Both Barton County and the City of Great Bend announced Monday they have established special telephone hotlines to handle questions concerning the coronavirus.

The Barton County Health Department number is 620-796-5609, and will help callers connect callers with basic information and how to contact officials at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. 

The message will say “You have reached the Barton County Health Department. If you or a family member is experiencing signs of fever which may include a temperature over 100.4 without fever reducers, a cough or severe shortness of breath and any body aches, please call your primary care provider.  

“For additional information on COVID-19 the Coronavirus call (KDHE) the Kansas Department of Health and Environment toll free at 1-866-534-3463 or visit www.kdheks.gov.

“For all other calls, contact the Barton County Health Department at 620-793-1902.”

As for the city, the number is is 620-791-5035, and it is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.