma Center. No other hospital between Columbia and Springfield is a state-designated center for all three of these time-critical diagnoses. Visit lakeregional.com to learn more.
Photo Caption: The theme of Emergency Team Week at Lake Regional is “strong.” This year has been extraordinarily challenging for health care workers, but the team members at Lake Regional Emergency Department have continuously adapted to provide exceptional care to patients.
Lake Regional CEO Dane Henry
Lake Regional Hospital CEO Dane Henry is back to work following his a positive COVID-19 test late last month.
Henry also tells KRMS News the hospital is still seeing several severe cases of COVID-19.
Henry says around one of three patients at Lake Regional Hospital right now are there because of the Coronavirus.
The Governor’s ordered the dome at the state capitol and the Governor’s Mansion to be lit purple starting Tuesday.
It’s an effort to recognize Alzheimer’s Awareness Day.
The color purple is the signature color of the Alzheimer’s Association and recent numbers show over 200-thousand people 65 or over living with the disease in Missouri.
Images of the purple lighting will be posted to the Governor’s Flickr page.
Last week, Governor Parson ordered the dome to shine red for National Fire Prevention Week.
The normal lighting will return Wednesday.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 5, 2020
Governor Parson Orders Capitol Dome and Governor’s Mansion Lighted Purple in Recognition of Alzheimer’s Awareness Day
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Governor Mike Parson has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome and Missouri Governor’s Mansion to shine purple on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, in recognition of Alzheimer’s Awareness Day.
“Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects many of our loved ones. It is important to spread awareness and remember that there is still much work to be done to find a cure,” Governor Parson said. “Tonight, we will light the dome and the People’s House purple to show our support for the many Missourians impacted by this illness.”
The dome and Governor’s Mansion will light up at sunset on October 6 and remain lit through sunrise on October 7. The color purple is the signature color of the Alzheimer’s Association. Combining the calmness of blue and the passion of red, purple represents the uncompromising strength of the Alzheimer’s Association and its supporters.
In coordination with the lighting, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) will host a department walk in Jefferson City from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on October 6 in recognition of Alzheimer’s Awareness Day. There will also be a Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Jefferson City on October 11. Please visit the Walk to End Alzheimer’s website to find a walk near you.
“Alzheimer’s disease will continue to be a growing public health crisis until we find a cure. The most recent data shows there are 210,000 people age 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s in our state,” said Jessica Bax, DHSS Division of Senior and Disability Services Director. “Creating awareness during this month reminds us all of the importance to work together to support Missouri families affected by this disease.”
Pictures of the lighting will be available on Governor Parson’s Flickr page. Citizens are encouraged to share pictures on social media.
Six more people have died as a result of COVID 19 in the Lake Area.
5 of the deaths came from Camden County and 1 Death was out of Morgan County.
That brings the total deaths to 33 since March.
Right now, there are 445 active cases lakewide, including 212 from Camden, 95 from Morgan, 79 from Benton and 59 from Miller.
Overall, there have been a total of 2,075 positive cases in the four-country region, of which 1,616 people have recovered from the virus.
Due to a report lapses, there are a total of 84 cases currently unaccounted for.
Read more here: LAKE COVID NUMBERS
Heads up local restaurant owners.
The CDC is recalling some bad mushrooms.
Officials say the Kikurage Dried Black Fungus mushrooms, distributed by Wismettac Asian Foods, have been linked to 42 cases of Salmonella in 10 different states, including Missouri.
The company is voluntarily recalling their mushrooms, which are only sold to restaurants and not to the public.
You can read the CDC Report here or the recall report here.
Do not eat, sell, or serve recalledexternal icon dried wood ear mushrooms distributed from Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc. These mushrooms were sold only to restaurants and not directly to consumers.
Consumers can ask restaurants where mushrooms are from before ordering to avoid eating recalled mushrooms. Wood ear mushrooms are also commonly referred to as Kikurage, Dried Black Fungus, Dried Fungus, or Mu’er/Mu Er/Mu-Err.
Take action if you have symptoms of a Salmonella infection:
CDC, public health and regulatory officials in several states, and FDA are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Stanley infections.
Public health investigators are using the PulseNet system to identify illnesses that may be part of this outbreak. PulseNet is the national subtyping network of public health and food regulatory agency laboratories coordinated by CDC. DNA fingerprinting is performed on Salmonella bacteria isolated from ill people by using a standardized laboratory and data analysis method called whole genome sequencing (WGS). CDC PulseNet manages a national database of these sequences that are used to identify possible outbreaks. WGS gives investigators detailed information about the bacteria causing illness. In this investigation, WGS showed that bacteria isolated from ill people were closely related genetically. This means that people in this outbreak are more likely to share a common source of infection.
As of September 24, 2020, a total of 41 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Stanley have been reported from 10 states. A list of the states and the number of cases in each can be found on the Map of Reported Cases page.
Illnesses started on dates ranging from January 21, 2020, to August 26, 2020. Ill people range in age from 2 to 74 years, with a median age of 27. Sixty-two percent of ill people are female. Of 32 ill people with information available, 4 hospitalizations have been reported. No deaths have been reported.
Illnesses might not yet be reported due to the time it takes between when a person becomes ill and when the illness is reported. This takes an average of 2 to 4 weeks. Please see the Timeline for Reporting Cases of Salmonella Infection for more details.
Whole genome sequencing analysis of 26 bacterial isolates from ill people did not predict any antibiotic resistance. Standard antibiotic susceptibility testing by CDC’s National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) laboratory is underway.
Epidemiologic and traceback information show that wood ear mushrooms distributed by Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., are the likely source of this outbreak.
In interviews, ill people answered questions about the foods they ate and other exposures in the week before they became ill. Of 18 people with information, 16 (89%) reported eating ramen at a restaurant in the week before their illness started. Several people reported eating at the same ramen restaurants, showing they may be part of illness clusters.
A foodborne illness cluster is defined as two or more people who do not live in the same household who report eating at the same restaurant location, attending a common event, or shopping at the same location of a grocery store in the week before becoming ill. Investigating illness clusters can provide critical clues about the source of an outbreak. If several unrelated ill people ate or shopped at the same location of a restaurant or store within several days of each other, it suggests that the contaminated food item was served or sold there.
Four illness clusters were identified at restaurants serving ramen in three states. Eight (89%) of the nine ill people linked to restaurant clusters reported eating wood ear mushrooms or ramen containing wood ear mushrooms in the week before their illness started.
FDA and states are conducting a traceback investigation to identify the source of the wood ear mushrooms eaten by ill people. Review of records collected to date identified that Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., supplied wood ear mushrooms (dried fungus) to the illness cluster restaurants.
The California Department of Public Health collected dried fungus at one of the restaurants linked to an illness cluster for testing. Testing identified Salmonella in a sample of dried fungus distributed by Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc. WGS analysis is being done to determine if the Salmonella identified in the dried fungus is the same as the Salmonella from ill people.
On September 24, 2020, Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., issued a recallexternal icon of all Shirakiku imported dried fungus after the California Department of Public Health found Salmonella in the product.
Restaurants should not sell or serve recalled wood ear mushrooms distributed by Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc.
This investigation is ongoing, and CDC will provide more information as it becomes available.
The state of Missouri is revising its long-term care facility rules for Essential Caregivers.
Officials say now established essential caregivers can resume general visits both inside and outside a nursing home or special needs facility.
The new guidance recommends ways to safely facilitate visits, including using proper PPE and following CDC Guidelines.
The rule also states that only five visitors may be designated for each resident, with only two people allowed to be present at any given time, by appointment only.
Missouri Releases Revised Guidance to Safely Reunite Families with Loved Ones in Long-Term Care Facilities
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – This week, the state released revised guidance for long-term care facilities in Missouri that choose to establish an Essential Caregiver program and/or resume general visits either inside or outside the facility.
Facilities should have a policy in place to determine how contact with loved ones can occur while protecting the health of residents. Each facility will ultimately make the decision as to whether or not to adopt this guidance.
“COVID-19 has had a major impact on our most vulnerable citizens and their families,” Governor Mike Parson said. “We have worked hard to strengthen our prevention and mitigation strategies in long-term care facilities, and we understand the importance of spending time in-person with families and caregivers. These visits serve as an important part of residents’ overall well-being.”
When COVID-19 first knowingly entered the United States in January, it was quickly discovered that those living in long-term care facilities were at a higher risk for contracting the virus. Health officials began to see the virus impact Missouri long-term care facilities in late March. Since that time, more than 650 Missouri long-term care facilities have reported at least one case among staff or residents.
On May 18, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) Director Dr. Randall Williams issued an order requiring congregate living facilities, including long-term care, to report to DHSS within 24 hours when a positive test result is received among staff or residents.
Additionally, increased testing capacity in Missouri allowed the state to execute new strategies for addressing outbreaks early or before they start and arrange for comprehensive testing. The “boxed in” testing strategy has been implemented in 586 facilities since May 18 and has been effective at decreasing morbidity and mortality.
“With increased resources and knowledge of the virus and its impacts as well as the hard work of so many Missourians, we are thankful to reunite residents with their families,” Director Williams said. “Like our federal partners, we believe allowing contact with loved ones and residents of our long-term care facilities is important to overall health especially after a prolonged separation.”
The new guidance, which recommends ways to safely facilitate visits in long-term care facilities, will supplement the state’s guidance issued for facilities in June. In accordance with newly revised federal guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, facilities must allow visits by outside health care providers and the Ombudsman program. Infection control, screening guidelines, and proper PPE use must be in place.
Facilities that have not had any cases of COVID-19 among staff or residents, or those that have not had a facility-acquired case in the past 14 days, are able to allow general indoor visits for residents who do not or are not suspected to have COVID-19 (or who have been released from isolation).
Outdoor visits may occur in any facility for residents who do not or are not suspected to have COVID-19 (or who have been released from isolation). The guidelines dictate that five visitors may be designated for each resident, with two allowed to be present at a given time by appointment and with social distancing being practiced. Proper hand hygiene and face coverings should be used.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to work with legislators, DHSS, the Missouri Health Care Association, families, and other interested parties to craft guidance which acknowledges the vulnerability of nursing home populations,” said Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe. “This responsive and responsible plan will help repair COVID’s impact of loneliness and isolation by providing options to help improve mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health.”
The Missouri Health Care Association is Missouri’s largest association of licensed, long-term health care facilities, residential care facilities, and assisted living facilities and is dedicated to improving quality of life for the residents of long term care.
“We appreciate all the work done by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and DHSS to put together a responsible plan that allows for the safest visitation options possible in Missouri’s long-term care facilities,” said Missouri Health Care Association Executive Director Nikki Strong. “Although the virus is still a significant threat to the vulnerable citizens we care for, it is time to safely reunite our residents with their loved ones.”
In addition to general visits, each resident may have one essential caregiver designated through the Essential Caregiver program. Designated by the resident (or guardian or legal representative), essential caregivers are able to provide health care services or assistance with daily activities to help maintain or improve the quality of care or quality of life. This may include assistance with bathing, dressing, eating, or emotional support. One additional essential caregiver may also be designated if the individual is a clergy member.
With all types of visits, screening of individuals should be in place along with proper PPE use and infection control measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission among facility residents.
Detailed guidance for long-term care facilities can be found at health.mo.gov/coronavirus.
A new initiative at Lake Regional Health System focusing on cancer and cardiac services is getting a six-figure donation from the hospital auxiliary.
Terri Hall, Director of Funding Development at Lake Regional.
She tells KRMS News the Commitment to Caring Initiative got another 100-thousand dollar donation from a Lake Area couple earlier in September.
Hospital Auxiliary Pledges $300,000 to Lake Regional Health System
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary understands that community support is vital to local health care. The Auxiliary’s commitment to providing that support has not changed since the group’s creation in 1977. To show their dedication to quality local health care, the Auxiliary has pledged $300,000 to Lake Regional Health System during the next five years.
The Auxiliary donation will benefit Lake Regional’s Commitment to Caring initiative, which seeks community support for advancing health care services. The first project to be funded by the initiative will enhance services for heart and cancer care.
“We are thankful to the Hospital Auxiliary for their support and for caring so deeply about our mission of providing exceptional health care,” said Dane W. Henry, FACHE, chief executive officer of Lake Regional Health System. “Currently, heart disease is the No. 1 killer in Missouri and cancer is No. 2. The Auxiliary’s donation to Commitment to Caring will help Lake Regional provide the best care to people affected by these diseases.”
Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary supports Lake Regional operations through volunteering and fundraising.
“Serving in the Auxiliary is a way to give back to a hospital that has continually provided remarkable care to the community,” said Nancy Groves, Auxiliary president. “We are lucky to have a health system that has been recognized for so many of their programs and services, including cancer and cardiac care. We don’t have to travel far for quality care; it is in our own backyard.”
The Hospital Auxiliary raises funds through sales at Lake Regional’s gift shop and from fundraising events, including the annual Auxiliary Ball. This year’s ball is a no-show event, and supporters can make donations at lakeregional.com/noshow2020. The event includes a drawing for a chance to win a diamond pendant sponsored by Duncan II Jewelry or a denim certificate sponsored by Blair’s Landing. In addition, the Auxiliary is sponsoring a no-show excuse contest. The most creative excuse will win barbecue for four delivered by Wobbly Boots Road House. All contests end on Oct. 1.
Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary has more than 350 good-hearted members of all ages. The volunteers are a diverse group that includes retirees, doctors, active professionals, high school students and other community members. To learn more about the Auxiliary, visit lakeregional.com/volunteers.
PHOTO CAPTION: Lake Regional Hospital Auxiliary receiving the 2018 Auxiliary of the Year award from the Missouri Association of Hospital Auxiliaries.
There are five more deaths from COVID 19 in the Lake area.
Four of the deaths came from Morgan County and One came from Miller County.
That means that there have been 26 deaths since March across the four-county region.
As of this morning, there are 331 active cases of COVID in the Lake region, 104 of which are from Camden County, 89 are from Morgan County, 76 are from Miller county and 62 are from Benton County.
In total, there have been 1,842 positive cases since testing began, of which 1,393 people have recovered from the virus.
There remain 92 cases with an unknown status due to lapses in reporting in Camden County.
A reminder, there are COVID tests that remain ongoing and free to the community. See below for more details:
A Lake Area couple who says their lives were saved by Lake Regional Health System is making a $100,000 dollar donation.
Both Willis and Peggy Hansen say they’re alive today because of Lake Regional.
Willis was treated for a heart attack and Peggy got rapid care from the hospital after a stroke.
The couple is donating to Lake Regional’s ‘Commitment to Caring’ initiative, which aims to transform heart and cancer care services in the Lake Area.
Lake Regional wants to raise $10 million dollars through the community before breaking ground on the ‘Commitment to Caring’ facility at the hospital.
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — A Lake Ozark couple has donated $100,000 to Lake Regional Health System to benefit it’s Commitment to Caring initiative. Through the initiative, Lake Regional is seeking to transform health care delivery for two vitally important services: heart care and cancer treatment services.
Willis and Peggy Hansen hope their donation will inspire others to support the enhancement of health services in the community. The couple has a strong personal connection to Lake Regional, as they have each received life-saving care from the health system. After suffering a heart attack, Willis Hansen received treatment at Lake Regional, and Peggy Hansen received rapid care from the hospital after experiencing a stroke.
“Lake Regional is vital to the community and area,” Peggy Hansen said. “After having my stroke, I learned that Lake Regional is the only hospital between Columbia and Springfield that is a state-designated center for stroke, heart attack and trauma.”
Karen Faiferlick, vice president of the Lake Regional Health System Board of Directors and chair of Lake Regional’s Development Council, expressed her appreciation for the Hansens’ generosity.
“We are all grateful for Willis and Peggy Hansen’s continued support of advancing local health care,” Faiferlick said. “They understand the importance of taking pride in your community health system and building for the future.”
The Hansens said they want more people to be aware of the recognitions Lake Regional has received for quality care. They also believe a continued expansion of programs and services is necessary to maintain the health system’s mission of providing exceptional health care.
“The hospital is the foundation of the community,” Willis Hansen said. “Lake Regional is equipped to take care of your diverse health needs, but it is up to everyone to support the health system. The stronger the hospital, the stronger the community.”
The Hansens are committed to supporting the service lines of cardiology and cancer care and enhanced technology that will create a world-class environment for the community. Lake Regional, with help from the Hansens and other generous donors, has raised $1 million so far for Commitment to Caring. The health system’s goal is to raise $10 million through community giving before breaking ground. Donations can be made to Commitment to Caring at lakeregional.com/donate.
Lake Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to residents and visitors throughout the mid-Missouri region. The hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, Level II STEMI (heart attack) Center and Level III Trauma Center. Lake Regional also provides a wide range of specialty care, including cancer care, heart care and orthopedics. Plus, Lake Regional operates primary care clinics, Express Care clinics, rehab therapy clinics, programs for home health and hospice, and retail pharmacies. To learn more, visit lakeregional.com.
The Missouri Blue Star Survey is now open and officials are asking for your input.
The survey helps Blue Star Military Families by providing the state with data on active duty service members, including the National Guard, Reserve and Veteran service members.
Officials say the survey provides information on community connections, health concerns, education, public policy and financial challenges, among other things.
Blue Star Families Military Lifestyle Survey Now Open
The 2020 Blue Star Families Military Family Lifestyle Survey is now open. The survey is for research purposes only and, therefore, is entirely voluntary. The following individuals are able to complete the survey:
– Active duty service members and their family members – 18 years of age and older
– National Guard service members and their family members – 18 years of age and older
– Reserve service members and their family members – 18 years of age and older
– Veteran service members and their family members – 18 years of age and older
The survey is completely confidential and *optional* text responses are de-identified. This survey has a long history of producing confidential, statistical information used by senior defense department and military leaders to make decisions and prioritize efforts focused on all military families. It is crucial that military members and families provide a response for this survey, especially those in the Fort Leonard Wood Region.
The survey includes questions about community connections, health concerns and wellness, education, employment, military children, financial challenges, civic engagement, and public policy issues, among other topics.
We encourage those in the FLW Region to respond to the survey and also to encourage others to respond, as well. Blue Star Families has provided the following tips on how to engage others regarding the 2020 survey.
The Blue Star Families 2020 Military Family Lifestyle Survey is now open. It is critical that Missouri’s military-connected individuals respond to this survey as the data is used by senior Department of Defense and other military leaders to make crucial decisions and determine focus areas related to military families. You can view our entire release on the survey here: https://sustainableozarks.org/news/2020/09/14/BSF-mil-lifestyle-survey-now-open.
This year, Blue Star Families will be looking to better understand the data and will hopefully be able to break down responses by region or state. Military-connected individuals can respond to the survey with this link: https://bluestarfam.us/BSFSurvey20MOsop.
Schools across the Lake area continue to deal with COVID 19 cases and one school wants to make it easier for parents to know where they stand.
School of the Osage now has a COVID dashboard on their website, which allows parents to view current active cases and what schools are being affected.
The dashboard is just one of many things the school is doing to protect against the virus.
Superintendent Dr. Laura Nelson.
She tells KRMS news they are updating the dashboard every Tuesday.
Last week, The Missouri National Education Association called for more COVID-19 reporting transparency from school districts across the Show Me State.
Read the letter from the NEA below:
MNEA Letter to DESE COVID Exposure Reports
The fight to get a vaccine out to battle the Coronavirus continues, but officials say there’s still a long road ahead of us.
As America heads into flu season The race continues for a vaccine, with AstraZeneca resuming its clinical trials after a pause over safety concerns.
Pfizer CEO Albert Birla tells CBS’s face the nation’s Margaret Brennan, his company expects to deliver a vaccine before the end of the year. “We have already manufacturer hundreds of thousands of doses”
Former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb says that may be a Hail Mary for most people. “They will not have access to a vaccine until 2021.”
*Story via KRMS news partner CBS Radio
New numbers from the state Department of Social Services show there has been an increase of 120,000 people on the Food Stamps Program.
Officials say there were around 658,000 Missourians on the program at the start of last year, and now it’s increased to 778,000 as of July.
Most of the increase is contributed to the COVID pandemic as Missourians started losing jobs.
Missouri Lawmakers voted back in April to approve an historic $6.2 Billion dollar emergency relief package to battle the pandemic for the long term.
Here are more details about the enrollments: CASELOAD DATA
Over 1,000 people have recovered from COVID 19 in the Lake area.
According to the latest numbers, there are a total of 213 active cases across the four-county region.
That includes 92 cases in Camden, 59 in Miller, 45 in Morgan and 17 in Benton.
Out of the 1,320 positive cases seen since testing began in March, 1,092 people have since recovered from the virus.
There have been 15 deaths.
A full run down of the local numbers can be found here: LAKE COVID NUMBERS
There’s new concern about Covid-19 and its effect on the brain.
According to a new Yale University study, Corona Virus may directly invade the brain.
Doctor David Agus is a CBS News medical contributor and he says in the last week or two, they’ve heard about its effect on the heart, the lungs and now more and more data is showing it’s having an effect on the brain.
Many COVID 19 Victims experienced nagging headaches, confusion and being delirious.
See more from our news partner CBS: Scientists Warn Of Brain Damage With COVID 19
Officials with Wal-Mart say they’ll be providing vaccinations for the Flu across their stores this season.
The vaccines will be dispersed on Tuesday Mornings and Thursday Afternoons starting today.
Customers can call to book an appointment or use the mobile app.
The store says for Seniors and those at-risk, flu shots will be available from 6AM to 7AM on Tuesdays and there will be no out-of-pocket costs despite insurance status.
Residents in Laclede County will be getting some help with food needs in the community.
The Missouri Route 66 Firefighters, working with the City of Lebanon and the Hughes Senior Center, will be distributing food boxes from the Farmers to Families Food Box program today for area residents.
The drive-thru event is free and volunteers will load your vehicle for you to keep safe from COVID 19.
Officials say it starts at 3PM at the Miller Center.
Fire Districts across the Lake are reminding everyone to stay safe with fireworks this Labor Day weekend.
Officials say with the recent dry conditions it’s important to focus on where those fireworks are being aimed.
Mid-County Fire Chief Scott Frandsen
He tells KRMS News you should have a water source nearby and make sure adult supervision is present for those who may need it.
Frandsen says it’s also important to check with your local city ordinances to see if shooting off fireworks is legal in your area.
A Jefferson City area hospital is receiving high praise this week.
The American College of Cardiology is awarding Capital Region Medical Center with the “Chest Pain Platinum Award” recognizing the hospital’s achievements in Chest pain for the past two years.
They say the hospital has established itself as a leader in the field and are now setting national standards for hospitals to follow.
Capital Region was one of 140 hospitals to receive the award this year.
Students in Benton County are getting cloth masks with their school logos on them.
It’s part of a donation from the Bothwell Hospital Foundation and a grant from the Katy Trail, to students at Warsaw, Lincoln and Cole Camp.
Warsaw Superintendent Dr. Sean Poyser tells KRMS News the district already passed out the masks last week and that they’ve also received another 3,000 plain white masks from the Hanes corporation this week.
Officials at Lincoln schools say the district already purchased 1,500 disposal masks and have received over 300 donated masks from area non-profits.
Photo: Warsaw Superintendent Dr. Shawn Poyser poses with Bothwell Foundation’s James White, Lauren Thiel-Payne & Stafford Swearingen after mask donation. Photo courtesy of Bothwell Foundation.
MASK UP PETTIS AND BENTON COUNTYThe Bothwell Foundation would like to invite you to join us in the Mask Up campaign….
Posted by Bothwell Foundation on Wednesday, May 20, 2020
A new express care health clinic is now open in Camdenton.
Nurse practitioner Bob Meyer with Lake Regional Express Care tells KRMS News some of those issues include sprains, strains, ear aches, cuts and bruises.
But Meyer also says it’s important to know the difference between a life threatening emergency and another situation that can be handled at the Express Care.
The new facility’s located in the old Lake Regional Orthopedics building in Camdenton.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lake Regional to Open Express Care Clinic in Camdenton
OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Lake Regional’s Express Care will expand to Camdenton on Tuesday, Sept. 1. The clinic will be open daily — including weekends — at 226 E. Highway 54. Providers include Valerie Donnelson, PA-C, and Robert Meyer, FNP.
Express Care provides walk-in care for non-life-threatening issues, such as colds, earaches, allergies and sprains.
“It’s a great option, especially for visitors to our area and for anyone needing evening or weekend care,” said Lindsay Bentley, director of Lake Regional Clinical Operations. “We are excited to add this convenient care in Camdenton.”
No appointment is needed to visit any of Lake Regional’s Express Care clinics also open daily in Eldon, Lebanon and Osage Beach. For hours, visit lakeregional.com/expresscare or call 573-873-2521.
Lake Regional Express Care – Camdenton is located in the former Lake Regional Orthopedics – Camdenton location. The offices of Jeff Jones, D.O., and Brian Swanson, PA-C, are now located at Lake Regional Orthopedics, 1075 Nichols Road, Osage Beach.
Lake Regional Health System provides comprehensive health care services to residents and visitors throughout the mid-Missouri region. The hospital is a Level II Stroke Center, Level II STEMI (heart attack) Center and Level III Trauma Center. Lake Regional also provides a wide range of specialty care, including cancer care, heart care and orthopedics. Plus, Lake Regional operates primary care clinics, Express Care clinics, rehab therapy clinics, programs for home health and hospice, and retail pharmacies. To learn more, visit lakeregional.com.
