(KAIR)--Atchison County restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs, and movie theaters are being closed to the public.

That’s according to a news release issued Thursday morning by the Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Department’s Atchison County Health Officer Lori Forge.

The release says the action is being taken due to “growing concerns with the transmission and spread of COVID-19” with the CDC recommending the suspension of “all non-essential gatherings or group events larger than 10 attendees.”

The release notes that restaurants “may continue to provide carry out, drive-through and delivery of food and beverage services,” but all dine-in seating is on hold at the current time.

Exceptions: (still practice social distancing)

1. Childcare locations, residential care centers, and group homes. (follow KDHE guidelines)
2. Law enforcement, jail, or correctional facilities, including any facilities operated by the
Department of Corrections.
3. Detoxification centers.
4. Any facility being used as part of a government or community response to a natural
disaster.
5. Hospitals, medical facilities, and pharmacies.
6. Long term care and assisted living. (follow guidelines from KDHE)

Meanwhile, Atchison County District Court has been halted.

That comes through an order by the Kansas Supreme Court.

According to a release, District Court is closed for all hearings, except emergency hearings, until further notice.

Those seeking an emergency Protection from Abuse Order or Protection from Stalking Order should access those forms online at kscourts.org, and file by FAX at 913-367-1171. 

All persons with business before the Court should call 913-804-6060 for direction.