Scotts Bluff County reports the fourth death in the Panhandle, a male in his 80s with underlying health conditions.

“We share our deepest condolences with the family of this gentleman,” said Paulette Schnell, Director of Scotts Bluff County Health Department. “As a community, it’s critical we continue taking every precaution against the COVID-19 virus for our most vulnerable.”

Panhandle Unified Command has begun updating a weekly COVID-19 Risk Dial to provide a summary of current conditions for the Panhandle Public Health District jurisdiction. Each color incorporates federal and national guidance published by top public health experts and is coupled with specific guidance.

Please be advised this is guidance only and does not replace federal, state, or local direct health measures. At-risk and vulnerable populations should take stringent precautions.

Testing opportunities for the week of July 6:

· Chadron Community Hospital: Mondays &amp; Fridays, 7-9am o Testnebraska.com

· Community Action Health Center in Gering: Mondays, Wednesdays, &amp; Fridays, 7-8am o https://tinyurl.com/y7msahzq

· Gordon Clinic parking lot: Thursday (7/9) 2-4pm, Monday (7/13) 3-4pm, and Thursday (7/16) 3-4pm

o Call for an appointment: 308-282-6334 or 308-282-1442

· Morrill County Community Hospital: Daily

o Call for testing, insurance will be billed

· Contact your local hospital or clinic for information on testing access.

Unified Command confirms three more cases of COVID-19 in the Panhandle:

Close contact and exposure are defined as at least 15 minutes, less than six feet apart. There are no community exposure sites identified. The investigations are complete, all close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials.

Ten new recoveries: three in Cheyenne County, two in Morrill County, three in Scotts Bluff County, and two in Sheridan County, brings the total recoveries to 228.

• Banner County: 2 case (1 active, 1 recovered)

• Box Butte County: 3 cases (recovered)

• Cheyenne County: 20 cases (recovered)

• Dawes County: 4 cases (2 active, 2 recovered)

• Kimball County: 13 cases (1 active, 12 recovered)

• Morrill County: 51 cases (22 active, 29 recovered)

• Scotts Bluff County: 227 cases (74 active, 149 recovered, 4 deaths)

• Sheridan County: 8 cases (6 active, 2 recovered)

Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.

For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

By PPHDScotts Bluff County reports the fourth death in the Panhandle, a male in his 80s with underlying health conditions.“We share our deepest condolences with the family of this gentleman,” said Paulette Schnell, Director of Scotts Bluff County Health Department. “As a community, it’s critical we continue taking every precaution against the COVID-19 virus for our most vulnerable.”Panhandle Unified Command has begun updating a weekly COVID-19 Risk Dial to provide a summary of current conditions for the Panhandle Public Health District jurisdiction. Each color incorporates federal and national guidance published by top public health experts and is coupled with specific guidance.Please be advised this is guidance only and does not replace federal, state, or local direct health measures. At-risk and vulnerable populations should take stringent precautions.Testing opportunities for the week of July 6:· Chadron Community Hospital: Mondays &amp; Fridays, 7-9am o Testnebraska.com· Community Action Health Center in Gering: Mondays, Wednesdays, &amp; Fridays, 7-8am o https://tinyurl.com/y7msahzq· Gordon Clinic parking lot: Thursday (7/9) 2-4pm, Monday (7/13) 3-4pm, and Thursday (7/16) 3-4pmo Call for an appointment: 308-282-6334 or 308-282-1442o There is no charge for this testing.· Morrill County Community Hospital: Dailyo Call for testing, insurance will be billed· Contact your local hospital or clinic for information on testing access.Unified Command confirms three more cases of COVID-19 in the Panhandle:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594173044507.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Close contact and exposure are defined as at least 15 minutes, less than six feet apart. There are no community exposure sites identified. The investigations are complete, all close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials.Ten new recoveries: three in Cheyenne County, two in Morrill County, three in Scotts Bluff County, and two in Sheridan County, brings the total recoveries to 228.March 2-July 7, 2020Total Tests Conducted: 5,670Positive: 338Cumulative Positivity Rate: 5.9%Recovered: 228Active Cases: 106Active Hospitalizations: 1Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 33Deaths: 4• Banner County: 2 case (1 active, 1 recovered)• Box Butte County: 3 cases (recovered)• Cheyenne County: 20 cases (recovered)• Dawes County: 4 cases (2 active, 2 recovered)• Garden County: 4 cases (recovered)• Kimball County: 13 cases (1 active, 12 recovered)• Morrill County: 51 cases (22 active, 29 recovered)• Scotts Bluff County: 227 cases (74 active, 149 recovered, 4 deaths)• Sheridan County: 8 cases (6 active, 2 recovered)• Sioux County: 6 cases (recovered)Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

3 more cases, 4th COVID-19 related death, Panhandle total 338

From West Central District Health Department

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-
In continuing our efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our
area and protect the health of our community, the West Central
District Health Department (WCDHD) is asking for your assistance in
identifying individuals who may have attended an event called “Music,
Friends and Fun” held Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at the Cody Park
Pavilion. If you attended this event, please visit
<a href="https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP">https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP</a>
and complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible. If you
do not have the capacity to complete the online screening
questionnaire, please call 308-696-1201. Contact tracing is a vital
tool used by public health departments to contain the spread of
disease, and your cooperation will assist the WCDHD trained staff in
its case investigation.

Attendees are strongly encouraged to
get tested. West Central District Health Department will help
attendees schedule a time and date for testing at no cost to the
individual.  Please contact WCDHD for this important testing.  The
health department will actively monitor all attendees for fourteen
(14) days, providing support and assistance in symptom monitoring and
information.

“We want to remind the community
about the necessity of practicing social distancing and wearing face
coverings when in public. These measures are vital to our community
to keep us healthy and safe. Also crucial to the health of the public
is the submission of event plans to the health department prior to
holding any public gatherings. This is required for any events that
will have a 500 or more occupancy rating”, said Shannon
Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD. 


We would like to remind the community
of the following resources and tools available: 


From West Central District Health DepartmentNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-
In continuing our efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our
area and protect the health of our community, the West Central
District Health Department (WCDHD) is asking for your assistance in
identifying individuals who may have attended an event called “Music,
Friends and Fun” held Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at the Cody Park
Pavilion. If you attended this event, please visit
<a href="https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP">https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a67PjRi6skYXMrP</a>
and complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible. If you
do not have the capacity to complete the online screening
questionnaire, please call 308-696-1201. Contact tracing is a vital
tool used by public health departments to contain the spread of
disease, and your cooperation will assist the WCDHD trained staff in
its case investigation.Attendees are strongly encouraged to
get tested. West Central District Health Department will help
attendees schedule a time and date for testing at no cost to the
individual. Please contact WCDHD for this important testing. The
health department will actively monitor all attendees for fourteen
(14) days, providing support and assistance in symptom monitoring and
information.“We want to remind the community
about the necessity of practicing social distancing and wearing face
coverings when in public. These measures are vital to our community
to keep us healthy and safe. Also crucial to the health of the public
is the submission of event plans to the health department prior to
holding any public gatherings. This is required for any events that
will have a 500 or more occupancy rating”, said Shannon
Vanderheiden, Executive Director of WCDHD. 
We would like to remind the community
of the following resources and tools available: 
<ul>
 <li>To submit your event plan to WCDHD
	please do so here:
	<a href="https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cPgl7JSg2VnGDAh">https://consultinglhd.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cPgl7JSg2VnGDAh</a>
	</li><li>Current Directed Health Measure
	for the WCDHD jurisdiction:
	<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-June22.pdf">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/WCHD-DHM-June22.pdf</a>
	</li><li>COVID-19 Risk Dial &amp; Community
	Guidance:
	<a href="https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html">https://wcdhd.org/what-we-do/health-services/emergency-preparedness/coronavirus/risk-dial.html</a>
</li>
 </ul>

WCDHD warns of possible COVID-19 exposure at Cody Park Pavilion event, urges attendees to get tested

Missouri leaders knew the risk of convening thousands of kids at summer camps across the state during a pandemic, the state's top health official said, and insisted that camp organizers have plans in place to keep an outbreak from happening.

An overnight summer camp in rural southwestern Missouri has seen scores of campers, counselors and staff infected with the coronavirus, the local health department revealed this week, raising questions about the ability to keep kids safe at what is a rite of childhood for many.

Missouri is one of several states to report outbreaks at summer camps. The Kanakuk camp near Branson ended up sending its teenage campers home. On Friday, the local health department announced 49 positive cases of the COVID-19 virus at the camp. By Monday, the number had jumped to 82.

Some states, like Oregon, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, closed summer camps this year, and many camps elsewhere have voluntarily canceled programs. But other camps are plowing ahead, hoping that precautions like social distancing, masks and requiring children to quarantine before coming to camp will quell the risk. Other states where outbreaks have been reported have included Texas, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.

Some 26 million youths normally take part in camps across the U.S. each year, the American Camp Association said Tuesday. The group estimates 19.5 million young people will miss out on in-person day and overnight camps this year due to the pandemic, with 6.5 million still expected to go.

Missouri's outbreak at a camp operated by Christian-based Kanakuk Kamp has done little to change the way that state is handling summer camps, which essentially calls for camp operators to consult with their local public health agency to craft plans to keep kids and staff safe. Camps must report any positive cases to the state.

Dr. Randall Williams, director of the Missouri Department of Health, said Monday that his agency had no plans to shut down summer camps in the wake of the Missouri outbreak.

"We think school is incredibly important to kids. We also think camps are important," Williams said.

In fact, the camp plans to reopen later this summer once test results from all staffers are returned and show it's safe to do so, Williams said.

Phone and email messages left Tuesday by The Associated Press for Kanakuk Kamp were not immediately returned. The organization holds six overnight and day camps across the state, usually drawing more than 20,000 kids from across the country, according to its website.

In Texas, dozens of campers and staffers who attended Pine Cove's Christian camps have tested positive, and several weeks of camp were canceled after clusters of cases were discovered. That includes at least 76 cases in June linked to its overnight camp for teens in Southeast Texas near Columbus. The Ridge camp shut down for two weeks in June before reopening last week, Pine Cove spokeswoman Susan Andreone said.

The organization's Silverado camp, also near Columbus, and two of its camps in East Texas also saw staff changes or interruptions after coronavirus cases. Despite that, Andreone said more than 8,500 people had been on their camp properties through last week, and most sessions haven't been affected. Pine Cove has 10 overnight properties in Texas.

The spread came despite state requirements that include enforcing social distancing and banning outside visitors. As of last week, campers and staff must wear masks when social distancing isn't possible.

"Can we guarantee that someone is not going to get COVID? Absolutely not. But we also understand that parents really know their families best, they know what their particular circumstances are or any particular risks that they have within their family," Andreone said.

Increases in reported cases around the country led Tara Carlson, of Omaha, Nebraska, to pull her 9-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter from their planned summer camps at the last minute.

"We lost over $300," Carson said, "but we feared the risk was too great."

Carlson said she was comfortable with efforts camps had taken against the virus, including mask requirements, limited group sizes and increased cleaning of communal areas. But she didn't want to risk picking up the virus because of regular visits with her parents, including her mom in hospice care.

"I didn't feel I could trust what other families were doing as far as social distancing," she said.

By MARGERY A. BECK-Associated Press Missouri leaders knew the risk of convening thousands of kids at summer camps across the state during a pandemic, the state's top health official said, and insisted that camp organizers have plans in place to keep an outbreak from happening.The outbreak happened anyway.An overnight summer camp in rural southwestern Missouri has seen scores of campers, counselors and staff infected with the coronavirus, the local health department revealed this week, raising questions about the ability to keep kids safe at what is a rite of childhood for many.Missouri is one of several states to report outbreaks at summer camps. The Kanakuk camp near Branson ended up sending its teenage campers home. On Friday, the local health department announced 49 positive cases of the COVID-19 virus at the camp. By Monday, the number had jumped to 82.Some states, like Oregon, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, closed summer camps this year, and many camps elsewhere have voluntarily canceled programs. But other camps are plowing ahead, hoping that precautions like social distancing, masks and requiring children to quarantine before coming to camp will quell the risk. Other states where outbreaks have been reported have included Texas, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.Some 26 million youths normally take part in camps across the U.S. each year, the American Camp Association said Tuesday. The group estimates 19.5 million young people will miss out on in-person day and overnight camps this year due to the pandemic, with 6.5 million still expected to go.Missouri's outbreak at a camp operated by Christian-based Kanakuk Kamp has done little to change the way that state is handling summer camps, which essentially calls for camp operators to consult with their local public health agency to craft plans to keep kids and staff safe. Camps must report any positive cases to the state.Dr. Randall Williams, director of the Missouri Department of Health, said Monday that his agency had no plans to shut down summer camps in the wake of the Missouri outbreak."We think school is incredibly important to kids. We also think camps are important," Williams said.In fact, the camp plans to reopen later this summer once test results from all staffers are returned and show it's safe to do so, Williams said.Phone and email messages left Tuesday by The Associated Press for Kanakuk Kamp were not immediately returned. The organization holds six overnight and day camps across the state, usually drawing more than 20,000 kids from across the country, according to its website.In Texas, dozens of campers and staffers who attended Pine Cove's Christian camps have tested positive, and several weeks of camp were canceled after clusters of cases were discovered. That includes at least 76 cases in June linked to its overnight camp for teens in Southeast Texas near Columbus. The Ridge camp shut down for two weeks in June before reopening last week, Pine Cove spokeswoman Susan Andreone said.The organization's Silverado camp, also near Columbus, and two of its camps in East Texas also saw staff changes or interruptions after coronavirus cases. Despite that, Andreone said more than 8,500 people had been on their camp properties through last week, and most sessions haven't been affected. Pine Cove has 10 overnight properties in Texas.The spread came despite state requirements that include enforcing social distancing and banning outside visitors. As of last week, campers and staff must wear masks when social distancing isn't possible."Can we guarantee that someone is not going to get COVID? Absolutely not. But we also understand that parents really know their families best, they know what their particular circumstances are or any particular risks that they have within their family," Andreone said.Increases in reported cases around the country led Tara Carlson, of Omaha, Nebraska, to pull her 9-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter from their planned summer camps at the last minute."We lost over $300," Carson said, "but we feared the risk was too great."Carlson said she was comfortable with efforts camps had taken against the virus, including mask requirements, limited group sizes and increased cleaning of communal areas. But she didn't want to risk picking up the virus because of regular visits with her parents, including her mom in hospice care."I didn't feel I could trust what other families were doing as far as social distancing," she said.

Missouri kids camp virus outbreak raises questions of safety

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — A town in northwestern Wyoming will require people to wear face masks in many businesses to limit spread of the coronavirus. 

The Jackson Town Council approved the measure 5-0 in a special meeting Friday. Business owners frustrated about customers refusing to wear masks voluntarily pleaded with town councilors to pass the ordinance.

 The Jackson Hole News &amp; Guide reports the ordinance doesn’t apply outdoors except when people are waiting in line outside a business. 

Wyoming as of Monday had 1,634 reported confirmed and probable cases of the coronavirus including 1,172 who had recovered. Nine people were hospitalized and 20 had died.

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — A town in northwestern Wyoming will require people to wear face masks in many businesses to limit spread of the coronavirus. The Jackson Town Council approved the measure 5-0 in a special meeting Friday. Business owners frustrated about customers refusing to wear masks voluntarily pleaded with town councilors to pass the ordinance. The Jackson Hole News &amp; Guide reports the ordinance doesn’t apply outdoors except when people are waiting in line outside a business. Wyoming as of Monday had 1,634 reported confirmed and probable cases of the coronavirus including 1,172 who had recovered. Nine people were hospitalized and 20 had died.

Wyoming town to require face masks in most businesses

COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte on July 6, 2020.

COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte on July 6, 2020.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwcdhd%2Fvideos%2F282317463206216%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥 COVID-19 Community Update from North Platte

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Another Nebraska state prisons employee has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, officials said.

A news release from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said the staffer is employed at the Lincoln Correctional Center and is self-isolating at home.

The department said it will notify those who work and live in the Lincoln facility. Officials ask that anyone who may have had close contact with the staff member to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider.

The latest case brings to 21 the number of state prisons staffers who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Twenty have since recovered, the department said.

On Sunday, Nebraska reported 167 new coronavirus cases, bringing the state's total to 19,827 cases since the outbreak began. The number of deaths linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska remained at 284.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Another Nebraska state prisons employee has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, officials said.A news release from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services said the staffer is employed at the Lincoln Correctional Center and is self-isolating at home.The department said it will notify those who work and live in the Lincoln facility. Officials ask that anyone who may have had close contact with the staff member to self-quarantine until they are cleared by a medical provider.The latest case brings to 21 the number of state prisons staffers who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Twenty have since recovered, the department said.On Sunday, Nebraska reported 167 new coronavirus cases, bringing the state's total to 19,827 cases since the outbreak began. The number of deaths linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska remained at 284.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

Another Nebraska prisons staffer positive for COVID-19

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska reported 167 new coronavirus cases on Sunday to give the state 19,827 cases since the outbreak began.

The state Department of Health and Human Services said Sunday that the number of deaths linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska remained at 284.

State officials said 43% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 53% of the intensive care beds and 81 percent of the ventilators in the state remained available Sunday. A total of 109 people in the state were hospitalized Sunday with COVID-19.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska reported 167 new coronavirus cases on Sunday to give the state 19,827 cases since the outbreak began.The state Department of Health and Human Services said Sunday that the number of deaths linked to the coronavirus in Nebraska remained at 284.State officials said 43% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 53% of the intensive care beds and 81 percent of the ventilators in the state remained available Sunday. A total of 109 people in the state were hospitalized Sunday with COVID-19.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

Nebraska reports 19,827 coronavirus cases, 284 deaths

OMAHA, Neb.-Long before COVID19 came on the scene a team from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine were in talks with long-term care facilities across the state about ways to improve their infection control programs.

Today that team is seeing the fruits of their work.

“The pandemic has hit long-term care facilities particularly hard,” said Muhammad Salman Ashraf, MBBS, associate professor of internal medicine at the UNMC and medical director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://icap.nebraskamed.com/" target="_blank">Nebraska Infection Control Assessment and Promotion Program (Nebraska ICAP)</a>.

“If you compare Nebraska to other states you would see that less than one percent of the nursing home population in our state has succumbed to COVID19, where more than 10 percent of the nursing home population have died in other states. We believe the lower numbers we see in our state are a direct result of the impressive infection control measures and practices of the nursing homes and the educational efforts of the Nebraska ICAP,” Dr. Ashraf said.

Nebraska ICAP offers a no cost, peer-to-peer infection control assessments and recommendations based on site visits, consultations and online training.

The team includes experienced infection preventionists, infectious disease trained medical directors and professional educators.

The program was launched in 2015 through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control provided to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

The goal of the grant is to assess infection control activities in a variety of health care facilities across the state, including critical access hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient and surgical centers, and dialysis centers.

Nebraska ICAP also partners with the Nebraska Antimicrobial Stewardship Assessment and Promotion Program to help sites develop programs for reducing unnecessary antibiotic use with the goal of preventing antibiotic resistance.

Since the start of the program, the team has conducted site visits at more than 155 locations and provided ongoing support, where needed. In addition, they have collaborated with Nebraska Infection Control Network, a local not-for-profit educational organization, to develop a certificate training program for infection preventionists working in long-term care facilities. To date they have trained 81 nursing home infection preventionists through this program.

Dr. Ashraf said the team found a number of recurring gaps during their visits, including suboptimal hand hygiene practices; a lack of auditing and feedback programs focused on improving infection control practices; and a lack of competency-based infection control training for staff.

Once the gaps were discovered, the Nebraska ICAP team were able to provide the resources the facilities needed to make the necessary changes.

“These facilities are doing their best, often with limited resources. Our job is to help them efficiently use those resources in a way that allows them to continue to ensure the safety of their residents and patients,” Dr. Ashraf said.

Because of the work of the Nebraska ICAP, Dr. Ashraf said that when the pandemic did hit, everyone already was engaged in conversations before the first case was identified in Nebraska.

“This program is meant to help these facilities prevent any kind of infection transmission, whether that is just one individual infection transmitted to one other person, or a wide-spread outbreak like this pandemic, you are ready at all times and you don’t just change your routine,” he said. “Once you have a program in place then you can deal with a pandemic like we face today.”

OMAHA, Neb.-Long before COVID19 came on the scene a team from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Nebraska Medicine were in talks with long-term care facilities across the state about ways to improve their infection control programs.Today that team is seeing the fruits of their work.“The pandemic has hit long-term care facilities particularly hard,” said Muhammad Salman Ashraf, MBBS, associate professor of internal medicine at the UNMC and medical director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://icap.nebraskamed.com/" target="_blank">Nebraska Infection Control Assessment and Promotion Program (Nebraska ICAP)</a>.“If you compare Nebraska to other states you would see that less than one percent of the nursing home population in our state has succumbed to COVID19, where more than 10 percent of the nursing home population have died in other states. We believe the lower numbers we see in our state are a direct result of the impressive infection control measures and practices of the nursing homes and the educational efforts of the Nebraska ICAP,” Dr. Ashraf said.Nebraska ICAP offers a no cost, peer-to-peer infection control assessments and recommendations based on site visits, consultations and online training.The team includes experienced infection preventionists, infectious disease trained medical directors and professional educators.The program was launched in 2015 through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control provided to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.The goal of the grant is to assess infection control activities in a variety of health care facilities across the state, including critical access hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient and surgical centers, and dialysis centers.Nebraska ICAP also partners with the Nebraska Antimicrobial Stewardship Assessment and Promotion Program to help sites develop programs for reducing unnecessary antibiotic use with the goal of preventing antibiotic resistance.Since the start of the program, the team has conducted site visits at more than 155 locations and provided ongoing support, where needed. In addition, they have collaborated with Nebraska Infection Control Network, a local not-for-profit educational organization, to develop a certificate training program for infection preventionists working in long-term care facilities. To date they have trained 81 nursing home infection preventionists through this program.Dr. Ashraf said the team found a number of recurring gaps during their visits, including suboptimal hand hygiene practices; a lack of auditing and feedback programs focused on improving infection control practices; and a lack of competency-based infection control training for staff.Once the gaps were discovered, the Nebraska ICAP team were able to provide the resources the facilities needed to make the necessary changes.“These facilities are doing their best, often with limited resources. Our job is to help them efficiently use those resources in a way that allows them to continue to ensure the safety of their residents and patients,” Dr. Ashraf said.Because of the work of the Nebraska ICAP, Dr. Ashraf said that when the pandemic did hit, everyone already was engaged in conversations before the first case was identified in Nebraska.“This program is meant to help these facilities prevent any kind of infection transmission, whether that is just one individual infection transmitted to one other person, or a wide-spread outbreak like this pandemic, you are ready at all times and you don’t just change your routine,” he said. “Once you have a program in place then you can deal with a pandemic like we face today.”

UNMC: Long-term care facilities benefit from infection control program

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has reported another 198 novel coronavirus cases, increasing the total for the pandemic to 19,660.

The state Department of Health and Human Services dashboard showed Saturday that the number of cases had increased 1% in the previous day. The state reported 284 COVID-19-related deaths, up two.

The health department said 14,200 people, or about 72% of those infected, have recovered. It said 1,365 people have been hospitalized, but only 111 of those hospitalizations still are active.

Nearly 63% of the people who've been hospitalized were 55 or older, and the same group accounts for 90% of the state's reported COVID-19-related deaths. the department said.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause severe illness or death.

The health department said 42% of the state's hospital beds, 50% of its intensive care unit beds and 80% of its ventilator beds still are available.

About 55% of the state's total reported cases were in Douglas, Lancaster and Dakota counties.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has reported another 198 novel coronavirus cases, increasing the total for the pandemic to 19,660.The state Department of Health and Human Services dashboard showed Saturday that the number of cases had increased 1% in the previous day. The state reported 284 COVID-19-related deaths, up two.The health department said 14,200 people, or about 72% of those infected, have recovered. It said 1,365 people have been hospitalized, but only 111 of those hospitalizations still are active.Nearly 63% of the people who've been hospitalized were 55 or older, and the same group accounts for 90% of the state's reported COVID-19-related deaths. the department said.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause severe illness or death.The health department said 42% of the state's hospital beds, 50% of its intensive care unit beds and 80% of its ventilator beds still are available.About 55% of the state's total reported cases were in Douglas, Lancaster and Dakota counties.

Nebraska reports 198 new COVID-19 cases, making total 19,660

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials are watching for new outbreaks of the coronavirus that have been seen in other states and "certainly will keep all options open" to try to protect public health, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Thursday.

Ricketts made the comments as the state continued to see new, confirmed cases and deaths. Nebraska reported 142 new cases of the virus and six new deaths, according to the state's online tracking portal.

That brings the total number of known Nebraska cases to 19,452 since the pandemic began, according to the tracker. Of that number, 282 people have died and 14,022 have recovered.

Public and private health officials have tested 184,354 residents in Nebraska so far.

So far, the virus hasn't overwhelmed Nebraska's hospitals as many initially feared. The state dashboard shows 41% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 48% of its intensive care unit beds and 80% of its ventilators are available for use.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska officials are watching for new outbreaks of the coronavirus that have been seen in other states and "certainly will keep all options open" to try to protect public health, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Thursday.Ricketts made the comments as the state continued to see new, confirmed cases and deaths. Nebraska reported 142 new cases of the virus and six new deaths, according to the state's online tracking portal.That brings the total number of known Nebraska cases to 19,452 since the pandemic began, according to the tracker. Of that number, 282 people have died and 14,022 have recovered.Public and private health officials have tested 184,354 residents in Nebraska so far.So far, the virus hasn't overwhelmed Nebraska's hospitals as many initially feared. The state dashboard shows 41% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 48% of its intensive care unit beds and 80% of its ventilators are available for use.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

Nebraska officials watching virus cases as 6 more die

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts rescinded Executive Order 20-05 amending the due date for Nebraskans to renew a driver license or complete vehicle titling and registration requirements. &nbsp;Acknowledging the need to ensure residents have enough time to update their credentials, rather than the original 30-day notice period, the Governor has introduced a deadline of August 31st. &nbsp;This doubles the amount of notice originally discussed to allow residents to become compliant.

Nebraska residents are encouraged to take advantage of the dozens of online services available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dmv.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dmv.nebraska.gov</a>.

Complete text of the new executive order (Executive Order 20-30) regarding driver and vehicle requirements is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Frc2l186djptoo6q%2FEO%252020-30%2520-%2520COVID-19%2520-%2520Motor%2520Vehicle%2520Titling%252C%2520Registration%2520%2526%2520Driver%2520Licenses%252007.02.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C9a735877669949475b8b08d81ec8caf9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637293195025833201&amp;sdata=23rc%2B28vE6UCgTBYmFAVk8Bl2ayBxBb%2FKHS8Zf%2FKU4k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

News ReleaseLINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts rescinded Executive Order 20-05 amending the due date for Nebraskans to renew a driver license or complete vehicle titling and registration requirements. &nbsp;Acknowledging the need to ensure residents have enough time to update their credentials, rather than the original 30-day notice period, the Governor has introduced a deadline of August 31st. &nbsp;This doubles the amount of notice originally discussed to allow residents to become compliant.<ul>
 <li>Driver License or State IDs –&nbsp;Individuals whose driver license, State ID, or permit expired on or after March 1, 2020 must renew their driver license or State ID by August 31, 2020. &nbsp;Online services are available every day of the week, and customers are encouraged to use online services as much as possible to allow those who must visit a driver license office to be served as efficiently as possible.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Vehicle Titling &amp; Registrations –&nbsp;Individuals who purchased a new vehicle, or whose existing vehicle registration expired on or after March 1, 2020 and is due for renewal, must complete titling and registration requirements by August 31, 2020. &nbsp;For customers required to pay sales tax, failure to complete the process by August 31, 2020 may result in penalty and interest being applied.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Ignition Interlock Providers –&nbsp;The two-week extension period for ignition interlock customers to complete monthly inspection and monitoring requirements will no longer apply after August 31, 2020.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) –&nbsp;Normal IFTA requirements will apply after August 31, 2020. &nbsp;Second-quarter IFTA filings are due July 31, 2020. &nbsp;Late completion of filings may result in penalty and interest being applied.</li>
 </ul>Nebraska residents are encouraged to take advantage of the dozens of online services available at&nbsp;<a href="http://dmv.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">dmv.nebraska.gov</a>.Complete text of the new executive order (Executive Order 20-30) regarding driver and vehicle requirements is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Frc2l186djptoo6q%2FEO%252020-30%2520-%2520COVID-19%2520-%2520Motor%2520Vehicle%2520Titling%252C%2520Registration%2520%2526%2520Driver%2520Licenses%252007.02.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C9a735877669949475b8b08d81ec8caf9%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637293195025833201&amp;sdata=23rc%2B28vE6UCgTBYmFAVk8Bl2ayBxBb%2FKHS8Zf%2FKU4k%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts rescinds executive order for driver and vehicle requirements

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has so far avoided the resurgence of new coronavirus cases that have plagued other states around the country, but is still seeing new confirmed cases - and deaths - every day.

The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">virus tracking site&nbsp;</a>shows Nebraska recorded 133 new confirmed cases of the virus on Wednesday, bringing the state's total to 19,310. It also shows that since the outbreak began, 276 people in the state have died from COVID-19.

Of Nebraska's positive cases, more than 13,800 have recovered, the state's site said.

State figures also show hospitals' ability to handle the cases reported so far remaining steady, with 40% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 48% of its intensive care beds and 79% of its ventilators still available Thursday.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the U.S. climbed to a new high of more than 50,000 per day on Thursday, with the infection curve rising in 40 out of 50 states, according to John Hopkins University. The surge has been blamed in part on Americans not wearing masks or following other social distancing rules as states lifted their lockdowns over the past few weeks.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska has so far avoided the resurgence of new coronavirus cases that have plagued other states around the country, but is still seeing new confirmed cases - and deaths - every day.The state's&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4213f719a45647bc873ffb58783ffef3" target="_blank">virus tracking site&nbsp;</a>shows Nebraska recorded 133 new confirmed cases of the virus on Wednesday, bringing the state's total to 19,310. It also shows that since the outbreak began, 276 people in the state have died from COVID-19.Of Nebraska's positive cases, more than 13,800 have recovered, the state's site said.State figures also show hospitals' ability to handle the cases reported so far remaining steady, with 40% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 48% of its intensive care beds and 79% of its ventilators still available Thursday.The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the U.S. climbed to a new high of more than 50,000 per day on Thursday, with the infection curve rising in 40 out of 50 states, according to John Hopkins University. The surge has been blamed in part on Americans not wearing masks or following other social distancing rules as states lifted their lockdowns over the past few weeks.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

No spike, but Nebraska sees COVID-19 cases, deaths creep up

LINCOLN, Neb.-School districts across the state must work collaboratively with their teachers and other school staff to ensure a safe and successful school year, according to the Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA).

“Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking input from school staff through local education associations is more important than ever before,” said Jenni Benson, president of the 28,000-member NSEA. “NSEA has been meeting with members and has been in contact with multiple groups to produce guidelines for reopening schools that are best for Nebraska students, families and school staff.”

Significant study, outreach and discussion led to recommendations from NSEA’s Continuous Learning and School Safety Committee that are being released this week, according to Benson.

Tim Royers chairs NSEA’s Continuous Learning and School Safety Committee. That committee’s recommendations prioritize health and safety for all students and staff, as well as long-term strategies for student learning and educational equity.&nbsp;

“Our goal was to determine the best practices for opening schools safely and supporting distance learning as needed,” said Royers, a teacher at Millard West High School. “We know that educators will&nbsp; return to school soon and many are concerned about their safety and the safety of their students amid the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; We strongly encourage every local education association to use this information to engage school district administration about the safe re-opening of classrooms.”

Royers said it is critical that educators have a seat at the table and are part of the decision-making process.

On Monday, Dr. Bob Rauner, president at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/partnershiphealthylincoln/?eid=ARADY2heXXLJdCAIjyWExriIyTvFvNJZOOjlbM6d9wxp9L_i1TpQE2XNOkzpFICqKJgEZzKa5axVd9YH&amp;timeline_context_item_type=intro_card_work&amp;timeline_context_item_source=100006507002210&amp;fref=tag" target="_blank">Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln</a>&nbsp;and a member of the Lincoln Public Schools Board of Education, participated in a Facebook Live with Benson and Royers to talk about the recommendations. Also participating were NSEA Executive Director Maddie Fennell and NSEA Director of Advocacy Trish Guinan. The event reached more than 24,000 people and generated more than 400 comments and questions.

Rauner stressed the importance of wearing masks to help prevent the spread of the virus.

“I asked our medical community about wearing masks to help prevent the spread of this virus and – in one week – 124 physicians signed on to a list supporting wearing masks.&nbsp; I’ve never gotten doctors to agree to anything – let alone that fast. There is really no debate from the medical community on the benefits. Wearing masks in schools is a good idea, obviously with limitations.”

Since early March, Rauner has regularly been posting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdYVcGJDGEdyBOUp3G7fGhQ" target="_blank">YouTube videos</a>&nbsp;to provide information and answer questions about COVID-19.

“This guidance was crafted in response to educator concerns about returning to school and the most effective ways to ensure student success, whether it is in-person classroom instruction or remote learning,” said Fennell. “We stand ready to support the needs of students, educators and communities. The input of educators is critical to the planning of safely reopening Nebraska schools.”

NSEA is also a member of the Nebraska Child Health and Education Alliance. NCHEA, which also has representation from the Nebraska Association of School Boards, Children’s Hospital, the University of Nebraska Medical Center and others, is also working to provide health safety measure guidance for school districts, according to Fennell.

News Release NSEALINCOLN, Neb.-School districts across the state must work collaboratively with their teachers and other school staff to ensure a safe and successful school year, according to the Nebraska State Education Association (NSEA).“Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, seeking input from school staff through local education associations is more important than ever before,” said Jenni Benson, president of the 28,000-member NSEA. “NSEA has been meeting with members and has been in contact with multiple groups to produce guidelines for reopening schools that are best for Nebraska students, families and school staff.”Significant study, outreach and discussion led to recommendations from NSEA’s Continuous Learning and School Safety Committee that are being released this week, according to Benson.Tim Royers chairs NSEA’s Continuous Learning and School Safety Committee. That committee’s recommendations prioritize health and safety for all students and staff, as well as long-term strategies for student learning and educational equity.&nbsp;“Our goal was to determine the best practices for opening schools safely and supporting distance learning as needed,” said Royers, a teacher at Millard West High School. “We know that educators will&nbsp; return to school soon and many are concerned about their safety and the safety of their students amid the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; We strongly encourage every local education association to use this information to engage school district administration about the safe re-opening of classrooms.”Royers said it is critical that educators have a seat at the table and are part of the decision-making process.On Monday, Dr. Bob Rauner, president at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/partnershiphealthylincoln/?eid=ARADY2heXXLJdCAIjyWExriIyTvFvNJZOOjlbM6d9wxp9L_i1TpQE2XNOkzpFICqKJgEZzKa5axVd9YH&amp;timeline_context_item_type=intro_card_work&amp;timeline_context_item_source=100006507002210&amp;fref=tag" target="_blank">Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln</a>&nbsp;and a member of the Lincoln Public Schools Board of Education, participated in a Facebook Live with Benson and Royers to talk about the recommendations. Also participating were NSEA Executive Director Maddie Fennell and NSEA Director of Advocacy Trish Guinan. The event reached more than 24,000 people and generated more than 400 comments and questions.Rauner stressed the importance of wearing masks to help prevent the spread of the virus.“I asked our medical community about wearing masks to help prevent the spread of this virus and – in one week – 124 physicians signed on to a list supporting wearing masks.&nbsp; I’ve never gotten doctors to agree to anything – let alone that fast. There is really no debate from the medical community on the benefits. Wearing masks in schools is a good idea, obviously with limitations.”Since early March, Rauner has regularly been posting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdYVcGJDGEdyBOUp3G7fGhQ" target="_blank">YouTube videos</a>&nbsp;to provide information and answer questions about COVID-19.“This guidance was crafted in response to educator concerns about returning to school and the most effective ways to ensure student success, whether it is in-person classroom instruction or remote learning,” said Fennell. “We stand ready to support the needs of students, educators and communities. The input of educators is critical to the planning of safely reopening Nebraska schools.”NSEA is also a member of the Nebraska Child Health and Education Alliance. NCHEA, which also has representation from the Nebraska Association of School Boards, Children’s Hospital, the University of Nebraska Medical Center and others, is also working to provide health safety measure guidance for school districts, according to Fennell.

NSEA provides guidance for reopening schools

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Business leaders say the economy has begun to recover as businesses reopened in the past month in nine Midwest and Plains states, but it remains weaker than before the coronavirus outbreak began, according to a monthly survey released Wednesday.

The overall index for the region jumped into positive territory at 50.3 in June from May's 43.5. The survey results are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests growth. A score below 50 suggests decline.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said the region's overall index will have to remain above 50 for many months before the economy reaches the level it was at before states began imposing restrictions because of the coronavirus.

The confidence index improved to 65.3 in June from May's 56.6 showing that business leaders expect the economy to continue improving over the next six months.

The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

Job losses continue in the region. The employment index declined to 38.9 in June from May's 40.

Businesses were paying higher wholesale prices over the past month. The wholesale price index increased to 59.7 in June from May's 48.6.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Institute for Supply Management, formerly the Purchasing Management Association, began formally surveying its membership in 1931 to gauge business conditions.

The Creighton Economic Forecasting Group uses the same methodology as the national survey to consult supply managers and business leaders. Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss oversees the report.

The overall index ranges between 0 and 100. Growth neutral is 50, and a figure greater than 50 indicates growth in that factor over the next three to six months. A figure below 50 indicates decline.

Here are the state-by-state results for June:

Arkansas: The state's overall index rose to 50.9 from May's 43.7. Components of the June index were: new orders at 58.7, production or sales at 55.2, delivery lead time at 47.4, inventories at 54.4, and employment at 38.8. "Since the onset of COVID-19, Arkansas has lost 88,000 jobs, or almost 7% of its employment. Our surveys point to a flattening of employment with only slight job gains in the months ahead," Goss said.

Iowa: The overall index once again slumped below growth neutral. However, the reading climbed to a weak 47.1 from 41.9 in May. Components of the index were: new orders at 50.2, production. or sales at 56.1, delivery lead time at 43.2, employment at 35.7, and inventories at 50.2. Iowa has lost 161,000 jobs, or approximately 10%, of its employment since the outbreak began earlier this year, Goss said.

Kansas: The state's index increased to 45.1 from May's 42.8. Components of the index were: new orders at 57.1, production or sales at 30.1, delivery lead time at 46.6, employment at 38.2, and inventories at 53.6. Kansas has lost more than 108,000 jobs, or approximately 7.6%, of its employment during the pandemic, Goss said.

Minnesota: The overall index increased to 45.0 from 39.8 in May. Components were: new orders at 45.4, production or sales at 56.5, delivery lead time at 40.9, inventories at 47.9, and employment at 34.0. Goss said the state has lost more than 350,000 jobs, or almost 12%, of its employment. Only slight job gains are expected in the months ahead, he said.

Missouri: The overall index climbed to 50.5 from 42.3 in May. Components were: new orders at 51.3, production or sales at 56.0, delivery lead time at 49.8, inventories at 50.8, and employment at 44.6. "Since the onset of COVID-19, the state has lost 262,000 jobs, or approximately 9.0% of its employment. Our surveys point to a flattening of employment with only slight job gains in the months ahead," Goss said.

Nebraska: The state's overall index for June rose to 52.6 from 43.9 in May. Components were: new orders at 59.1, production or sales at 55.2, delivery lead time at 55.5, inventories at 54.6, and employment at 38.9. Nebraska has lost almost 77,000 jobs, or approximately 7.5%, of its employment since the outbreak began, Goss said.

North Dakota: The overall index climbed to 51.6 from 43.4 in May. Components were: new orders at 55.1, production or sales at 55.6, delivery lead time at 57.1, employment at 37.5, and inventories at 52.6. North Dakatoa has lost approximately 41,000 jobs, or roughly 9.4% of its employment since the onset of the pandemic, Goss said.

Oklahoma: The state's index moved above growth neutral in June, to 53.1 from May's 43.0. Components were: new orders at 59.9, production or sales at 55.1, delivery lead time at 56.2, inventories at 55.0, and employment at 39.2. Oklahoma has lost almost 108,000 jobs in this period.

South Dakota: The index increased to 52.4 from May's 43.8. Components were: new orders at 57.7, production or sales at 55.3, delivery lead time at 56.7, inventories at 53.9, and employment at 38.4. The state has lost approximately 34,000 jobs in this period.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Business leaders say the economy has begun to recover as businesses reopened in the past month in nine Midwest and Plains states, but it remains weaker than before the coronavirus outbreak began, according to a monthly survey released Wednesday.The overall index for the region jumped into positive territory at 50.3 in June from May's 43.5. The survey results are compiled into a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests growth. A score below 50 suggests decline.Creighton University economist Ernie Goss said the region's overall index will have to remain above 50 for many months before the economy reaches the level it was at before states began imposing restrictions because of the coronavirus.The confidence index improved to 65.3 in June from May's 56.6 showing that business leaders expect the economy to continue improving over the next six months.The monthly survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.Job losses continue in the region. The employment index declined to 38.9 in June from May's 40.Businesses were paying higher wholesale prices over the past month. The wholesale price index increased to 59.7 in June from May's 48.6.STATE BY STATE&nbsp;OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The Institute for Supply Management, formerly the Purchasing Management Association, began formally surveying its membership in 1931 to gauge business conditions.The Creighton Economic Forecasting Group uses the same methodology as the national survey to consult supply managers and business leaders. Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss oversees the report.The overall index ranges between 0 and 100. Growth neutral is 50, and a figure greater than 50 indicates growth in that factor over the next three to six months. A figure below 50 indicates decline.Here are the state-by-state results for June:Arkansas: The state's overall index rose to 50.9 from May's 43.7. Components of the June index were: new orders at 58.7, production or sales at 55.2, delivery lead time at 47.4, inventories at 54.4, and employment at 38.8. "Since the onset of COVID-19, Arkansas has lost 88,000 jobs, or almost 7% of its employment. Our surveys point to a flattening of employment with only slight job gains in the months ahead," Goss said.Iowa: The overall index once again slumped below growth neutral. However, the reading climbed to a weak 47.1 from 41.9 in May. Components of the index were: new orders at 50.2, production. or sales at 56.1, delivery lead time at 43.2, employment at 35.7, and inventories at 50.2. Iowa has lost 161,000 jobs, or approximately 10%, of its employment since the outbreak began earlier this year, Goss said.Kansas: The state's index increased to 45.1 from May's 42.8. Components of the index were: new orders at 57.1, production or sales at 30.1, delivery lead time at 46.6, employment at 38.2, and inventories at 53.6. Kansas has lost more than 108,000 jobs, or approximately 7.6%, of its employment during the pandemic, Goss said.Minnesota: The overall index increased to 45.0 from 39.8 in May. Components were: new orders at 45.4, production or sales at 56.5, delivery lead time at 40.9, inventories at 47.9, and employment at 34.0. Goss said the state has lost more than 350,000 jobs, or almost 12%, of its employment. Only slight job gains are expected in the months ahead, he said.Missouri: The overall index climbed to 50.5 from 42.3 in May. Components were: new orders at 51.3, production or sales at 56.0, delivery lead time at 49.8, inventories at 50.8, and employment at 44.6. "Since the onset of COVID-19, the state has lost 262,000 jobs, or approximately 9.0% of its employment. Our surveys point to a flattening of employment with only slight job gains in the months ahead," Goss said.Nebraska: The state's overall index for June rose to 52.6 from 43.9 in May. Components were: new orders at 59.1, production or sales at 55.2, delivery lead time at 55.5, inventories at 54.6, and employment at 38.9. Nebraska has lost almost 77,000 jobs, or approximately 7.5%, of its employment since the outbreak began, Goss said.North Dakota: The overall index climbed to 51.6 from 43.4 in May. Components were: new orders at 55.1, production or sales at 55.6, delivery lead time at 57.1, employment at 37.5, and inventories at 52.6. North Dakatoa has lost approximately 41,000 jobs, or roughly 9.4% of its employment since the onset of the pandemic, Goss said.Oklahoma: The state's index moved above growth neutral in June, to 53.1 from May's 43.0. Components were: new orders at 59.9, production or sales at 55.1, delivery lead time at 56.2, inventories at 55.0, and employment at 39.2. Oklahoma has lost almost 108,000 jobs in this period.South Dakota: The index increased to 52.4 from May's 43.8. Components were: new orders at 57.7, production or sales at 55.3, delivery lead time at 56.7, inventories at 53.9, and employment at 38.4. The state has lost approximately 34,000 jobs in this period.

Business leaders say area's economy improving with reopening

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported three new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Tuesday.

Two cases are from Lincoln County including a male in his 60s, actively isolating at home and a female in her 60s, actively isolating at home. Both of these cases are travel related.

The third case is a male in his 50s from Hooker County, this case is still under investigation. This is the first case in Hooker County.

WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3aY8mKFcaK4l7YxeLpvODhCHpB-PTsBrYpDhyVqmc9pHoZMtxaNpDltc0#!/vizhome/shared/CJG64N2HJ" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a>

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) reported three new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in their jurisdiction on Tuesday.Two cases are from Lincoln County including a male in his 60s, actively isolating at home and a female in her 60s, actively isolating at home. Both of these cases are travel related.The third case is a male in his 50s from Hooker County, this case is still under investigation. This is the first case in Hooker County.WCDHD Dashboard:&nbsp;<a href="https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172?fbclid=IwAR3aY8mKFcaK4l7YxeLpvODhCHpB-PTsBrYpDhyVqmc9pHoZMtxaNpDltc0#!/vizhome/shared/CJG64N2HJ" target="_blank">https://public.tableau.com/profile/sydney.keller5172…</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593563038521.png" alt="" />
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WCDHD reports 2 new cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County, 1 in Hooker County

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska State Fair is still a go but will be scaled back considerably to protect people from the coronavirus, organizers said Tuesday.

The fair's board approved a slimmed-down schedule for this year's event, which is scheduled from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7.

Executive Director Bill Ogg said the first weekend of the fair will feature 4-H events, while the second weekend would offer FFA events. Other activities such as the Raising Nebraska Experience and Nebraska Game and Parks Display will be available during the week in between.

Fair officials said they may add other events if the fair nears. That could include the regular carnival, motor sports and other events if public health restrictions are relaxed. All large concerts have been canceled.

Fair-goers won't have to pay an admission fee this year.

The fair is in Grand Island, one of the areas of the state hardest-hit by the coronavirus.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593547205210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP) - The Nebraska State Fair is still a go but will be scaled back considerably to protect people from the coronavirus, organizers said Tuesday.The fair's board approved a slimmed-down schedule for this year's event, which is scheduled from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7.Executive Director Bill Ogg said the first weekend of the fair will feature 4-H events, while the second weekend would offer FFA events. Other activities such as the Raising Nebraska Experience and Nebraska Game and Parks Display will be available during the week in between.Fair officials said they may add other events if the fair nears. That could include the regular carnival, motor sports and other events if public health restrictions are relaxed. All large concerts have been canceled.Fair-goers won't have to pay an admission fee this year.The fair is in Grand Island, one of the areas of the state hardest-hit by the coronavirus.

Nebraska State Fair still a go, but will be scaled back

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nebraska has topped 19,000 since the outbreak of the new coronavirus began earlier this year, state health officials said.

The state's online virus tracking site showed 19,042 cases had been confirmed by Tuesday - a jump of 143 new cases from the day before. The site also showed two new deaths, bringing the state's total to 269 deaths since the start of the outbreak.

Of Nebraska's positive cases, 13,547 have recovered, the state's site said.

The state says 42% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 48% of its intensive care beds and 80% of its ventilators remained available Tuesday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Nebraska has topped 19,000 since the outbreak of the new coronavirus began earlier this year, state health officials said.The state's online virus tracking site showed 19,042 cases had been confirmed by Tuesday - a jump of 143 new cases from the day before. The site also showed two new deaths, bringing the state's total to 269 deaths since the start of the outbreak.Of Nebraska's positive cases, 13,547 have recovered, the state's site said.The state says 42% of Nebraska's hospital beds, 48% of its intensive care beds and 80% of its ventilators remained available Tuesday.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness.

Nebraska health officials: Virus cases in state top 19,000

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is pleased to announce the continued reopening of several facilities, activities and amenities in state park and recreation areas across the state.

• Most Nebraska state park swimming pools, aquatic centers and the Platte River State Park spray park will reopen July 4. Pools will open with limited hours and operate at reduced capacity. Hours of operation can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.QM_Jfc0NUEH6RDELdSiVhbq3oQ2PTjIVSah7PlJ1aVM/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. The swimming pool at Niobrara State Park will remain closed. The floating playground at Louisville State Recreation Area will open later.

• Select state park area service centers will reopen to the public July 1 for customer service, information and permit sales.

• On July 4, the paddleboats at Mahoney and Platte River state parks will reopen, as will the Owen Marina concessions and miniature golf at Mahoney.

• The Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center in Lincoln will reopen July 6. The Wildcat Hills Shooting Range will open July 1 and the archery range in the Eric Wiebe Shooting Complex at Ponca State Park continues to be open.

• The Wildcat Hills Nature Center, Schramm Education Center, Water Interpretive Center at Lake McConaughy, and Missouri National Recreational River Interpretive Center at Ponca State Park will reopen July 6.

• State historical park interpretive centers also will reopen July 6. While the historical parks will be open some facilities may remain closed, including the Buffalo Bill Ranch house, Bowring Ranch house, and Fort Hartsuff visitors’ center.

A list of all services opening on July 6 can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.C7jrhPXD5hcMKYCLneCYyf-Z9lQgCqOgpUnMTnVCKaY/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/healthinfo</a>.

Additionally, Game and Parks will begin hosting some educational and naturalist programs on a limited basis. Contact the park or check the outdoor calendar at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.V75LpokrwlDYt4-QoE6BI9lPpHltCz0H0hTcoW0CLkA/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for scheduled events.

Visitors to offices, interpretive centers, education centers, nature centers and indoor events are temporarily required to wear a face mask.

Game and Parks is continuing to make services and amenities available and is committed to keeping the public and its staff safe during the COVID-19 health crisis. For more information, or to purchase a park entry permit, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.88m75mjHiWNmJgxWOpHLxO7kLH4W7eVhzUKGhvbpFOU/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. Find park contact information at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9zdGF0ZXBhcmtzLyJ9.URG-_sbDXGoUTCpVTYxnYGXvOBqFnJrhpEjDAMI-uq4/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/stateparks</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is pleased to announce the continued reopening of several facilities, activities and amenities in state park and recreation areas across the state.They include:• Most Nebraska state park swimming pools, aquatic centers and the Platte River State Park spray park will reopen July 4. Pools will open with limited hours and operate at reduced capacity. Hours of operation can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.QM_Jfc0NUEH6RDELdSiVhbq3oQ2PTjIVSah7PlJ1aVM/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. The swimming pool at Niobrara State Park will remain closed. The floating playground at Louisville State Recreation Area will open later.• Select state park area service centers will reopen to the public July 1 for customer service, information and permit sales.• On July 4, the paddleboats at Mahoney and Platte River state parks will reopen, as will the Owen Marina concessions and miniature golf at Mahoney.• The Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center in Lincoln will reopen July 6. The Wildcat Hills Shooting Range will open July 1 and the archery range in the Eric Wiebe Shooting Complex at Ponca State Park continues to be open.• The Wildcat Hills Nature Center, Schramm Education Center, Water Interpretive Center at Lake McConaughy, and Missouri National Recreational River Interpretive Center at Ponca State Park will reopen July 6.• State historical park interpretive centers also will reopen July 6. While the historical parks will be open some facilities may remain closed, including the Buffalo Bill Ranch house, Bowring Ranch house, and Fort Hartsuff visitors’ center.A list of all services opening on July 6 can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9oZWFsdGhpbmZvLyJ9.C7jrhPXD5hcMKYCLneCYyf-Z9lQgCqOgpUnMTnVCKaY/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/healthinfo</a>.Additionally, Game and Parks will begin hosting some educational and naturalist programs on a limited basis. Contact the park or check the outdoor calendar at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.V75LpokrwlDYt4-QoE6BI9lPpHltCz0H0hTcoW0CLkA/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for scheduled events.Visitors to offices, interpretive centers, education centers, nature centers and indoor events are temporarily required to wear a face mask.Game and Parks is continuing to make services and amenities available and is committed to keeping the public and its staff safe during the COVID-19 health crisis. For more information, or to purchase a park entry permit, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.88m75mjHiWNmJgxWOpHLxO7kLH4W7eVhzUKGhvbpFOU/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>. Find park contact information at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA2MzAuMjM3MTA4NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9zdGF0ZXBhcmtzLyJ9.URG-_sbDXGoUTCpVTYxnYGXvOBqFnJrhpEjDAMI-uq4/s/497221905/br/80493458054-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/stateparks</a>.

Game and Parks continues to reopen pools, education centers and state park facilities

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's largest school district has announced it will open up in-person classes a week earlier than planned and require all students, staff and others to wear masks on school grounds to try to fight the spread of the new coronavirus.

The Omaha Public Schools board on Monday approved changes to the upcoming school year, including a new start date of Aug. 11 and an extension of the winter break by one week, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/education/ops-board-votes-to-move-start-of-school-year-to-aug-11-require-masks-for/article_5494d296-158e-546d-9fc0-07705ccb7672.html#1" target="_blank">reported</a>.

Exceptions would be made when people are eating, drinking, with members of their household in a separate space or participating in athletic activities with proper social and physical distancing.

Last week, school district officials announced plans to have students attend school part time. The plan divides students into two groups who would each attend school in person during different days of the week.

Students whose names start with A through K would attend every Monday and Tuesday. Those starting with L through Z would attend every Thursday and Friday. Wednesdays would alternate between the groups. On days students aren't in school, they will participate in remote learning from home.

The new policies and schedule apply to all of the district's more than 52,000 students.

During Monday night's board meeting, some parents complained that the part-time schedule will be a burden on working parents and noted that surrounding school districts plan to fully reopen.

Superintendent Cheryl Logan said the Omaha district has had crowded classrooms for many years, especially in South Omaha, and to reopen schools in those crowded conditions would put too many people at risk.

"None of us want to be in this position right now," Logan said. "We all want to have our students back 100% of the time."

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's largest school district has announced it will open up in-person classes a week earlier than planned and require all students, staff and others to wear masks on school grounds to try to fight the spread of the new coronavirus.The Omaha Public Schools board on Monday approved changes to the upcoming school year, including a new start date of Aug. 11 and an extension of the winter break by one week, the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/news/education/ops-board-votes-to-move-start-of-school-year-to-aug-11-require-masks-for/article_5494d296-158e-546d-9fc0-07705ccb7672.html#1" target="_blank">reported</a>.Exceptions would be made when people are eating, drinking, with members of their household in a separate space or participating in athletic activities with proper social and physical distancing.Last week, school district officials announced plans to have students attend school part time. The plan divides students into two groups who would each attend school in person during different days of the week.Students whose names start with A through K would attend every Monday and Tuesday. Those starting with L through Z would attend every Thursday and Friday. Wednesdays would alternate between the groups. On days students aren't in school, they will participate in remote learning from home.The new policies and schedule apply to all of the district's more than 52,000 students.During Monday night's board meeting, some parents complained that the part-time schedule will be a burden on working parents and noted that surrounding school districts plan to fully reopen.Superintendent Cheryl Logan said the Omaha district has had crowded classrooms for many years, especially in South Omaha, and to reopen schools in those crowded conditions would put too many people at risk."None of us want to be in this position right now," Logan said. "We all want to have our students back 100% of the time."

Coronavirus Update