The North Platte Public Library will be closed until further notice as part of the effort to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.

The Library staff issued the following statement:

To our Friends, Patrons, and Neighbors Effective at 9:00 AM, March 18, 2020, the North Platte Public Library is CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;

We urge you to utilize our online resources through the North Platte Public Library’s website: http://eresources.nppl.online&nbsp;

The Book Drop is CLOSED and we ask that you please keep all materials until further notice.&nbsp;

We are operating under these new due dates, but this may be subject to change:&nbsp; Anything due March 16-21 will be due April 15.  Anything due March 23-28 will be due April 22&nbsp; Anything due March 30-April 4 will be due April 29&nbsp;

For 108 years the North Platte Public Library has been open. Serving the public is what we love to do. We are strong and we will be back to our regular services as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Thank you, Cecelia Lawrence, Library Director and The Staff of the North Platte Public Library

The North Platte Public Library will be closed until further notice as part of the effort to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus.The Library staff issued the following statement:To our Friends, Patrons, and Neighbors Effective at 9:00 AM, March 18, 2020, the North Platte Public Library is CLOSED until further notice&nbsp;We urge you to utilize our online resources through the North Platte Public Library’s website: http://eresources.nppl.online&nbsp;The Book Drop is CLOSED and we ask that you please keep all materials until further notice.&nbsp;We are operating under these new due dates, but this may be subject to change:&nbsp; Anything due March 16-21 will be due April 15. Anything due March 23-28 will be due April 22&nbsp; Anything due March 30-April 4 will be due April 29&nbsp;For 108 years the North Platte Public Library has been open. Serving the public is what we love to do. We are strong and we will be back to our regular services as soon as possible.&nbsp;Thank you, Cecelia Lawrence, Library Director and The Staff of the North Platte Public Library

NP Public Library closed until further notice, new due dates announced

Lincoln –&nbsp;As coronavirus continues to spread throughout the world, it’s normal to be worried about catching it – and that’s causing rising anxiety levels globally.

In addition to following processes intended to protect physical health, it’s important to pay attention to mental health-related to the outbreak.

“An outbreak like this affects everyone, and an emotional response to its impact is normal,” said Mikayla Johnson, disaster behavioral health coordinator and administrator for the Division of Behavioral Health. “However, don’t allow worries about the virus to control your life.”

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations such as an infectious disease outbreak that requires social distancing, quarantine, or isolation. People may feel:

How can you manage your fears and anxieties during an outbreak?

If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or the Nebraska Family Helpline, 800-866-8660.

Lincoln –&nbsp;As coronavirus continues to spread throughout the world, it’s normal to be worried about catching it – and that’s causing rising anxiety levels globally.In addition to following processes intended to protect physical health, it’s important to pay attention to mental health-related to the outbreak.“An outbreak like this affects everyone, and an emotional response to its impact is normal,” said Mikayla Johnson, disaster behavioral health coordinator and administrator for the Division of Behavioral Health. “However, don’t allow worries about the virus to control your life.”Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations such as an infectious disease outbreak that requires social distancing, quarantine, or isolation. People may feel:<ol>
 <li>Anxiety, worry, or fear related to health status</li><li>Time taken off from work and the potential loss of income and job security</li><li>The challenges of securing needed things, such as groceries and personal care items</li><li>Loneliness associated with feeling cut off from the world and from loved ones</li><li>Anger at being exposed to the disease because of others’ perceived negligence</li><li>Boredom and frustration at not being able to work or engage in regular activities</li><li>Uncertainty or ambivalence about the situation</li><li>A desire to use alcohol or drugs to cope</li><li>Feelings of hopelessness, changes in appetite, or sleeping too little or too much</li>
 </ol>How can you manage your fears and anxieties during an outbreak?<ol>
 <li>Access to reliable information sources.&nbsp;Social media can easily spread rumors, and a constant stream of rumors and questionable information can negatively affect mental health.</li><li>Avoid watching, reading or listening to news that causes you to feel anxious or distressed.&nbsp;Seek information mainly to take practical steps to prepare your plans and protect yourself and your loved ones. Seek information updates at specific times during the day once or twice. The sudden and near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel worried. Get the facts. &nbsp;</li><li>Share reliable information.&nbsp;Rely on and share trusted sources of information about the causes of outbreaks from reputable sources like the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTguMTg5MzcwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9pbmRleC5odG1sIn0.FQO-bigBPyYxwAbz44y5qUXCsSdPjKiXNsm10His6b8%2Fbr%2F76277842445-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9f43891915a3464f3db508d7cb6a1af3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201528886511717&amp;sdata=X4H5qENQ5qkjcxG60c0pKuof3SkFir3FUKKko64%2BIEM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTguMTg5MzcwNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.1XLe8YHaxKGQisyoPrw4YvJr2TC26IbhUQ6RjvCtak8%2Fbr%2F76277842445-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9f43891915a3464f3db508d7cb6a1af3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201528886511717&amp;sdata=TXDtbEQQ72JVyvk8hNCcSE%2BwrDqu58TvwlKYrOsxbyQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Nebraska DHHS’s dedicated coronavirus page</a>.</li><li>Keep connected.&nbsp;Maintaining social networks can help maintain a sense of normalcy, and provide valuable outlets for sharing feelings and relieving stress.</li><li>Keep things in perspective.&nbsp;Keep informed, but don’t focus on factors you can’t control. Public health agencies and experts in all countries are working on the outbreak to ensure the availability of the best care to those affected.</li><li>Practice self-care.&nbsp;Exercise regularly, keep regular sleep routines and eat healthy food.</li><li>Be mindful of assumptions about others. Someone who has a cough or a fever does not necessarily have coronavirus. Coronavirus can affect any age or ethnicity.</li>
 </ol>If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or the Nebraska Family Helpline, 800-866-8660.

Staying mentally strong during cornavirus outbreak

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The first confirmed travel-related case of COVID-19 coronavirus in Lincoln County is an employee of the Union Pacific Railroad.

Late Tuesday night, we learned that Lincoln County had its first confirmed case of the disease. At a news conference Wednesday morning, health officials gave few details of the case, which was still in the investigative stage. Health officials did say the man was in his 50's and had been on a cruise and had traveled in California.

We now know that the man is an employee of Bailey Yard in North Platte.

Raquel Espinoza, director of corporate communications and media relations for the railroad said in an email, "Despite implementing numerous measures to prevent COVID-19 infections, one employee at Bailey Yard tested positive for the virus."

Health officials have not issued any advisories for other Union Pacific employees at the time this story was published.

The man has been in self-isolation since self-reporting to the West Central District Health Department on March 14.

Sources tell us several other Union Pacific employees and their family members have been tested. The results of those tests have not been reported to the media by West Central District Health Department.&nbsp;

Check The Post for all the latest updates on the COVID-19 coronavirus on a local, state and national level.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The first confirmed travel-related case of COVID-19 coronavirus in Lincoln County is an employee of the Union Pacific Railroad.Late Tuesday night, we learned that Lincoln County had its first confirmed case of the disease. At a news conference Wednesday morning, health officials gave few details of the case, which was still in the investigative stage. Health officials did say the man was in his 50's and had been on a cruise and had traveled in California.We now know that the man is an employee of Bailey Yard in North Platte.Raquel Espinoza, director of corporate communications and media relations for the railroad said in an email, "Despite implementing numerous measures to prevent COVID-19 infections, one employee at Bailey Yard tested positive for the virus."Health officials have not issued any advisories for other Union Pacific employees at the time this story was published.The man has been in self-isolation since self-reporting to the West Central District Health Department on March 14.Sources tell us several other Union Pacific employees and their family members have been tested. The results of those tests have not been reported to the media by West Central District Health Department.&nbsp;Check The Post for all the latest updates on the COVID-19 coronavirus on a local, state and national level.

Lincoln County COVID-19 patient is employee at Bailey Yard

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - After more cases of COVID-19 were reported in Nebraska, including a doctor, Omaha-area health officials took steps Wednesday to further limit gatherings to try stop the virus' spread.

The Douglas County Board of Health issued an order limiting gatherings within the county, which includes Omaha, to no more than 10 people. The order also says that a venue must be large enough for all people in any gathering to be at least 6 feet apart from each other.

The order is effective through April 30. It excludes a multitude of businesses, services and situations. Those exclusions include courts, government operations, airports and public transportation, shopping venues, shelters and households with more than 10 people. Child care facilities, however, are limited to the 10-person order.

The order calls on law enforcement to ensure compliance.

The department's director, Dr. Adi Pour, said in the order that she believes any delay in implementing the measure "would significantly jeopardize the ability to prevent or limit the transmission of a communicable disease and pose unacceptable risks" to people.

The order comes on the heels of similar measures being taken across the U.S. to limit exposure to the coronavirus, including limits on crowd size, closing schools and businesses and postponing upcoming primary elections. In the U.S., the death toll from the virus surpassed 100, and officials urged older Americans and those with health problems to stay home.

The doctor who tested positive for the virus saw patients over the weekend at Bellevue Medical Center before developing symptoms, Nebraska Medicine spokesman Taylor Wilson said. The hospital is part of the Nebraska Medicine system.

Hospital employees and nine patients who had contact with the doctor have been notified, Wilson said.

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

The doctor's initial test results are awaiting confirmation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wilson said in a news release Tuesday night. The doctor is experiencing mild symptoms and is in isolation at home, Wilson said.

State officials said late Tuesday that the number of known Nebraska cases had risen to 24. The total includes a man in his 50s from Lincoln County who recently was on a cruise and traveled to California.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - After more cases of COVID-19 were reported in Nebraska, including a doctor, Omaha-area health officials took steps Wednesday to further limit gatherings to try stop the virus' spread.The Douglas County Board of Health issued an order limiting gatherings within the county, which includes Omaha, to no more than 10 people. The order also says that a venue must be large enough for all people in any gathering to be at least 6 feet apart from each other.The order is effective through April 30. It excludes a multitude of businesses, services and situations. Those exclusions include courts, government operations, airports and public transportation, shopping venues, shelters and households with more than 10 people. Child care facilities, however, are limited to the 10-person order.The order calls on law enforcement to ensure compliance.The department's director, Dr. Adi Pour, said in the order that she believes any delay in implementing the measure "would significantly jeopardize the ability to prevent or limit the transmission of a communicable disease and pose unacceptable risks" to people.The order comes on the heels of similar measures being taken across the U.S. to limit exposure to the coronavirus, including limits on crowd size, closing schools and businesses and postponing upcoming primary elections. In the U.S., the death toll from the virus surpassed 100, and officials urged older Americans and those with health problems to stay home.The doctor who tested positive for the virus saw patients over the weekend at Bellevue Medical Center before developing symptoms, Nebraska Medicine spokesman Taylor Wilson said. The hospital is part of the Nebraska Medicine system.Hospital employees and nine patients who had contact with the doctor have been notified, Wilson said.For most people, COVID-19 causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.The doctor's initial test results are awaiting confirmation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wilson said in a news release Tuesday night. The doctor is experiencing mild symptoms and is in isolation at home, Wilson said.State officials said late Tuesday that the number of known Nebraska cases had risen to 24. The total includes a man in his 50s from Lincoln County who recently was on a cruise and traveled to California.

Nebraska doctor contracts COVID-19; gatherings limited to 10

LINCOLN, Neb.-In response to the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 in Nebraska, the State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is taking a number of steps to help flatten the curve. Effective immediately, the DMV will no longer be conducting drive tests statewide until further notice. Steps to introduce social distancing will be implemented at State DMV offices, limiting the number of individuals able to congregate in the lobby. While the measures introduced will vary by office, they may include such actions as limiting the number of customers allowed inside the office, or asking customers to wait outside or in their vehicle.

“We understand that these measures may seem inconvenient, or lead to longer wait times, but any steps we can take to flatten the curve are essential to keeping our residents safe,” said Rhonda Lahm, Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles. “Most of our customers are able to complete their transactions online. I would urge our customers to visit our website and take advantage of the online services available.”

Following the closure of County Treasurer offices in Lancaster County, no in-person DMV services will be available at these locations. Legislative changes, which came into effect in September 2019, mean the majority of customers are able to renew their license online twice before visiting a DMV office.

“We are working to balance the delivery of services with keeping our examiners and customers safe,” said Sara O’Rourke, Administrator of the Driver Licensing Services Division. “I ask for our customers’ patience and understanding as we implement these measures. We will continue to communicate with our customers through all media channels as the situation continues to unfold.”

The Nebraska DMV has dozens of services available online. Customers are able to update their address, renew or replace their driver’s license or state identification card, and renew their vehicle registration, among many other services. A full list of services is available at dmv.nebraska.gov/services.

LINCOLN, Neb.-In response to the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 in Nebraska, the State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is taking a number of steps to help flatten the curve. Effective immediately, the DMV will no longer be conducting drive tests statewide until further notice. Steps to introduce social distancing will be implemented at State DMV offices, limiting the number of individuals able to congregate in the lobby. While the measures introduced will vary by office, they may include such actions as limiting the number of customers allowed inside the office, or asking customers to wait outside or in their vehicle.“We understand that these measures may seem inconvenient, or lead to longer wait times, but any steps we can take to flatten the curve are essential to keeping our residents safe,” said Rhonda Lahm, Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles. “Most of our customers are able to complete their transactions online. I would urge our customers to visit our website and take advantage of the online services available.”Following the closure of County Treasurer offices in Lancaster County, no in-person DMV services will be available at these locations. Legislative changes, which came into effect in September 2019, mean the majority of customers are able to renew their license online twice before visiting a DMV office.“We are working to balance the delivery of services with keeping our examiners and customers safe,” said Sara O’Rourke, Administrator of the Driver Licensing Services Division. “I ask for our customers’ patience and understanding as we implement these measures. We will continue to communicate with our customers through all media channels as the situation continues to unfold.”The Nebraska DMV has dozens of services available online. Customers are able to update their address, renew or replace their driver’s license or state identification card, and renew their vehicle registration, among many other services. A full list of services is available at dmv.nebraska.gov/services.

Nebraska DMV helps 'flatten the curve'

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Additional cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

One case is a man in his 30s who is a Sarpy County resident. He had contact with another case who was a business traveler from Virginia who was in the metro area. The Sarpy County resident is self-isolating at home. For additional information –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%252F%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DEVGYJRYLz1TCVZBFdhUzfgIwAbA6yvKIcerY1eigiPQ&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228889899&amp;sdata=TQokN7vR%2BKiMzHuBoo%2FJ4HXAozkN3iJqrJuhHFX56HE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org/</a>

One case is man in his 30s from Knox County. He recently traveled to another state where there is community transmission of COVID-19. He is self-isolating at home -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fncdhdne.wordpress.com%252F%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3D1zkn33On8i3GuW2z056my9QVWAhRh2RhTfZVGMDCjR0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228899855&amp;sdata=YQ%2FwL7SD0EXUb0byynsRLGhaM3MEBJJzbcDgVrccjLc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://ncdhdne.wordpress.com/</a>

One case is a man in his 50s from Lincoln County who recently was on a cruise and traveled to California. He is also self-isolating at home.

Three are Douglas County residents. The Douglas County Health Department recently announced three cases -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%252Flatest-news%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DoaCaIxvP37mhCYCLYfKVdhvbxgGI-BXN4BsLO3f0FhU&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228899855&amp;sdata=T72L6z34UfuAw3bOBmR%2BomvEkRSkjp7mdq7EDKNjrlg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>.

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 partners across the state continue to take action to protect the health of Nebraskans.

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:&nbsp;

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=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fdhhs.ne.gov%252Fcoronavirus%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DOWKoYpNQt-PdHqXDs3t9sCGKsfwf4zoXmdKSceErz7k&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228929722&amp;sdata=Mca%2FNptoDlnVMZo%2F92S%2FI5Zxz8HQt7yeH15tpzVAM8U%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%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228939684&amp;sdata=Ml%2BxsNLC30srzJGnounlq5wvO%2F97rOsasrel%2FJvkE0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;

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%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228939684&amp;sdata=Ml%2BxsNLC30srzJGnounlq5wvO%2F97rOsasrel%2FJvkE0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Additional cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).One case is a man in his 30s who is a Sarpy County resident. He had contact with another case who was a business traveler from Virginia who was in the metro area. The Sarpy County resident is self-isolating at home. For additional information –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%252F%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DEVGYJRYLz1TCVZBFdhUzfgIwAbA6yvKIcerY1eigiPQ&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228889899&amp;sdata=TQokN7vR%2BKiMzHuBoo%2FJ4HXAozkN3iJqrJuhHFX56HE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org/</a>One case is man in his 30s from Knox County. He recently traveled to another state where there is community transmission of COVID-19. He is self-isolating at home -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fncdhdne.wordpress.com%252F%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3D1zkn33On8i3GuW2z056my9QVWAhRh2RhTfZVGMDCjR0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228899855&amp;sdata=YQ%2FwL7SD0EXUb0byynsRLGhaM3MEBJJzbcDgVrccjLc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://ncdhdne.wordpress.com/</a>One case is a man in his 50s from Lincoln County who recently was on a cruise and traveled to California. He is also self-isolating at home.Three are Douglas County residents. The Douglas County Health Department recently announced three cases -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%252Flatest-news%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DoaCaIxvP37mhCYCLYfKVdhvbxgGI-BXN4BsLO3f0FhU&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228899855&amp;sdata=T72L6z34UfuAw3bOBmR%2BomvEkRSkjp7mdq7EDKNjrlg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>.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.The statewide case total is 24.Public health partners across the state continue to take action to protect the health of Nebraskans.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:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523Have-supplies-on-hand%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3Dip8Sugu61fdoR3_ctcDwfNxCHFaDvy6DiQUXzw66ljY&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228909812&amp;sdata=4fR8%2FwBIGjkWRBnFfIOzQ5TSAN6suxWtK0D9Q0iELlA%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=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523take-everyday-precautions%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DaDIDsLdK1xHORdoVvnOclR953vTCfa0o-VFCHX2HR7c&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228909812&amp;sdata=GPnM%2BpIufm0UOLC3L9KJ2kafExqzRLQLTZVwKtJYBDA%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=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523avoid-crowds%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3D430s9GZp-u_cCicwxuwTNRFqso8jlQQLpAbEE1sElZY&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228919769&amp;sdata=hAefPGGSUDFXiYqFSVD00lgd8D%2Ft66hqNyomMVN4IW8%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=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%252Ftravel%252Fpage%252Fcovid-19-cruise-ship%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DLIiV4jvrAjF3-LvB-W4Fig9s8RisgM2TUJ4kkR0TAnA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228919769&amp;sdata=FE3Gyfs5csLL7%2BGOAtWh2JoNlTX7X3zXElGuvzMf9jk%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=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fspecific-groups%252Fhigh-risk-complications.html%2523stay-home%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DM0n35neS-gR_rUKvB-nFbMa5ENMnuXRS-P6j8t8p62E&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228929722&amp;sdata=pA9ffocZs2ipXxqnoYLp7pNeYis7zKkrKmQIb4aS%2BbU%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=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fdhhs.ne.gov%252Fcoronavirus%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3DOWKoYpNQt-PdHqXDs3t9sCGKsfwf4zoXmdKSceErz7k&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228929722&amp;sdata=Mca%2FNptoDlnVMZo%2F92S%2FI5Zxz8HQt7yeH15tpzVAM8U%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%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228939684&amp;sdata=Ml%2BxsNLC30srzJGnounlq5wvO%2F97rOsasrel%2FJvkE0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;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%3DFcQ5do3Mtm%252F2JnP%252FxXFcY%252BL9mOkU%252Fad4G7kfqxVfSdkEEq1vNf2gy8uvSYeleNySaxF9IQMBP4n9yzpXsCZ2jSzr1unDnAoxsdAEKuxZ52xDf8CPa9p0HDl2%252F6E%252FWw39eY6hkGCPdFo%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com%252F%253Furl%253Dhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%25252Flink.php%25253FDynEngagement%25253Dtrue%252526H%25253DqJ9juQrYQnz1cqUgIm8psgUQ75z%2525252Bv%2525252FUt%2525252BmzLgDhho6nnEEJMrQdYl6oy7vczWA37VWVZ3XG5jDNfUyfwrz8XAk5ETFXv5UBHpCO%2525252BtQ9zJVd%2525252FyD93cuXutxGJ8rf%2525252BRXdj64Fg2MDo%2525252FFI%2525253D%252526G%25253D0%252526R%25253Dhttps%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.cdc.gov%2525252Fcovid19%252526I%25253D20200228212559.00000572228f%25252540mail6-42-usnbn1%252526X%25253DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNTk4NTVhMGJmYzRiOWViOTgxMWI3ODs%2525253D%252526S%25253DZzjcgDmQ4xMygm9EK4HNx8nmH8Bk9uriJycy51nrpsE%2526data%253D02%25257C01%25257Ckhalilah.legrand%252540nebraska.gov%25257C7986f7edfcbd449e10e008d7bc94cf93%25257C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%25257C0%25257C0%25257C637185219636880975%2526sdata%253D9wCGyXgupbO8XHXIqlFLwoysbZB%25252BuB%25252B02JIhXlYFdLQ%25253D%2526reserved%253D0%26I%3D20200318025143.000006237cbb%2540mail6-41-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlNzE4Y2JjYzg1ZWFiNTE5ZTcyYWRiYTs%253D%26S%3Dr4S2IzklWREFo0qXx2X5JDVPUbfOPtatXzo8yeO_XgE&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cbaf7017287da489b49ae08d7cb3fcf1b%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637201347228939684&amp;sdata=Ml%2BxsNLC30srzJGnounlq5wvO%2F97rOsasrel%2FJvkE0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Additional cases of COVID-19 coronavirus reported to Nebraska DHHS

North Platte Public Transit suspends services during virus outbreak

KEARNEY, Neb.-The aviation industry has seen significant reductions in demand in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus. As a result, SkyWest will suspend service from Kearney to Chicago with United Express, effective April 1.&nbsp;

We will continue to monitor demand closely and will make adjustments in the future based on that response. SkyWest is committed to providing safe, reliable United Express service for all of our customers.&nbsp;

Passengers who may need to change or cancel reservations may do so at www.united.com. 

KEARNEY, Neb.-The aviation industry has seen significant reductions in demand in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus. As a result, SkyWest will suspend service from Kearney to Chicago with United Express, effective April 1.&nbsp;We will continue to monitor demand closely and will make adjustments in the future based on that response. SkyWest is committed to providing safe, reliable United Express service for all of our customers.&nbsp;Passengers who may need to change or cancel reservations may do so at www.united.com.

United suspends flights from Kearney to Chicago

VIDEO: March 18, 2020 News Conference with West Central District Health and City of NP Officials

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskamed.com/doctors/daniel-w-johnson">Daniel W Johnson, MD</a>, Nebraska Medicine critical care anesthesiologistPublished&nbsp;March 17, 2020

This is an email from Nebraska Medicine critical care anesthesiologist Dan Johnson, MD, to his friends and family about the seriousness of COVID-19. It is shared with permission from Dr. Johnson.

The COVID-19 pandemic will be a challenge to the USA unlike any we have experienced in our lifetime.&nbsp;For the last several weeks, I have been involved in multiple meetings each day where I get to hear the thoughts of experts in the field of pandemics, specifically about this pandemic, and what we need to do.

If anyone hears from family or friends who think this is “no big deal,” or that the USA’s response has been excessive, please know that they are very wrong. I’m sure you have all read about the many reasons that this is NOT “just like flu.” The numbers of infected, worldwide and in the USA, are extreme underestimates (because many infected have not been tested). The best metric to use, right now, is talking with hospital workers in the hotbeds, and asking them what their situation is.

I have been in communication with a friend who is a critical care physician from the Lombardy region of Italy. The health care workers there are living in a nightmare, having to decide who lives and who dies from lack of oxygen because their health care system is overwhelmed.

In the USA, we have three pathways for COVID-19:

You have all probably seen the concept of “flatten the curve.” If we fail to flatten the curve, and we fail to eliminate the portion of yellow above that line, there will be dire consequences:

In the SARS-1 outbreak, critical care doctors and nurses in Asia and Canada acquired life-long PTSD from watching patients gasp for air and die because they did not have enough ventilators. SARS-1 was nothing compared to COVID-19. If we do not flatten the curve, Rachel, Bridget, and I will have to witness many of these types of deaths.

In the absence of a vaccine or an anti-viral in the immediate future, our best chance to avoid overwhelming our hospitals is non-pharmaceutical interventions. The two best ways to do that are (1) social distancing, and (2) excellent hygiene.

Please check out these simulations from the Washington Post, and share&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/corona-simulator/" target="_blank">this article</a>.

The best ways for you to achieve social distancing are pretty simple:

I’m not saying people should not go to work. Just don’t leave the house for anything unnecessary, and if you can work from home, do it.

Everyone on this email, besides Mom and Dad, are at low risk for severe disease if/when they contract COVID-19. While this is great, that is not the main point. When young, well people fail to do social distancing and hygiene, they pick up the virus and transmit it to older people who are at higher risk for critical illness or death. So everyone needs to stay home. Even young people.

Tell every person over 60, and every person with significant medical conditions, to avoid being around people. Please do not have your kids visit their grandparents if you can avoid it. FaceTime them.

Our nation is the strongest one in the world. We have been through other extreme challenges and succeeded many times before. We WILL return to normal life. Please take these measures now to flatten the curve, so that we can avoid catastrophe.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskamed.com/doctors/daniel-w-johnson">Daniel W Johnson, MD</a>, Nebraska Medicine critical care anesthesiologistPublished&nbsp;March 17, 2020This is an email from Nebraska Medicine critical care anesthesiologist Dan Johnson, MD, to his friends and family about the seriousness of COVID-19. It is shared with permission from Dr. Johnson.Dear Family,The COVID-19 pandemic will be a challenge to the USA unlike any we have experienced in our lifetime.&nbsp;For the last several weeks, I have been involved in multiple meetings each day where I get to hear the thoughts of experts in the field of pandemics, specifically about this pandemic, and what we need to do.If anyone hears from family or friends who think this is “no big deal,” or that the USA’s response has been excessive, please know that they are very wrong. I’m sure you have all read about the many reasons that this is NOT “just like flu.” The numbers of infected, worldwide and in the USA, are extreme underestimates (because many infected have not been tested). The best metric to use, right now, is talking with hospital workers in the hotbeds, and asking them what their situation is.I have been in communication with a friend who is a critical care physician from the Lombardy region of Italy. The health care workers there are living in a nightmare, having to decide who lives and who dies from lack of oxygen because their health care system is overwhelmed.<h2>In the USA, we have three pathways for COVID-19:</h2><ol>
 <li>The country views this challenge like WWI and WWII, and almost everyone does the&nbsp;right things, and we will be harmed but okay.</li><li>Many people do the right things, and many don’t, and we will have the same struggles that Italy is enduring.</li><li>People blow this disease off as no big deal, and our health care system (and life as we know it) will be crippled.</li>
 </ol><h2>You have all probably seen the concept of “flatten the curve.” If we fail to flatten the curve, and we fail to eliminate the portion of yellow above that line, there will be dire consequences:</h2><ol>
 <li>More people, including some of our friends and family, will die.</li><li>Health care workers like me, Rachel, and several of you are at higher risk of dying.</li><li>All health care workers will have to witness the needless deaths of patients who could have survived.</li>
 </ol>In the SARS-1 outbreak, critical care doctors and nurses in Asia and Canada acquired life-long PTSD from watching patients gasp for air and die because they did not have enough ventilators. SARS-1 was nothing compared to COVID-19. If we do not flatten the curve, Rachel, Bridget, and I will have to witness many of these types of deaths.In the absence of a vaccine or an anti-viral in the immediate future, our best chance to avoid overwhelming our hospitals is non-pharmaceutical interventions. The two best ways to do that are (1) social distancing, and (2) excellent hygiene.Please check out these simulations from the Washington Post, and share&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/corona-simulator/" target="_blank">this article</a>.<h2>The best ways for you to achieve social distancing are pretty simple:</h2><ol>
 <li>You and your kids should stay home. This includes not going to church, not going to the gym, not going anywhere.</li><li>Do not travel for enjoyment until this is done. Do not travel for work unless your work truly requires it.</li><li>Avoid groups of people. Not just crowds, groups. Just be around your immediate family. I think kids should just play with siblings at this point – no play dates, etc.</li><li>When you must leave your home (to get groceries, to go to work, maintain a distance of six&nbsp;feet from people. REALLY stay away from people with a cough or who look sick.</li><li>When you do get groceries, etc., buy twice as much as you normally do so that you can go to the store half as often. Use hand sanitizer immediately after your transaction, and immediately after you unload the groceries.</li>
 </ol>I’m not saying people should not go to work. Just don’t leave the house for anything unnecessary, and if you can work from home, do it.Everyone on this email, besides Mom and Dad, are at low risk for severe disease if/when they contract COVID-19. While this is great, that is not the main point. When young, well people fail to do social distancing and hygiene, they pick up the virus and transmit it to older people who are at higher risk for critical illness or death. So everyone needs to stay home. Even young people.Tell every person over 60, and every person with significant medical conditions, to avoid being around people. Please do not have your kids visit their grandparents if you can avoid it. FaceTime them.Our nation is the strongest one in the world. We have been through other extreme challenges and succeeded many times before. We WILL return to normal life. Please take these measures now to flatten the curve, so that we can avoid catastrophe.Love,Dan

I'm a doctor at Nebraska Medicine. Here's what I'm telling my family about COVID-19.

NJCAA COVID-19 FAQs<ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp; Student-athlete X participated in 10 games of the 2020 softball season prior to the NJCAA canceling all spring sport participation. Has student-athlete X used a season of NJCAA softball eligibility? ANSWER:&nbsp;No, the NJCAA is not charging a season of eligibility for any student-athlete regardless of participation in the spring 2020 season. </li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;What is considered a spring sport in the NJCAA? ANSWER:&nbsp;Baseball, Beach Volleyball, Golf, Lacrosse, Softball, Tennis, Outdoor Track and Field</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Since the NJCAA has cancelled all participation for spring sports for the 2020 season, what does a member institution have to do to get the student-athlete's season of eligibility reinstated? ANSWER:&nbsp;For spring 2020 sports only, it is not required to file a hardship or for the college president to submit a letter notifying the NJCAA National Office of their decision to cancel the spring 2020 season as a result of COVID-19, as previously directed.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Our college had not yet competed in the spring 2020 season at the time of the NJCAA announcement cancelling all spring participation. Does the college still need to file spring eligibility? ANSWER:&nbsp;For the spring 2020 sport season, if the member institution has not yet filed eligibility, there is no reason to do so. No student-athlete will be charged a season of eligibility for the spring 2020 NJCAA athletic season.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Is the current restriction on recruiting only limited to face-to-face recruiting or all recruiting practices? ANSWER:&nbsp;This restriction applies to face-to-face on and off campus recruiting.&nbsp; It is permissible to email, text, phone call, etc. recruits during this time.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Community College A would like to host a skills camp for 9th through 12th graders during the current national recruiting restriction period. Is it permissible for the member college to host a skills clinic during this period? ANSWER:&nbsp;There is no NJCAA bylaw which would restrict this practice; however, it is not permissible to have 12th graders on campus or any other face-to-face athletic contact.&nbsp;12th graders are eligible to be signed to an NJCAA LOI and therefore are identified as recruitable. It is not permissible to hold face-to-face recruiting initiatives through April 15, 2020.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Is it permissible to sign recruits to NJCAA Letters of Intent during this time of limited recruitment? ANSWER:&nbsp;Yes, members colleges may continue to sign recruits to NJCAA Letters of Intent provided the signings are not face-to-face.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;As some NJCAA basketball championships were cancelled, do those students regain a season of sport eligibility? ANSWER:&nbsp; No, all fall and winter NJCAA sports must meet the standard hardship requirements as outlined in Article V, Section 5.B. The special allowance only applies to the spring 2020 NJCAA sport season.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Community College X is offering an LOI to an upcoming 2nd season athlete. The college has closed due to the coronavirus and all students are back home and no longer on campus. Does the college need to have "original" signatures on the LOI which they upload and have on file? ANSWER:&nbsp;While the NJCAA would prefer original signatures on file, original signatures are not required. It is permissible for the member institution to create a Letter of Intent, convert it to an electronic file, and send to the recruit as an attachment through email or fax.&nbsp; If the recruit accepts the offer, they could send it back via standard mail, or scan and return via email or fax; a picture of the signed Letter of Intent is not acceptable.&nbsp;The member college must secure the remaining signatures and maintain in their on-campus file in case of audit.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;If a student-athlete is a second-season athlete in the spring 2020 season and they decide to return to an NJCAA member institution the following year, would they be required to be full-time in the term which they choose to participate? What if they need less than full-time status to graduate - are they still required to be full-time in order to participate? ANSWER:&nbsp;Currently, the enrollment requirement for all NJCAA student-athletes is to be a full-time student at the school in which the student-athlete participates. However, the eligibility committee is currently discussing these types of situations. This minimum standard applies to all participation even when a student-athlete has fewer required credits than full-time status to graduate. &nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;Is it possible to be a dual-enrolled student, taking some classes/hours at the community college and taking some classes/hours at a local four-year institution while playing at the community college. ANSWER:&nbsp;Currently, the enrollment requirement for all NJCAA student-athletes is to be a full-time student at the school in which the student-athlete participates. However, the eligibility committee is currently discussing these types of situations. This minimum standard applies to all participation even when a student-athlete has fewer required credits than full-time status to graduate.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>QUESTION:&nbsp;May student-athletes use athletic facilities to work out, including gym, weight room, and or fields? ANSWER:&nbsp;Provided the college has no restriction against any member of the general student population using the service area or facility then it is permissible for student-athletes to as well. However, it is not permissible to have organized or structured team activities as structured participation (practice, games, and championships) has been cancelled for the remainder of the spring 2020 term.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>

NJCAA COVID - 19 FAQs

BELLEVUE, Neb. (AP) - A doctor who worked at a hospital south of Omaha over the weekend has tested positive for COVID-19, a hospital spokesman said.

The doctor saw patients at Bellevue Medical Center and then developed symptoms, said Nebraska Medicine spokesman Taylor Wilson. The Bellevue hospital is part of the Nebraska Medicine system.

The hospital employees and the nine patients who had contact with the doctor have been notified, Wilson said.

The doctor's initial test results are awaiting confirmation by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wilson said in a news release Tuesday night. The hospital is proceeding as if the test results have been verified, he said.

The doctor is experiencing mild symptoms and is in isolation at home, Wilson said.

The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

BELLEVUE, Neb. (AP) - A doctor who worked at a hospital south of Omaha over the weekend has tested positive for COVID-19, a hospital spokesman said.The doctor saw patients at Bellevue Medical Center and then developed symptoms, said Nebraska Medicine spokesman Taylor Wilson. The Bellevue hospital is part of the Nebraska Medicine system.The hospital employees and the nine patients who had contact with the doctor have been notified, Wilson said.For most people, COVID-19 causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.The doctor's initial test results are awaiting confirmation by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wilson said in a news release Tuesday night. The hospital is proceeding as if the test results have been verified, he said.The doctor is experiencing mild symptoms and is in isolation at home, Wilson said.State officials said late Tuesday that the number of known Nebraska cases had risen to 24. The total includes a man in his 50s from Lincoln County who recently was on a cruise and traveled to California.___The Associated Press receives support for health and science coverage from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Hospital official: Doctor tested positive for COVID-19

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The first travel-related case of COVID-19 was identified in Lincoln County.&nbsp; The individual is a male in his 50s who recently returned from a cruise and had traveled in California. He currently is self-isolating at home.

&nbsp;“We need to be extra vigilant and stay home if we’re experiencing any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses including fever, cough, and shortness of breath,” said Shannon Vanderheiden executive director of WCDHD.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WCDHD is currently investigating the situation and is in the process of identifying close contacts to help reduce further spread. WCDHD continues to plan with their Public Health Command Center (PHCC).&nbsp; Please continue to watch our website for updates and more information.&nbsp; “We will continue to work together to help slow the spread.”&nbsp;

West Central District Health Department would like to remind everyone of the importance of proper handwashing and staying home if you are ill.&nbsp;

If you develop the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, please call your provider prior to visiting their facility.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-The first travel-related case of COVID-19 was identified in Lincoln County.&nbsp; The individual is a male in his 50s who recently returned from a cruise and had traveled in California. He currently is self-isolating at home.&nbsp;“We need to be extra vigilant and stay home if we’re experiencing any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses including fever, cough, and shortness of breath,” said Shannon Vanderheiden executive director of WCDHD.&nbsp;&nbsp;WCDHD is currently investigating the situation and is in the process of identifying close contacts to help reduce further spread. WCDHD continues to plan with their Public Health Command Center (PHCC).&nbsp; Please continue to watch our website for updates and more information.&nbsp; “We will continue to work together to help slow the spread.”&nbsp;West Central District Health Department would like to remind everyone of the importance of proper handwashing and staying home if you are ill.&nbsp;If you develop the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, please call your provider prior to visiting their facility.&nbsp;

First travel-related case of COVID-19 confirmed in Lincoln County

OMAHA-The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) is confirming three news cases of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus.

&nbsp;Two of the cases were announced on Monday during a news conference. One of these cases is a man in his 20s who was in contact with another known case. The second is a man in his 30s who traveled to an area where COVID-19 is circulating and became ill after returning to Douglas County. &nbsp;

The third new case is another man in his 30s who was exposed in another state where COVID-19 is known to be spreading.

The Health Department Community has added some new sites as areas of potential low-risk community exposure.

Anyone who may have been in those locations at the listed times, should self-monitor for symptoms of the disease including 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. We ask that you call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.

DCHD epidemiologists will continue contact investigations with everyone who is a confirmed COVID-19 case. The county now has 19 confirmed cases, one of them being a community acquired case.

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

Monday, March 2 at Walmart on 128th&nbsp;Street from 11 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Tuesday, March 3 at Walmart on 180th&nbsp;and Wright form 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Thursday, March 5, the Walmart at 11350 Wickersham Blvd. in Gretna from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday, March 6, the Walmart at 168th&nbsp;and West Maple from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

On Tuesday, March 10, outdoor patio at the Kona Grill in Village Point from 5-9 p.m. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On Thursday, March 12, the Walmart at 168th&nbsp;and West Maple from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and from 9-10 p.m.

News ReleaseOMAHA-The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) is confirming three news cases of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;Two of the cases were announced on Monday during a news conference. One of these cases is a man in his 20s who was in contact with another known case. The second is a man in his 30s who traveled to an area where COVID-19 is circulating and became ill after returning to Douglas County. &nbsp;The third new case is another man in his 30s who was exposed in another state where COVID-19 is known to be spreading.The Health Department Community has added some new sites as areas of potential low-risk community exposure.<ol>
 <li>Prairie Life Center at 84th&nbsp;and Q on Saturday, March 14, from 6-8 p.m.</li><li>Natural Grocers at 7831 Dodge Street on Thursday, March 12, from 8-9 p.m. and at the same location on Sunday, March 15, from 2:45-3:15 p.m.</li><li>Amateur Coffee at 3913 Cuming Street, on Friday March 13, from 8-8:30 a.m. and that same location on Saturday, March 14, from 10-11:30 a.m.</li>
 </ol>Anyone who may have been in those locations at the listed times, should self-monitor for symptoms of the disease including 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. We ask that you call ahead before you go to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.DCHD epidemiologists will continue contact investigations with everyone who is a confirmed COVID-19 case. The county now has 19 confirmed cases, one of them being a community acquired case.&nbsp;DCHD’s information line remains open to anyone with general questions about COVID-19. That number, (402) 444-3400, is answered weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Any person who has questions outside those hours is asked to call the United Way’s 2-1-1 Resource Hotline.Public Exposures - March 15, 2020.Monday, March 2 at Walmart on 128th&nbsp;Street from 11 a.m.- 7 p.m.Tuesday, March 3 at Walmart on 180th&nbsp;and Wright form 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.Wednesday, March 4:<ol>
 <li>Walmart on 128th&nbsp;and L Street from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.</li><li>The bus from Barrett’s Barleycorn Pub and Grill at 4322 Leavenworth to the Creighton basketball game against Georgetown.</li><li>The Creighton-Georgetown basketball game at CHI Health Center.</li><li>Patty McGown’s, 45th&nbsp;and Center after the game from 9:30 to 11:30.</li><li>Walmart at 168th&nbsp;and West Maple from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.</li>
 </ol>Thursday, March 5, the Walmart at 11350 Wickersham Blvd. in Gretna from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.Friday, March 6, the Walmart at 168th&nbsp;and West Maple from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.On Saturday, March 7:<ol>
 <li>The Walmart at 168th&nbsp;and West Maple from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.</li><li>The Creighton-Seton Hall basketball game at CHI Health Center.</li><li>The Stadium Club from 4-5 p.m.;</li><li>Barry O’s Tavern from 5-6 p.m.;</li><li>The Jackson Street Tavern from 6-7 p.m.</li><li>Drastic Plastic inside the Monster Club from 7-9 p.m.</li><li>Winchester’s at 70th&nbsp;and Q from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m.</li>
 </ol>On Tuesday, March 10, outdoor patio at the Kona Grill in Village Point from 5-9 p.m. &nbsp;&nbsp;On Wednesday, March 11:<ol>
 <li>Walgreens on 24th&nbsp;and L from 1:30-2 p.m.</li><li>The Hy-Vee on 50th&nbsp;and Center from 5-5:30 p.m.</li>
 </ol>On Thursday, March 12, the Walmart at 168th&nbsp;and West Maple from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and from 9-10 p.m.

3 more COVID-19 cases confirmed in Douglas County

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to permit the loosening of eligibility requirements for unemployment insurance benefits.&nbsp; In line with federal guidance, Governor Ricketts is allowing the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) to waive the following requirements for claims filed between March 22 and May 2.&nbsp; This timeframe will be evaluated as the situation with COVID-19&nbsp; progresses.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Work Search -&nbsp;This change applies to all workers filing for unemployment.&nbsp; While many job search efforts are conducted online, waiving the requirement to search for work is in line with the social distancing practices that are needed to limit the spread of COVID-19 and potential exposure to the disease.&nbsp; The change will also accommodate those workers who are temporarily impacted by COVID-19, including those who are in an unpaid status due to a shutdown, quarantine, or because they are caring for a family member due to illness or a facility closure.&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unpaid Waiting Week&nbsp;-&nbsp;This change will make the first week of eligibility payable rather than an unpaid waiting week and will help all unemployment recipients get their payments sooner.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Employer charging&nbsp;-&nbsp;Unemployment benefits are typically paid with contributions from employers. &nbsp;NDOL will temporarily waive charges incurred by employers whose team members are filing claims related to COVID-19.&nbsp; Nebraska has a healthy Trust Fund that will be utilized to pay for unemployment benefits tied to COVID-19.

The Department of Labor will continue to look at ways to streamline the process of filing for and receiving unemployment insurance benefits as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve.

Workers needing to file for unemployment benefits should do so online at&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp; The NEworks mobile app is available to download free for those who don’t have computer access.&nbsp; For technical assistance, access the NEworks live chat feature, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ndol.nichelp@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ndol.nichelp@nebraska.gov</a>, or call 402-458-2500.

Complete text of the executive order is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fh472p8y2fpdcmtl%2FEO%252020-04%2520-%2520Emergency%2520Unemployment%2520Insurance%2520Benefit%2520Relief%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C294fc3b9f34d4e225ed408d7cac532d6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200820615914111&amp;sdata=BM7T3tPZo%2FCNT55qwZ0MPJqjYxeZLNQCr%2F43df04WMo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to permit the loosening of eligibility requirements for unemployment insurance benefits.&nbsp; In line with federal guidance, Governor Ricketts is allowing the Nebraska Department of Labor (NDOL) to waive the following requirements for claims filed between March 22 and May 2.&nbsp; This timeframe will be evaluated as the situation with COVID-19&nbsp; progresses.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Work Search -&nbsp;This change applies to all workers filing for unemployment.&nbsp; While many job search efforts are conducted online, waiving the requirement to search for work is in line with the social distancing practices that are needed to limit the spread of COVID-19 and potential exposure to the disease.&nbsp; The change will also accommodate those workers who are temporarily impacted by COVID-19, including those who are in an unpaid status due to a shutdown, quarantine, or because they are caring for a family member due to illness or a facility closure.&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unpaid Waiting Week&nbsp;-&nbsp;This change will make the first week of eligibility payable rather than an unpaid waiting week and will help all unemployment recipients get their payments sooner.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Employer charging&nbsp;-&nbsp;Unemployment benefits are typically paid with contributions from employers. &nbsp;NDOL will temporarily waive charges incurred by employers whose team members are filing claims related to COVID-19.&nbsp; Nebraska has a healthy Trust Fund that will be utilized to pay for unemployment benefits tied to COVID-19.The Department of Labor will continue to look at ways to streamline the process of filing for and receiving unemployment insurance benefits as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve.Workers needing to file for unemployment benefits should do so online at&nbsp;<a href="http://neworks.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">NEworks.nebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp; The NEworks mobile app is available to download free for those who don’t have computer access.&nbsp; For technical assistance, access the NEworks live chat feature, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ndol.nichelp@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ndol.nichelp@nebraska.gov</a>, or call 402-458-2500.Complete text of the executive order is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fh472p8y2fpdcmtl%2FEO%252020-04%2520-%2520Emergency%2520Unemployment%2520Insurance%2520Benefit%2520Relief%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C294fc3b9f34d4e225ed408d7cac532d6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200820615914111&amp;sdata=BM7T3tPZo%2FCNT55qwZ0MPJqjYxeZLNQCr%2F43df04WMo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts issues executive order to loosen unemployment insurance eligibility requirements

For the foreseeable future, we will all be working to combat coronavirus 2019, also known as COVID-19.&nbsp; As we work together to confront this pandemic, I want to reiterate simple reminders about how we stop it.

Use Good Hygiene:&nbsp;&nbsp;Everyone should be practicing disciplined hygiene.&nbsp; Here are several things you can do now:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bump elbows rather than shake hands to prevent the transfer of germs.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home if you are sick.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not greet people with hugs or kisses.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wash hands often for at least 20 seconds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and then throw the tissue into the trash.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Watch for COVID-19 Symptoms:&nbsp; Most individuals who’ve had COVID-19 show mild to moderate flu-like symptoms and fully recover within two weeks.&nbsp; Symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.&nbsp; While early evidence shows the virus has less of an impact on young people, it can endanger the lives of the elderly and persons with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, and suppressed immune systems.&nbsp; We are constantly learning new things about the new virus.

Seek Appropriate Help:&nbsp; If you or a member of your household display these symptoms, immediately self-isolate and call your healthcare provider for advice.&nbsp; Do not go to an emergency room or doctor’s office without calling ahead.&nbsp; Your doctor can assist with an initial screening to determine if you should be tested for COVID-19.&nbsp; Public health officials, health care providers, and private labs are working daily to increase nationwide capacity to test more people for COVID-19.&nbsp;

Practice Social Distancing:&nbsp; Given the heightened risk that exists for the elderly and most vulnerable, we’re asking people to stay at home and to use social distancing techniques to slow the spread of coronavirus and limit its extent.&nbsp; As of Tuesday, March 17th, the latest CDC guidance is to avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people.&nbsp; This includes events like funerals and weddings and people at bars and restaurants.&nbsp; Additionally, please do not visit nursing homes or long-term care facilities, and do not take your loved one out of the facility.&nbsp; We must keep them healthy and safe.&nbsp; We expect guidance to change as circumstances evolve.&nbsp; Please constantly monitor&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for the latest information.

Be Flexible &amp; Resilient:&nbsp; Social distancing is going to be hard for all of us.&nbsp; If you’re a business owner, have a plan for your team, and explore new ways to serve your customers.&nbsp; If you’re a restaurant, ask your customers if you can prepare their meal for takeout.&nbsp; If you’re a gym, work to provide virtual classes, so you can serve people in their homes.&nbsp; Retailers like pharmacies, grocery stores, and home improvement stores are&nbsp;not&nbsp;expected to limit their establishments to 10 people or less. &nbsp;Generally, customers of these businesses are not in close proximity to one another. &nbsp;However, retailers should use common sense to set up queues that keep customers spread out as much as possible.&nbsp; Office buildings or factories are not expected to close.

Prepare for Two-Week Quarantines:&nbsp; I have declared a statewide emergency due to coronavirus.&nbsp; It allows for the suspension of regulatory provisions of state law to aid the state’s response.&nbsp; Along with this action, I issued an executive order to wave certain hauling requirements for truckers delivering in-demand supplies, such as food products to grocery stores.&nbsp; Our supply chains are strong and secure, and Nebraskans can expect to see shelves re-stocked in relatively short order.&nbsp; America has the most efficient and effective supply chain in the world and it is working.&nbsp; Grocery stores will remain open.&nbsp; Don’t buy months and months of food. &nbsp;Have two weeks’ supply on hand, in case you need to self-quarantine, and then buy weekly to maintain that supply.

I urge Nebraskans to stay up-to-date with reliable information about coronavirus.&nbsp; Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has a website with the latest news on COVID-19 as well as guidelines for families, daycares, schools, businesses, and healthcare facilities.&nbsp; You can visit it at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus</a>. &nbsp;DHHS also has a coronavirus information line: 402-552-6645. &nbsp;It’s open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., every day of the week.&nbsp; As Nebraskans stay informed, show cooperation, and take sensible precautions, I am confident we’ll pass through this challenging season as smoothly as possible.

By Governor Pete RickettsFor the foreseeable future, we will all be working to combat coronavirus 2019, also known as COVID-19.&nbsp; As we work together to confront this pandemic, I want to reiterate simple reminders about how we stop it.Use Good Hygiene:&nbsp;&nbsp;Everyone should be practicing disciplined hygiene.&nbsp; Here are several things you can do now:·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bump elbows rather than shake hands to prevent the transfer of germs.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home if you are sick.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid close contact with people who are sick.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not greet people with hugs or kisses.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wash hands often for at least 20 seconds.&nbsp;&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and then throw the tissue into the trash.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Watch for COVID-19 Symptoms:&nbsp; Most individuals who’ve had COVID-19 show mild to moderate flu-like symptoms and fully recover within two weeks.&nbsp; Symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.&nbsp; While early evidence shows the virus has less of an impact on young people, it can endanger the lives of the elderly and persons with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, and suppressed immune systems.&nbsp; We are constantly learning new things about the new virus.Seek Appropriate Help:&nbsp; If you or a member of your household display these symptoms, immediately self-isolate and call your healthcare provider for advice.&nbsp; Do not go to an emergency room or doctor’s office without calling ahead.&nbsp; Your doctor can assist with an initial screening to determine if you should be tested for COVID-19.&nbsp; Public health officials, health care providers, and private labs are working daily to increase nationwide capacity to test more people for COVID-19.&nbsp;Practice Social Distancing:&nbsp; Given the heightened risk that exists for the elderly and most vulnerable, we’re asking people to stay at home and to use social distancing techniques to slow the spread of coronavirus and limit its extent.&nbsp; As of Tuesday, March 17th, the latest CDC guidance is to avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people.&nbsp; This includes events like funerals and weddings and people at bars and restaurants.&nbsp; Additionally, please do not visit nursing homes or long-term care facilities, and do not take your loved one out of the facility.&nbsp; We must keep them healthy and safe.&nbsp; We expect guidance to change as circumstances evolve.&nbsp; Please constantly monitor&nbsp;<a href="http://www.governor.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">www.Governor.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for the latest information.Be Flexible &amp; Resilient:&nbsp; Social distancing is going to be hard for all of us.&nbsp; If you’re a business owner, have a plan for your team, and explore new ways to serve your customers.&nbsp; If you’re a restaurant, ask your customers if you can prepare their meal for takeout.&nbsp; If you’re a gym, work to provide virtual classes, so you can serve people in their homes.&nbsp; Retailers like pharmacies, grocery stores, and home improvement stores are&nbsp;not&nbsp;expected to limit their establishments to 10 people or less. &nbsp;Generally, customers of these businesses are not in close proximity to one another. &nbsp;However, retailers should use common sense to set up queues that keep customers spread out as much as possible.&nbsp; Office buildings or factories are not expected to close.Prepare for Two-Week Quarantines:&nbsp; I have declared a statewide emergency due to coronavirus.&nbsp; It allows for the suspension of regulatory provisions of state law to aid the state’s response.&nbsp; Along with this action, I issued an executive order to wave certain hauling requirements for truckers delivering in-demand supplies, such as food products to grocery stores.&nbsp; Our supply chains are strong and secure, and Nebraskans can expect to see shelves re-stocked in relatively short order.&nbsp; America has the most efficient and effective supply chain in the world and it is working.&nbsp; Grocery stores will remain open.&nbsp; Don’t buy months and months of food. &nbsp;Have two weeks’ supply on hand, in case you need to self-quarantine, and then buy weekly to maintain that supply.I urge Nebraskans to stay up-to-date with reliable information about coronavirus.&nbsp; Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has a website with the latest news on COVID-19 as well as guidelines for families, daycares, schools, businesses, and healthcare facilities.&nbsp; You can visit it at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus" target="_blank">www.dhhs.ne.gov/Coronavirus</a>. &nbsp;DHHS also has a coronavirus information line: 402-552-6645. &nbsp;It’s open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., every day of the week.&nbsp; As Nebraskans stay informed, show cooperation, and take sensible precautions, I am confident we’ll pass through this challenging season as smoothly as possible.

Governor's Weekly Column: Everyone can help stop coronavirus

LINCOLN&nbsp;– As Nebraskans are taking preventative measures against COVID-19, the Drinking Water division of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) would like to remind everyone that drinking water remains safe to use.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that COVID-19 has not been detected in drinking water, and that conventional water treatment methods of filtration and disinfection — which are in most municipal drinking water systems — should remove or inactivate the virus causing COVID-19.

“Common disinfection methods used in water and wastewater treatment are expected to be effective for inactivation of coronaviruses when executed properly,” said Sue Dempsey, administrator of the DHHS Drinking Water Division.

Dempsey advises water system operators to continue monitoring drinking water disinfection processes for systems with upstream wastewater impacts both during and after the outbreak for infectious coronaviruses.

Although drinking water from the tap is safe for public consumption, federal guidance also recommends that the public consider maintaining a supply of bottled water. If people are ill and have to isolate in their own homes, it is easiest to use bottled water rather than sanitizing water glasses that might be shared with the rest of the household.

Stay up to date on the latest news regarding the Coronavirus with the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTcuMTg4NTkwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy53aG8uaW50L2VtZXJnZW5jaWVzL2Rpc2Vhc2VzL25vdmVsLWNvcm9uYXZpcnVzLTIwMTkifQ.9MlZsG1iOb2P9itqc15Rr4LQIlazTol4asRmijjOS-s%2Fbr%2F76208711714-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C34d9944b227c4c8f7d1f08d7ca85d09c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200548387058076&amp;sdata=5Hsyg2WOhFlmKreewwkfOgtiGmq1xOAaaVrT0TpglEc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTcuMTg4NTkwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9pbmRleC5odG1sIn0.lWZ5RCsT2y8hjTEk81oeVWCfhV1zrF_5fMcMxHPxK4Y%2Fbr%2F76208711714-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C34d9944b227c4c8f7d1f08d7ca85d09c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200548387068066&amp;sdata=mk3p2plIYCoza0tN2Pg3zXy2odrE8RJTzy6ngHu1Xxs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">CDC</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTcuMTg4NTkwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ29yb25hdmlydXMuYXNweCJ9.ju_ysXs_8q16bLMdimqAZh0NfqX_bGsphHkM5BEdz7U%2Fbr%2F76208711714-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C34d9944b227c4c8f7d1f08d7ca85d09c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200548387078057&amp;sdata=6CdZKBsPeJp31Dn9FnWcci%2Fz1UXDQED0QL5BjrfVOwY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">DHHS</a>.

LINCOLN&nbsp;– As Nebraskans are taking preventative measures against COVID-19, the Drinking Water division of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) would like to remind everyone that drinking water remains safe to use.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that COVID-19 has not been detected in drinking water, and that conventional water treatment methods of filtration and disinfection — which are in most municipal drinking water systems — should remove or inactivate the virus causing COVID-19.“Common disinfection methods used in water and wastewater treatment are expected to be effective for inactivation of coronaviruses when executed properly,” said Sue Dempsey, administrator of the DHHS Drinking Water Division.Dempsey advises water system operators to continue monitoring drinking water disinfection processes for systems with upstream wastewater impacts both during and after the outbreak for infectious coronaviruses.Although drinking water from the tap is safe for public consumption, federal guidance also recommends that the public consider maintaining a supply of bottled water. If people are ill and have to isolate in their own homes, it is easiest to use bottled water rather than sanitizing water glasses that might be shared with the rest of the household.Stay up to date on the latest news regarding the Coronavirus with the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTcuMTg4NTkwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy53aG8uaW50L2VtZXJnZW5jaWVzL2Rpc2Vhc2VzL25vdmVsLWNvcm9uYXZpcnVzLTIwMTkifQ.9MlZsG1iOb2P9itqc15Rr4LQIlazTol4asRmijjOS-s%2Fbr%2F76208711714-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C34d9944b227c4c8f7d1f08d7ca85d09c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200548387058076&amp;sdata=5Hsyg2WOhFlmKreewwkfOgtiGmq1xOAaaVrT0TpglEc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTcuMTg4NTkwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9pbmRleC5odG1sIn0.lWZ5RCsT2y8hjTEk81oeVWCfhV1zrF_5fMcMxHPxK4Y%2Fbr%2F76208711714-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C34d9944b227c4c8f7d1f08d7ca85d09c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200548387068066&amp;sdata=mk3p2plIYCoza0tN2Pg3zXy2odrE8RJTzy6ngHu1Xxs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">CDC</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDAzMTcuMTg4NTkwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ29yb25hdmlydXMuYXNweCJ9.ju_ysXs_8q16bLMdimqAZh0NfqX_bGsphHkM5BEdz7U%2Fbr%2F76208711714-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C34d9944b227c4c8f7d1f08d7ca85d09c%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637200548387078057&amp;sdata=6CdZKBsPeJp31Dn9FnWcci%2Fz1UXDQED0QL5BjrfVOwY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">DHHS</a>.

DHHS: Drinking water safe during COVID-19 outbreak

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska residents needing to get to their dentist for teeth cleaning might be waiting a bit. The Nebraska Dental Association has recommended its dentists postpone any non-emergency dental care until after April 1 in an effort to slow the spread of a new coronavirus.

The organization said in a written statement Tuesday that dentists "have a role to play in 'flattening the curve' ... to follow sound, scientific public health advice to help limit infections and slow the spread of the virus," the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/nebraska-dentists-postpone-nonemergency-care-until-april-because-of-coronavirus/article_4a039474-b1de-5f62-82fd-c9b11b1eef07.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

David O'Doherty, executive director of the association, said the group made the decision during an emergency meeting Monday.

Those who think they need emergency dental care should call their dentist's office for more information.

The Dentists, which has four dental offices in the Omaha area, shifted to emergent care soon after the board's recommendation came, the group's private practice administrator, Jennifer Abshier, said.

"Pain, swelling, broken teeth will get seen. We're still here for patient care," Abshier said.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska residents needing to get to their dentist for teeth cleaning might be waiting a bit. The Nebraska Dental Association has recommended its dentists postpone any non-emergency dental care until after April 1 in an effort to slow the spread of a new coronavirus.The organization said in a written statement Tuesday that dentists "have a role to play in 'flattening the curve' ... to follow sound, scientific public health advice to help limit infections and slow the spread of the virus," the Omaha World-Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://www.omaha.com/livewellnebraska/nebraska-dentists-postpone-nonemergency-care-until-april-because-of-coronavirus/article_4a039474-b1de-5f62-82fd-c9b11b1eef07.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.David O'Doherty, executive director of the association, said the group made the decision during an emergency meeting Monday.Those who think they need emergency dental care should call their dentist's office for more information.The Dentists, which has four dental offices in the Omaha area, shifted to emergent care soon after the board's recommendation came, the group's private practice administrator, Jennifer Abshier, said."Pain, swelling, broken teeth will get seen. We're still here for patient care," Abshier said.

Nebraska dentists urged to stop non-emergency appointments

AMC Theaters closing all locations for 6 to 12 weeks


NPPSD is providing a free
pre-packed breakfast and lunch to children 18 years old and younger.


Beginning Wednesday, March 18,
2020, until further notice


Drive Through Location Madison
Middle School


1400 N Madison Ave, North
Platte, NE 69101


NPPSD is providing free
pre-packed food packs to NPPSD children 18 years old and younger.


On Thursdays and Fridays
beginning, March 19, 2020, until further notice


Drive Through Location
McKinley Education Center


301 West F Street, North
Platte, NE 69101

Distribution
will be by School and Student Last Name

Backpack
Distribution for 3/19/20

3:00-4:30
p.m. Lincoln School&nbsp;

Backpack
Distribution for 3/20/20

2:00-3:30
All other families are welcome to come to get packs, we are making
extra packs and will distribute what is left.

NPPSD is providing a free
pre-packed breakfast and lunch to children 18 years old and younger.
Beginning Wednesday, March 18,
2020, until further notice
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Drive Through Location Madison
Middle School
1400 N Madison Ave, North
Platte, NE 69101Guidelines<ol>
 <li>Breakfast
	and lunch will be provided in pre-packaged bags for all district
	children ages 18 and younger Monday through Friday until further
	notice.
	</li><li><a></a>
	Pick-up times are from 9:30
	a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
	</li><li>Children
	must be in the vehicle to receive their bag of food.
	</li><li>Enter
	from Jackson Avenue, which is on the west side of Madison, through
	the alley, proceed to the loading dock, stop and pick-up bags, exit
	to 14th
	street. 
	
	</li><li>Please
	do not park and get out of your vehicle.
	</li><li>Please
	do not congregate or
	consume meals on-site.
</li>
 </ol>
Drive Through Backpack
Pickup
NPPSD is providing free
pre-packed food packs to NPPSD children 18 years old and younger.
On Thursdays and Fridays
beginning, March 19, 2020, until further notice
Drive Through Location
McKinley Education Center
301 West F Street, North
Platte, NE 69101<ol>
 <li>Packs
	will be provided in pre-packaged bags for all district children ages
	18 and younger on Thursdays and Fridays until further notice.
	</li><li>Pick-up
	times are listed below by school and last name.
	</li><li>Limit
	of two packs per vehicle.
	</li><li>Enter
	from F street and circle in front of the McKinley Education Center. 
	Stop at the designated area, pick up your pack, then exit by turning
	left on Sycamore. 
	
	</li><li>Please
	do not park and/ or get out of your vehicle.
	</li><li>Please
	do not congregate or
	consume meals on-site.
</li>
 </ol>
Distribution
will be by School and Student Last Name
Backpack
Distribution for 3/19/20
&nbsp;2:00
p.m. Cody School
	
A-M 2:00-2:30
				
N-Z 2:30-3:00
3:00-4:30
p.m. Lincoln School&nbsp;
				A-M
3:00-3:45
				N-Z
3:45-4:30
Backpack
Distribution for 3/20/20
8:00
a.m. Jefferson			
A-M
8:00-9:00
				N-Z&nbsp;
9:00-10:00
10:00
a.m. Buffalo			
A-M
10:00-10:30
				N-Z&nbsp;
10:30-11:00
11:00
Madison			
A-M
11:00-11:30
N-Z&nbsp;
11:30-12:00
12:00
Adams School
&nbsp;A-M
12:00-12:30
				
N-Z 12:30-1:00
1:00
Washington School
				
A-M 1:00-1:30
				
N-Z 1:30-2:00
2:00-3:30
All other families are welcome to come to get packs, we are making
extra packs and will distribute what is left.

NPPSD providing free breakfast, lunch, drive-thru backpack program for children

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College is canceling a number of its upcoming events in an attempt to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and to protect its students, staff and the communities that it serves.

<a>Staff are still on campus and will continue to answer phone calls and emails. Whenever possible, prospective students and the public are encouraged to call and schedule an appointment prior to arriving on campus as many needs can be addressed virtually.&nbsp;</a>

March 18 – Inter-High Day, North Platte/Imperial Campus expansion groundbreaking, Imperial

March 20 - Associate of Fine Arts artist reception, Keystone Business Center in McCook

March 25 – Expanding Your Horizons conference, North Platte

March 29 – TeamMates Mentoring event – McCook

April 5 - SKD induction ceremony, North Platte

April 8 – American Red Cross blood drive, North Platte

April 9 – Paint-In, McCook/ Registration Days, McCook and North Platte

April 20 – NPCC Honors Convocation/NPCC Athletic Banquet, North Platte

April 20-25 – Medical Laboratory Professionals Week activities, North Platte

April 21 – NPCC Foundation Scholarship Reception, North Platte

April 24 - AFA Exhibition and Thesis Defense Show opening reception, McCook

April 27 – PTK induction ceremony/ MCC Honors Convocation/ MCC Athletic Banquet, all in McCook

All non-credit, on-campus classes have also been canceled. Decisions about commencement ceremonies and other future events will be announced closer to their scheduled times.

Anyone planning to attend an event not on this list is encouraged to contact the hosting campus to determine if the event will continue as planned.

More information about MPCC’s response to coronavirus can be found on the college’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">mpcc.edu</a>.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Mid-Plains Community College is canceling a number of its upcoming events in an attempt to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and to protect its students, staff and the communities that it serves.<a>Staff are still on campus and will continue to answer phone calls and emails. Whenever possible, prospective students and the public are encouraged to call and schedule an appointment prior to arriving on campus as many needs can be addressed virtually.&nbsp;</a>The canceled events include:March 18 – Inter-High Day, North Platte/Imperial Campus expansion groundbreaking, ImperialMarch 20 - Associate of Fine Arts artist reception, Keystone Business Center in McCookMarch 25 – Expanding Your Horizons conference, North PlatteMarch 29 – TeamMates Mentoring event – McCookApril 5 - SKD induction ceremony, North PlatteApril 8 – American Red Cross blood drive, North PlatteApril 9 – Paint-In, McCook/ Registration Days, McCook and North PlatteApril 20 – NPCC Honors Convocation/NPCC Athletic Banquet, North PlatteApril 20-25 – Medical Laboratory Professionals Week activities, North PlatteApril 21 – NPCC Foundation Scholarship Reception, North PlatteApril 24 - AFA Exhibition and Thesis Defense Show opening reception, McCookApril 27 – PTK induction ceremony/ MCC Honors Convocation/ MCC Athletic Banquet, all in McCookAll non-credit, on-campus classes have also been canceled. Decisions about commencement ceremonies and other future events will be announced closer to their scheduled times.Anyone planning to attend an event not on this list is encouraged to contact the hosting campus to determine if the event will continue as planned.More information about MPCC’s response to coronavirus can be found on the college’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.mpcc.edu/" target="_blank">mpcc.edu</a>.

MPCC cancels events in response to coronavirus concerns

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Interstate 80 plays a vital role in our nation's economy, and as you journey to the east or to the west, there comes a time when the sign that says "Rest Area" is one of the most beautiful sights to see. The Nebraska Department of Transportation plans to keep the Rest Areas along the Interstate open, provided they have enough paper products and supplies to keep them operating safely. NDOT posted the following statement on their Facebook page:

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Interstate 80 plays a vital role in our nation's economy, and as you journey to the east or to the west, there comes a time when the sign that says "Rest Area" is one of the most beautiful sights to see. The Nebraska Department of Transportation plans to keep the Rest Areas along the Interstate open, provided they have enough paper products and supplies to keep them operating safely. NDOT posted the following statement on their Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNebraskaDOT%2Fposts%2F660691981351782&width=500" width="500" height="326" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Coronavirus Update