You may begin working on your EdGenuity courses.&nbsp; Below is a link to the NPHS Remote Learning Plan that was shared with you and your families last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Please read the full document before asking any questions.&nbsp; If your questions are still not answered, then ask away!

<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/2JYVYIAdLiUWgaSw-0Ybqg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRgXI77P0RgaHR0cHM6Ly9kb2NzLmdvb2dsZS5jb20vZG9jdW1lbnQvZC8xdk4wX2FyOHdWR0VhNkFxLWhlOVhDV3pVc0NOM0JzeUhpRGFQUnZ0Y0tkWS9lZGl0P3VzcD1zaGFyaW5nVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoAAHtbe16Zf1pOUhNzY290dHljOTdAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB" target="_blank">NPHS Remote Learning Plan</a>

From North Platte Public SchoolsNPHS Students,You may begin working on your EdGenuity courses.&nbsp; Below is a link to the NPHS Remote Learning Plan that was shared with you and your families last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Instructions for how to log-in to EdGenuity are found on pages 5-6</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Who to email your questions about EdGenuity to Page 4</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Chromebook Sign-Up:&nbsp; Bottom of page 3.&nbsp; Chromebook check-out for students in Grades 6-12 will take place Monday (12:00 - 3:00 PM &amp; 4:00 - 8:00 PM) and Tuesday (8:00 - 12:00 PM) at North Platte High.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>How these courses are graded: Page 3</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>What happens if the courses are NOT completed by students in 9th-11th:&nbsp; Page 3</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>What about electives?:&nbsp; Page 2</li>
 </ol>Please read the full document before asking any questions.&nbsp; If your questions are still not answered, then ask away!<a href="http://track.spe.schoolmessenger.com/f/a/2JYVYIAdLiUWgaSw-0Ybqg~~/AAAAAQA~/RgRgXI77P0RgaHR0cHM6Ly9kb2NzLmdvb2dsZS5jb20vZG9jdW1lbnQvZC8xdk4wX2FyOHdWR0VhNkFxLWhlOVhDV3pVc0NOM0JzeUhpRGFQUnZ0Y0tkWS9lZGl0P3VzcD1zaGFyaW5nVwdzY2hvb2xtQgoAAHtbe16Zf1pOUhNzY290dHljOTdAZ21haWwuY29tWAQAAAAB" target="_blank">NPHS Remote Learning Plan</a>

North Platte students can start working on EdGenuity courses

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A drive-thru clinic has opened in Lincoln where one person in each vehicle can be tested for influenza, respiratory illnesses and COVID-19.

The testing organized by Bryan Health opened Tuesday and will run from 2 to 6 p.m. daily at Bryan LifePointe, a health care campus near 27th Street and Pine Lake Road. People seeking the tests must have referrals from their doctors or through Bryan's EZVisit telehealth service, officials said.

Flu and respiratory test results should be available in 24 hours, while COVID-19 results will take two to three days.

Bryan Health officials said they think the drive-thru can handle about 60 people during each four-hour testing window.

For most people, the new 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, including pneumonia and death.

Three Lancaster County residents have tested positive for COVID-19, health officials said.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - A drive-thru clinic has opened in Lincoln where one person in each vehicle can be tested for influenza, respiratory illnesses and COVID-19.The testing organized by Bryan Health opened Tuesday and will run from 2 to 6 p.m. daily at Bryan LifePointe, a health care campus near 27th Street and Pine Lake Road. People seeking the tests must have referrals from their doctors or through Bryan's EZVisit telehealth service, officials said.Flu and respiratory test results should be available in 24 hours, while COVID-19 results will take two to three days.Bryan Health officials said they think the drive-thru can handle about 60 people during each four-hour testing window.For most people, the new 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, including pneumonia and death.Three Lancaster County residents have tested positive for COVID-19, health officials said.

Drive-thru COVID-19 testing clinic opens in Lincoln

LONDON (AP) — Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, has tested positive for the new coronavirus. 

The prince's Clarence House office says the 71-year-old is showing mild symptoms of COVID-19 and is self-isolating at a royal estate in Scotland. It says his wife Camilla has tested negative. 

The palace says Charles “has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual.”

LONDON (AP) — Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, has tested positive for the new coronavirus. The prince's Clarence House office says the 71-year-old is showing mild symptoms of COVID-19 and is self-isolating at a royal estate in Scotland. It says his wife Camilla has tested negative. The palace says Charles “has been displaying mild symptoms but otherwise remains in good health and has been working from home throughout the last few days as usual.”

Britain's Prince Charles tests positive for new coronavirus

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Officials confirm 4 new cases of COVID-19 in Sarpy, Cass counties

NEW YORK (AP) — A loss of smell or taste might be an early sign of infection with the pandemic virus, say medical experts who cite reports from several countries.

It might even serve as a useful screening tool, they say.

The idea of a virus infection reducing sense of smell is not new. Respiratory viral infection is a common cause of loss of smell, because inflammation can interfere with airflow and the ability to detect odors. The sense of smell usually returns when the infection resolves, but in a small percentage of cases, smell loss can persist after other symptoms disappear. In some cases, it is permanent.

Now, there’s “good evidence” from South Korea, China and Italy for loss or impairment of smell in infected people, says a joint&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entuk.org/sites/default/files/files/Loss%20of%20sense%20of%20smell%20as%20marker%20of%20COVID.pdf">statement&nbsp;</a>from the presidents of the British Rhinological Society and of ENT UK, a British group that represents ear, nose and throat doctors. In South Korea, some 30% of people who tested positive for the virus have cited loss of smell as their major complaint in otherwise mild cases, they wrote.

So that might be useful as a way to spot infected people without other symptoms — fever, coughing and shortness of breath — of the new coronavirus, they wrote.

A similar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entnet.org/content/coronavirus-disease-2019-resources">proposal&nbsp;</a>was published Sunday by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. It noted “rapidly accumulating” anecdotal evidence from around the world that the pandemic virus can cause not only loss of smell but also a diminished sense of taste. So the appearance of those symptoms in people without another explanation should alert doctors to the possibility of a COVID-19 infection, the group said.

Maria Van Kerkhove, an outbreak expert at the World Health Organization, told reporters Monday that the U.N. health agency is looking into the question of whether the loss of smell or taste are a defining feature of the disease.

Dr. Eric Holbrook, an expert on nasal and sinus disease at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear hospital in Boston, said the reports have been a hot topic among researchers and doctors. But “we don’t have hard evidence right now” about how often smell loss occurs in people infected with the pandemic virus, he said in an interview Monday.

Holbrook said the reports he has seen suggest the sense of smell returns within a couple weeks, but how long it lasts has yet to be firmly established.

He also said it’s difficult to assess reports of a loss of taste because people with an impaired sense of smell often report a loss of flavor, which is technically different from an impairment in taste.

Holbrook said he is trying to set up a study of smell in people being tested for the coronavirus at Boston-area hospitals.

NEW YORK (AP) — A loss of smell or taste might be an early sign of infection with the pandemic virus, say medical experts who cite reports from several countries.It might even serve as a useful screening tool, they say.The idea of a virus infection reducing sense of smell is not new. Respiratory viral infection is a common cause of loss of smell, because inflammation can interfere with airflow and the ability to detect odors. The sense of smell usually returns when the infection resolves, but in a small percentage of cases, smell loss can persist after other symptoms disappear. In some cases, it is permanent.Now, there’s “good evidence” from South Korea, China and Italy for loss or impairment of smell in infected people, says a joint&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entuk.org/sites/default/files/files/Loss%20of%20sense%20of%20smell%20as%20marker%20of%20COVID.pdf">statement&nbsp;</a>from the presidents of the British Rhinological Society and of ENT UK, a British group that represents ear, nose and throat doctors. In South Korea, some 30% of people who tested positive for the virus have cited loss of smell as their major complaint in otherwise mild cases, they wrote.So that might be useful as a way to spot infected people without other symptoms — fever, coughing and shortness of breath — of the new coronavirus, they wrote.A similar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entnet.org/content/coronavirus-disease-2019-resources">proposal&nbsp;</a>was published Sunday by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. It noted “rapidly accumulating” anecdotal evidence from around the world that the pandemic virus can cause not only loss of smell but also a diminished sense of taste. So the appearance of those symptoms in people without another explanation should alert doctors to the possibility of a COVID-19 infection, the group said.Maria Van Kerkhove, an outbreak expert at the World Health Organization, told reporters Monday that the U.N. health agency is looking into the question of whether the loss of smell or taste are a defining feature of the disease.Dr. Eric Holbrook, an expert on nasal and sinus disease at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear hospital in Boston, said the reports have been a hot topic among researchers and doctors. But “we don’t have hard evidence right now” about how often smell loss occurs in people infected with the pandemic virus, he said in an interview Monday.Holbrook said the reports he has seen suggest the sense of smell returns within a couple weeks, but how long it lasts has yet to be firmly established.He also said it’s difficult to assess reports of a loss of taste because people with an impaired sense of smell often report a loss of flavor, which is technically different from an impairment in taste.Holbrook said he is trying to set up a study of smell in people being tested for the coronavirus at Boston-area hospitals.

Loss of smell, taste, might signal pandemic virus infection

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Four new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Douglas County, according to preliminary data from the Douglas County Health Department (DCHD).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Health Department’s Epidemiology Team is continuing to investigate these latest cases, which bring the total in Douglas County to 38.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These individuals include a woman in her 30s and three men ranging in age from their 40s to their 70s. One case has been identified as the result of community spread and one person is hospitalized.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Health Department is advising that precautions to avoid a COVID-19 infection need to be taken throughout the community, not just in locations previously listed as having the potential for exposure. It also is important to consider that many people who are sick have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. The CDC has said that four out of five people who have become ill acquired the disease from someone who didn’t know they had it. That means there are likely many more people in the community who are infected with COVID-19 than have been reported.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Please increase your awareness of COVID-19 symptoms, which include a fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing. Some people have experienced a loss of their sense of taste or smell. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling and any possible history of exposure. We ask that you call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DCHD’s information line remains open to anyone with general questions about COVID-19. That number, (402) 444-3400, is answered seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Nebraska DHHS has a COVID-19 information line open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily at (402) 552-6645. Any person who has questions outside those hours is asked to call the United Way’s 2-1-1 Resource Hotline.

News Release&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Four new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Douglas County, according to preliminary data from the Douglas County Health Department (DCHD).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Health Department’s Epidemiology Team is continuing to investigate these latest cases, which bring the total in Douglas County to 38.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; These individuals include a woman in her 30s and three men ranging in age from their 40s to their 70s. One case has been identified as the result of community spread and one person is hospitalized.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Health Department is advising that precautions to avoid a COVID-19 infection need to be taken throughout the community, not just in locations previously listed as having the potential for exposure. It also is important to consider that many people who are sick have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. The CDC has said that four out of five people who have become ill acquired the disease from someone who didn’t know they had it. That means there are likely many more people in the community who are infected with COVID-19 than have been reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Please increase your awareness of COVID-19 symptoms, which include a fever, cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing. Some people have experienced a loss of their sense of taste or smell. If you have COVID-19 symptoms, or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling and any possible history of exposure. We ask that you call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DCHD’s information line remains open to anyone with general questions about COVID-19. That number, (402) 444-3400, is answered seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Nebraska DHHS has a COVID-19 information line open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily at (402) 552-6645. Any person who has questions outside those hours is asked to call the United Way’s 2-1-1 Resource Hotline.

Douglas County reports 4 new confirmed cases of COVID-19

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Douglas County Health Department wants to clarify the recent updated Directed Health Measures for Douglas County and how that order relates to beauty salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors, massage parlors, and other businesses in the beauty service industry.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The order, issued on Friday, March 20, specifically prohibits gatherings of more than ten people through April 30. There are exceptions that exclude a facility’s staff from the county and buildings that are sub-divided by walls.

However, another section of the order is particularly relevant to the beauty service industry.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Section 2 of the order reads: “It is further ordered that even for gatherings below this size, if a minimum social distance of six feet between attendees cannot be maintained in the venue or a subdivision thereof, the gathering is prohibited.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Given the nature of this industry, it is not possible for most needed services to be performed, and because of that these operations should cease.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585102502733.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Douglas County Health Department wants to clarify the recent updated Directed Health Measures for Douglas County and how that order relates to beauty salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors, massage parlors, and other businesses in the beauty service industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The order, issued on Friday, March 20, specifically prohibits gatherings of more than ten people through April 30. There are exceptions that exclude a facility’s staff from the county and buildings that are sub-divided by walls.However, another section of the order is particularly relevant to the beauty service industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Section 2 of the order reads: “It is further ordered that even for gatherings below this size, if a minimum social distance of six feet between attendees cannot be maintained in the venue or a subdivision thereof, the gathering is prohibited.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Given the nature of this industry, it is not possible for most needed services to be performed, and because of that these operations should cease.

Douglas County Health Department tells salons they can't operate under Directed Health Measures

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/news/2020/03/four-ways-to-support-local-businesses-by-social-distancing.php">Nebraska Business Development Center at Univ. of Nebraska at Omaha College of Business</a>

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's&nbsp;(CDC) social distancing guidance - meant to limit the size of crowds - will help prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19, but it also&nbsp;means many small businesses across the country are facing some difficult financial times.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/nebraska-business-development-center/index.php">Nebraska Business Development Center&nbsp;(NBDC)</a>&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-business-administration/">University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;has shared some tips for Nebraskans that can help small businesses afloat while looking after&nbsp; their own health.

Order for Delivery or&nbsp;Carry Out&nbsp;

While gatherings of 10 people or more are prohibited,&nbsp;you&nbsp;can still get food from&nbsp;your&nbsp;favorite&nbsp;restaurants&nbsp;by ordering takeout, curbside pick-up or delivery, while&nbsp;choosing&nbsp;cooked foods over fresh foods when possible.

Similarly, you can call&nbsp;in your orders to small local retailers and pick them up. Remember to&nbsp;practice social distancing when receiving your order. As much as possible, avoid paying with cash. Paying over the phone (or using a credit card that can easily be wiped) will help limit the risk of exposure.&nbsp;

Buy Gift Cards or Prepay for Services&nbsp;

Support your favorite small businesses by purchasing gift cards to be used at a later date. This provides the business with money that they can use to weather the storm. When things settle down later, you will be able to use your gift cards.&nbsp;Similarly,&nbsp;you can call your&nbsp;personal service providers to book and prepay for future sessions.

Many small businesses rely on constant support to keep their doors open. If you have a membership to a local gym, painting class, music lesson, dance studio, etc., don't stop making payments.&nbsp;You can also see if these businesses offer virtual classes or lessons. If not, request this service. Not only will you keep up with your fitness or artistic goals,&nbsp;but you can do it from the comfort of your home.&nbsp;

If a small business you frequent has an online store, continue to buy their products during these hard times. Again, many businesses are moving to curbside pick-up and delivery to keep revenue coming in. Yes, you could order almost anything from an online retail giant like Amazon, but your local retail businesses need your support now more than ever.&nbsp;&nbsp;Overall, please be mindful of the struggles of small businesses during these times and be intentional about supporting them through your patronage.&nbsp;

Contact NBDCShould you need assistance&nbsp;as a small business, NBDC business consultants are available for confidential, one-on-one consulting sessions via email, phone, and video-conferencing.&nbsp;You can&nbsp;visit&nbsp;their staff directory page to find a consultant or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:4025546232">402.554.NBDC (6232)</a>&nbsp;and leave a message.&nbsp;Contact – Nebraska Business Development Center&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nbdc@unomaha.edu">nbdc@unomaha.edu</a>.

About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

Become a fan of UNO on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/unomaha" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and follow UNO's&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/unomaha" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;updates.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/news/2020/03/four-ways-to-support-local-businesses-by-social-distancing.php">Nebraska Business Development Center at Univ. of Nebraska at Omaha College of Business</a>The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's&nbsp;(CDC) social distancing guidance - meant to limit the size of crowds - will help prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19, but it also&nbsp;means many small businesses across the country are facing some difficult financial times.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/nebraska-business-development-center/index.php">Nebraska Business Development Center&nbsp;(NBDC)</a>&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-business-administration/">University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;has shared some tips for Nebraskans that can help small businesses afloat while looking after&nbsp; their own health.<h2>Order for Delivery or&nbsp;Carry Out&nbsp;</h2>While gatherings of 10 people or more are prohibited,&nbsp;you&nbsp;can still get food from&nbsp;your&nbsp;favorite&nbsp;restaurants&nbsp;by ordering takeout, curbside pick-up or delivery, while&nbsp;choosing&nbsp;cooked foods over fresh foods when possible.Similarly, you can call&nbsp;in your orders to small local retailers and pick them up. Remember to&nbsp;practice social distancing when receiving your order. As much as possible, avoid paying with cash. Paying over the phone (or using a credit card that can easily be wiped) will help limit the risk of exposure.&nbsp;<h2>Buy Gift Cards or Prepay for Services&nbsp;</h2>Support your favorite small businesses by purchasing gift cards to be used at a later date. This provides the business with money that they can use to weather the storm. When things settle down later, you will be able to use your gift cards.&nbsp;Similarly,&nbsp;you can call your&nbsp;personal service providers to book and prepay for future sessions.<h2>Maintain Memberships and Subscriptions</h2>Many small businesses rely on constant support to keep their doors open. If you have a membership to a local gym, painting class, music lesson, dance studio, etc., don't stop making payments.&nbsp;You can also see if these businesses offer virtual classes or lessons. If not, request this service. Not only will you keep up with your fitness or artistic goals,&nbsp;but you can do it from the comfort of your home.&nbsp;<h2>Shop from Local Businesses Online&nbsp;</h2>If a small business you frequent has an online store, continue to buy their products during these hard times. Again, many businesses are moving to curbside pick-up and delivery to keep revenue coming in. Yes, you could order almost anything from an online retail giant like Amazon, but your local retail businesses need your support now more than ever.&nbsp;&nbsp;Overall, please be mindful of the struggles of small businesses during these times and be intentional about supporting them through your patronage.&nbsp;Contact NBDCShould you need assistance&nbsp;as a small business, NBDC business consultants are available for confidential, one-on-one consulting sessions via email, phone, and video-conferencing.&nbsp;You can&nbsp;visit&nbsp;their staff directory page to find a consultant or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:4025546232">402.554.NBDC (6232)</a>&nbsp;and leave a message.&nbsp;Contact – Nebraska Business Development Center&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nbdc@unomaha.edu">nbdc@unomaha.edu</a>.<h2>About the University of Nebraska at Omaha</h2>Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.Become a fan of UNO on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/unomaha" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and follow UNO's&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/unomaha" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;updates.&nbsp;

UNO College of Business provides 4 ways to support local businesses while social distancing

Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson today issued guidance and a warning to Nebraskans to avoid potential scams related to coronavirus (COVID-19). Unfortunately, scammers often exploit difficult times by preying on the consumer’s fear and sense of urgency. Attorney General Peterson reminds Nebraskans that he and his office are diligently monitoring and investigating consumer complaints related to COVID-19.

&nbsp;To avoid falling victim to a scam, keep in mind the following tips:

Attorney General Peterson’s consumer-focused website offers additional tips for protecting yourself against scams, researching charities, and safeguarding your personal information.

Consumers may file a&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">consumer complaint</a>&nbsp;through the attorney general’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ago.consumer@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ago.consumer@nebraska.gov</a>.

Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson today issued guidance and a warning to Nebraskans to avoid potential scams related to coronavirus (COVID-19). Unfortunately, scammers often exploit difficult times by preying on the consumer’s fear and sense of urgency. Attorney General Peterson reminds Nebraskans that he and his office are diligently monitoring and investigating consumer complaints related to COVID-19.&nbsp;To avoid falling victim to a scam, keep in mind the following tips:<ol>
 <li>Disregard solicitations offering “miracle” drugs or remedies to cure or prevent coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;Currently, there are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure coronavirus according to the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA)</li><li>Ignore calls or texts requesting your personal information.&nbsp;Our office has received reports of Nebraskans receiving calls and texts asking for personal information under the guises it is needed to “release funds” or “verify a relief check” from the government.</li><li>Research before donating.&nbsp;&nbsp;Donations to legitimate charitable entities are needed now more than ever. Don’t let scammers prey on your generosity. Before you give, research the organization by visiting its website and confirming its charitable registration status with the IRS. Keep in mind, many sham charities use names that appear similar to legitimate organizations.</li>
 </ol>Attorney General Peterson’s consumer-focused website offers additional tips for protecting yourself against scams, researching charities, and safeguarding your personal information.Consumers may file a&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">consumer complaint</a>&nbsp;through the attorney general’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.protectthegoodlife.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ago.consumer@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ago.consumer@nebraska.gov</a>.

Attorney General gives guidance to Nebraskans on avoiding COVID-19 scams

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts urged Nebraska residents Tuesday to quarantine themselves for at least two weeks if they've recently traveled anyplace that has seen a big outbreak of the new coronavirus, including major U.S. cities.

Ricketts issued the new precaution as state officials try to keep the virus from spreading, but he reiterated that he won't order any tougher restrictions than those already in place. He said residents should quarantine themselves for 14 days after returning home from a hard-hit foreign country or cities such as Denver and Kansas City, which have issued stay-at-home orders.

"I would not recommend anyone going to New York right now," he said at a Capitol news conference.

Nebraska has already imposed a 10-person limit on social gatherings statewide and forced Omaha-area restaurants and bars to close their public areas, although they can still offer takeout and delivery services.

Ricketts' comments came as the number of confirmed Nebraska cases rose to 64 in eight counties as of Tuesday afternoon. Douglas County, encompassing Omaha, accounts for more than half.

Ricketts said state officials expect the numbers will continue to rise as more people are tested, and the increases shouldn't worry people.

"We want to make sure we are testing for the coronavirus to make sure we have the best data available," he said.

New cases were reported in Cass, Douglas, Madison and Sarpy counties.

For most people, COVID-19 causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

The vast majority of people recover from the virus, officials have said.

On Monday, the Legislature advanced an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8f72fd5f1e549b3faed0fcc7b3ad695" target="_blank">funding package</a>&nbsp;to help fight the outbreak. The money would go for personal protective equipment for government workers, lab testing at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and an ultraviolet light box that would disinfect old face masks so health officials could reuse them.

The package also would set aside millions of dollars for expected overtime costs for state workers.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Gov. Pete Ricketts urged Nebraska residents Tuesday to quarantine themselves for at least two weeks if they've recently traveled anyplace that has seen a big outbreak of the new coronavirus, including major U.S. cities.Ricketts issued the new precaution as state officials try to keep the virus from spreading, but he reiterated that he won't order any tougher restrictions than those already in place. He said residents should quarantine themselves for 14 days after returning home from a hard-hit foreign country or cities such as Denver and Kansas City, which have issued stay-at-home orders."I would not recommend anyone going to New York right now," he said at a Capitol news conference.Nebraska has already imposed a 10-person limit on social gatherings statewide and forced Omaha-area restaurants and bars to close their public areas, although they can still offer takeout and delivery services.Ricketts' comments came as the number of confirmed Nebraska cases rose to 64 in eight counties as of Tuesday afternoon. Douglas County, encompassing Omaha, accounts for more than half.Ricketts said state officials expect the numbers will continue to rise as more people are tested, and the increases shouldn't worry people."We want to make sure we are testing for the coronavirus to make sure we have the best data available," he said.New cases were reported in Cass, Douglas, Madison and Sarpy counties.For most people, COVID-19 causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.The vast majority of people recover from the virus, officials have said.On Monday, the Legislature advanced an $83.6 million emergency&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e8f72fd5f1e549b3faed0fcc7b3ad695" target="_blank">funding package</a>&nbsp;to help fight the outbreak. The money would go for personal protective equipment for government workers, lab testing at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and an ultraviolet light box that would disinfect old face masks so health officials could reuse them.The package also would set aside millions of dollars for expected overtime costs for state workers.

Ricketts: Nebraskans coming from risky areas should isolate

WASHINGTON (AP) — A series of missteps at the nation’s top public health agency caused a critical shortage of reliable laboratory tests for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>, hobbling the federal response as the pandemic spread across the country like wildfire, an Associated Press review found.

President Donald Trump assured Americans early this month that the COVID-19 test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is “perfect” and that “anyone who wants a test can get a test.” But more than two months after the first U.S. case of the new disease was confirmed, many people still cannot get tested.

In the critical month of February, as the virus began taking root in the U.S. population, CDC data shows government labs processed 352 COVID-19 tests — an average of only a dozen per day.

“You cannot fight a fire blindfolded,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, said at a recent briefing. “We cannot stop this pandemic if we don’t know who is infected.”

The Department of Health and Human Services, which includes the CDC, has begun an internal review to assess its own mistakes. But outside observers and federal health officials have pointed to four primary issues that together hampered the national response — the early decision not to use the test adopted by the World Health Organization, flaws with the more complex test developed by the CDC, government guidelines restricting who could be tested and delays in engaging the private sector to ramp up testing capacity.

Combined with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/67a9a72531ca2e332bea9225cec2fda5">messaging from the White House minimizing the disease</a>, that fueled a lackluster response that missed chances to slow the spread of the virus, they said.

“There were many, many opportunities not to end up where we are,” Dr. Ashish K. Jha, the director of the Global Health Institute at Harvard, told the AP. “Basically, they took this as business as usual. ... And that’s because the messaging from the White House was ‘this is not a big deal, this is no worse than the flu.’ So that message basically created no sense of urgency within the FDA or the CDC to fix it.”

Even as private labs have been cleared by government regulators to process tens of thousands of additional tests in the last two weeks, experts warn that the nation is still falling well short of enough testing capacity to keep ahead of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak">the highly contagious virus</a>. And it can often take a week just to get results back.

Trump last week rated his administration’s response to the crisis as a perfect 10. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/432a37435f28015e8b45eeff710cd254">Dr. Anthony Fauci</a>, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the CDC’s system wasn’t designed to test for and track a widespread outbreak, which he characterized as “a failing.”

In interviews with the AP, two federal health officials with direct knowledge of the situation said CDC experts don’t know why many of the agency’s test kits failed to reliably detect the virus. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about what went wrong.

J. Stephen Morrison, a health policy expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, called the testing issues a “debacle,” contributing to what he described as a confused and delayed federal response to the crisis.

As a result, he said, the CDC has now been marginalized within the White House — a worrisome development.

“CDC has generally been regarded as the best in the game,” Morrison said. “I don’t think they anticipated the technical difficulty or the speed with which the virus has been moving. The virus was racing out ahead of them.”

On New Year’s Eve, Chinese scientists informed the World Health Organization about a cluster of 27 pneumonia cases of unknown cause in the industrial megalopolis of Wuhan that they linked to the city’s wholesale fish market. Less than two weeks later, the Chinese had sequenced the virus’ genetic makeup and shared it with the world.

Within days, German scientists had developed a test that could identify a unique part of the virus’ DNA. The WHO quickly adopted the German test,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/protocol-v2-1.pdf?sfvrsn=a9ef618c_2" target="_blank">publishing technical guidelines</a>&nbsp;on Jan. 17 and working with private companies to produce testing kits.

As they have done with some past outbreaks, officials at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta decided to develop their own test, focusing on three gene targets distinct from what the WHO used. Over the decades, the headquarters lab had built a track record of being among the first to develop tests for new diseases and quickly making them available for disease tracking.

The CDC published the technical details for its COVID-19 test on Jan. 28, 10 days after the WHO. By then, the virus had already been in the U.S. for at least two weeks.

The 35-year-old man who would become the first American to test positive had arrived in Seattle on Jan. 15, following a trip to Wuhan. After swabs from his nose and throat were flown to the CDC lab, federal officials announced the results Jan. 21.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/01/22/trump-on-coronavirus-from-china-we-have-it-totally-under-control.html" target="_blank">an interview on CNBC</a>&nbsp;the following day, the Republican president was asked about the risk to the nation.

“We have it totally under control,” he said. “It’s one person coming in from China. ... It’s going to be just fine.”

With limited capacity at the CDC lab in Atlanta, the agency placed strict criteria on who could be tested: people with fevers, coughing or difficulty breathing who had also visited Wuhan within the preceding two weeks or who had close contact with someone already confirmed or under investigation for having the virus.

On Jan. 30, the day the WHO declared the outbreak a public health emergency, Trump again assured the American people that the virus was “very well under control.”

Then he departed for a weekend at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, where he&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1223640662689689602?s=20" target="_blank">tweeted a photo of himself playing golf</a>&nbsp;at his club in West Palm Beach.

“Getting a little exercise this morning!” the president wrote.

The following day, the U.S. declared its own emergency. Still, U.S. citizens returning from China who did not have a fever weren’t tested for the virus but were encouraged to self-quarantine at home for 14 days.

At that point, the CDC had confirmed just eight cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. The agency amended its testing criteria to include people with fevers who had traveled to China, rather than just Wuhan.

Four days after the U.S. declared a state of emergency, only 178 patients had been tested and 82 others were listed as “pending,” meaning they were awaiting final results, according to CDC data released at the time.

To help increase the number of people being screened, the Food and Drug Administration issued emergency authorization for CDC-certified labs run by state health departments to begin processing swabs, and they were provided with kits that could test 250 patients.

As the first tests were processed at the state labs, technicians reported getting inconclusive results, which the CDC has said could be due to the test looking for signs of generic coronaviruses, of which there are many, rather than the specific virus that causes COVID-19.

Whatever the reason, by mid-February, only about a half-dozen state and local public health labs had reliable tests. But still, CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield continued to insist his agency had developed “a very accurate test.”

“We found that, in some of the states, it didn’t work,” Redfield&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-tour-centers-disease-control-prevention-atlanta-ga/" target="_blank">said earlier this month</a>. “We figured out why. I don’t consider that a fault. I consider that doing quality control. I consider that success.”

The testing problems emerged just as the CDC broadened its criteria to include patients who were “severely ill” with COVID-19 symptoms “even if a known source of exposure has not been identified.”

As more sick people sought to be tested, many states were forced to limit access because of the flawed CDC test. Accounts began to emerge through social media of people with all the symptoms of COVID-19 who either couldn’t get tested or had test results delayed by days or even a week.

“I know of doctor friends of mine who have critically ill patients in the ICU, and we don’t know if they have COVID or not because we can’t get a test,” Jha said last week.

On Feb. 24, exasperated officials at the Association of Public Health Laboratories sent a letter to the FDA, basically asking permission for state labs to develop their own tests. Within days, the FDA reversed its previous position and said both public and private labs could conduct testing.

Trump continued to insist the virus would die out on its own. “One day, it’s like a miracle. It will disappear,” he predicted Feb. 27.

By then, experts say, the opportunity to halt the relentless spread of the virus within the U.S. population had been lost.

On Feb. 29, only 472 patients had been tested nationwide, with just 22 cases confirmed, according to CDC data. Of those, nine cases were not related to travel but had spread person-to-person within the U.S.

By comparison, South Korea had its first confirmed case of COVID-19 on Jan. 20, the same day as the U.S. Officials there used a test that focused on the same gene targets as the WHO test, according to the website of a test manufacturer. They then quickly permitted private-sector labs to run the samples. As a result, a nation with less than one-sixth the population of the U.S. mobilized to test more than 20,000 people a day.

South Korea also instituted drive-thru centers, allowing quicker identification of those who were infected but might not be displaying symptoms, thus slowing the emergence of new cases to a more manageable level.

Meanwhile, the rate of U.S. infections soared.

“The system is not really geared to what we need right now, what you are asking for,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/76b0f255426ad655a26e927062e1fef9">Fauci conceded during a congressional hearing</a>&nbsp;earlier this month. “That is a failing. Let’s admit it.”

As public outrage over the lack of available U.S. tests grew, the FDA announced it would allow private diagnostic lab companies to produce new tests without preauthorization from regulators.

Trump and HHS Secretary Alex Azar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-tour-centers-disease-control-prevention-atlanta-ga/" target="_blank">visited the CDC lab</a>&nbsp;in Atlanta on March 6, praising the agency’s performance and promising 4 million test kits would be available by the end of the following week.

That lofty number didn’t match the ability of U.S. labs to process tests, however. Private providers were just then ramping up, while CDC and state health labs processed about 25,200 COVID-19 tests in the following seven days, according to CDC data.

At the same news conference, Trump said he wanted infected passengers to remain on a cruise ship off the West Coast to keep the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. low.

“I like the numbers being where they are,” Trump said, shortly before departing Atlanta for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9fP7XNHPWI/?utm_source=ig_embed" target="_blank">another weekend of golf in Florida</a>. “I don’t need to have the numbers double because of one ship that wasn’t our fault.”

Trump has also attempted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f4cd4c72e896d7fbd8ebd3516e864550">mislay blame</a>&nbsp;for the testing troubles on the Obama administration. In 2018, Trump disbanded the White House directorate charged with preparing for and responding to global pandemics.

“I don’t take responsibility at all,” Trump replied when asked about the testing shortfall in a March 13 briefing at the White House.

Morrison said Trump appears to see the virus as a political issue rather than a public health threat.

“You can imagine a White House that said, ‘Do whatever it takes to test everybody for the virus,’” he said. “That wasn’t the mentality. It was the opposite mentality, and ultimately the responsibility to protect the American people lies with the White House.”

Trump and other officials have falsely said they declined to use the WHO test because it isn’t reliable.

“Quality testing for our American people is paramount to us,” Deborah Birx, who is coordinating the U.S. coronavirus response, said last week. “It doesn’t help to put out a test where 50% or 47% are false positives.”

“It was a bad test,” Trump chimed in.

Tarik Jašarević, a WHO spokesman, told the AP last week that his agency had shipped 1.5 million testing kits manufactured in Germany to 120 countries around the globe, with no such problems emerging.

“The test has been validated in three external laboratories, adapted by WHO and manufactured in line with international quality standards,” he said. “It has shown consistently good performance in laboratory and clinical use, and neither a significant number of false-positive nor false-negative results have been reported.”

Over the past two weeks, U.S. testing capacity has surged, with private companies joining in. LabCorp began providing tests March 5, and Quest Diagnostics followed four days later. Tests also are being conducted at hospitals and other centers.

With the increased testing has come a skyrocketing number of confirmed cases, zooming from 43 at the beginning of March to 33,404 by Monday.

Only in the last few days has the United States finally begun testing more people each day than far smaller South Korea, according to data complied by Johns Hopkins University.

Jha estimates the U.S. should be testing 100,000 to 150,000 people per day — figures he said should be obtainable given the number of high-quality diagnostic labs in the country.

“We certainly have the capacity. It’s just we’re not doing it,” Jha said Thursday. “We are up to about 40,000 tests per day now — and so we are moving in the right direction. Still far from where we need to be, but moving.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584219029698.png" alt="Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Health and&nbsp; Senior Services" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Health and&nbsp; Senior Services</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A series of missteps at the nation’s top public health agency caused a critical shortage of reliable laboratory tests for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>, hobbling the federal response as the pandemic spread across the country like wildfire, an Associated Press review found.President Donald Trump assured Americans early this month that the COVID-19 test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is “perfect” and that “anyone who wants a test can get a test.” But more than two months after the first U.S. case of the new disease was confirmed, many people still cannot get tested.In the critical month of February, as the virus began taking root in the U.S. population, CDC data shows government labs processed 352 COVID-19 tests — an average of only a dozen per day.“You cannot fight a fire blindfolded,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, said at a recent briefing. “We cannot stop this pandemic if we don’t know who is infected.”The Department of Health and Human Services, which includes the CDC, has begun an internal review to assess its own mistakes. But outside observers and federal health officials have pointed to four primary issues that together hampered the national response — the early decision not to use the test adopted by the World Health Organization, flaws with the more complex test developed by the CDC, government guidelines restricting who could be tested and delays in engaging the private sector to ramp up testing capacity.Combined with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/67a9a72531ca2e332bea9225cec2fda5">messaging from the White House minimizing the disease</a>, that fueled a lackluster response that missed chances to slow the spread of the virus, they said.“There were many, many opportunities not to end up where we are,” Dr. Ashish K. Jha, the director of the Global Health Institute at Harvard, told the AP. “Basically, they took this as business as usual. ... And that’s because the messaging from the White House was ‘this is not a big deal, this is no worse than the flu.’ So that message basically created no sense of urgency within the FDA or the CDC to fix it.”Even as private labs have been cleared by government regulators to process tens of thousands of additional tests in the last two weeks, experts warn that the nation is still falling well short of enough testing capacity to keep ahead of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak">the highly contagious virus</a>. And it can often take a week just to get results back.Trump last week rated his administration’s response to the crisis as a perfect 10. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/432a37435f28015e8b45eeff710cd254">Dr. Anthony Fauci</a>, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said the CDC’s system wasn’t designed to test for and track a widespread outbreak, which he characterized as “a failing.”In interviews with the AP, two federal health officials with direct knowledge of the situation said CDC experts don’t know why many of the agency’s test kits failed to reliably detect the virus. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about what went wrong.J. Stephen Morrison, a health policy expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, called the testing issues a “debacle,” contributing to what he described as a confused and delayed federal response to the crisis.As a result, he said, the CDC has now been marginalized within the White House — a worrisome development.“CDC has generally been regarded as the best in the game,” Morrison said. “I don’t think they anticipated the technical difficulty or the speed with which the virus has been moving. The virus was racing out ahead of them.”___FATEFUL DECISIONSOn New Year’s Eve, Chinese scientists informed the World Health Organization about a cluster of 27 pneumonia cases of unknown cause in the industrial megalopolis of Wuhan that they linked to the city’s wholesale fish market. Less than two weeks later, the Chinese had sequenced the virus’ genetic makeup and shared it with the world.Within days, German scientists had developed a test that could identify a unique part of the virus’ DNA. The WHO quickly adopted the German test,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/protocol-v2-1.pdf?sfvrsn=a9ef618c_2" target="_blank">publishing technical guidelines</a>&nbsp;on Jan. 17 and working with private companies to produce testing kits.As they have done with some past outbreaks, officials at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta decided to develop their own test, focusing on three gene targets distinct from what the WHO used. Over the decades, the headquarters lab had built a track record of being among the first to develop tests for new diseases and quickly making them available for disease tracking.The CDC published the technical details for its COVID-19 test on Jan. 28, 10 days after the WHO. By then, the virus had already been in the U.S. for at least two weeks.The 35-year-old man who would become the first American to test positive had arrived in Seattle on Jan. 15, following a trip to Wuhan. After swabs from his nose and throat were flown to the CDC lab, federal officials announced the results Jan. 21.In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/01/22/trump-on-coronavirus-from-china-we-have-it-totally-under-control.html" target="_blank">an interview on CNBC</a>&nbsp;the following day, the Republican president was asked about the risk to the nation.“We have it totally under control,” he said. “It’s one person coming in from China. ... It’s going to be just fine.”With limited capacity at the CDC lab in Atlanta, the agency placed strict criteria on who could be tested: people with fevers, coughing or difficulty breathing who had also visited Wuhan within the preceding two weeks or who had close contact with someone already confirmed or under investigation for having the virus.On Jan. 30, the day the WHO declared the outbreak a public health emergency, Trump again assured the American people that the virus was “very well under control.”Then he departed for a weekend at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, where he&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1223640662689689602?s=20" target="_blank">tweeted a photo of himself playing golf</a>&nbsp;at his club in West Palm Beach.“Getting a little exercise this morning!” the president wrote.The following day, the U.S. declared its own emergency. Still, U.S. citizens returning from China who did not have a fever weren’t tested for the virus but were encouraged to self-quarantine at home for 14 days.At that point, the CDC had confirmed just eight cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. The agency amended its testing criteria to include people with fevers who had traveled to China, rather than just Wuhan.___FLAWED TEST KITSFour days after the U.S. declared a state of emergency, only 178 patients had been tested and 82 others were listed as “pending,” meaning they were awaiting final results, according to CDC data released at the time.To help increase the number of people being screened, the Food and Drug Administration issued emergency authorization for CDC-certified labs run by state health departments to begin processing swabs, and they were provided with kits that could test 250 patients.As the first tests were processed at the state labs, technicians reported getting inconclusive results, which the CDC has said could be due to the test looking for signs of generic coronaviruses, of which there are many, rather than the specific virus that causes COVID-19.Whatever the reason, by mid-February, only about a half-dozen state and local public health labs had reliable tests. But still, CDC Director Dr. Robert Redfield continued to insist his agency had developed “a very accurate test.”“We found that, in some of the states, it didn’t work,” Redfield&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-tour-centers-disease-control-prevention-atlanta-ga/" target="_blank">said earlier this month</a>. “We figured out why. I don’t consider that a fault. I consider that doing quality control. I consider that success.”The testing problems emerged just as the CDC broadened its criteria to include patients who were “severely ill” with COVID-19 symptoms “even if a known source of exposure has not been identified.”As more sick people sought to be tested, many states were forced to limit access because of the flawed CDC test. Accounts began to emerge through social media of people with all the symptoms of COVID-19 who either couldn’t get tested or had test results delayed by days or even a week.“I know of doctor friends of mine who have critically ill patients in the ICU, and we don’t know if they have COVID or not because we can’t get a test,” Jha said last week.___COMMUNITY TRANSMISSIONOn Feb. 24, exasperated officials at the Association of Public Health Laboratories sent a letter to the FDA, basically asking permission for state labs to develop their own tests. Within days, the FDA reversed its previous position and said both public and private labs could conduct testing.Trump continued to insist the virus would die out on its own. “One day, it’s like a miracle. It will disappear,” he predicted Feb. 27.By then, experts say, the opportunity to halt the relentless spread of the virus within the U.S. population had been lost.On Feb. 29, only 472 patients had been tested nationwide, with just 22 cases confirmed, according to CDC data. Of those, nine cases were not related to travel but had spread person-to-person within the U.S.By comparison, South Korea had its first confirmed case of COVID-19 on Jan. 20, the same day as the U.S. Officials there used a test that focused on the same gene targets as the WHO test, according to the website of a test manufacturer. They then quickly permitted private-sector labs to run the samples. As a result, a nation with less than one-sixth the population of the U.S. mobilized to test more than 20,000 people a day.South Korea also instituted drive-thru centers, allowing quicker identification of those who were infected but might not be displaying symptoms, thus slowing the emergence of new cases to a more manageable level.Meanwhile, the rate of U.S. infections soared.“The system is not really geared to what we need right now, what you are asking for,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/76b0f255426ad655a26e927062e1fef9">Fauci conceded during a congressional hearing</a>&nbsp;earlier this month. “That is a failing. Let’s admit it.”___SHIFTING BLAMEAs public outrage over the lack of available U.S. tests grew, the FDA announced it would allow private diagnostic lab companies to produce new tests without preauthorization from regulators.Trump and HHS Secretary Alex Azar&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-tour-centers-disease-control-prevention-atlanta-ga/" target="_blank">visited the CDC lab</a>&nbsp;in Atlanta on March 6, praising the agency’s performance and promising 4 million test kits would be available by the end of the following week.That lofty number didn’t match the ability of U.S. labs to process tests, however. Private providers were just then ramping up, while CDC and state health labs processed about 25,200 COVID-19 tests in the following seven days, according to CDC data.At the same news conference, Trump said he wanted infected passengers to remain on a cruise ship off the West Coast to keep the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. low.“I like the numbers being where they are,” Trump said, shortly before departing Atlanta for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9fP7XNHPWI/?utm_source=ig_embed" target="_blank">another weekend of golf in Florida</a>. “I don’t need to have the numbers double because of one ship that wasn’t our fault.”Trump has also attempted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f4cd4c72e896d7fbd8ebd3516e864550">mislay blame</a>&nbsp;for the testing troubles on the Obama administration. In 2018, Trump disbanded the White House directorate charged with preparing for and responding to global pandemics.“I don’t take responsibility at all,” Trump replied when asked about the testing shortfall in a March 13 briefing at the White House.Morrison said Trump appears to see the virus as a political issue rather than a public health threat.“You can imagine a White House that said, ‘Do whatever it takes to test everybody for the virus,’” he said. “That wasn’t the mentality. It was the opposite mentality, and ultimately the responsibility to protect the American people lies with the White House.”Trump and other officials have falsely said they declined to use the WHO test because it isn’t reliable.“Quality testing for our American people is paramount to us,” Deborah Birx, who is coordinating the U.S. coronavirus response, said last week. “It doesn’t help to put out a test where 50% or 47% are false positives.”“It was a bad test,” Trump chimed in.Tarik Jašarević, a WHO spokesman, told the AP last week that his agency had shipped 1.5 million testing kits manufactured in Germany to 120 countries around the globe, with no such problems emerging.“The test has been validated in three external laboratories, adapted by WHO and manufactured in line with international quality standards,” he said. “It has shown consistently good performance in laboratory and clinical use, and neither a significant number of false-positive nor false-negative results have been reported.”Over the past two weeks, U.S. testing capacity has surged, with private companies joining in. LabCorp began providing tests March 5, and Quest Diagnostics followed four days later. Tests also are being conducted at hospitals and other centers.With the increased testing has come a skyrocketing number of confirmed cases, zooming from 43 at the beginning of March to 33,404 by Monday.Only in the last few days has the United States finally begun testing more people each day than far smaller South Korea, according to data complied by Johns Hopkins University.Jha estimates the U.S. should be testing 100,000 to 150,000 people per day — figures he said should be obtainable given the number of high-quality diagnostic labs in the country.“We certainly have the capacity. It’s just we’re not doing it,” Jha said Thursday. “We are up to about 40,000 tests per day now — and so we are moving in the right direction. Still far from where we need to be, but moving.”___

Testing blunders crippled US response as coronavirus spread

OMAHA-Four University of Nebraska Medical Center physicians who also have roles in the Global Center for Health Security at UNMC/Nebraska Medicine, recently released a free book available through Amazon and the University of Nebraska Press about quarantine just before the new coronavirus was discovered.

The book titled, “Nebraska Isolation and Quarantine Manual,” shares practical aspects of why, how and when to apply quarantine and isolation for conditions that warrant care in biocontainment or quarantine in one, easy-to-use source. It also includes the history of quarantine and its legal and ethical considerations.

The book was written and edited from lessons learned at UNMC and others around the world during the West Africa Ebola virus outbreak.

The authors say the book is probably most useful for medical, nursing and public health personnel who work in medical centers, clinics and in the community, as well as for students in the health professions.&nbsp;

Ted Cieslak, M.D., Mark Kortepeter,&nbsp;M.D., Christopher Kratochvil, M.D., and James Lawler, M.D., co-edited the book. They also co-wrote chapters in the book, along with colleagues around the world. The book covers historical and legal aspects of quarantine and isolation on certain high consequence infectious diseases that might be considered for specialized care in a biocontainment unit.

“Given our experience in managing Ebola during the West African outbreak, the fact that we possess the nation’s largest biocontainment unit, and we just opened the nation’s first (and only) federal quarantine facility, we felt that we possessed the unique expertise necessary to produce such a book,” said Dr. Cieslak, medical director of the National Quarantine Unit at UNMC/Nebraska Medicine. “Despite the voluminous nature of the medical literature, we could find no other text designed to be a practical resource for clinicians, policymakers and public health officials in the field. We felt it was incumbent upon us to write one.”

Dr. Kortepeter, professor of epidemiology in the UNMC College of Public Health, said when the book was written, “We had no idea how timely the book arrival would be, given the current COVID-19 pandemic. We are pleased this might be beneficial for medical personnel across the world in a time of need. There is not a lot of specific information about what diseases quarantine should and should not apply to, which is what makes this document even the more useful.”

The University of Nebraska Press produced and distributes the book.

“UNMC and Nebraska Medicine have expertise in quarantine and isolation. Given their past experience with Ebola and their current experience with COVID-19, we wanted to make sure that the expertise they’ve gathered is available free to others around the world,” said Donna Shear, director, University of Nebraska Press.

Here are instructions to get the book for free on Amazon’s Kindle or from the University of Nebraska Press.&nbsp;

On&nbsp;<a href="http://amazon.com/" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, search “Nebraska Isolation and Quarantine Manual.”

For a copy from the University of Nebraska Press, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/university-of-nebraska-medical-center/9780989353731" target="_blank">https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/university-of-nebraska-medical-center/9780989353731</a>

Use discount code 6NQM when checking out.

To read the ebook, get Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) installed on your device.&nbsp;A free application can be downloaded and installed on your PC, Mac, tablet and/or smartphone from&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.adobe.com_solutions_ebook_digital-2Deditions_download.html&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=Cu5g146wZdoqVuKpTNsYHeFX_rg6kWhlkLF8Eft-wwo&amp;r=W8OirUNTC-4WYQntnjc4KA&amp;m=cC9sqGQWGHhTOcxB-LHJhcXlHNMvYzjMCLqeF6BiHQ0&amp;s=TvI9w97KG0oJgY-I-T5mcSFlU-W3bQONaI7_9_GRzhY&amp;e=" target="_blank">https://www.adobe.com/solutions/ebook/digital-editions/download.html</a>

As well, you will need to authorize your copy of ADE with an&nbsp;AdobeID.&nbsp;ADE should ask for your&nbsp;AdobeID&nbsp;when you first open the application.&nbsp;If not, go Help &gt;&gt; Authorize Computer/Device.&nbsp;You can use the&nbsp;AdobeID&nbsp;you use for other Adobe products or you can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__accounts.adobe.com&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=Cu5g146wZdoqVuKpTNsYHeFX_rg6kWhlkLF8Eft-wwo&amp;r=W8OirUNTC-4WYQntnjc4KA&amp;m=cC9sqGQWGHhTOcxB-LHJhcXlHNMvYzjMCLqeF6BiHQ0&amp;s=CtqBlLv2haWT0h08SAFFppxWhbqxtFEbtn1o0FEZwX0&amp;e=" target="_blank">https://accounts.adobe.com</a>&nbsp;to create an&nbsp;AdobeID&nbsp;for yourself.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585077340171.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA-Four University of Nebraska Medical Center physicians who also have roles in the Global Center for Health Security at UNMC/Nebraska Medicine, recently released a free book available through Amazon and the University of Nebraska Press about quarantine just before the new coronavirus was discovered.The book titled, “Nebraska Isolation and Quarantine Manual,” shares practical aspects of why, how and when to apply quarantine and isolation for conditions that warrant care in biocontainment or quarantine in one, easy-to-use source. It also includes the history of quarantine and its legal and ethical considerations.The book was written and edited from lessons learned at UNMC and others around the world during the West Africa Ebola virus outbreak.The authors say the book is probably most useful for medical, nursing and public health personnel who work in medical centers, clinics and in the community, as well as for students in the health professions.&nbsp;Ted Cieslak, M.D., Mark Kortepeter,&nbsp;M.D., Christopher Kratochvil, M.D., and James Lawler, M.D., co-edited the book. They also co-wrote chapters in the book, along with colleagues around the world. The book covers historical and legal aspects of quarantine and isolation on certain high consequence infectious diseases that might be considered for specialized care in a biocontainment unit.“Given our experience in managing Ebola during the West African outbreak, the fact that we possess the nation’s largest biocontainment unit, and we just opened the nation’s first (and only) federal quarantine facility, we felt that we possessed the unique expertise necessary to produce such a book,” said Dr. Cieslak, medical director of the National Quarantine Unit at UNMC/Nebraska Medicine. “Despite the voluminous nature of the medical literature, we could find no other text designed to be a practical resource for clinicians, policymakers and public health officials in the field. We felt it was incumbent upon us to write one.”Dr. Kortepeter, professor of epidemiology in the UNMC College of Public Health, said when the book was written, “We had no idea how timely the book arrival would be, given the current COVID-19 pandemic. We are pleased this might be beneficial for medical personnel across the world in a time of need. There is not a lot of specific information about what diseases quarantine should and should not apply to, which is what makes this document even the more useful.”The University of Nebraska Press produced and distributes the book.“UNMC and Nebraska Medicine have expertise in quarantine and isolation. Given their past experience with Ebola and their current experience with COVID-19, we wanted to make sure that the expertise they’ve gathered is available free to others around the world,” said Donna Shear, director, University of Nebraska Press.Here are instructions to get the book for free on Amazon’s Kindle or from the University of Nebraska Press.&nbsp;On&nbsp;<a href="http://amazon.com/" target="_blank">amazon.com</a>, search “Nebraska Isolation and Quarantine Manual.”For a copy from the University of Nebraska Press, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/university-of-nebraska-medical-center/9780989353731" target="_blank">https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/university-of-nebraska-medical-center/9780989353731</a>Use discount code 6NQM when checking out.To read the ebook, get Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) installed on your device.&nbsp;A free application can be downloaded and installed on your PC, Mac, tablet and/or smartphone from&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.adobe.com_solutions_ebook_digital-2Deditions_download.html&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=Cu5g146wZdoqVuKpTNsYHeFX_rg6kWhlkLF8Eft-wwo&amp;r=W8OirUNTC-4WYQntnjc4KA&amp;m=cC9sqGQWGHhTOcxB-LHJhcXlHNMvYzjMCLqeF6BiHQ0&amp;s=TvI9w97KG0oJgY-I-T5mcSFlU-W3bQONaI7_9_GRzhY&amp;e=" target="_blank">https://www.adobe.com/solutions/ebook/digital-editions/download.html</a>As well, you will need to authorize your copy of ADE with an&nbsp;AdobeID.&nbsp;ADE should ask for your&nbsp;AdobeID&nbsp;when you first open the application.&nbsp;If not, go Help &gt;&gt; Authorize Computer/Device.&nbsp;You can use the&nbsp;AdobeID&nbsp;you use for other Adobe products or you can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__accounts.adobe.com&amp;d=DwMGaQ&amp;c=Cu5g146wZdoqVuKpTNsYHeFX_rg6kWhlkLF8Eft-wwo&amp;r=W8OirUNTC-4WYQntnjc4KA&amp;m=cC9sqGQWGHhTOcxB-LHJhcXlHNMvYzjMCLqeF6BiHQ0&amp;s=CtqBlLv2haWT0h08SAFFppxWhbqxtFEbtn1o0FEZwX0&amp;e=" target="_blank">https://accounts.adobe.com</a>&nbsp;to create an&nbsp;AdobeID&nbsp;for yourself.&nbsp;

UNMC/Nebraska Medicine infectious disease experts release free book on quarantine and isolation

In the old days, Church pastors frowned on their church members staying home to watch television preachers Rex Humbard, Jerry Falwell or Robert Schuller. The sick and the very elderly were typically pardoned but that was as far as grace was extended.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vast majority of churches across the land did not televise their services or broadcast church on the radio. Traditionally churches have preferred keeping their flock coming to the "house of God."&nbsp;Essentially most churches haven't changed their philosophy. Congregations have always enjoyed "gathering" to sing, hear sermons, eat meals together and importantly -shake hands.&nbsp;Media ministry in the old days was usually reserved for the large and affluent churches that could afford to buy television time or at least radio air time. Television broadcasting has always been expensive and so very few churches have been able to televise their services. A few more churches through the years have been able to afford radio time.

I remember one of my old-time preacher friends shaming his congregation one Sunday. He said, "One reason you people should not sit home and watch church on your television is because you can't shake hands with your television."&nbsp;The church has always placed a lot of emphasis on "togetherness, shaking hands, hugging and embracing others."&nbsp; Now, no one wants to shake hands and embrace each other. Because of Covid-19 people are trying to stay six feet apart. Furthermore, almost every minister and congregation in the country has the ability to broadcast his or her service via the Internet or Facebook. Media ministry now is available to almost everyone. Ministers now want people to tune in on Facebook or whatever media they are using.&nbsp;Ministers still prefer that people attend church, but if they are the "ones" being watched then it's fine.&nbsp;It's ironic how things change. What used to be kind of taboo for some churches is widely embraced now. One of the reasons is because it's so available. It's also affordable. People have computers and cell phones. People are on Facebook or have some other Internet accessibility. Radio airtime is more affordable in many areas. Things and times change. Plus, we've never been hit by anything like this pandemic where people are being told to stay home and that church is off limits. Whoever thought that church attendance might be ordered by the governor to be off limits?&nbsp;Many houses of worship began building their websites years ago so that members could do their giving online. This is a good thing especially if people are already in the habit of donating this way. Churches who do not gather typically never recoup their giving. Some faithful members will catch up on charitable giving but most will not. Churches along with everyone will suffer during this pandemic.&nbsp;

Houses of faith will survive during this virus crisis but life will change for most congregations. Many will be excited to get back to the church pew and shaking hands when they can. Or, they may conclude they don't need to shake hands anymore.

Click here for -&gt;&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2b-w1GM7s_311iVyvSPGuJ-SobYz00rAu6h-KjqbBQCz12A_nrCoZV5slXsqtErDkRLUUgOEbX6-kpA_JQER9t1u1kSK1HWa0nRHoGYRJL4oksF6UEHoycvfc90j7C-_Nnl2BnEgoS11_brOop77BTqMN78qq3uka6EfB3T9z_zJJIYe4wIPI7e0ysWhKnPQGbecmVelXEMkbae-dzwKEtkeu6gjHpOQZin55TF0sEsK&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">Books By Glenn Mollette&nbsp;</a>, Read his latest book Uncommon SenseMusic by Glenn Mollette through<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2aGI0VXZbjnVqMV_SHljuHq7Js6YMIImvHZrW2436loNuYLz0nLnxRbErH4DZ7AXGw39ALL2nGiLx0PrJl3genTyQ6FlwaUpjU_KIYkv5dvN4Awjip7Za95OCrXAOx8akD3frMNJbTLeW_7QUq0rp4lPc90WOKj7PuBqsMoHnY57&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">&nbsp;iTunes&nbsp;</a>and all music dealersContact him at GMollette@aol.com. &nbsp; Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2fSLW318emSW_vngN2wO-i_jdTYhiLHCoGab2IySmtAGX-ALF74BLN8oru5osr8WClkbaCpvK1uXuephM0IBghYz8fES0bjOzmMaM9W7C_X0yJFo1rJr4z2uB0-APcbUkg==&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">www.glennmollette.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; Like his facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2TMutSAo8uXzK4KPvoIcXCbElUEF4Iu5yTG5BICNU6uNXqEhj6-6IazxXrtiJ30DWUEUkGYWUgObstvffLAEzXT1CED1iv_Nl6RFnCPR1KjIF64J0SCnVNqNepyETzKUYwBuRoFe130p&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/glennmollette</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584032762080.jpeg" alt="Dr. Glenn Mollette" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Glenn Mollette</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Dr. Glenn MolletteIn the old days, Church pastors frowned on their church members staying home to watch television preachers Rex Humbard, Jerry Falwell or Robert Schuller. The sick and the very elderly were typically pardoned but that was as far as grace was extended.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vast majority of churches across the land did not televise their services or broadcast church on the radio. Traditionally churches have preferred keeping their flock coming to the "house of God."&nbsp;Essentially most churches haven't changed their philosophy. Congregations have always enjoyed "gathering" to sing, hear sermons, eat meals together and importantly -shake hands.&nbsp;Media ministry in the old days was usually reserved for the large and affluent churches that could afford to buy television time or at least radio air time. Television broadcasting has always been expensive and so very few churches have been able to televise their services. A few more churches through the years have been able to afford radio time.I remember one of my old-time preacher friends shaming his congregation one Sunday. He said, "One reason you people should not sit home and watch church on your television is because you can't shake hands with your television."&nbsp;The church has always placed a lot of emphasis on "togetherness, shaking hands, hugging and embracing others."&nbsp; Now, no one wants to shake hands and embrace each other. Because of Covid-19 people are trying to stay six feet apart. Furthermore, almost every minister and congregation in the country has the ability to broadcast his or her service via the Internet or Facebook. Media ministry now is available to almost everyone. Ministers now want people to tune in on Facebook or whatever media they are using.&nbsp;Ministers still prefer that people attend church, but if they are the "ones" being watched then it's fine.&nbsp;It's ironic how things change. What used to be kind of taboo for some churches is widely embraced now. One of the reasons is because it's so available. It's also affordable. People have computers and cell phones. People are on Facebook or have some other Internet accessibility. Radio airtime is more affordable in many areas. Things and times change. Plus, we've never been hit by anything like this pandemic where people are being told to stay home and that church is off limits. Whoever thought that church attendance might be ordered by the governor to be off limits?&nbsp;Many houses of worship began building their websites years ago so that members could do their giving online. This is a good thing especially if people are already in the habit of donating this way. Churches who do not gather typically never recoup their giving. Some faithful members will catch up on charitable giving but most will not. Churches along with everyone will suffer during this pandemic.&nbsp;Houses of faith will survive during this virus crisis but life will change for most congregations. Many will be excited to get back to the church pew and shaking hands when they can. Or, they may conclude they don't need to shake hands anymore.Click here for -&gt;&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2b-w1GM7s_311iVyvSPGuJ-SobYz00rAu6h-KjqbBQCz12A_nrCoZV5slXsqtErDkRLUUgOEbX6-kpA_JQER9t1u1kSK1HWa0nRHoGYRJL4oksF6UEHoycvfc90j7C-_Nnl2BnEgoS11_brOop77BTqMN78qq3uka6EfB3T9z_zJJIYe4wIPI7e0ysWhKnPQGbecmVelXEMkbae-dzwKEtkeu6gjHpOQZin55TF0sEsK&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">Books By Glenn Mollette&nbsp;</a>, Read his latest book Uncommon SenseMusic by Glenn Mollette through<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2aGI0VXZbjnVqMV_SHljuHq7Js6YMIImvHZrW2436loNuYLz0nLnxRbErH4DZ7AXGw39ALL2nGiLx0PrJl3genTyQ6FlwaUpjU_KIYkv5dvN4Awjip7Za95OCrXAOx8akD3frMNJbTLeW_7QUq0rp4lPc90WOKj7PuBqsMoHnY57&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">&nbsp;iTunes&nbsp;</a>and all music dealersContact him at GMollette@aol.com. &nbsp; Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2fSLW318emSW_vngN2wO-i_jdTYhiLHCoGab2IySmtAGX-ALF74BLN8oru5osr8WClkbaCpvK1uXuephM0IBghYz8fES0bjOzmMaM9W7C_X0yJFo1rJr4z2uB0-APcbUkg==&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">www.glennmollette.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; Like his facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001LWOxQTzvJrXTHtIhOyX3XCaAjh05qNKRWoD6Wvass2xaGiiAV6wJ2TMutSAo8uXzK4KPvoIcXCbElUEF4Iu5yTG5BICNU6uNXqEhj6-6IazxXrtiJ30DWUEUkGYWUgObstvffLAEzXT1CED1iv_Nl6RFnCPR1KjIF64J0SCnVNqNepyETzKUYwBuRoFe130p&amp;c=K6zNL7uIkou_wfdbHfm1OhuPUxSuxkRKbg1jUYow-EhXXvKom4EbGA==&amp;ch=E-lMdJ-Yt4z61bn9UH0wgCmSGolv0BKu2DLNO_j6CQxsmWdD4_iisQ==" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/glennmollette</a>

Column: COVID-19 and churches shaking hands?

Picking-Up Student Items from North Platte High School

Items from the following areas will be available for students to pick-up from the SMALL GYM unless otherwise noted:

Schedule:&nbsp; Please respect the following time slots in order to help minimize large groups of students.

In order to encourage the safety of our students and staff:

When students get to the small gym, their items will be grouped as follows.&nbsp; These locations tell where the items were found in the building.

Thank you for your cooperation in this effort!

Picking-Up Student Items from North Platte High SchoolFriday 3.27.20Items from the following areas will be available for students to pick-up from the SMALL GYM unless otherwise noted:<ol>
 <li>Academic Lockers&nbsp;</li><li>Physical Education Lockers</li><li>Musical Instruments (Band &amp; Choir Areas):&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;These will be picked up in small groups, from the Band Room, with help from Mr. Bradley and staff.&nbsp; Students will gather their items and then immediately exit the building.</li>
 </ol>Schedule:&nbsp; Please respect the following time slots in order to help minimize large groups of students.<figure>
 <img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xmncBeAZ-LlaCWbcARwV2Vi-Wx1Aaijs0cPAYGqQ2vQflwiLlYJjFsB967JK6jUT8zvIUJP2tBjz-8YHlVWeRIjE6__RKs7d1xwTGNbIXpJ-d8LwnTL4aC_roHmvA5NAVntYYSg8" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In order to encourage the safety of our students and staff:<ol>
 <li>If you or anyone in your family is not feeling well, please do NOT come to the school.</li><li>Students will form a line of no more than 10, at the north boundary of the PE/Locker Room Alley.&nbsp; Students will wait outside the gate between the parking lot and alley, with an administrator.</li><li>If the line already has 10 students, students should stay in their vehicles until it shortens.</li><li>Students will be allowed to proceed down the alley to the SMALL gym.&nbsp; They are allowed to gather their things, then immediately exit the gym and go back to their cars.</li><li>Students will NOT be allowed into any other part of the school.</li>
 </ol>When students get to the small gym, their items will be grouped as follows.&nbsp; These locations tell where the items were found in the building.<ol>
 <li>1100 Learning Center Lockers</li><li>1200 Learning Center Lockers</li><li>1300 Learning Center Lockers</li><li>1400 Learning Center Lockers</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>2100 Learning Center Lockers</li><li>2200 Learning Center Lockers</li><li>2300 Learning Center Lockers</li><li>2400 Learning Center Lockers</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Girls Locker Room Lockers</li><li>Boys Locker Room Lockers</li>
 </ol>Thank you for your cooperation in this effort!

North Platte High School students can pick up personal items on Friday

It’s hard to believe how quickly the coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed our lives in just a matter of weeks.&nbsp; I am grateful to Nebraskans for making sacrifices and taking precautions to help slow the spread of the virus and keep people healthy.&nbsp; Nebraskans have been complying with limitations on social gatherings and practicing good hygiene.&nbsp; These actions are vitally important as we seek to protect everyone from the virus, especially the most vulnerable people in our state.&nbsp;

Restaurants have adjusted how they serve customers, moving to takeout, drive-thru, or curbside services.&nbsp; Parents and educators are finding creative ways to continue studies through distance learning and homeschooling.&nbsp; Churches are live-streaming their worship services and making lessons available online for families.&nbsp; I especially want to thank our healthcare professionals, first responders, and law enforcement who have been working to keep Nebraska moving during this public health emergency.

The last week has proven that COVID-19 can spread rapidly.&nbsp; Positive cases have now been confirmed in Adams, Buffalo, Cass, Dawson, Douglas, Knox, Lancaster, Lincoln, Madison, Nemaha, Sarpy, and Washington counties as of March 23rd.&nbsp; Social distancing and good hygiene are the best weapons against the virus, while we work to further ramp up testing and develop a vaccine.

We have two levels of social distancing restrictions.&nbsp; Right now, the entire state must abide by guidance to limit social gatherings to 10 people.&nbsp; Outside of Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington counties, restaurants and bars can have up to 10 patrons—although they are encouraged to transition to takeout, curbside, or delivery services.&nbsp;

In the Omaha area, cases of “community transmission” have been confirmed.&nbsp; Community transmission cases are cases that our public health teams have not been able to trace to their origin.&nbsp; After discovering these community transmission cases, the State issued a Directed Health Measure (DHM) for Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington counties on March 19th. &nbsp;The DHM imposes an enforceable limit on public gatherings, restricting them to 10 people or less.&nbsp; Among other steps, the DHM requires restaurants and bars in these areas to close their dining areas and move to takeout, drive thru, delivery, and/or curbside service through April 30, 2020.&nbsp; Hospitals are also cancelling elective surgeries.

As other regions of the state confirm community transmission of COVID-19, we will issue DHMs for other parts of the state to increase social distancing measures.&nbsp; Full information about the statewide guidance and DHM for specific counties can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>.

All Nebraskans, both rural and urban, should continue to take this virus with the utmost seriousness. &nbsp;If you show any symptoms, stay home and immediately contact your healthcare provider for an initial screening. &nbsp;All Nebraskans should wash their hands regularly, greet people verbally, and clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.&nbsp; And keep a distance of six feet from people when out in public.

As our response continues, I am also working with the Legislature on an emergency package to provide $83 million of funding to combat COVID-19 in Nebraska. &nbsp;Here’s a quick overview of the package:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Assistance for Nebraska Communities:&nbsp; The largest portion will go towards purchasing much-need personal protective equipment (PPE) to help our communities respond.&nbsp; It will also help Local Public Health Departments (LHD) to ramp up staffing and call center operations, and to make essential IT expenditures—like laptops and servers.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Public Health Division:&nbsp;&nbsp;From epidemiologists who advise LHDs to robust public information campaigns,&nbsp;our Public Health team has been overseeing the statewide response.&nbsp; These resources will help expand staffing to augment their team to give them the resources they need during this pandemic for missions like testing.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Agency Overtime:&nbsp; This part of the package will help cover costs for overtime and additional staff to maintain healthcare coverage needs at veterans’ homes and state care facilities.&nbsp; These funds are calculated to cover a 50% spike in staffing needs to prepare for the possibility that some teammates may be temporarily unable to provide care due to quarantine requirements.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;University of Nebraska Medical Center:&nbsp;Additional funding for the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) would pay for equipment and systems at UNMC.&nbsp; Some of the funds would go toward the cost of the reagents, lab personnel, and equipment needed to expand COVID-19 testing.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional Flexibility:&nbsp;&nbsp;The Legislature is also considering an additional $25 million in flexibility for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to ensure the State has the resources it needs as the scope of the pandemic unfolds.

As our response continues, we will monitor the needs of our public health teams, medical centers, labs, and care facilities to make sure they have the best possible access to resources. &nbsp;

In the coming days, Nebraskans should continue to practice social distancing and stay informed about the coronavirus.&nbsp; The more action we take individually now, the more we can slow the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; In addition to my website, you should also follow&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus</a>&nbsp;for the latest information.&nbsp; If you have questions, we have also set up a COVID-19 information line: 402-552-6645. &nbsp;It’s open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., every day of the week.&nbsp; Working together, we can make the sacrifices we need to beat COVID-19.

By Governor Pete RickettsIt’s hard to believe how quickly the coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed our lives in just a matter of weeks.&nbsp; I am grateful to Nebraskans for making sacrifices and taking precautions to help slow the spread of the virus and keep people healthy.&nbsp; Nebraskans have been complying with limitations on social gatherings and practicing good hygiene.&nbsp; These actions are vitally important as we seek to protect everyone from the virus, especially the most vulnerable people in our state.&nbsp;Restaurants have adjusted how they serve customers, moving to takeout, drive-thru, or curbside services.&nbsp; Parents and educators are finding creative ways to continue studies through distance learning and homeschooling.&nbsp; Churches are live-streaming their worship services and making lessons available online for families.&nbsp; I especially want to thank our healthcare professionals, first responders, and law enforcement who have been working to keep Nebraska moving during this public health emergency.The last week has proven that COVID-19 can spread rapidly.&nbsp; Positive cases have now been confirmed in Adams, Buffalo, Cass, Dawson, Douglas, Knox, Lancaster, Lincoln, Madison, Nemaha, Sarpy, and Washington counties as of March 23rd.&nbsp; Social distancing and good hygiene are the best weapons against the virus, while we work to further ramp up testing and develop a vaccine.We have two levels of social distancing restrictions.&nbsp; Right now, the entire state must abide by guidance to limit social gatherings to 10 people.&nbsp; Outside of Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington counties, restaurants and bars can have up to 10 patrons—although they are encouraged to transition to takeout, curbside, or delivery services.&nbsp;In the Omaha area, cases of “community transmission” have been confirmed.&nbsp; Community transmission cases are cases that our public health teams have not been able to trace to their origin.&nbsp; After discovering these community transmission cases, the State issued a Directed Health Measure (DHM) for Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington counties on March 19th. &nbsp;The DHM imposes an enforceable limit on public gatherings, restricting them to 10 people or less.&nbsp; Among other steps, the DHM requires restaurants and bars in these areas to close their dining areas and move to takeout, drive thru, delivery, and/or curbside service through April 30, 2020.&nbsp; Hospitals are also cancelling elective surgeries.As other regions of the state confirm community transmission of COVID-19, we will issue DHMs for other parts of the state to increase social distancing measures.&nbsp; Full information about the statewide guidance and DHM for specific counties can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>.All Nebraskans, both rural and urban, should continue to take this virus with the utmost seriousness. &nbsp;If you show any symptoms, stay home and immediately contact your healthcare provider for an initial screening. &nbsp;All Nebraskans should wash their hands regularly, greet people verbally, and clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.&nbsp; And keep a distance of six feet from people when out in public.As our response continues, I am also working with the Legislature on an emergency package to provide $83 million of funding to combat COVID-19 in Nebraska. &nbsp;Here’s a quick overview of the package:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Assistance for Nebraska Communities:&nbsp; The largest portion will go towards purchasing much-need personal protective equipment (PPE) to help our communities respond.&nbsp; It will also help Local Public Health Departments (LHD) to ramp up staffing and call center operations, and to make essential IT expenditures—like laptops and servers.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Public Health Division:&nbsp;&nbsp;From epidemiologists who advise LHDs to robust public information campaigns,&nbsp;our Public Health team has been overseeing the statewide response.&nbsp; These resources will help expand staffing to augment their team to give them the resources they need during this pandemic for missions like testing.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;State Agency Overtime:&nbsp; This part of the package will help cover costs for overtime and additional staff to maintain healthcare coverage needs at veterans’ homes and state care facilities.&nbsp; These funds are calculated to cover a 50% spike in staffing needs to prepare for the possibility that some teammates may be temporarily unable to provide care due to quarantine requirements.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;University of Nebraska Medical Center:&nbsp;Additional funding for the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) would pay for equipment and systems at UNMC.&nbsp; Some of the funds would go toward the cost of the reagents, lab personnel, and equipment needed to expand COVID-19 testing.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional Flexibility:&nbsp;&nbsp;The Legislature is also considering an additional $25 million in flexibility for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to ensure the State has the resources it needs as the scope of the pandemic unfolds.As our response continues, we will monitor the needs of our public health teams, medical centers, labs, and care facilities to make sure they have the best possible access to resources. &nbsp;In the coming days, Nebraskans should continue to practice social distancing and stay informed about the coronavirus.&nbsp; The more action we take individually now, the more we can slow the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; In addition to my website, you should also follow&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus</a>&nbsp;for the latest information.&nbsp; If you have questions, we have also set up a COVID-19 information line: 402-552-6645. &nbsp;It’s open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., every day of the week.&nbsp; Working together, we can make the sacrifices we need to beat COVID-19.

Governor's Weekly Column: The war against the virus

TOKYO (AP) — The Tokyo Olympics have been officially postponed until 2021. The International Olympic Committee along with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and local organizers have decided that the Tokyo Games cannot go ahead as scheduled this year because of the coronavirus outbreak. The games were scheduled to begin July 24.

<a href="https://www.olympic.org/news/joint-statement-from-the-international-olympic-committee-and-the-tokyo-2020-organising-committee">Click here to read the joint statement</a> from IOC and Tokyo organizing committee.

The IOC says the games will be held “not later than summer 2021” but they will still be called the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

TOKYO&nbsp;(AP) — IOC President Thomas Bach has agreed “100%” to a proposal of postponing the Tokyo Olympics for about one year until 2021 because of the coronavirus outbreak, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Tuesday.

Abe said after his telephone talks with Bach that he requested a postponement of about one year “taking into consideration the current circumstances” and to secure an environment in which athletes can perform in their best conditions and the sense of safety and security for the audience.

Abe held telephone talks with Bach after the IOC said it would make a decision on the Tokyo Games over the next four weeks.

TOKYO (AP) — The Tokyo Olympics have been officially postponed until 2021. The International Olympic Committee along with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and local organizers have decided that the Tokyo Games cannot go ahead as scheduled this year because of the coronavirus outbreak. The games were scheduled to begin July 24.<a href="https://www.olympic.org/news/joint-statement-from-the-international-olympic-committee-and-the-tokyo-2020-organising-committee">Click here to read the joint statement</a> from IOC and Tokyo organizing committee.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After his telephone talks with IOC President Bach, PM Abe spoke to the press and explained that the two have agreed that the Tokyo Olympic Games would not be cancelled, and the games will be held by the summer of 2021. <a href="https://t.co/ihe8To2g3R">pic.twitter.com/ihe8To2g3R</a>&mdash; PM&#39;s Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPN_PMO/status/1242428276464812033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The IOC says the games will be held “not later than summer 2021” but they will still be called the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">To safeguard the health of the athletes and everyone involved in the Tokyo 2020 Games. The Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games will now take place no later than summer 2021.&mdash; #Tokyo2020 (@Tokyo2020) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tokyo2020/status/1242440149310435328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>--------TOKYO&nbsp;(AP) — IOC President Thomas Bach has agreed “100%” to a proposal of postponing the Tokyo Olympics for about one year until 2021 because of the coronavirus outbreak, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Tuesday.Abe said after his telephone talks with Bach that he requested a postponement of about one year “taking into consideration the current circumstances” and to secure an environment in which athletes can perform in their best conditions and the sense of safety and security for the audience.Abe held telephone talks with Bach after the IOC said it would make a decision on the Tokyo Games over the next four weeks.---------

Coronavirus Update