Contents
As the state of Kansas begins to reopen after the COVID-19 shutdown, many are wondering when Phase 3 will begin. Here’s what we know so far.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
The State of Kansas is currently in Phase 2 of reopening. This means that certain businesses are allowed to operate at 50% capacity, while others remain closed. However, there is no set timeline for when the state will move to Phase 3.
The decision to move to Phase 3 will be based on a number of factors, including the number of new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. The state will also look at the ability of the healthcare system to handle an increase in patients, as well as the availability of testing and contact tracing.
It is unclear how long it will take for Kansas to meet the criteria for Phase 3, but it is possible that it could happen within the next few weeks or months.
What is the status of Kansas now?
As of May 18, 2020, Kansas is currently in Phase 2 of reopening. This means that some businesses are allowed to reopen with certain restrictions in place,
such as capacity limits and social distancing requirements. Other businesses, such as bars and nightclubs, remain closed.
Who makes the decision to move to Phase 3?
The decision to move to Phase 3 will be made by the Governor’s Office in consultation with public health officials and based on the following criteria:
-A downward trend of influenza-like illness (ILI) and covid-like syndromic cases reported to KDHE over a 14-day period
-A downward trend of cases in at least 70% of the state’s 105 counties over a 14-day period
-A downward trend of positivity rate percentage (total number of positive tests divided by the total number of tests) in at least 70% of the state’s counties over a 14-day period
-Sustained improvement in hospital metrics, including:
– ICU bed occupancy below 80% for 14 days
– Ventilator availability above 15% for 14 days
-No decrease in testing availability for 14 days
What factors are considered when making the decision to move to Phase 3?
There are four primary factors that will be considered when making the decision to moveKansas to Phase 3 of reopening:
-The state must continue to show a decrease in COVID-19 cases for 14 consecutive days, as well as a decrease in the percentage of positive tests.
-The state must have the ability to test all symptomatic individuals within 48 hours, as well as have the ability to contact trace those individuals who test positive.
-The state must have the hospital capacity to treat all COVID-19 patients without having to ration care, as well as the ability to staff hospitals with health care workers.
-There must be enough personal protective equipment (PPE) available for health care workers and first responders.
When is the earliest Kansas could move to Phase 3?
The earliest Kansas could move to Phase 3 is July 1, 2020.
What will happen in Phase 3?
In Phase 3, gatherings of up to 30 people will be allowed, and bars and nightclubs can reopen at 50% capacity with no more than 30 people per room. Restaurants can also increase their capacity to 50% indoors, and 75% outdoors.
additionally, all businesses will be required to implement social distancing measures, such as spacing out tables and requiring employees to wear masks.
Conclusion
As of July 20, 2020, Kansas has not yet announced a date for moving to Phase 3 of reopening. State officials continue to monitor the situation and will make an announcement when they feel it is safe to do so.
