Multiple new positive tests of the novel coronavirus have been located in Douglas County as testing for COVID-19 ramps up in the community.

Six additional cases, a mix of men and women, were confirmed Saturday, with three of them travel-related and three who are contacts of a positive case. Additional cases remain under investigation. The total number of confirmed cases in Douglas County is 34.

“We anticipated that increased testing would uncover more cases of COVID-19,” Health Director Dr. Adi Pour said. “That has proven to be the case. All are experiencing mild symptoms and are self-isolating while recovering at home.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two travel-related cases - a man in his 30s and a man in his 60s - were confirmed as COVID-19 positive late Friday with further investigation conducted Saturday, March 21.

The Health Department is advising that with the development of community spread in Douglas County, precautions to avoid becoming infected with COVID-19 need to be taken everywhere, not just in locations previously listed as having the potential for exposure.&nbsp; However, DCHD also feels it is important to note that many people who are sick have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. The CDC reports 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.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms – a fever, cough, fatigue, and sore throat - or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling. Please notify them of any potential exposure to a confirmed case of the novel coronavirus. We ask that you call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.

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.

New guidance has been provided for people who have been asked to self-isolate at home due to symptoms of COVID-19 or a confirmed diagnosis. You are asked to remain in isolation at least three days after your fever has ended without the use of fever-reducing medications and your symptoms have improved. It also must be seven days since your diagnosis.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Multiple new positive tests of the novel coronavirus have been located in Douglas County as testing for COVID-19 ramps up in the community.Six additional cases, a mix of men and women, were confirmed Saturday, with three of them travel-related and three who are contacts of a positive case. Additional cases remain under investigation. The total number of confirmed cases in Douglas County is 34.“We anticipated that increased testing would uncover more cases of COVID-19,” Health Director Dr. Adi Pour said. “That has proven to be the case. All are experiencing mild symptoms and are self-isolating while recovering at home.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Two travel-related cases - a man in his 30s and a man in his 60s - were confirmed as COVID-19 positive late Friday with further investigation conducted Saturday, March 21.The Health Department is advising that with the development of community spread in Douglas County, precautions to avoid becoming infected with COVID-19 need to be taken everywhere, not just in locations previously listed as having the potential for exposure.&nbsp; However, DCHD also feels it is important to note that many people who are sick have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. The CDC reports 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.If you have COVID-19 symptoms – a fever, cough, fatigue, and sore throat - or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling. Please notify them of any potential exposure to a confirmed case of the novel coronavirus. We ask that you call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.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.New guidance has been provided for people who have been asked to self-isolate at home due to symptoms of COVID-19 or a confirmed diagnosis. You are asked to remain in isolation at least three days after your fever has ended without the use of fever-reducing medications and your symptoms have improved. It also must be seven days since your diagnosis.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Increased testing finds new COVID-19 cases in Douglas County

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Ten additional cases of COVID-19 were identified in three Nebraska counties.

All local health departments involved have initiated close contact investigations to identify people who came into close contact to help prevent further spread. All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.

Public health officials say returning travelers should assume that COVID-19 is present at the locations they have visited and traveled through and follow these recommendations:

As of tonight, the state case total is 48. Both state and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.

People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.

Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.

People in these higher-risk groups should:

Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.L90v2sf0oc5GTvMLT_5YIU23ybEhnn8Ighrxcf62EXo%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117440354&amp;sdata=ZppqbfOKnFGAUU7a%2FYZLLe0TxDDX%2B%2FABQMTG29tWXdI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117440354&amp;sdata=aeC%2BvpQ8f3nqibXU0ZpMJ4ZgEHmjfJVNZe5qmwNVeJI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

DHHS opened a statewide coronavirus (COVID-19) information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117440354&amp;sdata=aeC%2BvpQ8f3nqibXU0ZpMJ4ZgEHmjfJVNZe5qmwNVeJI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Ten additional cases of COVID-19 were identified in three Nebraska counties.<ol>
 <li>One case is the family member of the case announced in Lancaster County yesterday. The person is currently self-isolating at home -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2xpbmNvbG4ubmUuZ292L2NpdHkvbWF5b3IvbWVkaWEvMjAyMC8wMzIxMjBhLmh0bSJ9.HgvDb_4iR8Spi68Qy4QAXjjs1NhMsld81doYtjkhhrU%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117390570&amp;sdata=TQmsAmYpvMcIBg%2Btj6OdB4UyuETYq3D5xNRBw%2BkUDjI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://lincoln.ne.gov/city/mayor/media/2020/032120a.htm</a>.</li><li>One case is a man in his 50s from Buffalo County. He is a family member of the case announced yesterday. He is currently self-isolating at home -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cnBoZC5vcmcvIn0.5XboDp1UuyhYRBYM1k9vXo-f_9QOPNbOLxRE9_guZIQ%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117400530&amp;sdata=271jWdHEQbRj3Ja0cDP9VSnPGvsC5ff809%2ByrDdWfD0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/</a>.</li><li>Eight cases are in Douglas County. These newest cases are either travel-related or close contact with a confirmed case -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9sYXRlc3QtbmV3cyJ9.PcsOUlUKyxmCqRQGpJezazYIsyBUiMfzEJbu1S7Anm4%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117400530&amp;sdata=9y1NXspJpzgBMiUDPH6pXogyLa%2FpfpEPwHHbDrU%2Br1c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>.</li>
 </ol>All local health departments involved have initiated close contact investigations to identify people who came into close contact to help prevent further spread. All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.Public health officials say returning travelers should assume that COVID-19 is present at the locations they have visited and traveled through and follow these recommendations:<ol>
 <li>All&nbsp;returning travelers, from any international or domestic location, should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing,&nbsp;and self-monitor for symptoms.</li><li>Returning travelers from regions with&nbsp;widespread sustained transmission&nbsp;(e.g., CDC Level 3 countries -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3d25jLmNkYy5nb3YvdHJhdmVsL25vdGljZXMjYWxlcnQifQ.CC-avmFw2KJ0Mv8E2WQmJNil4xUYo_GnxE_bQQfETJE%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117410488&amp;sdata=K4Lys2xmyXf%2B73DJvf9ewRJTq%2B2JPSIg8XczK65KYnI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices#alert&nbsp;</a>- plus U.S. locales such as Seattle, WA; New York City; and Santa Clara County, CA) should immediately self-quarantine.</li><li>If a returning traveler develops fever or respiratory illness, they need to immediately self-isolate and report to a healthcare provider or local health department.</li><li>Individuals unable to observe the 14-day self-quarantine should consult with their local health department about appropriate actions.</li><li>Every health care worker who returns from travel should consult with a trained medical professional at their facility (e.g., infection preventionist or physician) and establish a specific infection control protocol (e.g., home quarantine, self-monitoring, personal protective equipment while at work) that mitigates patient and co-worker exposures</li>
 </ol>As of tonight, the state case total is 48. Both state and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.People in these higher-risk groups should:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNIYXZlLXN1cHBsaWVzLW9uLWhhbmQifQ.qCV-fYZEVxy_KpHzmPsL8B-miuvWCbAT-cD3OUeh2Vk%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117410488&amp;sdata=7InJqBPxP%2F4BbhAeqtLE09g8Ao06RUu59k%2BaVuUEGBg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Stock up on supplies</a>, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCN0YWtlLWV2ZXJ5ZGF5LXByZWNhdXRpb25zIn0.MUOcROepkzdvMvtOOW5xNg1v1zhvU8_MEof_i6mtLxc%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117420437&amp;sdata=g%2BUgei3UZNzGtJKOHiwEwtHqb1xgZ7XqQbfIS3eOCaM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">everyday precautions</a>&nbsp;to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNhdm9pZC1jcm93ZHMifQ.LW4xbAp5F46KZSBjVEgYWoeTm_r68PAkNbzaCwqNoa0%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117420437&amp;sdata=M5oDmyduDFrn2Zi4VS%2FT7rWqRE1rU3BFU3Hxe0dOp4o%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Avoid crowds</a>&nbsp;as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3d25jLmNkYy5nb3YvdHJhdmVsL3BhZ2UvY292aWQtMTktY3J1aXNlLXNoaXAifQ.tiCZFwls3gwt8v8F_3IzlmERN6RgNoksML7mjhsktNU%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117430396&amp;sdata=cb%2Bd%2Bz3qV8ygGR4nWIilep%2FFWt7TQRHzqIZCzBGDhH0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">cruise travel</a>&nbsp;and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNzdGF5LWhvbWUifQ.26DA1O9AHiJ3RSO7GycqaOKEIo4Z1KqwlYJKRB8LTB8%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117430396&amp;sdata=rgVTCKGaQsZ5aPVX4sW320KuWBm4OPVeHb1Kg%2BZtPnQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stay home</a>&nbsp;as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water&nbsp;for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjIuMTkxMTYwMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.L90v2sf0oc5GTvMLT_5YIU23ybEhnn8Ighrxcf62EXo%2Fbr%2F76465797812-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117440354&amp;sdata=ZppqbfOKnFGAUU7a%2FYZLLe0TxDDX%2B%2FABQMTG29tWXdI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117440354&amp;sdata=aeC%2BvpQ8f3nqibXU0ZpMJ4ZgEHmjfJVNZe5qmwNVeJI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.DHHS opened a statewide coronavirus (COVID-19) information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2c19766b9cf14c447aa608d7ce102801%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637204441117440354&amp;sdata=aeC%2BvpQ8f3nqibXU0ZpMJ4ZgEHmjfJVNZe5qmwNVeJI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Additional COVID-19 cases reported in Lancaster, Buffalo and Douglas Counties

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, have tested negative for the coronavirus.

The vice president's press secretary, Katie Miller, tweeted the results of the tests Saturday night.

Pence had announced earlier Saturday that, out of an abundance of caution, he and his wife would be tested for the virus. A member of the vice president's staff had tested positive for the virus.

The vice president had said the staffer, who did not have close contact with either the president or vice president, was doing well. Still, Pence stood just a few feet from President Donald Trump at the podium during their press conference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584839150894.png" alt="Vice President Mike Pence during Saturday's Coronavirus task force media briefing-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Vice President Mike Pence during Saturday's Coronavirus task force media briefing-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, have tested negative for the coronavirus.The vice president's press secretary, Katie Miller, tweeted the results of the tests Saturday night.Pence had announced earlier Saturday that, out of an abundance of caution, he and his wife would be tested for the virus. A member of the vice president's staff had tested positive for the virus.The vice president had said the staffer, who did not have close contact with either the president or vice president, was doing well. Still, Pence stood just a few feet from President Donald Trump at the podium during their press conference.

VP Mike Pence, wife test negative; staffer has virus

Kansas City, Missouri Mayor Quinton Lucas&nbsp; issued a “Stay at Home” Order Saturday. It requires Kansas City residents to stay at home except for essential activities as the community continues working to slow the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/covid19?source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDOQxKuklXYM-UvQ3FAeKbN9C30xOyz-tbBL7PKTya-SLGnDiutJiG33ci_KMRhQ2m4T6Ee4AjjNoGysSVlqqurleU3REKA0BqqFAA0PRhSDRHtI8R7nUbMUJ0B2b8fRmmoWN-R-vMQTxXTO_8VC1sRRT-F8OAXWd2J8HWxCFSDgGJExSPaat1vrUTnrVb-WwGhUQao36CMjSv3WADOESzpcfSkNqEc9QFaU13_xOeUaSH7_RWrEU0jFH4TrvY0ye-S5GLtnn1H1XuR338pEs-WtTOk44a6uEDMsj1ys_CZ-ol1o8ru8GOqw2auMjc1mofze1rTHVndj9MJ30AiEw&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#COVID19</a>.

Read the <a href="https://www.kcmo.gov/home/showdocument?id=4065">full order here.</a>

Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and healthcare facilities will remain open. This order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24.

"Additionally, with the support of superintendents from all 14 school districts and other education leaders that educate Kansas City students, I have updated my existing State of Emergency order to extend school closures in the Missouri-side of the metropolitan area through Friday, April 24. Daycares and early childhood programs remain exempt from this order," wrote Lucas.

Kansas City, Missouri Mayor Quinton Lucas&nbsp; issued a “Stay at Home” Order Saturday. It requires Kansas City residents to stay at home except for essential activities as the community continues working to slow the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/covid19?source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDOQxKuklXYM-UvQ3FAeKbN9C30xOyz-tbBL7PKTya-SLGnDiutJiG33ci_KMRhQ2m4T6Ee4AjjNoGysSVlqqurleU3REKA0BqqFAA0PRhSDRHtI8R7nUbMUJ0B2b8fRmmoWN-R-vMQTxXTO_8VC1sRRT-F8OAXWd2J8HWxCFSDgGJExSPaat1vrUTnrVb-WwGhUQao36CMjSv3WADOESzpcfSkNqEc9QFaU13_xOeUaSH7_RWrEU0jFH4TrvY0ye-S5GLtnn1H1XuR338pEs-WtTOk44a6uEDMsj1ys_CZ-ol1o8ru8GOqw2auMjc1mofze1rTHVndj9MJ30AiEw&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#COVID19</a>.Read the <a href="https://www.kcmo.gov/home/showdocument?id=4065">full order here.</a>Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and healthcare facilities will remain open. This order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fquinton.lucas%2Fposts%2F2956531374406119&width=500" width="500" height="751" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>"Additionally, with the support of superintendents from all 14 school districts and other education leaders that educate Kansas City students, I have updated my existing State of Emergency order to extend school closures in the Missouri-side of the metropolitan area through Friday, April 24. Daycares and early childhood programs remain exempt from this order," wrote Lucas.

Kansas City mayor issues stay-at-home order

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584817058161.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/">www.thebestideasforkids.com</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/">www.thebestideasforkids.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>

100 indoor activities for kids and families

NEW YORK (AP) — Police officers in Fort Worth and Denver have stopped arresting people for some low-level crimes. 

The district attorney in Brooklyn is declining to prosecute them. And many courthouses across the U.S. are closing their doors, delaying trials and canceling jury duty, as the coronavirus disrupts even the most fundamental pillars of American life. 

The disease has the potential to profoundly change law enforcement and jurisprudence in the U.S. Police departments are shifting resources and adjusting priorities in an attempt to maintain public safety while doing their best to prevent infection among officers and suspects. 

Courts that have stayed open are relying more on video for arraignments and other proceedings.&nbsp;

NEW YORK (AP) — Police officers in Fort Worth and Denver have stopped arresting people for some low-level crimes. The district attorney in Brooklyn is declining to prosecute them. And many courthouses across the U.S. are closing their doors, delaying trials and canceling jury duty, as the coronavirus disrupts even the most fundamental pillars of American life. The disease has the potential to profoundly change law enforcement and jurisprudence in the U.S. Police departments are shifting resources and adjusting priorities in an attempt to maintain public safety while doing their best to prevent infection among officers and suspects. Courts that have stayed open are relying more on video for arraignments and other proceedings.&nbsp;

Health and safety: Police shift priorities as crisis grows

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we have made some changes that we feel will best protect you, your loved ones and our staff.

【1】Only the patient being seen for a visit is allowed in the clinic. This includes family members and caregivers. If you are unable to come alone, please call us BEFORE your visit to make arrangements with our staff.

【2】If you are bringing a child in for a visit, only one parent/guardian is allowed to come with the child. No siblings will be allowed at this time.

【3】Anyone entering the building will be screened with a temperature check and a series of questions.

【4】Our staff will direct you to a specific area of our waiting room depending on the reason for your visit.

We appreciate your understanding and patience at this time as we are doing everything we can to make sure we are able to continue to provide you with the best healthcare possible.

Facebook post from McCook Clinic:Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we have made some changes that we feel will best protect you, your loved ones and our staff.【1】Only the patient being seen for a visit is allowed in the clinic. This includes family members and caregivers. If you are unable to come alone, please call us BEFORE your visit to make arrangements with our staff.【2】If you are bringing a child in for a visit, only one parent/guardian is allowed to come with the child. No siblings will be allowed at this time.【3】Anyone entering the building will be screened with a temperature check and a series of questions.【4】Our staff will direct you to a specific area of our waiting room depending on the reason for your visit.We appreciate your understanding and patience at this time as we are doing everything we can to make sure we are able to continue to provide you with the best healthcare possible.

McCook Clinic makes changes to help prevent spread of COVID-19

Editor’s note: John Furner, President and CEO, Walmart U.S., sent the following note to Walmart U.S. associates.

To: Walmart associates from John Furner, President, and CEO, Walmart U.S.

It’s been incredible to see Walmart associates step up to the challenge of serving America this month. During a very uncertain and stressful time, you have done your jobs with calm, compassion, and excellence. Because of you, Americans have been able to get the items and services they need from clean, orderly, stores — or delivered right to their doorsteps.

Thank you so much for devoting yourselves to your customers and communities. I also want to say thank you to your spouses and loved ones who’ve had to take on extra responsibilities during this time — particularly with many schools and daycares closed, and relatives and friends to look out for.

We are so grateful for your hard work, and it is our absolute pleasure to announce several initiatives to reward you and support you in the coming days.

(These two bonus payments are in addition to the scheduled Q4 bonuses received this week. Tomorrow you will receive additional details about your bonuses.)

To quickly hire these individuals, we will temporarily reduce our usual two-week application cycle to be just 24 hours. If you know individuals who are out of work and would make good additions to the Walmart team, please encourage them to apply through&nbsp;<a href="http://www.careers.walmart.com/" target="_blank">careers.walmart.com</a>.

For more information about our recent announcements, and other Coronavirus issues including our associate leave policy, feel free to visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.walmart.com/coronavirus" target="_blank">walmart.com/coronavirus</a>.

Thank you again for what you’re doing — America needs Walmart right now, and we have been at our absolute best.

March 19, 2020Editor’s note: John Furner, President and CEO, Walmart U.S., sent the following note to Walmart U.S. associates.To: Walmart associates from John Furner, President, and CEO, Walmart U.S.It’s been incredible to see Walmart associates step up to the challenge of serving America this month. During a very uncertain and stressful time, you have done your jobs with calm, compassion, and excellence. Because of you, Americans have been able to get the items and services they need from clean, orderly, stores — or delivered right to their doorsteps.Thank you so much for devoting yourselves to your customers and communities. I also want to say thank you to your spouses and loved ones who’ve had to take on extra responsibilities during this time — particularly with many schools and daycares closed, and relatives and friends to look out for.We are so grateful for your hard work, and it is our absolute pleasure to announce several initiatives to reward you and support you in the coming days.<ol>
 <li>First, hourly associates in our stores, supply chain, and corporate offices will receive a special bonus: $300 for full-time hourly associates and $150 for part-time, to be paid out on April 2. All hourly associates employed as of March 1, and still employed as of March 24, will qualify.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Second, we will accelerate our upcoming Q1 bonuses for hourly associates, so that you will receive payment in late April — a month early. We know this is a difficult time when many people could use more cash, and we want to support you how we can.</li>
 </ol>(These two bonus payments are in addition to the scheduled Q4 bonuses received this week. Tomorrow you will receive additional details about your bonuses.)<ol>
 <li>Third, tomorrow (Friday, March 20) from 6 a.m. – 7 a.m., we'll have a special associates-only shopping hour. During this hour — and the rest of the day — your 10% associate discount will be expanded to include most grocery items.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>And fourth, today we’re also announcing plans to hire 150,000 new associates to work in our stores, clubs, and fulfillment centers, to help support you as you deal with the current level of demand. These roles will be temporary at first, but we expect many to convert to permanent roles over time.</li>
 </ol>To quickly hire these individuals, we will temporarily reduce our usual two-week application cycle to be just 24 hours. If you know individuals who are out of work and would make good additions to the Walmart team, please encourage them to apply through&nbsp;<a href="http://www.careers.walmart.com/" target="_blank">careers.walmart.com</a>.For more information about our recent announcements, and other Coronavirus issues including our associate leave policy, feel free to visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.walmart.com/coronavirus" target="_blank">walmart.com/coronavirus</a>.Thank you again for what you’re doing — America needs Walmart right now, and we have been at our absolute best.– JF

Walmart U.S. CEO to Associates: ‘We are so grateful for your hard work’

KEARNEY – In an effort to control exposure to COVID-19, the University of Nebraska at Kearney is advising students to move from campus residence halls.

Students who need to stay in a residence hall will be allowed to do so and continue to have access to student academic and support services such as dining.

UNK and local health officials are working with two male students, both campus residents, who have symptoms of COVID-19 illness. In following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, one student has been moved to an isolation floor in a residence hall. The other student who is symptomatic is at home.

Because the men are in a low-risk category, health officials are choosing to forgo testing and treat as suspected COVID-19 disease. The cases are not related. UNK and health officials are looking at recent contacts of the individuals and believe both cases are a result of community spread. That means they did not become infected while traveling or through contact to a known case of the novel coronavirus.

Neither student has a confirmed case of the coronavirus, but both have symptoms consistent with COVID-19.

The university is being proactive in its communication to the public as state and local health officials work to overcome shortages of testing supplies needed to confirm local cases. Testing is mostly being reserved for people who are very sick or meet criteria such as relevant travel history.

The safety, well-being, and ability to complete the semester remains a focus of university leadership.

There are about 950 students occupying rooms on campus. UNK Residence Life is using express checkout to accommodate students.

Students should pick up express checkout information at the front desk of their residence halls to complete checkout paperwork if they have not already done so. Envelopes are to be returned in the designated mail drop location.

Earlier this week, UNK announced it is offering refunds to students who move out of residence halls early. They will receive a 60% refund of remaining room and board costs based on their housing facility and dining plan, effective March 17.

Next week is the University of Nebraska spring break. If students have the wherewithal, UNK recommends that they not return to campus following spring break. Students may return to gather personal items.

UNK has asked the campus community to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by practicing social distancing. Academic operations at UNK transitioned effective March 18 to remote learning, and employees are expected to work remotely beginning March 23 until further notice. All UNK-sponsored events, both on and off-campus, that involve more than 10 people have been postponed or canceled.

COVID-19 symptoms include a fever, cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling. Please notify them of any potential exposure to a confirmed case of the novel coronavirus. Anyone needing to visit UNK Student Health and Counseling, a doctor’s office or an emergency room should call ahead.

By TODD GOTTULA-UNK CommunicationsKEARNEY – In an effort to control exposure to COVID-19, the University of Nebraska at Kearney is advising students to move from campus residence halls.Students who need to stay in a residence hall will be allowed to do so and continue to have access to student academic and support services such as dining.UNK and local health officials are working with two male students, both campus residents, who have symptoms of COVID-19 illness. In following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, one student has been moved to an isolation floor in a residence hall. The other student who is symptomatic is at home.Because the men are in a low-risk category, health officials are choosing to forgo testing and treat as suspected COVID-19 disease. The cases are not related. UNK and health officials are looking at recent contacts of the individuals and believe both cases are a result of community spread. That means they did not become infected while traveling or through contact to a known case of the novel coronavirus.Neither student has a confirmed case of the coronavirus, but both have symptoms consistent with COVID-19.The university is being proactive in its communication to the public as state and local health officials work to overcome shortages of testing supplies needed to confirm local cases. Testing is mostly being reserved for people who are very sick or meet criteria such as relevant travel history.The safety, well-being, and ability to complete the semester remains a focus of university leadership.RESIDENCE HALL SITUATIONThere are about 950 students occupying rooms on campus. UNK Residence Life is using express checkout to accommodate students.Students should pick up express checkout information at the front desk of their residence halls to complete checkout paperwork if they have not already done so. Envelopes are to be returned in the designated mail drop location.Earlier this week, UNK announced it is offering refunds to students who move out of residence halls early. They will receive a 60% refund of remaining room and board costs based on their housing facility and dining plan, effective March 17.Next week is the University of Nebraska spring break. If students have the wherewithal, UNK recommends that they not return to campus following spring break. Students may return to gather personal items.REMOTE CLASSES, WORKUNK has asked the campus community to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by practicing social distancing. Academic operations at UNK transitioned effective March 18 to remote learning, and employees are expected to work remotely beginning March 23 until further notice. All UNK-sponsored events, both on and off-campus, that involve more than 10 people have been postponed or canceled.COVID-19 symptoms include a fever, cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing. If you have COVID-19 symptoms or develop symptoms, contact your health care provider and tell them how you are feeling. Please notify them of any potential exposure to a confirmed case of the novel coronavirus. Anyone needing to visit UNK Student Health and Counseling, a doctor’s office or an emergency room should call ahead.

Two UNK students have COVID-19 symptoms

Lincoln — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) understands the vital nature of the interstate system and the role it plays in keeping supply chains intact as it relates to the response to COVID-19 across the nation.&nbsp;

We want to help support those who are transporting vital goods and services across the nation to those who need it most. &nbsp;NDOT has been working with its trucking partners and rest area contractors to ensure facilities will be opened to all who need them during this pandemic. &nbsp;

As a result of these efforts, beginning today, all rest area facilities will be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week&nbsp;

Contractors on site will clean and sanitize the buildings during normal daytime hours.&nbsp; Travelers are reminded to wash hands, avoid unnecessary touching of surfaces and to maintain social distancing whenever possible.

Continue to check&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/">511.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated information on availability.&nbsp;

Lincoln — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) understands the vital nature of the interstate system and the role it plays in keeping supply chains intact as it relates to the response to COVID-19 across the nation.&nbsp;We want to help support those who are transporting vital goods and services across the nation to those who need it most. &nbsp;NDOT has been working with its trucking partners and rest area contractors to ensure facilities will be opened to all who need them during this pandemic. &nbsp;As a result of these efforts, beginning today, all rest area facilities will be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week&nbsp;Contractors on site will clean and sanitize the buildings during normal daytime hours.&nbsp; Travelers are reminded to wash hands, avoid unnecessary touching of surfaces and to maintain social distancing whenever possible.Continue to check&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/">511.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated information on availability.&nbsp;

NDOT opens all rest areas to 24/7 service 

BY CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

As school buildings close and the news is saturated with stories on the coronavirus, professionals are giving suggestions on how to talk to your children about the pandemic.

"I think it is important right now for parents and guardians to be aware of the fact that children are also impacted by what is going on around them," said Kaley Conner, marketing director of High Plains Mental Health. 

"They might be feeling the uncertainty, the fear, the anxiety," she said. "They might be afraid themselves, so I think it is important to talk to our kids about what is going on.

"Let them express their emotions in the way they are able and to also give them that extra patience and grace to feel those big emotions. We need to do the best we can as adults to help them through that in a healthy way."

Tips on talking to your children about COVID-19

Kyle Carlin, school psychologist and USD 489 assistant special education director, directed parents to resources provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.

Some of the association's recommendations include:

Be aware that developmentally inappropriate information (i.e., information designed for adults) can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young, the association said.

The association also recommends the following talking points.

Suggested points to emphasize when talking to children

To read the entire article from the&nbsp;National Association of School Psychologists <a href="https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource">click here</a>.

The CDC also has an online article about talking to children about COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html">Click here</a>.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e725ca2afae0f4d5f5d6ca7">SEE RELATED STORY: HPMH offers tips on finding calm during virus crisis</a>

BY CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAs school buildings close and the news is saturated with stories on the coronavirus, professionals are giving suggestions on how to talk to your children about the pandemic."I think it is important right now for parents and guardians to be aware of the fact that children are also impacted by what is going on around them," said Kaley Conner, marketing director of High Plains Mental Health. "They might be feeling the uncertainty, the fear, the anxiety," she said. "They might be afraid themselves, so I think it is important to talk to our kids about what is going on."Let them express their emotions in the way they are able and to also give them that extra patience and grace to feel those big emotions. We need to do the best we can as adults to help them through that in a healthy way."<h2>Tips on talking to your children about COVID-19</h2>Kyle Carlin, school psychologist and USD 489 assistant special education director, directed parents to resources provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.Some of the association's recommendations include:<ul>
 <li>Remain calm and reassuring</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Make yourself available. Children may need extra attention.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Avoid excessive blaming</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Monitor television viewing and social media</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Maintain a normal routine to the extent possible</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Be honest and accurate</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Know the symptoms of COVID-19</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Review and model basic hygiene and healthy lifestyle practices and protection</li>
 </ul>Be aware that developmentally inappropriate information (i.e., information designed for adults) can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young, the association said.The association also recommends the following talking points.<h2>Suggested points to emphasize when talking to children</h2><ol>
 <li>Adults at home and school are taking care of your health and safety. If you have concerns, please talk to an adult you trust.</li><li>Not everyone will get the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. School and health officials are being especially careful to make sure as few people as possible get sick.</li><li>It is important that all students treat each other with respect and not jump to conclusions about who may or may not have COVID-19.</li><li>There are things you can do to stay health and avoid spreading the disease</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Avoid close contact with people who are sick.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Stay home when you are sick.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Cover your cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Wash hands often with soap and water (20 seconds).</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>If you don’t have soap, use hand sanitizer (60–95 percent alcohol based).</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.</li>
 </ul>To read the entire article from the&nbsp;National Association of School Psychologists <a href="https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource">click here</a>.The CDC also has an online article about talking to children about COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html">Click here</a>.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e725ca2afae0f4d5f5d6ca7">SEE RELATED STORY: HPMH offers tips on finding calm during virus crisis</a>Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Tips offered on talking to children about COVID-19

LINCOLN –&nbsp;A community transmitted case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was identified in Sarpy County today. The man in his 40s with underlying health issues tested positive yesterday and is currently hospitalized. Community transmission is when people have COVID-19 but public health officials can’t identify how or where they became infected. This is the third community transmitted case of COVID-19. The other two were in Douglas County.

Sarpy County also identified a travel-related case of COVID-19. The person is a man in his 20s who recently traveled to Europe. He is currently self-isolating and recovering from symptoms at home - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5zYXJweWNhc3NoZWFsdGhkZXBhcnRtZW50Lm9yZy8ifQ.XzZJkS-ABJEyGEiShqbyr4gNzst-Ex7HWE-35ffqGyk%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519838980477&amp;sdata=Q2DXc2ICuLDTW%2FERj2fWSfH9ZvhAd9Si6HJ4HqPuVl0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org/</a>

Five additional cases of COVID-19 were identified in three Nebraska counties.

As of tonight, the state case total is 38. Both state and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.vKT-DveB9FD90XoCr6Mpsa0qTxBbYhiEKUp1ffCkAwM%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839020301&amp;sdata=8zeLcfvRPLSwIp3wI%2FD%2F%2FaFLyFfkF2zZdgbn7Lihtmk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839030260&amp;sdata=j%2BqHYpLKCirJ6XyghA2JZVrh6uWiy5wL2B9bWyGbqVE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839030260&amp;sdata=j%2BqHYpLKCirJ6XyghA2JZVrh6uWiy5wL2B9bWyGbqVE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;A community transmitted case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was identified in Sarpy County today. The man in his 40s with underlying health issues tested positive yesterday and is currently hospitalized. Community transmission is when people have COVID-19 but public health officials can’t identify how or where they became infected. This is the third community transmitted case of COVID-19. The other two were in Douglas County.Sarpy County also identified a travel-related case of COVID-19. The person is a man in his 20s who recently traveled to Europe. He is currently self-isolating and recovering from symptoms at home - &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5zYXJweWNhc3NoZWFsdGhkZXBhcnRtZW50Lm9yZy8ifQ.XzZJkS-ABJEyGEiShqbyr4gNzst-Ex7HWE-35ffqGyk%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519838980477&amp;sdata=Q2DXc2ICuLDTW%2FERj2fWSfH9ZvhAd9Si6HJ4HqPuVl0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org/</a>Five additional cases of COVID-19 were identified in three Nebraska counties.<ol>
 <li>A man in his 40s from Lancaster County who recently traveled to Colorado. He is self-isolating at home -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5saW5jb2xuLm5lLmdvdi9jaXR5L21heW9yL21lZGlhLzIwMjAvMDMyMDIwYS5odG0ifQ.nsjeqUwXC3QKU8pWRAo7r-KUFq5LZi8JjvRwqbIzOX8%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519838980477&amp;sdata=90Q%2FNMtHLuFVZl8c3uTOXjE7J7UcmnOcxnhECkKww4I%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/mayor/media/2020/032020a.htm</a></li><li>A woman in her 40s from Buffalo County who recently traveled and is currently self-isolating at home -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cnBoZC5vcmcvIn0.A0UlooRnWBsZ1cl-A3bruWn0oW7J0nrbkehlib5g7Ig%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519838980477&amp;sdata=kSC5LO4bInkV57j%2BKac4miY%2BHm8DznLsJSrZk294RoU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/</a>.</li><li>Three cases are in Douglas County. Two are men in their 40s and a woman in her 30s. All three of them had recently returned from areas in the Southeastern U.S. where COVID-19 is circulating -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9pbWFnZXMvTmV3c19SZWxlYXNlcy8wMy4yMC4yMF9NYXJjaF8yMF9DYXNlcy5wZGYifQ.MGXk4Z-yg_K3Gnlg6TdWp0zCzA6P7sWRqFgIiGA23Go%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519838990435&amp;sdata=VZHdBCk4bfIwlSuTRntMEY3drmMy38zyYZpFtb8D0Rs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/images/News_Releases/03.20.20_March_20_Cases.pdf</a>.</li>
 </ol>All local health departments involved have initiated close contact investigations to identify people who came into close contact to help prevent further spread. All identified close contacts will self-quarantine and be actively monitored twice daily by public health officials for fever and respiratory symptoms.Public health officials say returning travelers should assume that COVID-19 is present at the locations they have visited and traveled through and follow these recommendations:<ol>
 <li>All&nbsp;returning travelers, from any international or domestic location, should limit public interactions, practice strict social distancing,&nbsp;and self-monitor for symptoms.</li><li>Returning travelers from regions with&nbsp;widespread sustained transmission&nbsp;(e.g., CDC Level 3 countries -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3d25jLmNkYy5nb3YvdHJhdmVsL25vdGljZXMjYWxlcnQifQ.0PaDOZSZrlWJxPp3tdgNXrh67aFV7g4nsoUbaNlPCOc%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519838990435&amp;sdata=kOJGtjaZowE7xvlemDD5%2F9N2B98C%2B3ffO4zayb5TtMU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices#alert&nbsp;</a>- plus U.S. locales such as Seattle, WA; New York City; and Santa Clara County, CA) should immediately self-quarantine.</li><li>If a returning traveler develops fever or respiratory illness, they need to immediately self-isolate and report to a healthcare provider or local health department.</li><li>Individuals unable to observe the 14-day self-quarantine should consult with their local health department about appropriate actions.</li><li>Every health care worker who returns from travel should consult with a trained medical professional at their facility (e.g., infection preventionist or physician) and establish a specific infection control protocol (e.g., home quarantine, self-monitoring, personal protective equipment while at work) that mitigates patient and co-worker exposures</li>
 </ol>As of tonight, the state case total is 38. Both state and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS cases and cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, according to the CDC.People in these higher-risk groups should:<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNIYXZlLXN1cHBsaWVzLW9uLWhhbmQifQ.Us85GrygXzpJgRkc3726pWYBKTek-E5hiR4MD-7WV6U%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839000390&amp;sdata=bpuRW%2BKIF6aTHWrswX8Nym2fhJKcC59fEfjzLsGspUA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Stock up on supplies</a>, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCN0YWtlLWV2ZXJ5ZGF5LXByZWNhdXRpb25zIn0.08gr7S1Qhj9LyhaUzIHlVP5qqPAML8syrOjulyD8S1M%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839000390&amp;sdata=IbW4dcESRgkIQvKuIURXO%2B7PcLESjnnESUwhPyc6AR8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">everyday precautions</a>&nbsp;to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNhdm9pZC1jcm93ZHMifQ.X4NYJ_m7xI8kgrwFUQC1kPWi8Xe5y6Xlhxu2cXcqlcc%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839010344&amp;sdata=VJes3X84H0WKw2bY0C9P7HQgPhMBQIISYJ4VXsdPoWs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Avoid crowds</a>&nbsp;as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3d25jLmNkYy5nb3YvdHJhdmVsL3BhZ2UvY292aWQtMTktY3J1aXNlLXNoaXAifQ.eYYH0uX2Bc5yecndeDSxuJ-x97_7zhX3Q5ZAEYo4fCw%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839010344&amp;sdata=7oB%2FRDNWJV5TGMrjrd8K1aZNag5PM%2Bp2AB4rGdmJ9xM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">cruise travel</a>&nbsp;and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNzdGF5LWhvbWUifQ._y3kbyWb0JG8S6_6fXvzo83WpDvM1IlqNd5GHwrkLZE%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839020301&amp;sdata=MXNQrDRKBF2%2FYeCKf5Ow4BvsdEyqvKq8FjZ9QSqUk%2B8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stay home</a>&nbsp;as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and stay home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water&nbsp;for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMjEuMTkwOTQzNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.vKT-DveB9FD90XoCr6Mpsa0qTxBbYhiEKUp1ffCkAwM%2Fbr%2F76449515566-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839020301&amp;sdata=8zeLcfvRPLSwIp3wI%2FD%2F%2FaFLyFfkF2zZdgbn7Lihtmk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839030260&amp;sdata=j%2BqHYpLKCirJ6XyghA2JZVrh6uWiy5wL2B9bWyGbqVE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.DHHS opened a statewide coronavirus (COVID-19) information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%252Bv%252FUt%252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%252BtQ9zJVd%252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%252FFI%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcovid19%26I%3D20200228212559.00000572228f%2540mail6-42-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%253D%26S%3DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cac39cda9ca3b4f3a7b5108d7cd399f62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637203519839030260&amp;sdata=j%2BqHYpLKCirJ6XyghA2JZVrh6uWiy5wL2B9bWyGbqVE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Community transmitted case of COVID-19 identified in Sarpy County

Linda Scruggs and Mike Rustici trained for months to hike the winding trails leading to Machu Picchu's complex of Inca ruins. So they were thrilled when their flight landed last Friday in the Peruvian capital.

They managed to do part of their trek but now they are trapped in a Lima hotel room and do not know when they will make it back to the U.S. The couple, like thousands around the world, are trapped after nations closed their borders to try to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Peru confirmed its first case of the virus on March 6. By the time Scruggs and Rustici arrived a week later, it was spreading. Days after the hikers landed, Peruvian President Martín Vizcarra declared an emergency, ordering the country's borders closed and for Peruvians to stay home.

There is no official count of how many Americans or citizens of other nations are stranded outside their home countries, but the couple's plight offers a window into the lives of tourists trapped abroad as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads.

Scruggs and Rustici, both in their 40s and from Nashville, Tennessee, told The Associated Press in telephone interviews they were given about 24 hours notice to leave Peru, but couldn't find a flight.

Since they couldn't leave, they were ordered to stay in their hotel room for at least 15 days. Other than to get food or supplies, they can't leave the hotel in the city's financial district.

The couple said they got little help or information from the U.S. State Department. One tourist, they said, walked to the U.S. Embassy only to be turned away and told to send an email and register for an online notification system.

Scruggs and Rustici feel like the world has closed in on them.

"There's heavily-armed guards on the streets patrolling," Scruggs said.

The virus has caused 10,000 deaths around the world, but the figure goes up every day. Americans in Morocco, Ecuador and other nations also told the AP that they feel abandoned by the State Department.

They said embassies have not helped them or returned their phone calls and emails. When they did reach someone, they were told to check embassy websites for updates and try to charter flights out of the countries on their own.

Dora Figueiredo, 37, an American from Newark, New Jersey, was trying Friday to determine whether her flight from Argentina to the U.S. would leave as scheduled on Sunday.

She had traveled to Buenos Aires to marry her now-new Argentine husband who cannot yet move to the U.S. because he doesn't have U.S. residency, a process she said could take more than a year.

"I'm feeling a bit stressed out about how to get home now that the Argentinian president announced a lockdown as of midnight last night," she said. "I have been tweeting at my airline, my embassy at&nbsp;<a href="http://travel.gov/" target="_blank">travel.gov</a>&nbsp;about how to get back home."

As of Friday her flight had not been cancelled, but she wasn't sure if that would still be the case Sunday and did not know how she would get to the airport.

"I really need to get home to check on my parents, who are elderly," she said.

Catherine Ferguson, a 77-year-old artist from Omaha, Nebraska, is holed up in a hotel in Rabat, Morocco, with her husband and 10 other Americans, most over age 60.

Ferguson and her husband were traveling for the past month with three other friends on a trip that started in France when the coronavirus cases began to increase.

Now they are trying to get permission from the Moroccan government to charter a flight to take them directly to the U.S.

"We really don't want to be here when things get worse in Morocco," Ferguson said.

Their small hotel is one of the few still open in the city, she said. The family that runs it has been feeding the 12 Americans there and they can walk around its garden, but it's too cold to swim in the pool.

They are prohibited from leaving the hotel and have been in contact with the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca, where officials told the travelers that they are working on a plan. The travelers spend their days using their iPads trying to find flights to book.

Some are running low on blood pressure pills and other medication. Ferguson said Nebraska's governor and state lawmakers have been in touch and are trying to help.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Friday that he is working to bring home Americans stranded in countries around the world with little or no warning as nations closed their borders to stop the spread of the virus.

And the U.S. military's Southern Command said Friday that it was flying 89 U.S. citizens from Honduras to Charleston, South Carolina, after they could not to return home, in the second Air Force Mission to bring people from Honduras. But it's unclear how the State Department plans to repatriate Americans stuck in other countries.

Desperate to get home from Peru, Scruggs and Rustici used social media to connect with hundreds of other tourists who were trapped in the country, trying to draw attention to their plight by reaching out to elected officials and reporters.

Scruggs, a nurse, said some tourists in Peru are running low on life-sustaining medications like insulin and that some foreign college students trapped in the country were running out of money for food.

"I think everyone has been shocked at the lack of communication from the U.S.," Scruggs said.

On Friday morning, hope came in an email from the office of U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper, a Democrat from Tennessee, who the couple had contacted for help.

"I just received word that United (Airlines) charter flights are beginning and are going to head to Lima," wrote Bess McWherter, who works in Cooper's office. "The guidance I've received from State (Department) is that you should continuously monitor the Embassy's website for information they post on flights. I will try to get more specific info."

Scruggs and Rustici used a flight tracking website and found that a United Airlines Boeing 777 was traveling from Houston, to Lima. But they couldn't find out if the plane was there for them or others. Some disillusioned tourists discussed "storming the airport," Scruggs said.

In a statement to AP, Cooper said his office is in touch with "Tennesseans who are stuck overseas in Peru and a dozen other countries" and is working with the State Department to help get them home.

When the flight arrived at 3:37 p.m., there was a group of about 50 people outside the airport, including Americans, but they were not allowed inside. A few hours later, the plane departed for Washington D.C. It's unclear how many Americans - if any - were on the flight.

The State Department and United Airlines did not respond to messages seeking comment. But Scruggs, Rustici were disappointed.

For now, they're still stuck in their hotel room, wondering how long they'll stay in Peru. They said they had managed to start their Machu Picchu trek as the spread of the virus around the world expanded, but never reached the top to see the ruins.

"We are desperate to get home," Rustici said. "And Linda's mother is on lockdown in a nursing home and Linda is her primary caregiver. Absolutely, our lives are completely on hold."

By MITCH WEISS-Associated PressLinda Scruggs and Mike Rustici trained for months to hike the winding trails leading to Machu Picchu's complex of Inca ruins. So they were thrilled when their flight landed last Friday in the Peruvian capital.They managed to do part of their trek but now they are trapped in a Lima hotel room and do not know when they will make it back to the U.S. The couple, like thousands around the world, are trapped after nations closed their borders to try to stop the spread of the coronavirus.Peru confirmed its first case of the virus on March 6. By the time Scruggs and Rustici arrived a week later, it was spreading. Days after the hikers landed, Peruvian President Martín Vizcarra declared an emergency, ordering the country's borders closed and for Peruvians to stay home.There is no official count of how many Americans or citizens of other nations are stranded outside their home countries, but the couple's plight offers a window into the lives of tourists trapped abroad as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads.Scruggs and Rustici, both in their 40s and from Nashville, Tennessee, told The Associated Press in telephone interviews they were given about 24 hours notice to leave Peru, but couldn't find a flight.Since they couldn't leave, they were ordered to stay in their hotel room for at least 15 days. Other than to get food or supplies, they can't leave the hotel in the city's financial district.The couple said they got little help or information from the U.S. State Department. One tourist, they said, walked to the U.S. Embassy only to be turned away and told to send an email and register for an online notification system.Scruggs and Rustici feel like the world has closed in on them."There's heavily-armed guards on the streets patrolling," Scruggs said.The virus has caused 10,000 deaths around the world, but the figure goes up every day. Americans in Morocco, Ecuador and other nations also told the AP that they feel abandoned by the State Department.They said embassies have not helped them or returned their phone calls and emails. When they did reach someone, they were told to check embassy websites for updates and try to charter flights out of the countries on their own.Dora Figueiredo, 37, an American from Newark, New Jersey, was trying Friday to determine whether her flight from Argentina to the U.S. would leave as scheduled on Sunday.She had traveled to Buenos Aires to marry her now-new Argentine husband who cannot yet move to the U.S. because he doesn't have U.S. residency, a process she said could take more than a year."I'm feeling a bit stressed out about how to get home now that the Argentinian president announced a lockdown as of midnight last night," she said. "I have been tweeting at my airline, my embassy at&nbsp;<a href="http://travel.gov/" target="_blank">travel.gov</a>&nbsp;about how to get back home."As of Friday her flight had not been cancelled, but she wasn't sure if that would still be the case Sunday and did not know how she would get to the airport."I really need to get home to check on my parents, who are elderly," she said.Catherine Ferguson, a 77-year-old artist from Omaha, Nebraska, is holed up in a hotel in Rabat, Morocco, with her husband and 10 other Americans, most over age 60.Ferguson and her husband were traveling for the past month with three other friends on a trip that started in France when the coronavirus cases began to increase.Now they are trying to get permission from the Moroccan government to charter a flight to take them directly to the U.S."We really don't want to be here when things get worse in Morocco," Ferguson said.Their small hotel is one of the few still open in the city, she said. The family that runs it has been feeding the 12 Americans there and they can walk around its garden, but it's too cold to swim in the pool.They are prohibited from leaving the hotel and have been in contact with the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca, where officials told the travelers that they are working on a plan. The travelers spend their days using their iPads trying to find flights to book.Some are running low on blood pressure pills and other medication. Ferguson said Nebraska's governor and state lawmakers have been in touch and are trying to help.U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Friday that he is working to bring home Americans stranded in countries around the world with little or no warning as nations closed their borders to stop the spread of the virus.And the U.S. military's Southern Command said Friday that it was flying 89 U.S. citizens from Honduras to Charleston, South Carolina, after they could not to return home, in the second Air Force Mission to bring people from Honduras. But it's unclear how the State Department plans to repatriate Americans stuck in other countries.Desperate to get home from Peru, Scruggs and Rustici used social media to connect with hundreds of other tourists who were trapped in the country, trying to draw attention to their plight by reaching out to elected officials and reporters.Scruggs, a nurse, said some tourists in Peru are running low on life-sustaining medications like insulin and that some foreign college students trapped in the country were running out of money for food."I think everyone has been shocked at the lack of communication from the U.S.," Scruggs said.On Friday morning, hope came in an email from the office of U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper, a Democrat from Tennessee, who the couple had contacted for help."I just received word that United (Airlines) charter flights are beginning and are going to head to Lima," wrote Bess McWherter, who works in Cooper's office. "The guidance I've received from State (Department) is that you should continuously monitor the Embassy's website for information they post on flights. I will try to get more specific info."Scruggs and Rustici used a flight tracking website and found that a United Airlines Boeing 777 was traveling from Houston, to Lima. But they couldn't find out if the plane was there for them or others. Some disillusioned tourists discussed "storming the airport," Scruggs said.In a statement to AP, Cooper said his office is in touch with "Tennesseans who are stuck overseas in Peru and a dozen other countries" and is working with the State Department to help get them home.When the flight arrived at 3:37 p.m., there was a group of about 50 people outside the airport, including Americans, but they were not allowed inside. A few hours later, the plane departed for Washington D.C. It's unclear how many Americans - if any - were on the flight.The State Department and United Airlines did not respond to messages seeking comment. But Scruggs, Rustici were disappointed.For now, they're still stuck in their hotel room, wondering how long they'll stay in Peru. They said they had managed to start their Machu Picchu trek as the spread of the virus around the world expanded, but never reached the top to see the ruins."We are desperate to get home," Rustici said. "And Linda's mother is on lockdown in a nursing home and Linda is her primary caregiver. Absolutely, our lives are completely on hold."

US tourists stranded abroad don't know when they'll return

In response to Covid-19, we will be transitioning to remote learning for the remainder of the school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The district will checkout Chromebooks for families of 6th -12th-grade students who do not have a home computer to use.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you require a computer for your 6th - 12th grader, we will need a parent or guardian to fill out a form online. The parent or guardian picking up the computer must be the person filling out the online form. You can access this form by visiting&nbsp;the district's remote learning resources page at:&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nppsd.org/" target="_blank">www.nppsd.org</a>To access remote learning resources, you will need to connect to WiFi Internet.&nbsp;&nbsp;Consider if you don't currently have WiFi in your home whether can you access at the home of a relative or family friend.&nbsp;&nbsp; As of right now, both Spectrum and Allo Communications have both offered free installation and 60 days free internet to assist K12 families. &nbsp;If they don't have service in your area there are other local internet service providers to consider. If you don't have internet service and would like it, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to make arrangements with an internet service provider.

Once device pickup dates and times are established, communication will be sent to all families with further instructions for pickup.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are unable to fill out the form online, please contact your school building by phone or email.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please do not go to the school building without prior arrangement as we are trying to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing. &nbsp;Please be patient and wait for further instructions from your building administration concerning remote learning assignments.&nbsp;

NPPS Parents of 6th-12th graders,&nbsp;In response to Covid-19, we will be transitioning to remote learning for the remainder of the school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The district will checkout Chromebooks for families of 6th -12th-grade students who do not have a home computer to use.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you require a computer for your 6th - 12th grader, we will need a parent or guardian to fill out a form online. The parent or guardian picking up the computer must be the person filling out the online form. You can access this form by visiting&nbsp;the district's remote learning resources page at:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nppsd.org/" target="_blank">www.nppsd.org</a>To access remote learning resources, you will need to connect to WiFi Internet.&nbsp;&nbsp;Consider if you don't currently have WiFi in your home whether can you access at the home of a relative or family friend.&nbsp;&nbsp; As of right now, both Spectrum and Allo Communications have both offered free installation and 60 days free internet to assist K12 families. &nbsp;If they don't have service in your area there are other local internet service providers to consider. If you don't have internet service and would like it, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to make arrangements with an internet service provider.Once device pickup dates and times are established, communication will be sent to all families with further instructions for pickup.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are unable to fill out the form online, please contact your school building by phone or email.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please do not go to the school building without prior arrangement as we are trying to follow CDC guidelines for social distancing. &nbsp;Please be patient and wait for further instructions from your building administration concerning remote learning assignments.&nbsp;Thank you and have a good evening.&nbsp;Brian Tegtmeier

NPPSD announces plans for students needing devices for remote learning

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon’s role in responding to the coronavirus outbreak in the United States began to rapidly expand Wednesday as officials announced that two Navy hospital ships and two Army field hospitals were preparing to deploy to help overburdened regions.

The latest moves are aimed at taking the pressure off local hospitals so that they can free up rooms and staff to deal with virus patients. Military hospital ships and field units are geared toward treating trauma cases.

The military moves, however, face limits. It will take as long as two weeks for the USS Comfort hospital ship to get to New York City, where the governor has been pressing for medical help.

And there are logistical and legal concerns about expanding the military’s role in civilian affairs, such as tasking it with enforcing quarantines. Defense officials also want to be careful not to do anything to weaken its ability to defend the nation.

A look at the military’s role in the crisis:

The hospital ships are not on their way but are gathering staff and preparing to go.

The USS Mercy hospital ship, which is based on the West Coast, will be ready to move out “in days,” according to officials, and the USS Comfort is undergoing maintenance in Norfolk, Virginia, and will head to New York City within two weeks.

Navy officials are trying to expedite the Comfort’s departure. It was not yet clear where the Mercy will go, but it will be somewhere on the West Coast.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul Friedrichs, the surgeon for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the plan is to staff the ships with the typical mix of medical expertise, which primarily involves trauma treatment. The ships will take non-COVID-19 patients, easing the trauma treatment load on civilian hospitals.

He said staffing decisions will be based on what local leaders need and will mainly involve active-duty military personnel.

The Army, meanwhile, is preparing to deploy two field hospitals, according to Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy. One defense official said the two field hospitals will go to New York City and Seattle, two cities with the greatest need.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet made public.

Friedrichs said Army field hospitals will be able to provide about 1,000 beds. He said they have not put reserve medical units on alert because of concerns about taking those people out of the civilian jobs in the health care industry.

Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Wednesday that 1 million respiratory masks were immediately made available to the Department of Health and Human Services, and 4 million more will follow. The Pentagon also will provide to civilian agencies as many as 2,000 special-purpose military ventilators, he said.

Also, Army scientists are researching and testing vaccines for the coronavirus, in coordination with civilian agencies. On Tuesday, Esper visited Fort Detrick in Maryland, where the research is underway.

In addition, the Pentagon continues to provide housing at four military bases for some passengers taken from the Grand Princess cruise ship, which was hit with a cluster of coronavirus cases. It also has made available housing at other bases for people entering the U.S. at certain civilian airports and needing monitoring.

The most extensive role for the military so far is for the National Guard, which is being called up by governors to provide a range of support. At least 2,000 National Guard members in 23 states are working on virus support and response. Some are helping at state emergency operations centers; others are providing transportation for civilian health care providers; and some are collecting and delivering test samples.

There are many more ways the military could assist in the COVID-19 crisis, and Pentagon leaders said those discussions are going on continually with federal and state officials.

Friedrichs told reporters Monday that defense officials are trying to identify “what’s within the realm of the possible,” while also spelling out what the trade-offs for that would be.

For example, Friedrichs said, officials are wary to mobilize large numbers of National Guard members because it would take them away from their civilian jobs, which in some cases are in health services already engaged in fighting COVID-19.

Esper has said he is considering activating National Guard and Reserve units for federal duty to help states with planning, logistics and medical support “as needed.” Such a move would need approval by President Donald Trump.

WHAT THE MILITARY COULD DO IN AN EXTREME EMERGENCY

The Defense Department has a detailed pandemic response plan that lays out the myriad things the military can do if requested, including a last-resort role in helping to impose quarantines and border restrictions.

The military could be called on to help establish “mass casualty” treatment sites, provide shelter for displaced persons and help provide postal, power, water and sewer services, food deliveries and mortuary tasks. Troops also could provide logistics, communications and other support for law enforcement and the National Guard. Drafted and overhauled several times in recent years, the military’s plan is closely guarded and officials decline to discuss details publicly.

Officials, however, say that there is a broad assumption that local law enforcement, border control officers and the National Guard under the governors’ command would be the first line of defense to stem the spread of any virus through travel restrictions at the borders and along state lines or outbreak areas.

So far, 49 members of the military have tested positive for the virus, along with 14 Defense Department civilians, 19 military dependents and seven contractors.

For most people, the new coronavirus 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 new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. Worldwide, more than 200,000 cases have been confirmed, while more than 8,500 people have died.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon’s role in responding to the coronavirus outbreak in the United States began to rapidly expand Wednesday as officials announced that two Navy hospital ships and two Army field hospitals were preparing to deploy to help overburdened regions.The latest moves are aimed at taking the pressure off local hospitals so that they can free up rooms and staff to deal with virus patients. Military hospital ships and field units are geared toward treating trauma cases.The military moves, however, face limits. It will take as long as two weeks for the USS Comfort hospital ship to get to New York City, where the governor has been pressing for medical help.And there are logistical and legal concerns about expanding the military’s role in civilian affairs, such as tasking it with enforcing quarantines. Defense officials also want to be careful not to do anything to weaken its ability to defend the nation.A look at the military’s role in the crisis:WHAT THE MILITARY IS DOINGThe hospital ships are not on their way but are gathering staff and preparing to go.The USS Mercy hospital ship, which is based on the West Coast, will be ready to move out “in days,” according to officials, and the USS Comfort is undergoing maintenance in Norfolk, Virginia, and will head to New York City within two weeks.Navy officials are trying to expedite the Comfort’s departure. It was not yet clear where the Mercy will go, but it will be somewhere on the West Coast.Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul Friedrichs, the surgeon for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the plan is to staff the ships with the typical mix of medical expertise, which primarily involves trauma treatment. The ships will take non-COVID-19 patients, easing the trauma treatment load on civilian hospitals.He said staffing decisions will be based on what local leaders need and will mainly involve active-duty military personnel.The Army, meanwhile, is preparing to deploy two field hospitals, according to Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy. One defense official said the two field hospitals will go to New York City and Seattle, two cities with the greatest need.The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet made public.Friedrichs said Army field hospitals will be able to provide about 1,000 beds. He said they have not put reserve medical units on alert because of concerns about taking those people out of the civilian jobs in the health care industry.Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Wednesday that 1 million respiratory masks were immediately made available to the Department of Health and Human Services, and 4 million more will follow. The Pentagon also will provide to civilian agencies as many as 2,000 special-purpose military ventilators, he said.Also, Army scientists are researching and testing vaccines for the coronavirus, in coordination with civilian agencies. On Tuesday, Esper visited Fort Detrick in Maryland, where the research is underway.In addition, the Pentagon continues to provide housing at four military bases for some passengers taken from the Grand Princess cruise ship, which was hit with a cluster of coronavirus cases. It also has made available housing at other bases for people entering the U.S. at certain civilian airports and needing monitoring.The most extensive role for the military so far is for the National Guard, which is being called up by governors to provide a range of support. At least 2,000 National Guard members in 23 states are working on virus support and response. Some are helping at state emergency operations centers; others are providing transportation for civilian health care providers; and some are collecting and delivering test samples.WHAT THE MILITARY IS CONSIDERINGThere are many more ways the military could assist in the COVID-19 crisis, and Pentagon leaders said those discussions are going on continually with federal and state officials.Friedrichs told reporters Monday that defense officials are trying to identify “what’s within the realm of the possible,” while also spelling out what the trade-offs for that would be.For example, Friedrichs said, officials are wary to mobilize large numbers of National Guard members because it would take them away from their civilian jobs, which in some cases are in health services already engaged in fighting COVID-19.Esper has said he is considering activating National Guard and Reserve units for federal duty to help states with planning, logistics and medical support “as needed.” Such a move would need approval by President Donald Trump.WHAT THE MILITARY COULD DO IN AN EXTREME EMERGENCYThe Defense Department has a detailed pandemic response plan that lays out the myriad things the military can do if requested, including a last-resort role in helping to impose quarantines and border restrictions.The military could be called on to help establish “mass casualty” treatment sites, provide shelter for displaced persons and help provide postal, power, water and sewer services, food deliveries and mortuary tasks. Troops also could provide logistics, communications and other support for law enforcement and the National Guard. Drafted and overhauled several times in recent years, the military’s plan is closely guarded and officials decline to discuss details publicly.Officials, however, say that there is a broad assumption that local law enforcement, border control officers and the National Guard under the governors’ command would be the first line of defense to stem the spread of any virus through travel restrictions at the borders and along state lines or outbreak areas.IMPACT ON THE MILITARYSo far, 49 members of the military have tested positive for the virus, along with 14 Defense Department civilians, 19 military dependents and seven contractors.For most people, the new coronavirus 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 new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. Worldwide, more than 200,000 cases have been confirmed, while more than 8,500 people have died.___

US military's role in response to virus outbreak is growing

First case of COVID-19 confirmed in Buffalo County

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts announced he is requesting $58.6 million of emergency funding from the Nebraska Legislature to support the State’s efforts to combat coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19).&nbsp;

Dr. Gary Anthone, the State’s Chief Medical Officer, joined the Governor for today’s press conference. &nbsp;He overviewed the State’s procedures to test patients for COVID-19 and to trace contacts of anyone testing positive for the disease.&nbsp; He also talked about how the State and the medical community are expanding capacity to perform tests.

Gov. Ricketts was also joined by Jim Macy, Director of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (DEE) and Tim Burke, President &amp; Chief Executive Officer for the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD). &nbsp;Director Macy gave an update on the continuously available supply of high-quality drinking water throughout Nebraska.&nbsp; Burke emphasized that the state’s public power grid is strong and dependable.&nbsp; He also underscored the commitment of public utility companies to maintain reliable and uninterrupted service to Nebraskans throughout the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The Governor’s emergency funding request includes appropriations for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) for the initiatives listed below:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Local Response Efforts - $38,156,700

o&nbsp;&nbsp;This will provide additional funding for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other supplies to local jurisdictions, and support to local health departments for staffing, PPE, call centers, information technology needs including additional laptops/servers, and other essential expenditures.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS Staffing - $4,004,000

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to the size of the response and need to cover response needs, additional staffing expenditures are needed to cover costs for overtime and additional staff. &nbsp;The areas that need immediate surge and sustained staffing are epidemiology, support services (administrative, communications, and data entry, emergency preparedness, and contracts for staffing in epidemiology and interpreters to meet the increased demands of the Division of Public Health.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Surge Staffing for Veterans Hospitals &amp; DHHS Care Facilities - $13,000,000

o&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional staffing expenditures are needed to cover costs for overtime and additional staff to maintain facility healthcare coverage needs. &nbsp;The areas that need immediate surge and sustained staffing are veterans homes and DHHS care facilities including nursing, administrative, and other health care professionals. &nbsp;This was calculated to cover a surge of 50% in additional staffing needs in the event that staff is unable to care for individuals at the facilities due to staff quarantine or isolation requirements.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;COVID-19 Lab Testing - $515,000

o&nbsp;&nbsp;This would augment the cost of the reagents, laboratory personnel, and equipment to conduct COVID-19 lab testing for the state. &nbsp;This would include funds to purchase a combined sample extraction/detection robot for efficient and accurate serial processing of specimens, reducing staffing needs.&nbsp; This would be to support increased efficiency and capacity of statewide testing through the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lab Equipment, Software Programming, and Personnel - $2,500,000

o&nbsp;&nbsp;The equipment includes higher throughput automated equipment for microbiology and molecular diagnostics.&nbsp; The increased testing throughput will be implemented on a fast track within the next 2-4 weeks but would support a prolonged outbreak, which is likely, as well as help prepare for future outbreaks.&nbsp; All funds would be dedicated to support statewide needs.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;UV Light Boxes - $100,000

o&nbsp;&nbsp;The UV light boxes would provide tertiary cleaning of N95 respirators for reuse by healthcare workers.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Knowledge Center - $343,900

o&nbsp;&nbsp;This system is used by coalitions and all stakeholders across the state to establish an interoperable platform for communication, bed tracking, resource sharing, and an overall interoperable platform.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts announced he is requesting $58.6 million of emergency funding from the Nebraska Legislature to support the State’s efforts to combat coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19).&nbsp;Dr. Gary Anthone, the State’s Chief Medical Officer, joined the Governor for today’s press conference. &nbsp;He overviewed the State’s procedures to test patients for COVID-19 and to trace contacts of anyone testing positive for the disease.&nbsp; He also talked about how the State and the medical community are expanding capacity to perform tests.Gov. Ricketts was also joined by Jim Macy, Director of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (DEE) and Tim Burke, President &amp; Chief Executive Officer for the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD). &nbsp;Director Macy gave an update on the continuously available supply of high-quality drinking water throughout Nebraska.&nbsp; Burke emphasized that the state’s public power grid is strong and dependable.&nbsp; He also underscored the commitment of public utility companies to maintain reliable and uninterrupted service to Nebraskans throughout the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;The Governor’s emergency funding request includes appropriations for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) for the initiatives listed below:DHHS Public Health·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Local Response Efforts - $38,156,700o&nbsp;&nbsp;This will provide additional funding for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other supplies to local jurisdictions, and support to local health departments for staffing, PPE, call centers, information technology needs including additional laptops/servers, and other essential expenditures.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS Staffing - $4,004,000o&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to the size of the response and need to cover response needs, additional staffing expenditures are needed to cover costs for overtime and additional staff. &nbsp;The areas that need immediate surge and sustained staffing are epidemiology, support services (administrative, communications, and data entry, emergency preparedness, and contracts for staffing in epidemiology and interpreters to meet the increased demands of the Division of Public Health.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Surge Staffing for Veterans Hospitals &amp; DHHS Care Facilities - $13,000,000o&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional staffing expenditures are needed to cover costs for overtime and additional staff to maintain facility healthcare coverage needs. &nbsp;The areas that need immediate surge and sustained staffing are veterans homes and DHHS care facilities including nursing, administrative, and other health care professionals. &nbsp;This was calculated to cover a surge of 50% in additional staffing needs in the event that staff is unable to care for individuals at the facilities due to staff quarantine or isolation requirements.UNMC·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;COVID-19 Lab Testing - $515,000o&nbsp;&nbsp;This would augment the cost of the reagents, laboratory personnel, and equipment to conduct COVID-19 lab testing for the state. &nbsp;This would include funds to purchase a combined sample extraction/detection robot for efficient and accurate serial processing of specimens, reducing staffing needs.&nbsp; This would be to support increased efficiency and capacity of statewide testing through the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lab Equipment, Software Programming, and Personnel - $2,500,000o&nbsp;&nbsp;The equipment includes higher throughput automated equipment for microbiology and molecular diagnostics.&nbsp; The increased testing throughput will be implemented on a fast track within the next 2-4 weeks but would support a prolonged outbreak, which is likely, as well as help prepare for future outbreaks.&nbsp; All funds would be dedicated to support statewide needs.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;UV Light Boxes - $100,000o&nbsp;&nbsp;The UV light boxes would provide tertiary cleaning of N95 respirators for reuse by healthcare workers.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Knowledge Center - $343,900o&nbsp;&nbsp;This system is used by coalitions and all stakeholders across the state to establish an interoperable platform for communication, bed tracking, resource sharing, and an overall interoperable platform.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hblE5clv5XQ" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Coronavirus Update