LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is changing its plans to expand Medicaid in a way that will force more recipients to start out with a "basic" plan that doesn't include coverage for dental and vision services or over-the-counter medications, state officials announced Friday.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said the tweaks were necessary because the federal government is occupied right now with its response to the coronavirus pandemic and doesn't have time to approve the state's Medicaid expansion proposal.

Prime coverage that includes all services won't be available until the federal government approves Nebraska's proposed waiver for the program, and that decision will likely get pushed off for another six months.

However, department officials said they still plan to start accepting applications on Aug. 1, as scheduled. Coverage will begin as scheduled on Oct. 1.

"We are going to be going forward with Medicaid expansion ... but it will only be the basic package and not the prime package," Gov. Pete Ricketts said during his daily coronavirus news conference.

Nebraska voters approved a Medicaid expansion measure in 2018 after years of failed attempts to do so through the Republican-dominated state Legislature. The state's Republican governors have remained adamantly opposed to expansion, although Ricketts promised to respect the will of voters after they passed it.

Critics have accused the governor's administration of slow-walking the expansion and imposing burdensome requirements on recipients, a charge his administration denies. Shortly after it was approved, state officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ad6a5d4d307d4459849be1b2166dc5e6" target="_blank">announced a two-tier system of coverage,</a>&nbsp;with a "basic" plan for all newly qualified recipients and a "premium" plan for people who are working, in school, volunteering or caring for a relative.

"Our approach better achieves the purpose of the Medicaid program by incentivizing positive activities that will improve health outcomes and encourage life successes for participants," the department said in a news release.

The basic plan includes coverage for hospitalizations, emergency care, prescription drugs, lab tests, maternity care and other services. The premium plan offers those benefits as well but adds coverage for dental and vision services, and over-the-counter drugs.

To qualify for prime coverage in the first year, recipients would have needed to participate in care and case management, select a primary care provider and have an annual checkup.

But because the federal government has delayed its approval of Nebraska's plan, prime coverage will only be offered to eligible people who are 19 or 20 years old, pregnant or medically frail, the department said.

A leading advocate for expanding Medicaid said the state should simply offer prime coverage to all recipients and stop tinkering with different levels of coverage.

"While we appreciate that coverage will not be further delayed beyond Oct. 1, 2020 ... we maintain they can and should start coverage now," said Molly McCleery of Nebraska Appleseed, an advocacy group for low-income people.

An estimated 90,000 Nebraska residents will qualify for coverage once Medicaid is expanded, and McCleery said doing so now would help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38453f521049059482fb3f275a8a954d" target="_blank">contain the spread</a>&nbsp;of the coronavirus.

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

By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is changing its plans to expand Medicaid in a way that will force more recipients to start out with a "basic" plan that doesn't include coverage for dental and vision services or over-the-counter medications, state officials announced Friday.The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said the tweaks were necessary because the federal government is occupied right now with its response to the coronavirus pandemic and doesn't have time to approve the state's Medicaid expansion proposal.Prime coverage that includes all services won't be available until the federal government approves Nebraska's proposed waiver for the program, and that decision will likely get pushed off for another six months.However, department officials said they still plan to start accepting applications on Aug. 1, as scheduled. Coverage will begin as scheduled on Oct. 1."We are going to be going forward with Medicaid expansion ... but it will only be the basic package and not the prime package," Gov. Pete Ricketts said during his daily coronavirus news conference.Nebraska voters approved a Medicaid expansion measure in 2018 after years of failed attempts to do so through the Republican-dominated state Legislature. The state's Republican governors have remained adamantly opposed to expansion, although Ricketts promised to respect the will of voters after they passed it.Critics have accused the governor's administration of slow-walking the expansion and imposing burdensome requirements on recipients, a charge his administration denies. Shortly after it was approved, state officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ad6a5d4d307d4459849be1b2166dc5e6" target="_blank">announced a two-tier system of coverage,</a>&nbsp;with a "basic" plan for all newly qualified recipients and a "premium" plan for people who are working, in school, volunteering or caring for a relative."Our approach better achieves the purpose of the Medicaid program by incentivizing positive activities that will improve health outcomes and encourage life successes for participants," the department said in a news release.The basic plan includes coverage for hospitalizations, emergency care, prescription drugs, lab tests, maternity care and other services. The premium plan offers those benefits as well but adds coverage for dental and vision services, and over-the-counter drugs.To qualify for prime coverage in the first year, recipients would have needed to participate in care and case management, select a primary care provider and have an annual checkup.But because the federal government has delayed its approval of Nebraska's plan, prime coverage will only be offered to eligible people who are 19 or 20 years old, pregnant or medically frail, the department said.A leading advocate for expanding Medicaid said the state should simply offer prime coverage to all recipients and stop tinkering with different levels of coverage."While we appreciate that coverage will not be further delayed beyond Oct. 1, 2020 ... we maintain they can and should start coverage now," said Molly McCleery of Nebraska Appleseed, an advocacy group for low-income people.An estimated 90,000 Nebraska residents will qualify for coverage once Medicaid is expanded, and McCleery said doing so now would help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38453f521049059482fb3f275a8a954d" target="_blank">contain the spread</a>&nbsp;of the coronavirus.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

Virus forces changes to Nebraska's Medicaid expansion plan

You can help stop the spread of COVID-19

GOTHENBURG, Neb.-Two teens are missing from Gothenburg and their families are asking Nebraskans to help locate them. According to a Facebook post, Emma VanNatta and a boy named Zander have been missing since Thursday.

The family stated that Emma took her father's pickup without permission and left with Zander.

The two are believed to be in a maroon pickup with Nebraska plates "18-871U."&nbsp;

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Gothenburg or North Platte police departments.&nbsp;

The family has also provided contact information in the Facebook Post.

If you have any information contact authorities.

The Nebraska State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies are investigating the case as a runaway.

GOTHENBURG, Neb.-Two teens are missing from Gothenburg and their families are asking Nebraskans to help locate them. According to a Facebook post, Emma VanNatta and a boy named Zander have been missing since Thursday.The family stated that Emma took her father's pickup without permission and left with Zander.The two are believed to be in a maroon pickup with Nebraska plates "18-871U."&nbsp;Anyone with information is asked to contact the Gothenburg or North Platte police departments.&nbsp;The family has also provided contact information in the Facebook Post.If you have any information contact authorities.The Nebraska State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies are investigating the case as a runaway.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Frebecca.scott.54943%2Fposts%2F10214308030288875&width=500" width="500" height="663" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Families seek help locating missing Gothenburg teens

🎥Video shows how cough spreads in public environments

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Winter returns, North Platte expected to get 3-4 inches of snow this weekend

CDC-As communities across the United States take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 by limiting close contact, people are facing new challenges and questions about how to meet basic household needs, such as buying groceries and medicine, and completing banking activities. The following information provides advice about how to meet these household needs in a safe and healthy manner.

Find additional information for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/index.html">people who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19</a>.

Shopping for food and other household essentials

Use hand sanitizer when you leave the store. Wash your hands when you get home.

Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after accepting deliveries or collecting mail.

Use gloves or disinfecting wipes on handles or buttons before you touch them.

Talk to your doctor online, by phone or e-mail.

If you must visit in-person, protect yourself and others.

If you or a member of your household has signs of COVID-19, call your doctor first, instead of going to the office or the emergency department. Call 911 if you believe it is an emergency. See also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html">What to do if you are sick</a>.

CDC-As communities across the United States take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 by limiting close contact, people are facing new challenges and questions about how to meet basic household needs, such as buying groceries and medicine, and completing banking activities. The following information provides advice about how to meet these household needs in a safe and healthy manner.Find additional information for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/index.html">people who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/COVIDweb_24_suppliesOnHand.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Shopping for food and other household essentials</h2><h2>Stay home if sick.</h2><ol>
 <li>Avoid shopping if you are sick&nbsp;or&nbsp;have symptoms of COVID-19, which include a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html">fever, cough, or shortness of breath</a>.</li>
 </ol><h2>Order online or use curbside pickup.</h2><ol>
 <li>Order food and other items online for home delivery or curbside pickup (if possible).</li><li>Only visit the grocery store, or other stores selling household essentials, in person when you absolutely need to. This will limit your potential exposure to others and the virus that causes COVID-19.</li>
 </ol><h2>Protect yourself&nbsp;while shopping.</h2><ol>
 <li>Stay at least 6 feet away from others while shopping and in lines.</li><li>Cover your mouth and nose with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html">cloth face covering&nbsp;</a>when you have to go out in public.</li><li>When you do have to visit in person, go during hours when fewer people will be there (for example, early morning or late night).</li><li>If you are at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-at-higher-risk.html">higher risk for</a>&nbsp;severe illness, find out if the store has special hours for people at higher risk. If they do, try to shop during those hours. People at higher risk&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/groups-at-higher-risk.html">for severe illness</a>&nbsp;include adults 65 or older and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions.</li><li><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/essential-goods-services.html">Disinfect</a>&nbsp;the shopping cart, use disinfecting wipes if available.</li><li>Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.</li><li>If possible, use touchless payment (pay without touching money, a card, or a keypad). If you must handle money, a card, or use a keypad, use hand sanitizer right after paying.</li>
 </ol><h2>Use hand sanitizer when you leave the store. Wash your hands when you get home.</h2><ol>
 <li>After leaving the store, use hand sanitizer. When you get home, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.</li><li>At home, follow food safety guidelines:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-frequently-asked-questions#food">clean, separate, cook, chillexternal icon</a>. There is no evidence that food or food packaging has been linked to getting sick from COVID-19.</li>
 </ol><figure>
 <img src="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/COVIDweb_delivery_02-01.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Accepting deliveries and takeout orders</h2><h2>Limit in-person contact if possible.</h2><ol>
 <li>Pay online or on the phone when you order (if possible).</li><li>Accept deliveries without in-person contact whenever possible. Ask for deliveries to be left in a safe spot outside your house (such as your front porch or lobby, with no person-to-person interaction. Otherwise, stay at least 6 feet away from the delivery person.</li>
 </ol><h2>Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after accepting deliveries or collecting mail.</h2><ol>
 <li>After receiving your delivery or bringing home your takeout food, wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.</li><li>After collecting mail from a post office or home mailbox, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.</li>
 </ol><figure>
 <img src="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/banking.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Banking</h2><h2>Bank online whenever possible.</h2><ol>
 <li>If you must visit the bank, use the drive-through ATM if one is available. Clean the ATM keyboard with a disinfecting wipe before you use it.</li><li>When you are done, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds when you get home.</li>
 </ol><figure>
 <img src="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/COVIDweb_gasPump_2-01.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Getting gasoline</h2><h2>Use gloves or disinfecting wipes on handles or buttons before you touch them.</h2><ol>
 <li>Use gloves or disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons before you touch them (if available).</li><li>After fueling, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds when you get home or somewhere with soap and water.</li>
 </ol><figure>
 <img src="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/COVIDweb_04_CallDoc.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Going to the doctor or getting medicine</h2><h2>Talk to your doctor online, by phone or e-mail.</h2><ol>
 <li>Use telemedicine, if available, or communicate with your doctor or nurse by phone or e-mail.</li><li>Talk to your doctor about rescheduling procedures that are not urgently needed.</li>
 </ol><h2>If you must visit in-person, protect yourself and others.</h2><ol>
 <li>If you think you have COVID-19, let the office know and follow&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/infection-control/control-recommendations.html#minimize">guidance</a>.</li><li>Cover your mouth and nose with a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html">cloth face covering</a>&nbsp;when you have to go out in public.</li><li>Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.</li><li>Use disinfecting wipes on frequently touched surfaces such as handles, knobs, touchpads (if available).</li><li>Stay at least 6 feet away from others while inside and in lines.</li><li>When paying, use touchless payment methods if possible. If you cannot use touchless payment, sanitize your hands after paying with a card, cash, or check. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds when you get home.</li>
 </ol><h2>Limit in-person visits to the pharmacy.</h2><ol>
 <li>Plan to order and pick up all your prescriptions at the same time.</li><li>If possible, call prescription orders in ahead of time. Use drive-thru windows, curbside services (wait in your car until the prescription is ready, mail-order, or other delivery services. Do the same for pet medicine.</li><li>Check with your doctor and pharmacist to see if you can get a larger supply of your medicines so you do not have to visit the pharmacy as often.</li>
 </ol>If you or a member of your household has signs of COVID-19, call your doctor first, instead of going to the office or the emergency department. Call 911 if you believe it is an emergency. See also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html">What to do if you are sick</a>.

CDC: Running essential errands

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — The Latest on the coronavirus outbreak in South Dakota (all times local):

The Oglala Sioux have banished a non-tribal member with coronavirus and her husband from the Pine Ridge Reservation.

The tribal council deadlocked 9-9 this week on a motion to banish the woman and her husband. Council President Bear Runner broke the tie vote by voting in favor of the banishment.

“For an individual to leave the reservation going to one of the major hot spots where this virus is and then come back is just uncalled for,” President Julian Bear Runner said on KILI radio after the emergency session Wednesday. “It was negligent that this individual would still leave after laws were already in place not just tribally, but nationally and globally.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/oglala-sioux-council-banishes-non-member-with-covid-19-from-reservation/article_60b665c3-9d1b-5d48-a576-51774e4fb41a.html#utm_source=rapidcityjournal.com&amp;utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter-templates%2Fdaily-headlines&amp;utm_medium=PostUp&amp;utm_content=06e0c91a5c4d8bdf74d18c52c3a4ea4921b85441">Rapid City Journal</a>&nbsp;reports the woman contracted the coronavirus after returning from Denver on her way to a medical appointment in California that ended up being cancelled.

The woman with COVID-19 lives in Porcupine and works at Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School, the Red Cloud Catholic school system said on its Facebook page.

The employee immediately contacted Red Cloud after learning about the positive test, and the school then alerted the tribe.

All customers and employees at the Ellsworth Air Force Base commissary and Army and Air Force Exchange facilities are required to wear face coverings to help limit the spread of the coronavirus.

The Defense Commissary Agency announced the new policy Thursday, making face masks mandatory for facilities worldwide starting Friday.

The 28th Bomb Wing commander directed the policy be delayed until Saturday at Ellsworth to ensure all were aware of the change.

<a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/face-coverings-mandatory-for-ellsworth-commissary-aafes-shoppers-april-11/article_fd5d96c2-32ef-56cf-99ea-9e6eaecfcb6d.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1">The Rapid City Journa</a>&nbsp;l reports the base is expecting a shipment of face masks for distribution to Ellsworth personnel next week.

The South Dakota Department of Health reported 447 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the state, with eight cases originating in the counties immediately adjacent to Ellsworth.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — The Latest on the coronavirus outbreak in South Dakota (all times local):9:50 a.m.The Oglala Sioux have banished a non-tribal member with coronavirus and her husband from the Pine Ridge Reservation.The tribal council deadlocked 9-9 this week on a motion to banish the woman and her husband. Council President Bear Runner broke the tie vote by voting in favor of the banishment.“For an individual to leave the reservation going to one of the major hot spots where this virus is and then come back is just uncalled for,” President Julian Bear Runner said on KILI radio after the emergency session Wednesday. “It was negligent that this individual would still leave after laws were already in place not just tribally, but nationally and globally.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/oglala-sioux-council-banishes-non-member-with-covid-19-from-reservation/article_60b665c3-9d1b-5d48-a576-51774e4fb41a.html#utm_source=rapidcityjournal.com&amp;utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter-templates%2Fdaily-headlines&amp;utm_medium=PostUp&amp;utm_content=06e0c91a5c4d8bdf74d18c52c3a4ea4921b85441">Rapid City Journal</a>&nbsp;reports the woman contracted the coronavirus after returning from Denver on her way to a medical appointment in California that ended up being cancelled.The woman with COVID-19 lives in Porcupine and works at Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School, the Red Cloud Catholic school system said on its Facebook page.The employee immediately contacted Red Cloud after learning about the positive test, and the school then alerted the tribe.___7:40 a.m.All customers and employees at the Ellsworth Air Force Base commissary and Army and Air Force Exchange facilities are required to wear face coverings to help limit the spread of the coronavirus.The Defense Commissary Agency announced the new policy Thursday, making face masks mandatory for facilities worldwide starting Friday.The 28th Bomb Wing commander directed the policy be delayed until Saturday at Ellsworth to ensure all were aware of the change.<a href="https://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/face-coverings-mandatory-for-ellsworth-commissary-aafes-shoppers-april-11/article_fd5d96c2-32ef-56cf-99ea-9e6eaecfcb6d.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1">The Rapid City Journa</a>&nbsp;l reports the base is expecting a shipment of face masks for distribution to Ellsworth personnel next week.The South Dakota Department of Health reported 447 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in the state, with eight cases originating in the counties immediately adjacent to Ellsworth.

The Latest: Oglala banish woman with COVID-19, husband

LINCOLN, Neb. (DHHS)-Avoiding public spaces and working remotely can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but for those experiencing domestic violence, staying home may be a dangerous prospect, especially as job losses and financial strain continue to escalate.

“Domestic violence is rooted in power and control,” said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health. In a time where employees work remotely, and the CDC is encouraging social distancing, abusers may take advantage of an already stressful situation to gain more control. We are all feeling a lack of control in our day-to-day lives right now. An individual who cannot manage, will take it out on their victim. Survivors already in an abusive situation will likely face more extreme violence when they can no longer leave by going to work, visiting with family and friends. Social connectedness and safety planning with friends and family has never been more important.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The National Domestic Violence Hotline outlines how COVID-19 could impact intimate partner violence survivors:

Every situation of violence is different and needs different responses. For example, friends and family can interrupt or intervene to support loved ones, even during a pandemic. Agree on a code word that will alert you that your loved one needs an interruption from you or an outside intervention from the authorities. One codeword could mean “call me now, so I can move to another room.” Another code word could mean “knock on my door now.” A third codeword could mean “please call the authorities.”

If you are experiencing abuse, having a safety plan laid out can help you to protect yourself during this stressful time. A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. You can learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMjAwMDEyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50aGVob3RsaW5lLm9yZy9oZWxwL3BhdGgtdG8tc2FmZXR5LyJ9.vLoNAyATdoxFCEC5zgsFm5KZGoeozpvyBb8iiqgkUKo%2Fbr%2F77265821695-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9380902ea1914a1dcbc108d7dd564c48%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637221235023801143&amp;sdata=ev0WlzeCKkmEl%2FZSzOuGao6YERSybdzFe5MGk9V3a1E%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">safety plans here</a>, and you can find an&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMjAwMDEyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5sb3ZlaXNyZXNwZWN0Lm9yZy9mb3IteW91cnNlbGYvc2FmZXR5LXBsYW5uaW5nL2ludGVyYWN0aXZlLXNhZmV0eS1wbGFuLyJ9.wOQsh6EE24n16Hpq2xcPsijMkIzavgudt-WAvrK_y88%2Fbr%2F77265821695-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9380902ea1914a1dcbc108d7dd564c48%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637221235023801143&amp;sdata=UNWCam7oYMaLCQFWJb25W3zR0f5MU2tQacHwQIddpes%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">interactive guide to safety planning here</a>. Because there may be limited shelter availability due to COVID-19, consider alternatives such as staying with family or friends, staying in motels, or sleeping in your vehicle. If you’re a friend or family member of someone experiencing abuse, encourage your loved one to think about their wellbeing, safety plan and practice self-care while they are in their home.

There are local and national resources for help. In Nebraska, reach out to the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMjAwMDEyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5uZWJyYXNrYWNvYWxpdGlvbi5vcmcvZ2V0X2hlbHAvIn0.an4HDJtXu0UZ0UqYDCCkXdFq69FSp7klA_i-4Mhv8ss%2Fbr%2F77265821695-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9380902ea1914a1dcbc108d7dd564c48%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637221235023811092&amp;sdata=x3IGeUdNLY%2FEr616PjbxvS%2BOWhX87tsU3LgohVzqTNg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.nebraskacoalition.org/get_help/</a>&nbsp;or at (402) 476-6256. The Coalition maintains an online list of Nebraska’s network of domestic violence and sexual assault programs, spanning the state from Gering to Omaha. The Nebraska Family Helpline can be reached at (888) 866-8660.

National resources include the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-7233 (or log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522); The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) 1-800-656-4673, and the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline, 1-866-331-9474.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586534346955.png" alt="<a href="https://www.needpix.com/photo/1862971/violence-against-women-domestic-abuse-violence-aggression-sexism-harassment-bullying-frighten">Photo:&nbsp;Tumisu (pixabay.com)</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.needpix.com/photo/1862971/violence-against-women-domestic-abuse-violence-aggression-sexism-harassment-bullying-frighten">Photo:&nbsp;Tumisu (pixabay.com)</a></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (DHHS)-Avoiding public spaces and working remotely can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but for those experiencing domestic violence, staying home may be a dangerous prospect, especially as job losses and financial strain continue to escalate.“Domestic violence is rooted in power and control,” said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health. In a time where employees work remotely, and the CDC is encouraging social distancing, abusers may take advantage of an already stressful situation to gain more control. We are all feeling a lack of control in our day-to-day lives right now. An individual who cannot manage, will take it out on their victim. Survivors already in an abusive situation will likely face more extreme violence when they can no longer leave by going to work, visiting with family and friends. Social connectedness and safety planning with friends and family has never been more important.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Domestic Violence Hotline outlines how COVID-19 could impact intimate partner violence survivors:<ol>
 <li>Abusive partners may withhold necessary items, such as hand sanitizer or disinfectants.</li><li>Abusive partners may share misinformation about the pandemic to control or frighten survivors, or to prevent them from seeking appropriate medical attention if they have symptoms.</li><li>Abusive partners may withhold insurance cards, threaten to cancel insurance, or prevent survivors from seeking medical attention if they need it.</li><li>Programs that serve survivors may be significantly impacted – shelters may be full or may even stop intakes altogether. Survivors may also fear entering a shelter because of being in close quarters with groups of people.</li><li>Survivors who are older or have chronic heart or lung conditions may be at increased risk in public places where they would typically get support, like shelters, counseling centers, or courthouses.</li><li>Travel restrictions may impact a survivor’s escape or safety plan – it may not be safe for them to use public transportation or to fly.</li><li>An abusive partner may feel more justified and escalate their isolation tactics.</li>
 </ol>Every situation of violence is different and needs different responses. For example, friends and family can interrupt or intervene to support loved ones, even during a pandemic. Agree on a code word that will alert you that your loved one needs an interruption from you or an outside intervention from the authorities. One codeword could mean “call me now, so I can move to another room.” Another code word could mean “knock on my door now.” A third codeword could mean “please call the authorities.”If you are experiencing abuse, having a safety plan laid out can help you to protect yourself during this stressful time. A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. You can learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMjAwMDEyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50aGVob3RsaW5lLm9yZy9oZWxwL3BhdGgtdG8tc2FmZXR5LyJ9.vLoNAyATdoxFCEC5zgsFm5KZGoeozpvyBb8iiqgkUKo%2Fbr%2F77265821695-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9380902ea1914a1dcbc108d7dd564c48%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637221235023801143&amp;sdata=ev0WlzeCKkmEl%2FZSzOuGao6YERSybdzFe5MGk9V3a1E%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">safety plans here</a>, and you can find an&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMjAwMDEyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5sb3ZlaXNyZXNwZWN0Lm9yZy9mb3IteW91cnNlbGYvc2FmZXR5LXBsYW5uaW5nL2ludGVyYWN0aXZlLXNhZmV0eS1wbGFuLyJ9.wOQsh6EE24n16Hpq2xcPsijMkIzavgudt-WAvrK_y88%2Fbr%2F77265821695-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9380902ea1914a1dcbc108d7dd564c48%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637221235023801143&amp;sdata=UNWCam7oYMaLCQFWJb25W3zR0f5MU2tQacHwQIddpes%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">interactive guide to safety planning here</a>. Because there may be limited shelter availability due to COVID-19, consider alternatives such as staying with family or friends, staying in motels, or sleeping in your vehicle. If you’re a friend or family member of someone experiencing abuse, encourage your loved one to think about their wellbeing, safety plan and practice self-care while they are in their home.There are local and national resources for help. In Nebraska, reach out to the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMjAwMDEyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5uZWJyYXNrYWNvYWxpdGlvbi5vcmcvZ2V0X2hlbHAvIn0.an4HDJtXu0UZ0UqYDCCkXdFq69FSp7klA_i-4Mhv8ss%2Fbr%2F77265821695-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9380902ea1914a1dcbc108d7dd564c48%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637221235023811092&amp;sdata=x3IGeUdNLY%2FEr616PjbxvS%2BOWhX87tsU3LgohVzqTNg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.nebraskacoalition.org/get_help/</a>&nbsp;or at (402) 476-6256. The Coalition maintains an online list of Nebraska’s network of domestic violence and sexual assault programs, spanning the state from Gering to Omaha. The Nebraska Family Helpline can be reached at (888) 866-8660.National resources include the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-7233 (or log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522); The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) 1-800-656-4673, and the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline, 1-866-331-9474.

Combating domestic violence during the coronavirus pandemic

DHHS offers tips for disinfecting your home

Lincoln –&nbsp;One new death related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Wednesday, bringing the state’s total death toll to 15.

Douglas County announced its sixth death, a woman in her 60s with underlying health conditions –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9sYXRlc3QtbmV3cyJ9.jTefW3_if8NK28Za29KjDLh1wC_z8ilDTfzsq0fbIqo%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086162042&amp;sdata=CdVexAmtlOWt6gKjhF7L6j51liDZbsiq4Qt6sXwivEI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>.

Burt County reported its first COVID-19 case, a woman in her 70s with travel history –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vZWx2cGhkL3Bob3Rvcy9hLjYzNjI3OTQ4OTc4NzAwMy8yOTQxMjgwMDU1OTUzNTkwLz90eXBlPTMmdGhlYXRlciJ9.Fg1WQ93NhL8qNuBJIipVyC8ucFRh8mrcnUwApd9dOY4%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086172041&amp;sdata=jL4s4sDaayDribGlkyhedX8MCuz1Z2Bv6d7YtVekXUQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/elvphd/photos/a.636279489787003/2941280055953590/?type=3&amp;theater</a>.

Polk County also reported its first COVID-19 case, a woman in her 40s who is self-isolating at home. Her case is under investigation –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vUG9say1Db3VudHktSGVhbHRoLURlcGFydG1lbnQtMTM4NjY5MDIyODI2ODk2LyJ9.-2tP-AWgyB6EhKMUZZ946DomerZb1R9EcwTWPFaMMJo%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086182030&amp;sdata=wWtIn1p0I9WOSAl2WxNk9Pb%2FC%2FhQJ7Z1p1lCWo2ZSbA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Polk-County-Health-Department-138669022826896/</a>.

Tonight's state case total, as of 6:00 pm Central Daylight Time, is 577. DHHS launched a new data dashboard that provides daily updates to the state's COVID-19 case totals. You can find it at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.OilxfMROmx6eDo3PHfBEe-leenWp28-jXisp8Y8SZuI%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086182030&amp;sdata=36sx5Oo%2BPjeWf5r3s%2BeHCQA1nlvTn1olxvy2nlng%2Fig%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.

All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs) until May 11 –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.7eClKWZMygNNMGFKyr77hOvmDqhFZW_VWKRl_fRA2kg%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086192022&amp;sdata=JiwyR9mY2Ir%2B2Hjo2SdYhIF5kvnpGlkBCkBv7i0fNVs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.

In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ29yb25hdmlydXMuYXNweCNTZWN0aW9uTGluazEifQ.x8sKp1EJ3sDos-pOsZTNzOxOD42XGEXQDle1A4qRw7I%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086192022&amp;sdata=hr3KLD2cx3CcxWXKck2SVmoghQrsIg8arTU8FjeJ5EI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink1</a>.

DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.

Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those that eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3D5eXH0qSKdBRphS6WO4YlQwwSTi8wtQOqejFjZKiddbCzZ5Bbl4XDYcjuo3kW3irLZnZlGIrH%252FNW2CXDfRsy0d334bIqp13RnSonDhh7qfg1TftRUdXz%252BQ2fqNXODu%252BZ8dTXgFC%252FxTdw%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fprevent-getting-sick%252Fcloth-face-cover-faq.html%253FdeliveryName%253DUSCDC_2067-DM25135%26I%3D20200408195123.000000157630%2540mail6-43-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlOGUyYjM4Zjg5YmE5NGRkZjU1YzEzYjs%253D%26S%3D5ENhXyivKqZeH0QMoKb1P_nwS5795zYW0tw2JhqP_iA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086202017&amp;sdata=2WeH2NtGHBtTqSWmkAEJ961tFZ%2FJtfuoczxLAUqTHW4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM25135</a>.

Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.

Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.UnAVacHpVVNVCYJAl7U0wTQZ7giwc6Uyk45phaUYHlU%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086202017&amp;sdata=aJElHJcshNJyQEGNkQ0QUH1SbQJUNb%2FOVA7GBZu5Psc%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=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.9vogLeCnkTJzjzabOPflzUuZSEMwkUmxEq18_uCYxlM%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086212014&amp;sdata=qw3AdaJiQ3iYVbncEHMvFzZQM%2BOWUyCcq7V7X8Pjq%2Fw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

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

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.A6n6ip1yunHwplqf_OP7DkldsuFT6J5RbGw9NsuRPEo%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086212014&amp;sdata=PM2VW94UWeM0Ys5HyBzVUmmJYgSLFNVRSJf1s12EWeQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

Lincoln –&nbsp;One new death related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Wednesday, bringing the state’s total death toll to 15.Douglas County announced its sixth death, a woman in her 60s with underlying health conditions –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kb3VnbGFzY291bnR5aGVhbHRoLmNvbS9sYXRlc3QtbmV3cyJ9.jTefW3_if8NK28Za29KjDLh1wC_z8ilDTfzsq0fbIqo%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086162042&amp;sdata=CdVexAmtlOWt6gKjhF7L6j51liDZbsiq4Qt6sXwivEI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news</a>.Burt County reported its first COVID-19 case, a woman in her 70s with travel history –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vZWx2cGhkL3Bob3Rvcy9hLjYzNjI3OTQ4OTc4NzAwMy8yOTQxMjgwMDU1OTUzNTkwLz90eXBlPTMmdGhlYXRlciJ9.Fg1WQ93NhL8qNuBJIipVyC8ucFRh8mrcnUwApd9dOY4%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086172041&amp;sdata=jL4s4sDaayDribGlkyhedX8MCuz1Z2Bv6d7YtVekXUQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/elvphd/photos/a.636279489787003/2941280055953590/?type=3&amp;theater</a>.Polk County also reported its first COVID-19 case, a woman in her 40s who is self-isolating at home. Her case is under investigation –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vUG9say1Db3VudHktSGVhbHRoLURlcGFydG1lbnQtMTM4NjY5MDIyODI2ODk2LyJ9.-2tP-AWgyB6EhKMUZZ946DomerZb1R9EcwTWPFaMMJo%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086182030&amp;sdata=wWtIn1p0I9WOSAl2WxNk9Pb%2FC%2FhQJ7Z1p1lCWo2ZSbA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Polk-County-Health-Department-138669022826896/</a>.Tonight's state case total, as of 6:00 pm Central Daylight Time, is 577. DHHS launched a new data dashboard that provides daily updates to the state's COVID-19 case totals. You can find it at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.OilxfMROmx6eDo3PHfBEe-leenWp28-jXisp8Y8SZuI%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086182030&amp;sdata=36sx5Oo%2BPjeWf5r3s%2BeHCQA1nlvTn1olxvy2nlng%2Fig%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs) until May 11 –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.7eClKWZMygNNMGFKyr77hOvmDqhFZW_VWKRl_fRA2kg%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086192022&amp;sdata=JiwyR9mY2Ir%2B2Hjo2SdYhIF5kvnpGlkBCkBv7i0fNVs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>. It's critical that Nebraskans follow these enforceable state Directed Health Measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state. These measures help protect each other and those who are more vulnerable to severe illness and death, and help hospitals and clinics from being overwhelmed so they can continue to provide care to families, friends and neighbors who need it.In addition to the state-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments have issued additional restrictions -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ29yb25hdmlydXMuYXNweCNTZWN0aW9uTGluazEifQ.x8sKp1EJ3sDos-pOsZTNzOxOD42XGEXQDle1A4qRw7I%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086192022&amp;sdata=hr3KLD2cx3CcxWXKck2SVmoghQrsIg8arTU8FjeJ5EI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx#SectionLink1</a>.DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp;No non-essential errands and no social gatherings. Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work. Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.</li><li>Shop alone. Do this only once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance. Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home. This can be done by shopping for them. Do not visit long-term facilities.</li><li>Exercise daily. Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those that eventually develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ficm-tracking.meltwater.com%2Flink.php%3FDynEngagement%3Dtrue%26H%3D5eXH0qSKdBRphS6WO4YlQwwSTi8wtQOqejFjZKiddbCzZ5Bbl4XDYcjuo3kW3irLZnZlGIrH%252FNW2CXDfRsy0d334bIqp13RnSonDhh7qfg1TftRUdXz%252BQ2fqNXODu%252BZ8dTXgFC%252FxTdw%253D%26G%3D0%26R%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.cdc.gov%252Fcoronavirus%252F2019-ncov%252Fprevent-getting-sick%252Fcloth-face-cover-faq.html%253FdeliveryName%253DUSCDC_2067-DM25135%26I%3D20200408195123.000000157630%2540mail6-43-usnbn1%26X%3DMHwxMDQ2NzU4OjVlOGUyYjM4Zjg5YmE5NGRkZjU1YzEzYjs%253D%26S%3D5ENhXyivKqZeH0QMoKb1P_nwS5795zYW0tw2JhqP_iA&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086202017&amp;sdata=2WeH2NtGHBtTqSWmkAEJ961tFZ%2FJtfuoczxLAUqTHW4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM25135</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing is crucial to slowing the spread of the virus.Here's where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.UnAVacHpVVNVCYJAl7U0wTQZ7giwc6Uyk45phaUYHlU%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086202017&amp;sdata=aJElHJcshNJyQEGNkQ0QUH1SbQJUNb%2FOVA7GBZu5Psc%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=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.9vogLeCnkTJzjzabOPflzUuZSEMwkUmxEq18_uCYxlM%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086212014&amp;sdata=qw3AdaJiQ3iYVbncEHMvFzZQM%2BOWUyCcq7V7X8Pjq%2Fw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CT, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC's website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MTAuMTk5OTIzMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.A6n6ip1yunHwplqf_OP7DkldsuFT6J5RbGw9NsuRPEo%2Fbr%2F77258899405-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Caeefda627d6a4bdd15e908d7dcf4fcdf%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220817086212014&amp;sdata=PM2VW94UWeM0Ys5HyBzVUmmJYgSLFNVRSJf1s12EWeQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

DHHS: Statewide total for COVID-19 deaths reaches 15

&nbsp; By&nbsp;<a href="https://news.unl.edu/written-by/university-communication/">University Communication</a>

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln community has recorded its first laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 case.

While the risk of exposure is low, the campus community is being notified out of an abundance of caution.

Announced by Lincoln-Lancaster County public health officials on April 9, the case involves a Selleck Hall dining services employee who was last in contact with students on March 30. In addition, as the vast majority of students have left campus for remote instruction, Selleck Hall has not been in use since March 30.

The university is working with local public health officials to notify individuals who may have come into contact with the employee. The individual is currently self-isolating at home. The cause of the case has been classified as community spread.

The health and safety of students, faculty, staff and the broader Lincoln community are of the utmost importance to university leaders. Individuals are urged to be familiar with 2019 novel coronavirus information and updates outlined by federal, state and local public health officials.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone who feels sick should seek medical advice by first calling ahead to your doctor or an emergency room. Medical professionals are in the best position to decide if further action is needed.

Students who remain on campus or in the Lincoln area can contact the University Health Center for evaluation if they are experiencing symptoms or have health-related concerns. University faculty and staff can also contact the health center for acute care needs.

Learn more about the university’s response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

&nbsp; By&nbsp;<a href="https://news.unl.edu/written-by/university-communication/">University Communication</a>The University of Nebraska–Lincoln community has recorded its first laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 case.While the risk of exposure is low, the campus community is being notified out of an abundance of caution.Announced by Lincoln-Lancaster County public health officials on April 9, the case involves a Selleck Hall dining services employee who was last in contact with students on March 30. In addition, as the vast majority of students have left campus for remote instruction, Selleck Hall has not been in use since March 30.The university is working with local public health officials to notify individuals who may have come into contact with the employee. The individual is currently self-isolating at home. The cause of the case has been classified as community spread.The health and safety of students, faculty, staff and the broader Lincoln community are of the utmost importance to university leaders. Individuals are urged to be familiar with 2019 novel coronavirus information and updates outlined by federal, state and local public health officials.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone who feels sick should seek medical advice by first calling ahead to your doctor or an emergency room. Medical professionals are in the best position to decide if further action is needed.Students who remain on campus or in the Lincoln area can contact the University Health Center for evaluation if they are experiencing symptoms or have health-related concerns. University faculty and staff can also contact the health center for acute care needs.Learn more about the university’s response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln dining service employee tests positive for COVID-19

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts proclaimed April 10-30, 2020 as “21 Days to Stay Home and Stay Healthy in Nebraska” during his daily press briefing on the State’s response to the ongoing pandemic.&nbsp; Infectious disease experts project that the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak will be at or near its peak in Nebraska by the end of April.&nbsp; For the next three weeks, the Governor is urging Nebraskans to avoid non-essential errands and to limit social gatherings in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The Governor also announced a new statewide Directed Health Measure (DHM) to guard against the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; It orders certain businesses where six feet of social distance cannot be maintained to close through April 30th. &nbsp;The DHM also prohibits organized group sports through May 31st. &nbsp;

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird joined Gov. Ricketts to reinforce the importance of staying home over the next few weeks.&nbsp; Jason Jackson, Chief Human Resources Officer for the State of Nebraska, also spoke at today’s press conference. &nbsp;He reviewed the steps taken by the State to protect the health of its teammates and the public, while also ensuring the continuity of essential services to Nebraskans.

Gov. Ricketts: “21 Days” Proclamation

Read the proclamation by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fmkgl9ho03rjhnsc%2F2020%252021%2520Days%2520to%2520Stay%2520Home%2520and%2520Stay%2520Health%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836408301&amp;sdata=c2E7IVg7%2Fyckq7U581iSe%2FPxjZnPTjQqHXllheBfxXQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts: Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy

A graphic with the Governor’s Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Flwfzshvv7vu9cbu%2FStay%2520Healthy%2520Rules.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836408301&amp;sdata=Gcw0X7Mj3KVzkdTlKZhXwwFGVoqbq42b%2FTVWfCetEk8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; More detailed guidelines on how to keep Nebraska healthy are available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fz3vqojvqsnvyefl%2FStay%2520Healthy%2520Guidelines.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836418256&amp;sdata=HaNP%2FnpApE6iSkJArN22mLr0R46CGq2R%2FMNXhyGtLlE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts: New Directed Health Measure

Full text of the Directed Health Measure is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fxh4pyr4w56g3tdh%2FDHM%25204.9.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836428211&amp;sdata=2D0l82MKtFCrEy2VS2wh6ljWHiLNU%2BEiSTZZN9t0mVs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Mayor Gaylor Baird: Stay Home, Stay Healthy

Jason Jackson: Staying Healthy while Serving Nebraskans

Watch video of today’s press briefing by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fs2jn4vfue4bxvm9%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.09.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836428211&amp;sdata=t8%2F8qUxCJ7u8nxfer3cQj5hT1UBG3tL5%2F4AebhZUMLE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586483544247.png" alt="Gov. Ricketts (podium) and Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird (far left)at today’s press conference." />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (podium) and Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird (far left)at today’s press conference.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts proclaimed April 10-30, 2020 as “21 Days to Stay Home and Stay Healthy in Nebraska” during his daily press briefing on the State’s response to the ongoing pandemic.&nbsp; Infectious disease experts project that the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak will be at or near its peak in Nebraska by the end of April.&nbsp; For the next three weeks, the Governor is urging Nebraskans to avoid non-essential errands and to limit social gatherings in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus.&nbsp;The Governor also announced a new statewide Directed Health Measure (DHM) to guard against the spread of COVID-19.&nbsp; It orders certain businesses where six feet of social distance cannot be maintained to close through April 30th. &nbsp;The DHM also prohibits organized group sports through May 31st. &nbsp;Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird joined Gov. Ricketts to reinforce the importance of staying home over the next few weeks.&nbsp; Jason Jackson, Chief Human Resources Officer for the State of Nebraska, also spoke at today’s press conference. &nbsp;He reviewed the steps taken by the State to protect the health of its teammates and the public, while also ensuring the continuity of essential services to Nebraskans.Gov. Ricketts: “21 Days” Proclamation<ol>
 <li>We are entering a new phase in our fight against the virus.</li><li>Based on the modeling we’ve seen, it is likely that Nebraska hits our peak with the virus in the next few weeks.</li><li>Today, I am designating the next three weeks as “21 Days to Stay Home and Stay Healthy.”</li><li>During this time, it is the civic duty of each and every Nebraskan to help slow the spread of the virus.</li><li>For the next three weeks, we are asking all Nebraskans to redouble their efforts to practice good hygiene and social distancing.</li>
 </ol>Read the proclamation by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fmkgl9ho03rjhnsc%2F2020%252021%2520Days%2520to%2520Stay%2520Home%2520and%2520Stay%2520Health%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836408301&amp;sdata=c2E7IVg7%2Fyckq7U581iSe%2FPxjZnPTjQqHXllheBfxXQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Gov. Ricketts: Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy<ol>
 <li>Stay home. &nbsp;No non-essential errands and no social gatherings. &nbsp;Respect the ten-person limit.</li><li>Socially distance your work. &nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.</li><li>Shop alone and only shop once a week. &nbsp;Do not take family with you.</li><li>Help kids follow social distancing. &nbsp;Play at home. &nbsp;No group sports. &nbsp;And no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home by shopping for them. &nbsp;Do not visit long-term care facilities.</li><li>Exercise daily at home or with an appropriately socially-distanced activity.Nebraskans have been doing a great job of complying with our social distancing directives.These six rules will unite Nebraskans in our shared goal of slowing the spread of the virus as we enter its peak period.</li><li>Nebraskans have been doing a great job of complying with our social distancing directives.</li><li>These six rules will unite Nebraskans in our shared goal of slowing the spread of the virus as we enter its peak period.</li>
 </ol>A graphic with the Governor’s Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Flwfzshvv7vu9cbu%2FStay%2520Healthy%2520Rules.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836408301&amp;sdata=Gcw0X7Mj3KVzkdTlKZhXwwFGVoqbq42b%2FTVWfCetEk8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.&nbsp; More detailed guidelines on how to keep Nebraska healthy are available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fz3vqojvqsnvyefl%2FStay%2520Healthy%2520Guidelines.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836418256&amp;sdata=HaNP%2FnpApE6iSkJArN22mLr0R46CGq2R%2FMNXhyGtLlE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Gov. Ricketts: New Directed Health Measure<ol>
 <li>Today, I am also announcing a new Directed Health Measure that orders additional statewide business closures.</li><li>The aim of the DHM is to bring greater consistency across the state.</li><li>For example, several local jurisdictions have already closed salons.&nbsp; The new DHM will close them statewide.&nbsp;</li><li>We are also closing the sports loophole. &nbsp;Some people have tried to continue group sports, and this new DHM prohibits playing them.</li>
 </ol>Full text of the Directed Health Measure is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fxh4pyr4w56g3tdh%2FDHM%25204.9.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836428211&amp;sdata=2D0l82MKtFCrEy2VS2wh6ljWHiLNU%2BEiSTZZN9t0mVs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Mayor Gaylor Baird: Stay Home, Stay Healthy<ol>
 <li>I want to emphasize the Governor’s message to stay home so that we can stifle the spread of the virus.</li><li>The actions we take over the next 21 days will be critical to our success as a city and as a state.</li><li>By calling on Nebraskans to stay home, we’re following the best guidance of public health officials and medical experts in Nebraska.</li><li>The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department has set up a coronavirus hotline at 402-441-8006.&nbsp; Since March 23rd, the health department has answered nearly 1,000 calls.</li><li>The simple actions each of us take really do make a difference</li><li>First responders and health care workers show their heroism by reporting to work each day.&nbsp; As Nebraskans, the rest of us can display heroism by staying home for the next 21 days.</li>
 </ol>Jason Jackson: Staying Healthy while Serving Nebraskans<ol>
 <li>Under Gov. Ricketts’ leadership, we directed all of our agencies to consider work-from-home options starting in the first week of March.</li><li>At that time, the Governor also directed all of our agencies to apply their continuity plans.These plans have been in development since the beginning of Gov. Ricketts’ administration.</li><li>These plans have been in development since the beginning of Gov. Ricketts’ administration.</li><li>During the pandemic, it’s more important than ever for the State to provide essential services to Nebraskans.</li><li>The State is committed to provide these essential services, while also taking precautions to protect our teammates and the public.</li><li>Where possible, we’re allowing teammates to telework, work from home, and engage in other distributed work arrangements.</li><li>Roughly 30% of State teammates have adopted alternative work styles.</li><li>That’s a remarkable operational achievement for state government while maintaining the same level of service to the public.</li><li>We’re investing in technology to enhance our capabilities to operate under social distancing guidelines.</li><li>We received 250 laptops just this week from the Office of the CIO, and we have another 750 laptops coming in next week.</li><li>We’ve repeatedly emphasized the importance of social distancing within the workplace.</li><li>Additionally, we’ve been very clear that sick teammates should stay home, as should teammates with sick household members.</li><li>We’re also providing extended leave benefits.&nbsp; This gives teammates the peace of mind of knowing that they have income security and can provide for their families even if they become ill.</li><li>We’ve increased the janitorial services and cleanliness of state facilities.</li><li>These efforts are a reflection of years of work and leadership on the part of the Governor to maintain essential services in unforeseen circumstances like this pandemic.</li>
 </ol>Watch video of today’s press briefing by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fs2jn4vfue4bxvm9%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.09.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C2568117dac614db3243408d7dcd6e4f6%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220687836428211&amp;sdata=t8%2F8qUxCJ7u8nxfer3cQj5hT1UBG3tL5%2F4AebhZUMLE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts proclaims “21 Days to Stay Home and Stay Healthy” & unveils six rules to keep Nebraska healthy

Nebraska Joint Information Center daily update (April 9, 2020)

105 lab-confirmed cases reported by Central District Health Department

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the State’s tenth COVID-19 related Directed Health Measure (DHM) includes new businesses.&nbsp; The measure is being issued to bring greater consistency between state and local DHMs, which had previously closed a handful of categories not covered by the state. &nbsp;It will be in effect beginning tonight at 12:00am.

Read the new DHM by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fxh4pyr4w56g3tdh%2FDHM%25204.9.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714971064&amp;sdata=ImnixUGOF%2BJ4Ykzmph1TbKx4XfoldXLZMUmSVNgPAwQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

State-Issued DHM Provisions (Apply Statewide)

Locally Issued DHMs (Apply Only to Particular LHDs)

TIMELINES FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURES

The first DHM, issued on March 18th, applies to Cass, Douglas, and Sarpy counties and is in effect until at least April 30th&nbsp;unless renewed.

The second DHM, issued on March 25th, applies to Dodge, Lancaster, Saunders, and Washington counties and is in effect until at least May 6th&nbsp;unless renewed.

The third DHM, issued on March 28th, applies to Butler, Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, Polk, Seward, and York counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.

The fourth DHM, issued on March 29th, applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.

The fifth DHM, issued on March 30th, applies to Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, and Sioux counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The sixth DHM, issued on March 31st, applies to Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, and Webster counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The seventh DHM, also issued on March 31st, applies to Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The eighth DHM, issued on April 1st, applies to Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.

The ninth DHM, issued on April 3rd, applies to all remaining counties until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.

FAQS FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURES

Who does the State’s Directed Health Measure apply to?

It applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons, and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts, and athletic events.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM applies to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?

At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to your workforce. &nbsp;Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon arrival. &nbsp;Restaurants will play a key part in feeding people throughout the pandemic.

No. &nbsp;DHHS has issued new guidance that daycares need to follow. &nbsp;You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Schools%20and%20Childcare.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

No. &nbsp;The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses, court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs, and other traditional office settings.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM does not apply to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Furthermore, we do not expect these facilities to be impacted by additional limits at this time.

Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?

Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans.

LINCOLN, Neb.-Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the State’s tenth COVID-19 related Directed Health Measure (DHM) includes new businesses.&nbsp; The measure is being issued to bring greater consistency between state and local DHMs, which had previously closed a handful of categories not covered by the state. &nbsp;It will be in effect beginning tonight at 12:00am.Read the new DHM by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fxh4pyr4w56g3tdh%2FDHM%25204.9.2020.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714971064&amp;sdata=ImnixUGOF%2BJ4Ykzmph1TbKx4XfoldXLZMUmSVNgPAwQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Additions to the Statewide DHM<ol>
 <li>All beauty/nail salons, barbershops, massage therapy services, gentlemen’s clubs, bottle clubs, indoor theatres, and tattoo parlors/studios are closed until April 30, 2020.</li><li>All organized team sports, youth, and adult, including but not limited to club sports are suspended until May 31, 2020.</li><li>Auto racing is now specifically listed in the social gathering section.&nbsp;Drivers and their crews are considered patrons/invitees not staff.</li><li>Drivers and their crews are considered patrons/invitees not staff.</li>
 </ol>State-Issued DHM Provisions (Apply Statewide)<ol>
 <li>Imposes an enforceable, 10-person limit on&nbsp;public gatherings. &nbsp;</li><li>Prohibits medical and dental&nbsp;elective surgeries&nbsp;and procedures.</li><li>Requires&nbsp;schools&nbsp;(public, private, and parochial) to operate without students through May 31, 2020.</li><li>Cancels all&nbsp;school-related extracurricular activities&nbsp;through May 31, 2020.</li><li>Requires&nbsp;restaurants and bars&nbsp;to close their dining areas and move to takeout, delivery, and/or curbside service only.&nbsp;</li><li>Requires individuals to&nbsp;home quarantine&nbsp;for at least 14 days if:They have tested positive for COVID-19.They have a fever of 100.4° F or above.They have experienced sudden onset of a cough and/or shortness of breath.They reside or have resided with individuals who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 or have the above symptoms.&nbsp;NOTE:&nbsp;The quarantine requirement excludes those individuals with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. &nbsp;These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.Some individuals in home quarantine may not experience the onset of symptoms until the latter half of their 14-day quarantine period.&nbsp; In this case, the length of their quarantine may exceed 14 days.&nbsp; Individuals should remain in quarantine until 7 days have passed since onset of symptoms, symptoms have improved, and they have been fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. &nbsp;NOTE:&nbsp;See the DHM for additional direction on household members living with those in quarantine.</li><li>They have tested positive for COVID-19.</li><li>They have a fever of 100.4° F or above.</li><li>They have experienced sudden onset of a cough and/or shortness of breath.</li><li>They reside or have resided with individuals who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 or have the above symptoms.NOTE:&nbsp;The quarantine requirement excludes those individuals with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. &nbsp;These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.</li><li>NOTE:&nbsp;The quarantine requirement excludes those individuals with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. &nbsp;These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.</li><li>Some individuals in home quarantine may not experience the onset of symptoms until the latter half of their 14-day quarantine period.&nbsp; In this case, the length of their quarantine may exceed 14 days.&nbsp; Individuals should remain in quarantine until 7 days have passed since onset of symptoms, symptoms have improved, and they have been fever-free for at least 72 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. &nbsp;NOTE:&nbsp;See the DHM for additional direction on household members living with those in quarantine.</li><li>NOTE:&nbsp;See the DHM for additional direction on household members living with those in quarantine.</li><li>The DHM’s limitation on public gatherings does not apply to:Retail or grocery stores where people should maintain six feet of distance from one another.Child care centers that may be operated at a school per the Governor’s executive order regarding childcare, which you can access by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714981025&amp;sdata=1ppAqaQqFEWMgySGfvPoQgislHMS3z5%2FKGNljHtrNo4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Other locations detailed in the DHM.</li><li>Retail or grocery stores where people should maintain six feet of distance from one another.</li><li>Child care centers that may be operated at a school per the Governor’s executive order regarding childcare, which you can access by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714981025&amp;sdata=1ppAqaQqFEWMgySGfvPoQgislHMS3z5%2FKGNljHtrNo4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</li><li>Other locations detailed in the DHM.</li>
 </ol>Locally Issued DHMs (Apply Only to Particular LHDs)<ol>
 <li>In addition to the State-issued DHM, some Local Health Departments (LHDs) have issued additional restrictions.&nbsp;</li><li>For example, the Central District, Douglas, Lancaster, Sarpy/Cass, and Two Rivers LHDs have closed salons, tattoo parlors, and other similar businesses in their jurisdictions for the time being.&nbsp;</li><li>Locally issued Directed Health Measures can be found at the links below:<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-CountyDHM-CentralDistrictHealthDepartment.pdf" target="_blank">Central District Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2Fimages%2FCOVID-19%2F2020_03_ORDER_AMENDED_3-20-2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714981025&amp;sdata=HXdk85TsU%2FloyWCTVtovWsiX6zT%2FKg1h1WOoIn1QQFg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Douglas County Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf" target="_blank">Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fdoc%2FSarpy%2520Cass%2520DHM%2520March%252031%252C%25202020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714990981&amp;sdata=0LLec1Funud26Wn7KSmmZqe6M%2FyvuyYmg9MroqYdArk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Sarpy/Cass Health Department – Local DHM</a><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.trphd.org%2Ffile_download%2Finline%2F7e802883-735b-47b4-8e2d-08d062855d41&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714990981&amp;sdata=LLH1PaDFkN1MSTli5F9svhD8NKhXR2VQxpd90xKnqDA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Two Rivers Public Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-CountyDHM-CentralDistrictHealthDepartment.pdf" target="_blank">Central District Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2Fimages%2FCOVID-19%2F2020_03_ORDER_AMENDED_3-20-2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714981025&amp;sdata=HXdk85TsU%2FloyWCTVtovWsiX6zT%2FKg1h1WOoIn1QQFg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Douglas County Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf" target="_blank">Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fdoc%2FSarpy%2520Cass%2520DHM%2520March%252031%252C%25202020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714990981&amp;sdata=0LLec1Funud26Wn7KSmmZqe6M%2FyvuyYmg9MroqYdArk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Sarpy/Cass Health Department – Local DHM</a></li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.trphd.org%2Ffile_download%2Finline%2F7e802883-735b-47b4-8e2d-08d062855d41&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cb03df861c07c47567d8b08d7dcd66639%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220685714990981&amp;sdata=LLH1PaDFkN1MSTli5F9svhD8NKhXR2VQxpd90xKnqDA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Two Rivers Public Health Department – Local DHM</a></li>
 </ol>TIMELINES FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURESThe first DHM, issued on March 18th, applies to Cass, Douglas, and Sarpy counties and is in effect until at least April 30th&nbsp;unless renewed.The second DHM, issued on March 25th, applies to Dodge, Lancaster, Saunders, and Washington counties and is in effect until at least May 6th&nbsp;unless renewed.The third DHM, issued on March 28th, applies to Butler, Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, Polk, Seward, and York counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.The fourth DHM, issued on March 29th, applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties and is in effect until May 6th unless renewed.The fifth DHM, issued on March 30th, applies to Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, and Sioux counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The sixth DHM, issued on March 31st, applies to Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, and Webster counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The seventh DHM, also issued on March 31st, applies to Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The eighth DHM, issued on April 1st, applies to Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties and is in effect until May 11th unless renewed.The ninth DHM, issued on April 3rd, applies to all remaining counties until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.FAQS FOR THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURESWho does the State’s Directed Health Measure apply to?It applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons, and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts, and athletic events.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM applies to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to your workforce. &nbsp;Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon arrival. &nbsp;Restaurants will play a key part in feeding people throughout the pandemic.Do I need to shut down my daycare?No. &nbsp;DHHS has issued new guidance that daycares need to follow. &nbsp;You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Schools%20and%20Childcare.pdf" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Do I need to shut down my office?No. &nbsp;The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses, court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs, and other traditional office settings.&nbsp; This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM does not apply to.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Furthermore, we do not expect these facilities to be impacted by additional limits at this time.Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. &nbsp;Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans.

Additional businesses added to Gov. Ricketts directed health measure

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The chairman of the Nebraska Legislature's budget-writing committee is bracing for a sharp drop in tax revenue that could affect the state for the next three years.

Sen. John Stinner, head of the Appropriations Committee, made the comments in a webinar hosted by the Platte Institute, a Nebraska government-policy think tank.

Stinner said he can't predict how the coronavirus outbreak will affect the state's finances, but he speculated that it could force lawmakers to shelve any bill that costs money, including property tax measures and a business incentive package.

"This is really kind of a fluid situation," he said.

Stinner said federal relief money for the state and local governments could help the situation, and things might improve if the country manages to avoid a major recession or depression

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - The chairman of the Nebraska Legislature's budget-writing committee is bracing for a sharp drop in tax revenue that could affect the state for the next three years.Sen. John Stinner, head of the Appropriations Committee, made the comments in a webinar hosted by the Platte Institute, a Nebraska government-policy think tank.Stinner said he can't predict how the coronavirus outbreak will affect the state's finances, but he speculated that it could force lawmakers to shelve any bill that costs money, including property tax measures and a business incentive package."This is really kind of a fluid situation," he said.Stinner said federal relief money for the state and local governments could help the situation, and things might improve if the country manages to avoid a major recession or depression

Nebraska budget chairman warns of major loss of tax revenue

LINCOLN (DHHS) –&nbsp;It is always the intent of DHHS staff to be transparent. We have regularly communicated test results of all Nebraskans, including those of YRTC-Kearney, to the public. As we have reconciled the results of a few staff who were tested by private labs and the mass testing done this week with Two Rivers, the National Guard and NE Public Health Lab (NPHL, we can confirm that six (6) staff in total are positive for COVID-19. All YRTC-K teammates who are positive, regardless of whether they were tested through NPHL or a private lab, were immediately informed of their results and have not returned to work.&nbsp;&nbsp;Two Rivers Health Department did receive these results directly and the results were previously reported in their case totals. All YRTC-K staff and floaters were tested as of this week.&nbsp;

As testing capacity has expanded, it is important to note State and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases; private labs are testing, as well as NPHL.&nbsp; Sometimes results come in to the local health department first and at times DHHS receives the results before the local health department does.&nbsp;&nbsp;This may result in an unintentional discrepancy on occasion.&nbsp; All parties involved work quickly to provide the public the most accurate information and issue a correction when there is an error.&nbsp; In this instance, we are making that correction now.&nbsp; We will continue to monitor all staff and residents for symptoms and we will continue to report additional cases should they be discovered.&nbsp; The process for compiling testing data in Nebraska continues to be refined. We appreciate your understanding and will work to prevent future inconsistencies or correct them immediately.&nbsp;

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDkuMTk5ODQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.zmyI3W1o1wQuxuwPNACYUjgs_7-pnay98DOBWt2jt1s%2Fbr%2F77247589314-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9ff9c9a3dfa449c4f06e08d7dcc998e1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220630719464577&amp;sdata=m5IQQZnyV2P%2BtwaHAbqB%2FOtI5EVqyq2RpUa9xlOg1t8%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=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDkuMTk5ODQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.rzYle7XSTXfW5waCKK5BKYRwI3GluG83yCWF3VfgPp4%2Fbr%2F77247589314-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9ff9c9a3dfa449c4f06e08d7dcc998e1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220630719464577&amp;sdata=sOAhVA5vSaInw4tvCC1OhleKWpJ6UVNNSHQcX5RWWoI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

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

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDkuMTk5ODQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.ZDK0585LA4F80bTFamzfHMmQOvvnGQ3HQDOL-T47fFU%2Fbr%2F77247589314-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9ff9c9a3dfa449c4f06e08d7dcc998e1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220630719474535&amp;sdata=wnL5zcF1SzGzeCUq9l1dFBH4p3L4EFSBQwC8rBKjHAo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

News ReleaseLINCOLN (DHHS) –&nbsp;It is always the intent of DHHS staff to be transparent. We have regularly communicated test results of all Nebraskans, including those of YRTC-Kearney, to the public. As we have reconciled the results of a few staff who were tested by private labs and the mass testing done this week with Two Rivers, the National Guard and NE Public Health Lab (NPHL, we can confirm that six (6) staff in total are positive for COVID-19. All YRTC-K teammates who are positive, regardless of whether they were tested through NPHL or a private lab, were immediately informed of their results and have not returned to work.&nbsp;&nbsp;Two Rivers Health Department did receive these results directly and the results were previously reported in their case totals. All YRTC-K staff and floaters were tested as of this week.&nbsp;As testing capacity has expanded, it is important to note State and local health departments are testing and publicly reporting their cases; private labs are testing, as well as NPHL.&nbsp; Sometimes results come in to the local health department first and at times DHHS receives the results before the local health department does.&nbsp;&nbsp;This may result in an unintentional discrepancy on occasion.&nbsp; All parties involved work quickly to provide the public the most accurate information and issue a correction when there is an error.&nbsp; In this instance, we are making that correction now.&nbsp; We will continue to monitor all staff and residents for symptoms and we will continue to report additional cases should they be discovered.&nbsp; The process for compiling testing data in Nebraska continues to be refined. We appreciate your understanding and will work to prevent future inconsistencies or correct them immediately.&nbsp;Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDkuMTk5ODQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.zmyI3W1o1wQuxuwPNACYUjgs_7-pnay98DOBWt2jt1s%2Fbr%2F77247589314-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9ff9c9a3dfa449c4f06e08d7dcc998e1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220630719464577&amp;sdata=m5IQQZnyV2P%2BtwaHAbqB%2FOtI5EVqyq2RpUa9xlOg1t8%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=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDkuMTk5ODQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.rzYle7XSTXfW5waCKK5BKYRwI3GluG83yCWF3VfgPp4%2Fbr%2F77247589314-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9ff9c9a3dfa449c4f06e08d7dcc998e1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220630719464577&amp;sdata=sOAhVA5vSaInw4tvCC1OhleKWpJ6UVNNSHQcX5RWWoI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDkuMTk5ODQyODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.ZDK0585LA4F80bTFamzfHMmQOvvnGQ3HQDOL-T47fFU%2Fbr%2F77247589314-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C9ff9c9a3dfa449c4f06e08d7dcc998e1%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637220630719474535&amp;sdata=wnL5zcF1SzGzeCUq9l1dFBH4p3L4EFSBQwC8rBKjHAo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

DHHS makes statement regarding positive COVID-19 results of Kearney YRTC employees

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts ordered the closure Thursday of all salons, tattoo parlors and strip clubs and announced the cancellation of organized group sports until May 31, expanding an order that was already in place in the state's biggest cities.

Ricketts said the executive order was intended to bring consistency to a patchwork of mandates from local public health departments. Salons in Omaha, Lincoln and many surrounding communities have been closed since late last month, but some of those businesses had been allowed to remain open in other parts of the state.

Ricketts, a Republican, tried to use persuasion and regional restrictions to contain the spread of the coronavirus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38a00e714af80c8bb0f277cdec64d494" target="_blank">until last week, when he imposed enforceable statewide limits&nbsp;</a>on social gatherings. Nebraska is one of a small handful of holdout states that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6719e4fdbff2f06d6ece3e84f7eaa1bd" target="_blank">haven't issued formal stay-at-home orders</a>, although Ricketts has argued that many of the state's restrictions are similar to what's in place elsewhere.

Ricketts on Thursday also issued a non-enforceable proclamation, calling on residents to stay at home unless necessary, maintain a safe physical distance at work and only shop once a week, with one person per family. It also asks residents to keep children away from playgrounds and group sports, help seniors and exercise daily at home.

"This is about asking Nebraskans to do what's right," Ricketts said at his daily coronavirus news conference. He said that if Nebraskans can adhere to the recommendations for 21 days, "we should really be able to take a whack at the virus."

Ricketts said he's confident that most residents "want to do the right thing" to keep the virus from spreading and overwhelming the state's hospitals.

On Wednesday, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert ordered all of the city's parks closed through April 30 amid complaints they were too crowded and visitors weren't following social-distancing rules to keep the virus from spreading. Stothert said the worst offenders were youth sports coaches and parents with children.

"What we saw this weekend was a lot of a lack of compliance," she said.

On Tuesday, a gathering of about 100 people in Omaha's Benson Park for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/fc9636990783c3b701e98237b3c1e81c" target="_blank">barbecue ended in a fatal shooting</a>.

Ricketts' announcement came as state health officials reported another coronavirus death in Nebraska, bringing the state's total number of COVID-19 deaths to 14.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services reported late Wednesday that the latest death was that of a man in his 70s in northeastern Nebraska's Madison County. The man had several underlying health conditions, health officials said. As of Thursday morning, the state had reported 523 cases of the virus, with more than 7,500 residents testing negative.

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

Ricketts also pushed back Thursday against the state public employee union's request to allow all state employees to work from home if they're able.

"Our members understand the critical importance of the work they do, and that's why they must be protected," said Deb Studl, a state child and family services worker. "If we aren't kept safe, there will be no one left to provide essential services to the most vulnerable Nebraskans

Ricketts said individual workers who can believe they can do their job from home should make the case to their managers. But he argued that for some employees, doing so isn't possible.

"We have to continue to provide essential services," he said. "We all know that every organization in the state is going through challenging times. Everyone is trying to figure out how to work from home. We're all in this together and we must be mindful of this."

By GRANT SCHULTE-The Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts ordered the closure Thursday of all salons, tattoo parlors and strip clubs and announced the cancellation of organized group sports until May 31, expanding an order that was already in place in the state's biggest cities.Ricketts said the executive order was intended to bring consistency to a patchwork of mandates from local public health departments. Salons in Omaha, Lincoln and many surrounding communities have been closed since late last month, but some of those businesses had been allowed to remain open in other parts of the state.Ricketts, a Republican, tried to use persuasion and regional restrictions to contain the spread of the coronavirus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/38a00e714af80c8bb0f277cdec64d494" target="_blank">until last week, when he imposed enforceable statewide limits&nbsp;</a>on social gatherings. Nebraska is one of a small handful of holdout states that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6719e4fdbff2f06d6ece3e84f7eaa1bd" target="_blank">haven't issued formal stay-at-home orders</a>, although Ricketts has argued that many of the state's restrictions are similar to what's in place elsewhere.Ricketts on Thursday also issued a non-enforceable proclamation, calling on residents to stay at home unless necessary, maintain a safe physical distance at work and only shop once a week, with one person per family. It also asks residents to keep children away from playgrounds and group sports, help seniors and exercise daily at home."This is about asking Nebraskans to do what's right," Ricketts said at his daily coronavirus news conference. He said that if Nebraskans can adhere to the recommendations for 21 days, "we should really be able to take a whack at the virus."Ricketts said he's confident that most residents "want to do the right thing" to keep the virus from spreading and overwhelming the state's hospitals.On Wednesday, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert ordered all of the city's parks closed through April 30 amid complaints they were too crowded and visitors weren't following social-distancing rules to keep the virus from spreading. Stothert said the worst offenders were youth sports coaches and parents with children."What we saw this weekend was a lot of a lack of compliance," she said.On Tuesday, a gathering of about 100 people in Omaha's Benson Park for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/fc9636990783c3b701e98237b3c1e81c" target="_blank">barbecue ended in a fatal shooting</a>.Ricketts' announcement came as state health officials reported another coronavirus death in Nebraska, bringing the state's total number of COVID-19 deaths to 14.The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services reported late Wednesday that the latest death was that of a man in his 70s in northeastern Nebraska's Madison County. The man had several underlying health conditions, health officials said. As of Thursday morning, the state had reported 523 cases of the virus, with more than 7,500 residents testing negative.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.Ricketts also pushed back Thursday against the state public employee union's request to allow all state employees to work from home if they're able."Our members understand the critical importance of the work they do, and that's why they must be protected," said Deb Studl, a state child and family services worker. "If we aren't kept safe, there will be no one left to provide essential services to the most vulnerable NebraskansRicketts said individual workers who can believe they can do their job from home should make the case to their managers. But he argued that for some employees, doing so isn't possible."We have to continue to provide essential services," he said. "We all know that every organization in the state is going through challenging times. Everyone is trying to figure out how to work from home. We're all in this together and we must be mindful of this."

Gov. Ricketts expands some virus restrictions statewide

Gov. Ricketts announces 6 rules for Nebraskans to follow for next 21 days

🎥West Central District Health FAQ on COVID-19 (April 9, 2020)


OMAHA,
NE –FBI Omaha Field Office Special Agent in Charge Kristi K.
Johnson is encouraging parents, students and teachers to take
advantage of the FBI’s Safe Online Surfing program; a free, fun and
educational program for children.  


The
goals of FBI’s&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.fbi.gov/" target="_blank">Safe
Online Surfing (SOS) Internet Challenge</a>
program are to teach children in third through eighth grades how to
recognize and respond to&nbsp;online&nbsp;dangers such as
cyberbullying,&nbsp;online&nbsp;predators, and identity thieves.


The
SOS program teaches young people about web terminology and how to
recognize secure and trustworthy sites. Other lessons cover how to
protect personal details online, create strong passwords, avoid
viruses and scams, be wary of strangers and be a good virtual
citizen. Students and their parents can visit the island that
corresponds with their grade level and surf through activities that
teach how to recognize hazards and respond appropriately. 


<a></a>
The
SOS program is designed to meet all federal and state Internet safety
mandates so that students and teachers can use this as part of their
curriculum in the classroom. Schools can compete with each other on a
national level and schools with the highest scores will earn an
FBI-SOS certificate. More than 1 million students completed the
program and took the SOS exam during the 2018-2019 school year. SOS
activities are available to everyone, but teachers must register for
a class to participate in the tests and competition. Any public,
private or home school in the United States with at least five
students is eligible for the online challenge. Teachers manage their
students’ participation in the program and the FBI does not collect
or store any student information.

Since October 2012, the
FBI-SOS website has been visited nearly 3.6 million times, with a
total of more than 10.6 million page views. Parents, students,
and teachers can visit <a href="https://sos.fbi.gov/en/">https://sos.fbi.gov/en/</a>
to
register.

OMAHA,
NE –FBI Omaha Field Office Special Agent in Charge Kristi K.
Johnson is encouraging parents, students and teachers to take
advantage of the FBI’s Safe Online Surfing program; a free, fun and
educational program for children. 
The
goals of FBI’s&nbsp;<a href="https://sos.fbi.gov/" target="_blank">Safe
Online Surfing (SOS) Internet Challenge</a>
program are to teach children in third through eighth grades how to
recognize and respond to&nbsp;online&nbsp;dangers such as
cyberbullying,&nbsp;online&nbsp;predators, and identity thieves. 

The
SOS program teaches young people about web terminology and how to
recognize secure and trustworthy sites. Other lessons cover how to
protect personal details online, create strong passwords, avoid
viruses and scams, be wary of strangers and be a good virtual
citizen. Students and their parents can visit the island that
corresponds with their grade level and surf through activities that
teach how to recognize hazards and respond appropriately. 
<a></a>
The
SOS program is designed to meet all federal and state Internet safety
mandates so that students and teachers can use this as part of their
curriculum in the classroom. Schools can compete with each other on a
national level and schools with the highest scores will earn an
FBI-SOS certificate. More than 1 million students completed the
program and took the SOS exam during the 2018-2019 school year. SOS
activities are available to everyone, but teachers must register for
a class to participate in the tests and competition. Any public,
private or home school in the United States with at least five
students is eligible for the online challenge. Teachers manage their
students’ participation in the program and the FBI does not collect
or store any student information.

Since October 2012, the
FBI-SOS website has been visited nearly 3.6 million times, with a
total of more than 10.6 million page views. Parents, students,
and teachers can visit <a href="https://sos.fbi.gov/en/">https://sos.fbi.gov/en/</a>
to
register.

FBI Omaha encourages internet challenge for teachers, students while distance learning

Today is Thursday, April 9, the 100th day of 2020. There are 266 days left in the year.

On April 9, 1942, during World War II, some 75,000 Philippine and American defenders on Bataan surrendered to Japanese troops, who forced the prisoners into what became known as the Bataan Death March; thousands died or were killed en route.

In 1865, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.

In 1939, singer Marian Anderson performed a concert at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., after being denied the use of Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

In 1959, NASA presented its first seven astronauts: Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn, Gus Grissom, Wally Schirra, Alan Shepard and Donald Slayton. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, 91, died in Phoenix, Arizona.

In 1963, British statesman Winston Churchill was proclaimed an honorary U.S. citizen by President John F. Kennedy. (Churchill, unable to attend, watched the proceedings live on television in his London home.)

In 1968, funeral services, private and public, were held for Martin Luther King Jr. at the Ebenezer Baptist Church and Morehouse College in Atlanta, five days after the civil rights leader was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.

In 1979, officials declared an end to the crisis involving the Three Mile Island Unit 2 nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania, 12 days after a partial core meltdown.

In 1983, the space shuttle Challenger ended its first mission with a safe landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

In 1992, former Panamanian ruler Manuel Noriega was convicted in Miami of eight drug and racketeering charges; he served a 17-year U.S. prison sentence.

In 1996, Dan Rostenkowski, the once-powerful House Ways and Means chairman, pleaded guilty to two mail fraud charges in a deal that brought with it a 17-month prison term. (Rostenkowski served 15 months, and was pardoned by President Clinton in 2000.)

In 2003, jubilant Iraqis celebrated the collapse of Saddam Hussein's regime, beheading a toppled statue of their longtime ruler in downtown Baghdad and embracing American troops as liberators.

In 2005, Britain's Prince Charles married longtime love Camilla Parker Bowles, who took the title Duchess of Cornwall.

In 2009, North Korea's rubber-stamp parliament appointed Kim Jong Il to a third term as leader. Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, 22, and two others were killed in a car crash by a suspected drunken driver. (Andrew Thomas Gallo was convicted of three counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to 51 years to life in prison.)

Ten years ago: Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens announced his retirement. (His vacancy was filled by Elena Kagan.) Meinhardt Raabe, who'd played the Munchkin coroner in "The Wizard of Oz," died in Orange Park, Florida, at age 94.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama briefly visited Jamaica, where he met with Caribbean leaders and spoke at a town hall of young leaders; the president then flew to Panama City for a summit of Western Hemisphere nations and a historic encounter with Cuban President Raul Castro. Canadian-born filmmaker Paul Almond, 83, died in Los Angeles.

One year ago: Israelis voted in an election that would bring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a historic fifth term. Iranian lawmakers dressed in paramilitary uniforms chanted “Death to America” as they convened for an open session of parliament after the White House designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organization. Magic Johnson abruptly quit as the Los Angeles Lakers’ president of basketball operations; the announcement came before the final game of the Lakers’ sixth consecutive losing season.

Today's Birthdays: Satirical songwriter and mathematician Tom Lehrer is 92. Actor Jean-Paul Belmondo is 87. Actress Michael Learned is 81. Country singer Margo Smith is 78. Country singer Hal Ketchum is 67. Actor Dennis Quaid is 66. Comedian Jimmy Tingle is 65. Country musician Dave Innis (Restless Heart) is 61. Talk show host Joe Scarborough is 57. Actress-sports reporter Lisa Guerrero is 56. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is 56. Actor Mark Pellegrino is 55. Actress-model Paulina Porizkova is 55. Actress Cynthia Nixon is 54. Rock singer Kevin Martin (Candlebox) is 51. TV personality Sunny Anderson is 45. Rock singer Gerard Way (My Chemical Romance) is 43. Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam is 41. Rock musician Albert Hammond Jr. (The Strokes) is 40. Actor Charlie Hunnam is 40. Actor Ryan Northcott is 40. Actor Arlen Escarpeta is 39. Actor Jay Baruchel is 38. Actress Annie Funke is 35. Actor Jordan Masterson is 34. Actress Leighton Meester is 34. Actor-singer Jesse McCartney is 33. Rhythm-and-blues singer Jazmine Sullivan is 33. Actress Kristen Stewart is 30. Actress Elle Fanning is 22. Rapper Lil Nas X is 21. Actor Isaac Hempstead Wright is 21. Classical crossover singer Jackie Evancho (ee-VAYN'-koh) is 20.

Thought for Today: "Thinking is like loving or dying. Each of us must do it for ourselves." — Josiah Royce, American philosopher (1855-1916).

By The Associated PressToday is Thursday, April 9, the 100th day of 2020. There are 266 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On April 9, 1942, during World War II, some 75,000 Philippine and American defenders on Bataan surrendered to Japanese troops, who forced the prisoners into what became known as the Bataan Death March; thousands died or were killed en route.On this date:In 1865, Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered his army to Union Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.In 1939, singer Marian Anderson performed a concert at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., after being denied the use of Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution.In 1959, NASA presented its first seven astronauts: Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn, Gus Grissom, Wally Schirra, Alan Shepard and Donald Slayton. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright, 91, died in Phoenix, Arizona.In 1963, British statesman Winston Churchill was proclaimed an honorary U.S. citizen by President John F. Kennedy. (Churchill, unable to attend, watched the proceedings live on television in his London home.)In 1968, funeral services, private and public, were held for Martin Luther King Jr. at the Ebenezer Baptist Church and Morehouse College in Atlanta, five days after the civil rights leader was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.In 1979, officials declared an end to the crisis involving the Three Mile Island Unit 2 nuclear reactor in Pennsylvania, 12 days after a partial core meltdown.In 1983, the space shuttle Challenger ended its first mission with a safe landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California.In 1992, former Panamanian ruler Manuel Noriega was convicted in Miami of eight drug and racketeering charges; he served a 17-year U.S. prison sentence.In 1996, Dan Rostenkowski, the once-powerful House Ways and Means chairman, pleaded guilty to two mail fraud charges in a deal that brought with it a 17-month prison term. (Rostenkowski served 15 months, and was pardoned by President Clinton in 2000.)In 2003, jubilant Iraqis celebrated the collapse of Saddam Hussein's regime, beheading a toppled statue of their longtime ruler in downtown Baghdad and embracing American troops as liberators.In 2005, Britain's Prince Charles married longtime love Camilla Parker Bowles, who took the title Duchess of Cornwall.In 2009, North Korea's rubber-stamp parliament appointed Kim Jong Il to a third term as leader. Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, 22, and two others were killed in a car crash by a suspected drunken driver. (Andrew Thomas Gallo was convicted of three counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to 51 years to life in prison.)Ten years ago: Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens announced his retirement. (His vacancy was filled by Elena Kagan.) Meinhardt Raabe, who'd played the Munchkin coroner in "The Wizard of Oz," died in Orange Park, Florida, at age 94.Five years ago: President Barack Obama briefly visited Jamaica, where he met with Caribbean leaders and spoke at a town hall of young leaders; the president then flew to Panama City for a summit of Western Hemisphere nations and a historic encounter with Cuban President Raul Castro. Canadian-born filmmaker Paul Almond, 83, died in Los Angeles.One year ago: Israelis voted in an election that would bring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a historic fifth term. Iranian lawmakers dressed in paramilitary uniforms chanted “Death to America” as they convened for an open session of parliament after the White House designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organization. Magic Johnson abruptly quit as the Los Angeles Lakers’ president of basketball operations; the announcement came before the final game of the Lakers’ sixth consecutive losing season.Today's Birthdays: Satirical songwriter and mathematician Tom Lehrer is 92. Actor Jean-Paul Belmondo is 87. Actress Michael Learned is 81. Country singer Margo Smith is 78. Country singer Hal Ketchum is 67. Actor Dennis Quaid is 66. Comedian Jimmy Tingle is 65. Country musician Dave Innis (Restless Heart) is 61. Talk show host Joe Scarborough is 57. Actress-sports reporter Lisa Guerrero is 56. Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is 56. Actor Mark Pellegrino is 55. Actress-model Paulina Porizkova is 55. Actress Cynthia Nixon is 54. Rock singer Kevin Martin (Candlebox) is 51. TV personality Sunny Anderson is 45. Rock singer Gerard Way (My Chemical Romance) is 43. Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam is 41. Rock musician Albert Hammond Jr. (The Strokes) is 40. Actor Charlie Hunnam is 40. Actor Ryan Northcott is 40. Actor Arlen Escarpeta is 39. Actor Jay Baruchel is 38. Actress Annie Funke is 35. Actor Jordan Masterson is 34. Actress Leighton Meester is 34. Actor-singer Jesse McCartney is 33. Rhythm-and-blues singer Jazmine Sullivan is 33. Actress Kristen Stewart is 30. Actress Elle Fanning is 22. Rapper Lil Nas X is 21. Actor Isaac Hempstead Wright is 21. Classical crossover singer Jackie Evancho (ee-VAYN'-koh) is 20.Thought for Today: "Thinking is like loving or dying. Each of us must do it for ourselves." — Josiah Royce, American philosopher (1855-1916).

Today in History-April 9

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