CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming will ease some coronavirus restrictions later this week. 

Gov. Mark Gordon announced Tuesday that barbershops, gyms, nail salons, tattoo parlors and child care centers will be allowed to reopen with restrictions on Friday. 

Restaurants will be able to let five people inside at a time to pick up food. 

Face masks will be required at most personal-services shops. 

Gyms must keep locker rooms closed and one-on-one fitness classes are not allowed. 

Gordon says the new orders will last until at least May 15.&nbsp;

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming will ease some coronavirus restrictions later this week. Gov. Mark Gordon announced Tuesday that barbershops, gyms, nail salons, tattoo parlors and child care centers will be allowed to reopen with restrictions on Friday. Restaurants will be able to let five people inside at a time to pick up food. In-person dining is still prohibited. Face masks will be required at most personal-services shops. Gyms must keep locker rooms closed and one-on-one fitness classes are not allowed. Gordon says the new orders will last until at least May 15.&nbsp;

Wyoming to ease some coronavirus restrictions on Friday

The DHHS COVID-19 Data Dashboard is currently experiencing technical difficulties.&nbsp; As a result, the State’s COVID-19 totals are only partially reflected in the system.&nbsp; It is always the aim of the Department to share timely and accurate information.&nbsp; We are quickly working to resolve the issue.&nbsp;

Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up-to-date.

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

Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who 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%2Flink.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcI2RRKsGbHxZTWFT0e2gRgkigBvwyvARxlqnX0SVaUIOLnQ74GSLRcKXqvHo2UlFOCfG1uPtr-2FC-2FFh26UhZiYyETWMHwkrd1Sm48cQvjGRQoUa-2FlazNoFXBmVKFfp9hQ6yg-3D-3DQ2fk_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1RDHsi5Cbx4bxTZUcOWtbZsLLhtTIhQWr0FPTheA6QoLdZgfOgX7bazQ9bCDYEL0Yje4IRSw18nVJYxYmbnN3ocWqPPXceEe20wIF2G-2FUNN1zbjin6V2ruYcW3Qs9vlGG7xedXUch5fDQ6fi-2FjgyPcoaHVJKrdcKnGH2fk3E-2B-2F78Clqq38xGtvTk3Rs4uY12dq1W2GxG2s07IW03K1jRhbFlQfX-2FD9sxR5kCChCPEprcPdbg-2FUfvX-2F5j2mQ88QRpwvhrma7FOoUpCKWX9gLG9qQ-3D-3D&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cc181f4961d134e2ad73308d7ec4de0b5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237691538947388&amp;sdata=pCSKS9SBTFCZ1ZVgOEvXKZHAxbPZiPR08bVgKxObkKM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</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=http%3A%2F%2Flink.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3DFfJmfUT99gJHnqa5ctrQ5HlIED6a50jmCQTsWIaeWgbPiwVa1ePTNfKOR-2FlFd23sPyF9_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1RDHsi5Cbx4bxTZUcOWtbZsLLhtTIhQWr0FPTheA6QoLdZgfOgX7bazQ9bCDYEL0Yje4IRSw18nVJYxYmbnN3ocWqPPXceEe20wIF2G-2FUNN3Q7Aj5lGRfznVVfJf7oLR5deMpXYavuPGJqjncxUTGgLNTjSlhj1FtrXAT0ASkWwc4O-2FTMKpYACuOC6VAps2EQx7l-2F9mXe6CxLSdRJDN-2B8gPtqAsMvlFwFxznKFR5G0doehaAw2C72l9-2FmVOrLa57eAUBMypdzr9WBO55wEI5REw-3D-3D&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cc181f4961d134e2ad73308d7ec4de0b5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237691538957352&amp;sdata=XwSJyNa1S%2BrKl3jrmjcdT77Z1cCWQpgff%2FJy3f%2B%2Bqq0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Flink.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcI2H0E6K6D2TwoqcN-2BKe5v8ZbsXJH6Fiib7ZcVt24UjpNqmst_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1RDHsi5Cbx4bxTZUcOWtbZsLLhtTIhQWr0FPTheA6QoLdZgfOgX7bazQ9bCDYEL0Yje4IRSw18nVJYxYmbnN3ocWqPPXceEe20wIF2G-2FUNN0VlNmevE-2Bh4mGGZ40FONlD9F7VB2cV2gCfEGoKO-2F-2Bw45lC8pn85tWE7IBpWUdm3jvo-2F9q4toYo9lO2rYUy-2B44dnWQm5rwkg4EIPribyu3JQl-2BAulGvkj-2FF5zCrGmQys-2Fv19zHIot-2FyegvxC8pb8bEZjpfFvh08fXod5msJaAdd2A-3D-3D&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cc181f4961d134e2ad73308d7ec4de0b5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237691538957352&amp;sdata=ZXALs0Sd7%2F%2F3gJ8HSxjFr9ZpAcSFM%2FKm63KshNJ2abM%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 or toll free (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.

The DHHS COVID-19 Data Dashboard is currently experiencing technical difficulties.&nbsp; As a result, the State’s COVID-19 totals are only partially reflected in the system.&nbsp; It is always the aim of the Department to share timely and accurate information.&nbsp; We are quickly working to resolve the issue.&nbsp;Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up-to-date.DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp; No non-essential errands and no social gatherings.&nbsp; Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp; Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; This can be done by shopping for them.&nbsp; Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily.&nbsp; Do your best to stay as healthy and safe as you can.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who 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%2Flink.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcI2RRKsGbHxZTWFT0e2gRgkigBvwyvARxlqnX0SVaUIOLnQ74GSLRcKXqvHo2UlFOCfG1uPtr-2FC-2FFh26UhZiYyETWMHwkrd1Sm48cQvjGRQoUa-2FlazNoFXBmVKFfp9hQ6yg-3D-3DQ2fk_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1RDHsi5Cbx4bxTZUcOWtbZsLLhtTIhQWr0FPTheA6QoLdZgfOgX7bazQ9bCDYEL0Yje4IRSw18nVJYxYmbnN3ocWqPPXceEe20wIF2G-2FUNN1zbjin6V2ruYcW3Qs9vlGG7xedXUch5fDQ6fi-2FjgyPcoaHVJKrdcKnGH2fk3E-2B-2F78Clqq38xGtvTk3Rs4uY12dq1W2GxG2s07IW03K1jRhbFlQfX-2FD9sxR5kCChCPEprcPdbg-2FUfvX-2F5j2mQ88QRpwvhrma7FOoUpCKWX9gLG9qQ-3D-3D&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cc181f4961d134e2ad73308d7ec4de0b5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237691538947388&amp;sdata=pCSKS9SBTFCZ1ZVgOEvXKZHAxbPZiPR08bVgKxObkKM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html&nbsp;</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=http%3A%2F%2Flink.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3DFfJmfUT99gJHnqa5ctrQ5HlIED6a50jmCQTsWIaeWgbPiwVa1ePTNfKOR-2FlFd23sPyF9_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1RDHsi5Cbx4bxTZUcOWtbZsLLhtTIhQWr0FPTheA6QoLdZgfOgX7bazQ9bCDYEL0Yje4IRSw18nVJYxYmbnN3ocWqPPXceEe20wIF2G-2FUNN3Q7Aj5lGRfznVVfJf7oLR5deMpXYavuPGJqjncxUTGgLNTjSlhj1FtrXAT0ASkWwc4O-2FTMKpYACuOC6VAps2EQx7l-2F9mXe6CxLSdRJDN-2B8gPtqAsMvlFwFxznKFR5G0doehaAw2C72l9-2FmVOrLa57eAUBMypdzr9WBO55wEI5REw-3D-3D&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cc181f4961d134e2ad73308d7ec4de0b5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237691538957352&amp;sdata=XwSJyNa1S%2BrKl3jrmjcdT77Z1cCWQpgff%2FJy3f%2B%2Bqq0%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC's website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Flink.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com%2Fls%2Fclick%3Fupn%3DJQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcI2H0E6K6D2TwoqcN-2BKe5v8ZbsXJH6Fiib7ZcVt24UjpNqmst_xZlXMavMF6vQwqhf-2BOlDQ4A6zr6j2nSCyD4I-2Fsk6FkKYNA25B8Z0Y9Bh-2BAdNNlOJZZfF9-2FOY68JDwmbQaek2G94H70USTrrsIxlfhE4c9I13zLN4mrUleXajALwFTEB1RDHsi5Cbx4bxTZUcOWtbZsLLhtTIhQWr0FPTheA6QoLdZgfOgX7bazQ9bCDYEL0Yje4IRSw18nVJYxYmbnN3ocWqPPXceEe20wIF2G-2FUNN0VlNmevE-2Bh4mGGZ40FONlD9F7VB2cV2gCfEGoKO-2F-2Bw45lC8pn85tWE7IBpWUdm3jvo-2F9q4toYo9lO2rYUy-2B44dnWQm5rwkg4EIPribyu3JQl-2BAulGvkj-2FF5zCrGmQys-2Fv19zHIot-2FyegvxC8pb8bEZjpfFvh08fXod5msJaAdd2A-3D-3D&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Cc181f4961d134e2ad73308d7ec4de0b5%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637237691538957352&amp;sdata=ZXALs0Sd7%2F%2F3gJ8HSxjFr9ZpAcSFM%2FKm63KshNJ2abM%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 or toll free (833) 998-2275; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 7 days a week.

DHHS issues statement on COVID-19 Dashboard technical difficulties

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Some Wyoming school districts are deciding to remain closed for the rest of the school year. 

The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Natrona County on Monday joined a handful of other districts in deciding against reopening amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

Others include Albany and Campbell counties, and the Green River-based Sweetwater County district. 

Wyoming’s 48 school districts have been closed for more than a month in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. 

They are scheduled to remain that way until at least Thursday, pending any new directives. 

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Wyoming increased by 19 on Monday to 389

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Some Wyoming school districts are deciding to remain closed for the rest of the school year. The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Natrona County on Monday joined a handful of other districts in deciding against reopening amid the coronavirus pandemic. Others include Albany and Campbell counties, and the Green River-based Sweetwater County district. Wyoming’s 48 school districts have been closed for more than a month in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. They are scheduled to remain that way until at least Thursday, pending any new directives. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Wyoming increased by 19 on Monday to 389

Some Wyoming schools decide to remain closed for year

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska prisons officials say a third department employee has tested positive for COVID-19. 

The Department of Correctional Services said late Tuesday that the staffer works at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln and has been isolated at home. 

Department Director Scott Frakes directed anyone who may have had close contact with the employee in the last three days to self-quarantine until they are medically cleared to return to work. 

Earlier Tuesday, the prisons department had announced that an employee at its Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln had tested positive for the virus. 

The department says no inmates have tested positive.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska prisons officials say a third department employee has tested positive for COVID-19. The Department of Correctional Services said late Tuesday that the staffer works at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln and has been isolated at home. Department Director Scott Frakes directed anyone who may have had close contact with the employee in the last three days to self-quarantine until they are medically cleared to return to work. Earlier Tuesday, the prisons department had announced that an employee at its Diagnostic and Evaluation Center in Lincoln had tested positive for the virus. The department says no inmates have tested positive.

Third Nebraska prisons employee tests positive for COVID-19

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is promising to boost his coronavirus outreach efforts to the town of Crete, the state’s newest coronavirus hot spot where cases have surged and local meatpacking workers staged a brief, impromptu walkout out of fear for their own safety. 

About 50 workers at the Smithfield Foods pork plant walked off the job after company officials announced that the facility would remain open, just hours after they had said it would close to contain an outbreak. 

The walkout wasn’t union-sanctioned, and the workers eventually went back into the plant to discuss their concerns with managers. But their local union representative saysit highlights the stress many workers are feeling.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is promising to boost his coronavirus outreach efforts to the town of Crete, the state’s newest coronavirus hot spot where cases have surged and local meatpacking workers staged a brief, impromptu walkout out of fear for their own safety. About 50 workers at the Smithfield Foods pork plant walked off the job after company officials announced that the facility would remain open, just hours after they had said it would close to contain an outbreak. The walkout wasn’t union-sanctioned, and the workers eventually went back into the plant to discuss their concerns with managers. But their local union representative saysit highlights the stress many workers are feeling.

Fearing virus, Nebraska meatpacking workers briefly walk out

Central District Health Department reports that as of today, April 28, 2020, the number of positive COVID-19 cases confirmed by a laboratory is 990, and there are 25 deaths. There are 9 cases in Merrick County, 48 cases in Hamilton County and 933 in Hall County.

The Central District Health Department reports that today, April 28, 2020, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 confirmed by a laboratory is 990, and there are 25 deaths ...... There are 9 cases in Merrick County, 48 cases in Hamilton County and 933 in Hall County.

News ReleaseCentral District Health Department reports that as of today, April 28, 2020, the number of positive COVID-19 cases confirmed by a laboratory is 990, and there are 25 deaths. There are 9 cases in Merrick County, 48 cases in Hamilton County and 933 in Hall County.The Central District Health Department reports that today, April 28, 2020, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 confirmed by a laboratory is 990, and there are 25 deaths ...... There are 9 cases in Merrick County, 48 cases in Hamilton County and 933 in Hall County.

Confirmed cases of COVID-19 rise to 933 in Hall County, 25 deaths

Lincoln –&nbsp;The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has been awarded a $2 million COVID-19 related grant by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

On April 1, SAMHSA released a funding opportunity for emergency grants to address mental and substance use disorders during COVID-19. In response, the DHHS's Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) responded to the one-time-only funding announcement with an application for $2 million in COVID-19 related aid. Funds are restricted to direct treatment and recovery activities to Nebraskans impacted by COVID-19 and served after the date of award.

“We know that during this unprecedented health crisis, it can be challenging for those with mental health and substance use disorders to access treatment. Nebraskans, now more than ever, need to reach out to improve their overall health," said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health. “With this grant, we are planning to take two approaches to expanding capacity to behavioral health services and treatment so that we are able to serve those in need."

The primary effort will be to expand capacity across Nebraska's public behavioral health system to increase access to outpatient assessment and psychotherapy and peer support for individuals who experience serious mental illness (SMI, individuals with substance use disorders (SUD, and/or individuals with co-occurring SMI and SUD, and medication management (including medication assisted treatment for substance abuse disorder). &nbsp;The additional expanded capacity will also be available to serve individuals with mental health illnesses that are less severe than SMI, including those in the healthcare professions.

Reaching individuals in the healthcare professions will require a different approach than has typically been employed by DBH. DBH is proposing to build on the existing communication channels utilized by various professional and medical associations to communicate the availability of the behavioral health services to their members.

Service funds are proposed to be incorporated into contracts and subawards with Regional Behavioral Health Authorities, tribal authorities, peer-run organizations and medical and social service organizations for healthcare providers, first responders and other essential personnel to provide access to services and supports that cannot be met with other resources such as private insurance, employee assistance programs or Medicaid. The DBH is also proposing to expand the contracts for capacity with peer run organizations in the state to increase access to family navigator, family peer support, and peer support services to provide recovery support services, individual support services and referrals for resource assistance for childcare, vocational, educational, linkages to housing services, and transportation services; services which will improve access to, and retention in services.

Nebraskans in need of help can call the Nebraska Family Helpline at (888) 866-8660; the Rural Response Hotline at (800) 464-0258; the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255.

Lincoln –&nbsp;The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has been awarded a $2 million COVID-19 related grant by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).On April 1, SAMHSA released a funding opportunity for emergency grants to address mental and substance use disorders during COVID-19. In response, the DHHS's Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) responded to the one-time-only funding announcement with an application for $2 million in COVID-19 related aid. Funds are restricted to direct treatment and recovery activities to Nebraskans impacted by COVID-19 and served after the date of award.“We know that during this unprecedented health crisis, it can be challenging for those with mental health and substance use disorders to access treatment. Nebraskans, now more than ever, need to reach out to improve their overall health," said Sheri Dawson, director of the Division of Behavioral Health. “With this grant, we are planning to take two approaches to expanding capacity to behavioral health services and treatment so that we are able to serve those in need."The primary effort will be to expand capacity across Nebraska's public behavioral health system to increase access to outpatient assessment and psychotherapy and peer support for individuals who experience serious mental illness (SMI, individuals with substance use disorders (SUD, and/or individuals with co-occurring SMI and SUD, and medication management (including medication assisted treatment for substance abuse disorder). &nbsp;The additional expanded capacity will also be available to serve individuals with mental health illnesses that are less severe than SMI, including those in the healthcare professions.Reaching individuals in the healthcare professions will require a different approach than has typically been employed by DBH. DBH is proposing to build on the existing communication channels utilized by various professional and medical associations to communicate the availability of the behavioral health services to their members.Service funds are proposed to be incorporated into contracts and subawards with Regional Behavioral Health Authorities, tribal authorities, peer-run organizations and medical and social service organizations for healthcare providers, first responders and other essential personnel to provide access to services and supports that cannot be met with other resources such as private insurance, employee assistance programs or Medicaid. The DBH is also proposing to expand the contracts for capacity with peer run organizations in the state to increase access to family navigator, family peer support, and peer support services to provide recovery support services, individual support services and referrals for resource assistance for childcare, vocational, educational, linkages to housing services, and transportation services; services which will improve access to, and retention in services.Nebraskans in need of help can call the Nebraska Family Helpline at (888) 866-8660; the Rural Response Hotline at (800) 464-0258; the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255.

Nebraska DHHS announces second SAMHSA grant to combat substance abuse, mental health during outbreak

Unified Command confirms two new cases for COVID-19 in Scotts Bluff County. A female in her 40s and a male in his teens are close contacts of a previously positive case. 

The investigation is complete. Close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. 

Four have recovered and are out of isolation

Ten have recovered and are out of isolation

16 have recovered and are out of isolation

All Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;

Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;

Keep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.

Stay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.

Stay in touch with friends and loved ones

Check in on people who may be alone or need help.

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

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

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

By PPHDUnified Command confirms two new cases for COVID-19 in Scotts Bluff County. A female in her 40s and a male in his teens are close contacts of a previously positive case. The investigation is complete. Close contacts will be quarantined and actively monitored twice daily for fever and respiratory symptoms by public health officials. March 2-April 28, 2020Positive: 47Recovered: 30Box Butte County: 1 caseCheyenne County: 6 casesFour have recovered and are out of isolationKimball County: 10 CasesTen have recovered and are out of isolationMorrill County: 1 CaseScotts Bluff County: 29 Cases16 have recovered and are out of isolationAll Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you? &nbsp;Stay Home Stay home whenever possible. Avoid gathering in any groups.Do not visit or host people who do not live with you. &nbsp;Stay HealthyKeep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.Wash your handsStay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.Stay ConnectedStay in touch with friends and loved onesCheck in on people who may be alone or need help.Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. &nbsp;Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

Two new cases in Scotts Bluff Co., Panhandle total count to 47

Things were so much clearer when just about everything was locked down.

Now, with states lifting coronavirus restrictions piecemeal and by often arbitrary timetables, Americans are facing bewildering decisions about what they should and should not do to protect their health, their livelihoods and their neighbors.

Is it safe to join the crowds at the beach or eat at a restaurant? To visit the elderly parents you haven't seen in nearly two months? To reopen a struggling business?

In many cases, the less-than-satisfying answer from the experts is: It depends.

"There will never be a perfect amount of protection," said Josh Santarpia, a microbiology expert at the University of Nebraska Medical Center who is studying the coronavirus. "It's a personal risk assessment. Everybody has to decide, person by person, what risk they're willing to tolerate."

The quandary comes as the confirmed death toll from coronavirus in the U.S. on Tuesday surpassed the 58,220 American service members killed in Vietnam, according to Johns Hopkins University. Globally, at least 216,000 have died, thought the true toll is undoubtedly much higher because of limited testing, differences in counting the dead and concealment by some governments.

With the crisis easing in many places, France, Spain and Greece were among the latest countries to announce their plans for restarting their economies. As governments make their moves to reopen businesses and schools, the next decisions made will be personal.

Jill Faust, 53, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, said she would hesitate to eat at an indoor restaurant when such businesses are allowed to reopen in her community Friday.

"We would have to know ahead of time what precautions they're taking," she said, citing the way some restaurants may rely on limited seating, well-spaced tables, masks for employees and disposable cups and plates. Even then, she said, it might not be worth the trouble.

"Going to a restaurant to me is this lovely, relaxing experience where you can sit with people and relax and catch up after a long day. If your experience is going to be limited by all these safety concerns, why spend the money?" she said.

In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom said schoolchildren could return to classrooms as early as July, though a formal decision had not yet been made.

President Donald Trump signed a measure ordering meat processing plants to stay open to prevent shortages. Unions responded by accusing the White House of jeopardizing lives and prioritizing cold cuts over workers' health.

As restrictions loosen, health authorities will be watching closely for any sign of a resurgence of the virus.

On Tuesday, for example, Germany reported an uptick in the infection rate since some small businesses were allowed to reopen just over a week ago. But it was too soon to say whether the loosening was to blame.

Around the world, confirmed infections exceeded 3 million - including 1 million in the U.S., according to the Johns Hopkins tally.

In China, where the pandemic began, cases have slowed to a trickle from the peak in February and March that even forced a delay in the country's ceremonial parliament meeting. State media reported Wednesday the National People's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a024a0e210daab287f83897edf10082b" target="_blank">Congress&nbsp;</a>would convene on May 22.

In the U.S., the uncertainty ahead was spotlighted in Georgia after businesses such as barber shops and tattoo parlors were given the go-ahead to reopen.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said people could find the changes perplexing.

"In reality we're under a stay-at-home order until April 30," Johnson said. "Yet you can go get your nails done, you can go get a tattoo, you can go to movie theaters, you can go to bowling alleys. It's those kinds of things that leave people confused."

Mixed messages are coming from even the U.S. Congress. The House is scrambling for ways for members to work from home after a revolt over convening during the pandemic, and said they wouldn't return to the Capitol on Monday. The smaller Senate, however, plans to convene there.

The decisions people make are likely to vary widely depending on where they live, and how close that puts them to known virus clusters. In Georgia, where COVID-19 has killed at least 1,000, many new cases are still being reported.

But even in places with fewer known infections, people are facing uneasy choices.

In Omaha, Nebraska, where businesses can reopen next week, teachers Michelle and Mark Aschenbrenner said they are eager to dine out again. Mark Aschenbrenner has set up an appointment for a long-delayed haircut.

"I think we're four weeks too early," he said of the plans to lift restrictions. But "I think I'll probably still go because we've been stuck at home for seven weeks and we're going stir crazy."

With warmer weather enticing more people to venture out in the weeks ahead, it will be up to individuals to exercise caution.

"You can't swear that if somebody happens to cough on the beach chair to your left and then you have a breeze that blows that over across you, that you don't have the exposure in that way," said Dr. Marybeth Sexton, infectious-disease specialist at Emory University School of Medicine.

Even following guidelines to maintain 6-foot (2-meter) distances may not be enough. That rule is based on how far a different coronavirus, SARS, spread among airline passengers.

When doctors treated more than a dozen COVID-19 patients at an Omaha hospital, researchers found genetic material from the virus at greater distances - on window ledges, cellphones, in hallways and on toilet seats, Santarpia said.

That doesn't mean people shouldn't go out. But they should be very deliberate in doing so, limiting visits with relatives and friends to moments that matter, said Dr. Emily Landon, who leads infection control at the University of Chicago Medical Center.

Mother's Day - May 10 in the United States - may qualify if Mom lives nearby, she said. But limit the number of people involved and wear masks the entire time. Even if you check to make sure everyone present has been feeling well, accept that there will be risk, she said.

The virus remains a long-term foe. The president of the Japan Medical Association, Yoshitake Yokokura, said he thinks it will be difficult to hold the rescheduled Tokyo Summer Olympics even in 2021 without an effective vaccine.

In the shorter term, it will be up to individuals as much as policymakers to make the decisions that will help chart the virus' course.

"I think everyone still needs to use their judgment. I'm not having a book club in my house. I'm going to my doctor for an allergy shot because that's safe to do," said Landon, the Chicago infection-control expert. "You can try and make it political, make it about freedom, but it's a virus. It's biology. Biology doesn't negotiate."

By CARLA K. JOHNSON-Associated PressThings were so much clearer when just about everything was locked down.Now, with states lifting coronavirus restrictions piecemeal and by often arbitrary timetables, Americans are facing bewildering decisions about what they should and should not do to protect their health, their livelihoods and their neighbors.Is it safe to join the crowds at the beach or eat at a restaurant? To visit the elderly parents you haven't seen in nearly two months? To reopen a struggling business?In many cases, the less-than-satisfying answer from the experts is: It depends."There will never be a perfect amount of protection," said Josh Santarpia, a microbiology expert at the University of Nebraska Medical Center who is studying the coronavirus. "It's a personal risk assessment. Everybody has to decide, person by person, what risk they're willing to tolerate."The quandary comes as the confirmed death toll from coronavirus in the U.S. on Tuesday surpassed the 58,220 American service members killed in Vietnam, according to Johns Hopkins University. Globally, at least 216,000 have died, thought the true toll is undoubtedly much higher because of limited testing, differences in counting the dead and concealment by some governments.With the crisis easing in many places, France, Spain and Greece were among the latest countries to announce their plans for restarting their economies. As governments make their moves to reopen businesses and schools, the next decisions made will be personal.Jill Faust, 53, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, said she would hesitate to eat at an indoor restaurant when such businesses are allowed to reopen in her community Friday."We would have to know ahead of time what precautions they're taking," she said, citing the way some restaurants may rely on limited seating, well-spaced tables, masks for employees and disposable cups and plates. Even then, she said, it might not be worth the trouble."Going to a restaurant to me is this lovely, relaxing experience where you can sit with people and relax and catch up after a long day. If your experience is going to be limited by all these safety concerns, why spend the money?" she said.In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom said schoolchildren could return to classrooms as early as July, though a formal decision had not yet been made.President Donald Trump signed a measure ordering meat processing plants to stay open to prevent shortages. Unions responded by accusing the White House of jeopardizing lives and prioritizing cold cuts over workers' health.As restrictions loosen, health authorities will be watching closely for any sign of a resurgence of the virus.On Tuesday, for example, Germany reported an uptick in the infection rate since some small businesses were allowed to reopen just over a week ago. But it was too soon to say whether the loosening was to blame.Around the world, confirmed infections exceeded 3 million - including 1 million in the U.S., according to the Johns Hopkins tally.In China, where the pandemic began, cases have slowed to a trickle from the peak in February and March that even forced a delay in the country's ceremonial parliament meeting. State media reported Wednesday the National People's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/a024a0e210daab287f83897edf10082b" target="_blank">Congress&nbsp;</a>would convene on May 22.In the U.S., the uncertainty ahead was spotlighted in Georgia after businesses such as barber shops and tattoo parlors were given the go-ahead to reopen.Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said people could find the changes perplexing."In reality we're under a stay-at-home order until April 30," Johnson said. "Yet you can go get your nails done, you can go get a tattoo, you can go to movie theaters, you can go to bowling alleys. It's those kinds of things that leave people confused."Mixed messages are coming from even the U.S. Congress. The House is scrambling for ways for members to work from home after a revolt over convening during the pandemic, and said they wouldn't return to the Capitol on Monday. The smaller Senate, however, plans to convene there.The decisions people make are likely to vary widely depending on where they live, and how close that puts them to known virus clusters. In Georgia, where COVID-19 has killed at least 1,000, many new cases are still being reported.But even in places with fewer known infections, people are facing uneasy choices.In Omaha, Nebraska, where businesses can reopen next week, teachers Michelle and Mark Aschenbrenner said they are eager to dine out again. Mark Aschenbrenner has set up an appointment for a long-delayed haircut."I think we're four weeks too early," he said of the plans to lift restrictions. But "I think I'll probably still go because we've been stuck at home for seven weeks and we're going stir crazy."With warmer weather enticing more people to venture out in the weeks ahead, it will be up to individuals to exercise caution."You can't swear that if somebody happens to cough on the beach chair to your left and then you have a breeze that blows that over across you, that you don't have the exposure in that way," said Dr. Marybeth Sexton, infectious-disease specialist at Emory University School of Medicine.Even following guidelines to maintain 6-foot (2-meter) distances may not be enough. That rule is based on how far a different coronavirus, SARS, spread among airline passengers.When doctors treated more than a dozen COVID-19 patients at an Omaha hospital, researchers found genetic material from the virus at greater distances - on window ledges, cellphones, in hallways and on toilet seats, Santarpia said.That doesn't mean people shouldn't go out. But they should be very deliberate in doing so, limiting visits with relatives and friends to moments that matter, said Dr. Emily Landon, who leads infection control at the University of Chicago Medical Center.Mother's Day - May 10 in the United States - may qualify if Mom lives nearby, she said. But limit the number of people involved and wear masks the entire time. Even if you check to make sure everyone present has been feeling well, accept that there will be risk, she said.The virus remains a long-term foe. The president of the Japan Medical Association, Yoshitake Yokokura, said he thinks it will be difficult to hold the rescheduled Tokyo Summer Olympics even in 2021 without an effective vaccine.In the shorter term, it will be up to individuals as much as policymakers to make the decisions that will help chart the virus' course."I think everyone still needs to use their judgment. I'm not having a book club in my house. I'm going to my doctor for an allergy shot because that's safe to do," said Landon, the Chicago infection-control expert. "You can try and make it political, make it about freedom, but it's a virus. It's biology. Biology doesn't negotiate."

Easing lockdowns makes day-to-day choices more complicated

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem will unveil her plan Tuesday to reopen the state as well as announce updated infection projections. 

South Dakota health officials say they have 68 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, including 59 cases in Minnehaha County.

 There were no new deaths reported Tuesday due to the coronavirus, leaving the state’s death toll at 11. 

The state reported 2,313 confirmed cases of the coronavirus overall. 

More than 1,900 of them have been in Minnehaha County, which is the location of a pork processing plant that shut down indefinitely after hundreds of employees tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gov. Kristi Noem will unveil her plan Tuesday to reopen the state as well as announce updated infection projections. South Dakota health officials say they have 68 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, including 59 cases in Minnehaha County. There were no new deaths reported Tuesday due to the coronavirus, leaving the state’s death toll at 11. The state reported 2,313 confirmed cases of the coronavirus overall. More than 1,900 of them have been in Minnehaha County, which is the location of a pork processing plant that shut down indefinitely after hundreds of employees tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

South Dakota governor to unveil plan to reopen state

Alliance –The Alliance Public Transit will be expanding their transportation services beginning next week. 

&nbsp;Starting Monday May 4th they will be offering medical transports and rides for workers to and from work from 7:30am to 3:30pm Monday thru Friday. &nbsp;

Shopping transports (grocery and dollar stores) will be available from 7:30am to 12:00pm Monday thru Friday.

We want to remind you, if you are feeling sick, have a fever, or have been exposed to someone who has been sick, please stay home. &nbsp;We are encouraging all riders to wear a mask for the safety of our drivers and others using our transit system. &nbsp;We also ask for your patience and allow for the extra time it takes for the cleaning and precautions we are taking in between rides. &nbsp;If possible, please schedule your rides 24 hours in advance.

If you have any questions, please contact Paige Johnson at Public Transit/Public Works at (308) 762-1907.

Alliance –The Alliance Public Transit will be expanding their transportation services beginning next week. &nbsp;Starting Monday May 4th they will be offering medical transports and rides for workers to and from work from 7:30am to 3:30pm Monday thru Friday. &nbsp;Shopping transports (grocery and dollar stores) will be available from 7:30am to 12:00pm Monday thru Friday.We want to remind you, if you are feeling sick, have a fever, or have been exposed to someone who has been sick, please stay home. &nbsp;We are encouraging all riders to wear a mask for the safety of our drivers and others using our transit system. &nbsp;We also ask for your patience and allow for the extra time it takes for the cleaning and precautions we are taking in between rides. &nbsp;If possible, please schedule your rides 24 hours in advance.If you have any questions, please contact Paige Johnson at Public Transit/Public Works at (308) 762-1907.

Alliance Public Transit expanding services

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is continuing to see a surge in coronavirus infections, including new confirmed cases in two counties, according to public health data released Monday.

Nebraska reported 330 new cases, bringing the total to nearly 3,400, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, Cedar and Valley counties confirmed their first cases.

Nebraska has seen 55 virus-related deaths so far, according to the department. State officials previously announced 56 deaths, but later in the day they said one of those deaths was an erroneous entry into the state's database.

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

Gov. Pete Ricketts defended his decision Monday to ease social-distancing restrictions in some parts of Nebraska, even though the number of confirmed coronavirus cases has surged in the last few days.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska is continuing to see a surge in coronavirus infections, including new confirmed cases in two counties, according to public health data released Monday.Nebraska reported 330 new cases, bringing the total to nearly 3,400, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, Cedar and Valley counties confirmed their first cases.Nebraska has seen 55 virus-related deaths so far, according to the department. State officials previously announced 56 deaths, but later in the day they said one of those deaths was an erroneous entry into the state's database.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.Gov. Pete Ricketts defended his decision Monday to ease social-distancing restrictions in some parts of Nebraska, even though the number of confirmed coronavirus cases has surged in the last few days.

Nebraska sees continued surge in new coronavirus cases

LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) will distribute 100,000 surgical masks to truck drivers over the next two days at several locations.

The masks were provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Homeland Security as part of the response to the&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic. NSP is working with the Nebraska Trucking Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, and the U.S. Postal Service on the distribution efforts. Nebraska is one of eight states working&nbsp;with federal agencies as part of this program.

“Our partners in the trucking industry have done heroic work over the last several weeks to keep American’s grocery store&nbsp;shelves stocked and transport critical supplies all over the country to help in the fight against COVID-19,” said Captain Gerry Krolikowski, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to be part of this effort to keep those drivers safe.”

The masks will be distributed at eight locations on Wednesday, April 29, and nine locations on Thursday, April 30. Those&nbsp;locations are

Times for distribution vary by location. For a complete list of distribution times at each mask distribution location, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/troopers-distribute-100000-masks-truck-drivers">this page on the NSP website.</a>

LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) will distribute 100,000 surgical masks to truck drivers over the next two days at several locations.The masks were provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Department of Homeland Security as part of the response to the&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic. NSP is working with the Nebraska Trucking Association, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, and the U.S. Postal Service on the distribution efforts. Nebraska is one of eight states working&nbsp;with federal agencies as part of this program.“Our partners in the trucking industry have done heroic work over the last several weeks to keep American’s grocery store&nbsp;shelves stocked and transport critical supplies all over the country to help in the fight against COVID-19,” said Captain Gerry Krolikowski, Commander of NSP Carrier Enforcement. “Our troopers are proud to be part of this effort to keep those drivers safe.”The masks will be distributed at eight locations on Wednesday, April 29, and nine locations on Thursday, April 30. Those&nbsp;locations are<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588089698249.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Times for distribution vary by location. For a complete list of distribution times at each mask distribution location, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/troopers-distribute-100000-masks-truck-drivers">this page on the NSP website.</a>

NSP troopers to distribute 100,000 masks to truck drivers

LINCOLN, Neb. (Lincoln Journal Star) — A judge has sentenced a 26-year-old Lincoln man on Monday to more than 70 years in prison for sexual abusing two young girls. 

Austin Mariscal pleaded no contest to two counts of first-degree sexual assault in a deal with prosecutors that spared him a possible life sentence.

 The Lincoln Journal-Star reports that Lancaster County District Judge John Colborn sentenced Mariscal to 35 to 45 years in prison for each of those charges, with the sentences to be served back to back.

LINCOLN, Neb. (Lincoln Journal Star) — A judge has sentenced a 26-year-old Lincoln man on Monday to more than 70 years in prison for sexual abusing two young girls. Austin Mariscal pleaded no contest to two counts of first-degree sexual assault in a deal with prosecutors that spared him a possible life sentence. The Lincoln Journal-Star reports that Lancaster County District Judge John Colborn sentenced Mariscal to 35 to 45 years in prison for each of those charges, with the sentences to be served back to back.

Nebraska man sentenced to 70-plus years for sexual assault

OMAHA, Neb. (Omaha World-Herald) — A former Omaha Public Schools principal who failed to immediately report to authorities inappropriate behavior by a teacher was sentenced Monday to two weeks in jail. 

The judge also imposed a year of probation on Eric Nelson for misdemeanor failure to report child abuse. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports Nelson, the former principal of Fontenelle Elementary, was ordered to begin serving his term on Tuesday. 

Six girls said they were assaulted by Greg Sedlacek, a former teacher who is now serving 40 to 65 years in prison for sexually assaulting children.

OMAHA, Neb. (Omaha World-Herald) — A former Omaha Public Schools principal who failed to immediately report to authorities inappropriate behavior by a teacher was sentenced Monday to two weeks in jail. The judge also imposed a year of probation on Eric Nelson for misdemeanor failure to report child abuse. The Omaha World-Herald reports Nelson, the former principal of Fontenelle Elementary, was ordered to begin serving his term on Tuesday. Six girls said they were assaulted by Greg Sedlacek, a former teacher who is now serving 40 to 65 years in prison for sexually assaulting children.

Ex-principal sentenced to jail for not reporting child abuse

WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General William Barr on Monday ordered federal prosecutors across the U.S. to identify coronavirus-related restrictions from state and local governments “that could be violating the constitutional rights and civil liberties of individual citizens.”

The memo to U.S. attorneys directs the head of the Justice Department’s civil rights division and the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan to coordinate the department’s efforts to monitor state and local policies and take action if needed.

“If a state or local ordinance crosses the line from an appropriate exercise of authority to stop the spread of COVID-19 into an overbearing infringement of constitutional and statutory protections, the Department of Justice may have an obligation to address that overreach in federal court.”

Barr’s memo comes about two weeks after the Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/93201a33ee3f73017f02d273f868bfba">filed a statement of interest</a>&nbsp;in a civil case in Mississippi, siding with a Christian church where local officials had tried to stop Holy Week services broadcast to congregants sitting in their cars in the parking lot.

The directive also comes as many stay-at-home orders are set to expire and governors eager to rescue their economies are moving to ease restrictions meant to control the spread of the coronavirus, even as new hot spots emerge and experts warn that moving too fast could prove disastrous.

At the same time, protesters have staged demonstrations against stay-at-home orders, and in recent weeks, President Donald Trump has urged supporters to “liberate” three states led by Democratic governors.

Trump was asked at Monday’s coronavirus briefing about the strategy behind the decision by the Justice Department.

“Well, you’d have to ask Attorney General Barr, but I think he wants to see — like everybody, he wants to see people get back and he wants to see people get back to work,” Trump said. “He doesn’t want people to be held up when there’s no reason for doing it. In some cases, perhaps it’s too strict. He wants to make sure people have the rights and they maintain the rights, very importantly.”

The Justice Department argued in the Mississippi filing that officials in Greenville appeared to be targeting religious conduct by singling churches out as the only essential service, as designated by the state of Mississippi, that may not operate despite following all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state recommendations regarding social distancing.

In an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt last week, Barr said the Justice Department could support legal action against states that impose strict measures as the number of coronavirus cases begins to subside.

“The idea that you have to stay in your house is disturbingly close to house arrest,” Barr said. “I’m not saying it wasn’t justified. I’m not saying in some places it might still be justified. But it’s very onerous, as is shutting down your livelihood.”

Barr said he believes there is a sufficient basis for social distancing rules that have been put in place, but he has cautioned that there may be concern if the restrictive measures continue too long. He has said the U.S. must find a way to allow business to adapt and reopen.

“I think we have to allow people to figure out ways of getting back to work and keep their workers and customers safe,” Barr said in an interview with Fox News earlier this month. “I’m not suggesting we stop social distancing overnight. There may come a time where we have to worry less about that.”

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, and death. The vast majority of people recover.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585143176510.png" alt="Attorney General William Barr during a Coronavirus Task Force Briefing earlier this month -image courtesy White H ouse" />
 <figcaption>Attorney General William Barr during a Coronavirus Task Force Briefing earlier this month -image courtesy White H ouse</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General William Barr on Monday ordered federal prosecutors across the U.S. to identify coronavirus-related restrictions from state and local governments “that could be violating the constitutional rights and civil liberties of individual citizens.”The memo to U.S. attorneys directs the head of the Justice Department’s civil rights division and the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan to coordinate the department’s efforts to monitor state and local policies and take action if needed.“If a state or local ordinance crosses the line from an appropriate exercise of authority to stop the spread of COVID-19 into an overbearing infringement of constitutional and statutory protections, the Department of Justice may have an obligation to address that overreach in federal court.”Barr’s memo comes about two weeks after the Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/93201a33ee3f73017f02d273f868bfba">filed a statement of interest</a>&nbsp;in a civil case in Mississippi, siding with a Christian church where local officials had tried to stop Holy Week services broadcast to congregants sitting in their cars in the parking lot.The directive also comes as many stay-at-home orders are set to expire and governors eager to rescue their economies are moving to ease restrictions meant to control the spread of the coronavirus, even as new hot spots emerge and experts warn that moving too fast could prove disastrous.At the same time, protesters have staged demonstrations against stay-at-home orders, and in recent weeks, President Donald Trump has urged supporters to “liberate” three states led by Democratic governors.Trump was asked at Monday’s coronavirus briefing about the strategy behind the decision by the Justice Department.“Well, you’d have to ask Attorney General Barr, but I think he wants to see — like everybody, he wants to see people get back and he wants to see people get back to work,” Trump said. “He doesn’t want people to be held up when there’s no reason for doing it. In some cases, perhaps it’s too strict. He wants to make sure people have the rights and they maintain the rights, very importantly.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587679047074.png" alt="Protesters mounted a slow-moving caravan around the Statehouse April 23 to push for an end to Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order." />
 <figcaption>Protesters mounted a slow-moving caravan around the Statehouse April 23 to push for an end to Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Justice Department argued in the Mississippi filing that officials in Greenville appeared to be targeting religious conduct by singling churches out as the only essential service, as designated by the state of Mississippi, that may not operate despite following all Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state recommendations regarding social distancing.In an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt last week, Barr said the Justice Department could support legal action against states that impose strict measures as the number of coronavirus cases begins to subside.“The idea that you have to stay in your house is disturbingly close to house arrest,” Barr said. “I’m not saying it wasn’t justified. I’m not saying in some places it might still be justified. But it’s very onerous, as is shutting down your livelihood.”Barr said he believes there is a sufficient basis for social distancing rules that have been put in place, but he has cautioned that there may be concern if the restrictive measures continue too long. He has said the U.S. must find a way to allow business to adapt and reopen.“I think we have to allow people to figure out ways of getting back to work and keep their workers and customers safe,” Barr said in an interview with Fox News earlier this month. “I’m not suggesting we stop social distancing overnight. There may come a time where we have to worry less about that.”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, and death. The vast majority of people recover.

AG to prosecutors: Look for unconstitutional virus rules

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Two more Nebraska counties reported their first cases of COVID-19 to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Monday.

Two cases were reported in Cedar County (Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vbm5waGQvIn0.RlAlDmcdxorSGmrP5J2GilJ7nfiSlU6B685c-M2e0ME%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608900191&amp;sdata=dBDjVLO17GW328DK6ASJkRPhAhc3C9u0dkRgAkJrkkU%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.facebook.com/nnphd/</a>, the first for the county, and Valley County (Loup Basin Public Health Department -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vbGJwaGQub3JnLyJ9.xLZLxMCzdv_ZPPL960fDPr2bwiQKUDI594McLcWMfxo%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608910184&amp;sdata=4H0epE3cCw4OXstHRiyhw%2BIgk3WRaG5t1iHJRvUOA%2BA%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.facebook.com/lbphd.org/</a>) reported its first case.

Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data&nbsp;and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.

The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 55, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Yesterday’s count of 56 included&nbsp;a death erroneously entered into the electronic system. It was removed from the total count.

Today’s state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 3,358. Nebraska’s COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.kAuin5dITfEEd1fjyXMQESlJ5Bl_wY0pi8DjeTJPdbU%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608910184&amp;sdata=4Y1xY1w5%2BPG341kIJY0N%2BI65ET%2BmgENSVTUvtkwoXts%3D&amp;reserved=0">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;

All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.E-uQhSKZA7erIJmU7xTWlT4sY-4E04V7dg9CK-n9srQ%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608920178&amp;sdata=gN%2FX%2BTaNT9flUag7N5XcVdZ9ZQaLk1ix93FtmC5Hj9I%3D&amp;reserved=0">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&nbsp;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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ09WSUQtMTktRGlyZWN0ZWQtSGVhbHRoLU1lYXN1cmVzLmFzcHgifQ.srtA3Q6i6Ocz-1m0PS4X2JUSbN0HyAU6-Dte8VnPmVE%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608920178&amp;sdata=PqgIFUkf7AAp6yIWCx2tMUJcg6%2BsQiFmkp2UZYTsB90%3D&amp;reserved=0">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx</a>

Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50ZXN0bmVicmFza2EuY29tLyJ9.Q0sGWlN5BiIuLIOPGByjZq3f5_fe_7KtSSA5KtqaMnI%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608930173&amp;sdata=HRqIVHHFo0re57MPMZ42dDnuN9lt3Hh9NtUARTUaKpY%3D&amp;reserved=0">TestNebraska</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help&nbsp;identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50ZXN0bmVicmFza2EuY29tLyJ9.erp8q18DthmGsxKd4xu2huLejn5kbL9u6kkplxzixRw%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608930173&amp;sdata=nKI8hToCFMp9leHl03ZkU0ynvLknUkijj6n9aEafhL0%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.testnebraska.com/</a>

Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the&nbsp;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,&nbsp;pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9wcmV2ZW50LWdldHRpbmctc2ljay9jbG90aC1mYWNlLWNvdmVyLWZhcS5odG1sIn0.FJRqgpfaCCfdcmj9667wHUZ96vhcRnQ4K6IUVGr9KOM%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608940168&amp;sdata=yJ%2BcjpEhKd086d7yfpdFt47iRUfKV51WDh9iZevxO6c%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html</a>.

Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social&nbsp;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&nbsp;responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.gOdU8ALNOzypzJud-U9F8V2oQsxDZtAPjYdqzfotFkc%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608950160&amp;sdata=w8LJvawWhpWEA9vTNtJN3WArbqG0%2BpgoX4erHy4e2%2Fs%3D&amp;reserved=0">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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.RFUpkLbn85KXyB9EOHSG2ZB-Z31AQ88NeA54HtUVP1M%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608950160&amp;sdata=BH%2FmSsj3evyoD8vxzflUW64NQAjL0JiH2Ly5zL8247w%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&nbsp;to help keep them informed. The number is&nbsp;<a href="tel:+14025526645">(402) 552-6645</a>; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 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&nbsp;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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.72QrjUhTVqH6N2QG5sjNO16-mMhmqq1B2c1nH9CI8ak%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608960154&amp;sdata=K9v4FdcNKS%2B31AJ0gFH%2BhazABWJjSCOaSphHWHB%2BQnY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Two more Nebraska counties reported their first cases of COVID-19 to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) on Monday.Two cases were reported in Cedar County (Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vbm5waGQvIn0.RlAlDmcdxorSGmrP5J2GilJ7nfiSlU6B685c-M2e0ME%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608900191&amp;sdata=dBDjVLO17GW328DK6ASJkRPhAhc3C9u0dkRgAkJrkkU%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.facebook.com/nnphd/</a>, the first for the county, and Valley County (Loup Basin Public Health Department -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vbGJwaGQub3JnLyJ9.xLZLxMCzdv_ZPPL960fDPr2bwiQKUDI594McLcWMfxo%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608910184&amp;sdata=4H0epE3cCw4OXstHRiyhw%2BIgk3WRaG5t1iHJRvUOA%2BA%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.facebook.com/lbphd.org/</a>) reported its first case.Local health departments are reporting deaths and cases in their jurisdictions. In the event of a discrepancy between DHHS dashboard data&nbsp;and deaths or cases reported by local public health officials, data reported by the local health department should be considered the most up to date.The total number of COVID-19-related deaths in the state to date is 55, according to the DHHS data dashboard. Yesterday’s count of 56 included&nbsp;a death erroneously entered into the electronic system. It was removed from the total count.Today’s state case total, as of 5:45 pm Central Daylight Time, is 3,358. Nebraska’s COVID-19 case totals are updated daily at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.kAuin5dITfEEd1fjyXMQESlJ5Bl_wY0pi8DjeTJPdbU%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608910184&amp;sdata=4Y1xY1w5%2BPG341kIJY0N%2BI65ET%2BmgENSVTUvtkwoXts%3D&amp;reserved=0">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.&nbsp;All 93 Nebraska counties are now covered by state Directed Health Measures (DHMs).&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.E-uQhSKZA7erIJmU7xTWlT4sY-4E04V7dg9CK-n9srQ%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608920178&amp;sdata=gN%2FX%2BTaNT9flUag7N5XcVdZ9ZQaLk1ix93FtmC5Hj9I%3D&amp;reserved=0">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&nbsp;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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvUGFnZXMvQ09WSUQtMTktRGlyZWN0ZWQtSGVhbHRoLU1lYXN1cmVzLmFzcHgifQ.srtA3Q6i6Ocz-1m0PS4X2JUSbN0HyAU6-Dte8VnPmVE%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608920178&amp;sdata=PqgIFUkf7AAp6yIWCx2tMUJcg6%2BsQiFmkp2UZYTsB90%3D&amp;reserved=0">http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx</a>Governor Pete Ricketts recently unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50ZXN0bmVicmFza2EuY29tLyJ9.Q0sGWlN5BiIuLIOPGByjZq3f5_fe_7KtSSA5KtqaMnI%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608930173&amp;sdata=HRqIVHHFo0re57MPMZ42dDnuN9lt3Hh9NtUARTUaKpY%3D&amp;reserved=0">TestNebraska</a>, a public-private partnership designed to increase testing capacity and #CrushTheCurve in Nebraska. The Governor is urging all Nebraskans to take the assessment provided on the TestNebraska website to help&nbsp;identify cases of COVID-19 in the state. After taking the assessment participants who fit the criteria will be notified via phone or email that they qualify to be tested for COVID-19. Nebraskans can take the assessment at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50ZXN0bmVicmFza2EuY29tLyJ9.erp8q18DthmGsxKd4xu2huLejn5kbL9u6kkplxzixRw%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608930173&amp;sdata=nKI8hToCFMp9leHl03ZkU0ynvLknUkijj6n9aEafhL0%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.testnebraska.com/</a>DHHS supports Governor Ricketts in urging Nebraskans to follow the&nbsp;Six Rules to Keep Nebraska Healthy.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Stay home.&nbsp;No non-essential&nbsp;errands and no social gatherings. Respect the ten-person limits.</li><li>Socially distance your work.&nbsp;Work from home or use the six-foot rule as much as possible in the workplace.&nbsp;</li><li>Shop alone. Do this only&nbsp;once a week and do not take your family with you.</li><li>Help kids social distance.&nbsp;Play at home, no group sports and no playgrounds.</li><li>Help seniors stay at home.&nbsp;This can be done by shopping for them. Do not visit long-term facilities.&nbsp;</li><li>Exercise daily. Do your&nbsp;best to stay as healthy and safe as you can. &nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Recent studies show that a significant portion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and those who eventually develop symptoms can pass the&nbsp;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,&nbsp;pharmacies, etc.) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9wcmV2ZW50LWdldHRpbmctc2ljay9jbG90aC1mYWNlLWNvdmVyLWZhcS5odG1sIn0.FJRqgpfaCCfdcmj9667wHUZ96vhcRnQ4K6IUVGr9KOM%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608940168&amp;sdata=yJ%2BcjpEhKd086d7yfpdFt47iRUfKV51WDh9iZevxO6c%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-faq.html</a>.Cloth face coverings are not a substitute for social distancing. Public health officials continue to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social&nbsp;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&nbsp;responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.gOdU8ALNOzypzJud-U9F8V2oQsxDZtAPjYdqzfotFkc%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608950160&amp;sdata=w8LJvawWhpWEA9vTNtJN3WArbqG0%2BpgoX4erHy4e2%2Fs%3D&amp;reserved=0">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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.RFUpkLbn85KXyB9EOHSG2ZB-Z31AQ88NeA54HtUVP1M%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608950160&amp;sdata=BH%2FmSsj3evyoD8vxzflUW64NQAjL0JiH2Ly5zL8247w%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&nbsp;to help keep them informed. The number is&nbsp;<a href="tel:+14025526645">(402) 552-6645</a>; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CDT, 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&nbsp;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.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MjguMjA3MjYwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.72QrjUhTVqH6N2QG5sjNO16-mMhmqq1B2c1nH9CI8ak%2Fbr%2F77899040504-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C8a092609f1dc481af42708d7eb1e0d12%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637236386608960154&amp;sdata=K9v4FdcNKS%2B31AJ0gFH%2BhazABWJjSCOaSphHWHB%2BQnY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19&nbsp;</a>.

Two Counties report first cases of COVID-19

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House released new guidelines Monday aimed at answering criticism that America’s coronavirus testing has been too slow, and President Donald Trump tried to pivot toward a focus on “reopening” the nation.

The new testing targets would ensure states had enough COVID-19 tests available to sample at least 2.6% of their populations each month — a figure already met by a majority of states. Areas that have been harder hit by the virus would be able to test at double that rate, or higher, the White House said.

The testing issue has bedeviled the administration for months. Trump told reporters on March 6 during a visit to the CDC in Atlanta that “anybody that wants a test can get a test,” but the reality has proved to be vastly different.

The initial COVID-19 test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was contaminated, and early kits operated only on platforms able to perform a small number of tests per day. While the rate of testing increased as tests developed for higher-capacity platforms, they were still limited by shortages of supplies, from nasal swabs to the reagents used to process the samples.

Administration officials maintained Monday that the limiting factor now is actually the availability of samples from people who have been tested — either because guidelines on who could be tested are too stringent or because there are not enough health workers able to take nasal swab samples from them.

The CDC moved to address one of those concerns Monday, expanding the list of people to be prioritized for virus testing to include those who show no symptoms but are in high-risk settings like nursing homes. And Trump met with leaders of businesses including CVS, Walmart and Kroger, who said they were working to expand access to tests across the country.

“Testing is not going to be a problem at all,” Trump said later in the Rose Garden.

However, many of the administration’s past pledges and goals on testing have not been met.

Jeremy Konyndyk, a disaster preparedness expert who helped lead the Obama administration response to Ebola, said the administration’s testing plans are well short of what is needed.

Researchers at Harvard have estimated the country needs to be testing a minimum of 500,000 people per day, and possibly many more. Konyndyk said the aim should be 2 million to 3 million per day. Trump said the current total, up sharply in recent days, is over 200,000 per day.

Konyndyk said: “Over the past month, we’ve doubled or if you want to be really generous tripled the testing capacity in this country. We need to take where we are now and expand it tenfold.”

The testing blueprint for states provides details missing from the administration’s guidelines for them to return to normal operations, which were released more than a week ago. It includes a focus on surveillance testing as well as “rapid response” programs to isolate those who test positive and identify those with whom they had come in contact. The administration aims to have the market “flooded” with tests for the fall, when COVID-19 is expected to recur alongside the seasonal flu.

Trump and administration medical experts outlined the plan on a call with governors Monday afternoon, before unveiling them publicly in a Rose Garden press conference.

The White House announcements came as Trump sought to regain his footing after weeks of criticism and detours created in part by his press briefings.

Days after he set off a firestorm by publicly musing that scientists should explore the injection of toxic disinfectants as a potential virus cure, Trump said he found little use for his daily task force briefings, where he has time and again clashed with medical experts and reporters. Trump’s aides had been trying to move the president onto more familiar and, they hope, safer, ground: talking up the economy in more tightly controlled settings.

Republican Party polling shows Trump’s path to a second term depends on the public’s perception of how quickly the economy rebounds from the state-by-state shutdowns meant to slow the spread of the virus.

On Monday, the White House initially announced there would be a Trump briefing, but canceled it as Trump’s greatest asset in the reelection campaign — his ability to dominate headlines with freewheeling performances — was increasingly seen as a liability.

But hours later, it became clear Trump had other ideas. He held court in the Rose Garden for a bit less than an hour.

Spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said briefings would be held later in the week but “they might have a new look to them, a new focus to them.”

Trump said he hoped that virus deaths would end up no more than 60,000 to 70,000, slightly revising upward his public estimate of recent days as the U.S. toll neared 56,000 on nearly 1 million cases. Still, he claimed a victory given dire, tenfold-higher predictions if the U.S. hadn’t adopted restrictive social distancing measures.

On his conference call with governors, Trump suggested that many states should consider reopening schools before the end of the academic year, easing the way for parents to go back to work.

“Some of you might start thinking about school openings because a lot of people are wanting to have the school openings,” Trump told the governors. The Associated Press obtained an audio recording of the call.

Meanwhile, the CDC was beginning to release more detailed guidelines on reopening schools, restaurants and other establishments. Draft guidelines sent by the CDC to Washington include a long list of recommendations for organizations as they begin to reopen, such as closing break rooms at offices, spacing desks six feet apart at schools and using disposable plates and menus at restaurants. The draft guidance was obtained by The Associated Press from a federal official who was not authorized to release it.

<a href="https://apnews.com/fbc35dc7c386447347d7254597b95b3b">Some states</a>&nbsp;have started to ease closure orders, and Trump is expected to spend coming days highlighting his administration’s efforts to help businesses and employees. Aides said the president would hold more frequent roundtables with CEOs, business owners and beneficiaries of the trillions of dollars in federal aid already approved by Congress, and begin to outline what he hopes to see in an additional recovery package.

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c52eb7fc343906ac2dbb9c60b3cf423e">last left the White House complex</a>&nbsp;a month ago, and plans are being drawn up for a limited schedule of travel within the next few weeks, aides said. It would be a symbolic show that the nation is beginning to reopen.

The shift toward the economy comes in conjunction with what the White House sees as encouraging signs across the country, with the pace of new infections stabilizing and deaths declining.

Still, medical experts warn that the virus will continue to haunt the country at least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b89077d3a652cc564a5b01083de8dbce">until a vaccine</a>&nbsp;is developed. And they say the risk of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c5cbe2bb3160af9054a1ea5249fff091">severe second wave&nbsp;</a>is high if&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/fa1fda126fe191425abc20ab461dfbe7">social distancing</a>&nbsp;measures are relaxed too quickly or if testing and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/588a99e650336bd3e2dda838e0725a67">contact tracing</a>&nbsp;schemes aren’t developed before people return to normal behaviors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025544339.png" alt="Admiral Brett Giroir, M.D.,&nbsp;Assistant Secretary for Health during Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>Admiral Brett Giroir, M.D.,&nbsp;Assistant Secretary for Health during Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House released new guidelines Monday aimed at answering criticism that America’s coronavirus testing has been too slow, and President Donald Trump tried to pivot toward a focus on “reopening” the nation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025311828.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The new testing targets would ensure states had enough COVID-19 tests available to sample at least 2.6% of their populations each month — a figure already met by a majority of states. Areas that have been harder hit by the virus would be able to test at double that rate, or higher, the White House said.The testing issue has bedeviled the administration for months. Trump told reporters on March 6 during a visit to the CDC in Atlanta that “anybody that wants a test can get a test,” but the reality has proved to be vastly different.The initial COVID-19 test developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was contaminated, and early kits operated only on platforms able to perform a small number of tests per day. While the rate of testing increased as tests developed for higher-capacity platforms, they were still limited by shortages of supplies, from nasal swabs to the reagents used to process the samples.Administration officials maintained Monday that the limiting factor now is actually the availability of samples from people who have been tested — either because guidelines on who could be tested are too stringent or because there are not enough health workers able to take nasal swab samples from them.The CDC moved to address one of those concerns Monday, expanding the list of people to be prioritized for virus testing to include those who show no symptoms but are in high-risk settings like nursing homes. And Trump met with leaders of businesses including CVS, Walmart and Kroger, who said they were working to expand access to tests across the country.“Testing is not going to be a problem at all,” Trump said later in the Rose Garden.However, many of the administration’s past pledges and goals on testing have not been met.Jeremy Konyndyk, a disaster preparedness expert who helped lead the Obama administration response to Ebola, said the administration’s testing plans are well short of what is needed.Researchers at Harvard have estimated the country needs to be testing a minimum of 500,000 people per day, and possibly many more. Konyndyk said the aim should be 2 million to 3 million per day. Trump said the current total, up sharply in recent days, is over 200,000 per day.Konyndyk said: “Over the past month, we’ve doubled or if you want to be really generous tripled the testing capacity in this country. We need to take where we are now and expand it tenfold.”The testing blueprint for states provides details missing from the administration’s guidelines for them to return to normal operations, which were released more than a week ago. It includes a focus on surveillance testing as well as “rapid response” programs to isolate those who test positive and identify those with whom they had come in contact. The administration aims to have the market “flooded” with tests for the fall, when COVID-19 is expected to recur alongside the seasonal flu.Trump and administration medical experts outlined the plan on a call with governors Monday afternoon, before unveiling them publicly in a Rose Garden press conference.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025311828.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The White House announcements came as Trump sought to regain his footing after weeks of criticism and detours created in part by his press briefings.Days after he set off a firestorm by publicly musing that scientists should explore the injection of toxic disinfectants as a potential virus cure, Trump said he found little use for his daily task force briefings, where he has time and again clashed with medical experts and reporters. Trump’s aides had been trying to move the president onto more familiar and, they hope, safer, ground: talking up the economy in more tightly controlled settings.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588025386191.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Republican Party polling shows Trump’s path to a second term depends on the public’s perception of how quickly the economy rebounds from the state-by-state shutdowns meant to slow the spread of the virus.On Monday, the White House initially announced there would be a Trump briefing, but canceled it as Trump’s greatest asset in the reelection campaign — his ability to dominate headlines with freewheeling performances — was increasingly seen as a liability.But hours later, it became clear Trump had other ideas. He held court in the Rose Garden for a bit less than an hour.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588069680758.png" alt="President Trump makes his way to the microphone to open Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump makes his way to the microphone to open Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>Spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said briefings would be held later in the week but “they might have a new look to them, a new focus to them.”Trump said he hoped that virus deaths would end up no more than 60,000 to 70,000, slightly revising upward his public estimate of recent days as the U.S. toll neared 56,000 on nearly 1 million cases. Still, he claimed a victory given dire, tenfold-higher predictions if the U.S. hadn’t adopted restrictive social distancing measures.On his conference call with governors, Trump suggested that many states should consider reopening schools before the end of the academic year, easing the way for parents to go back to work.“Some of you might start thinking about school openings because a lot of people are wanting to have the school openings,” Trump told the governors. The Associated Press obtained an audio recording of the call.Meanwhile, the CDC was beginning to release more detailed guidelines on reopening schools, restaurants and other establishments. Draft guidelines sent by the CDC to Washington include a long list of recommendations for organizations as they begin to reopen, such as closing break rooms at offices, spacing desks six feet apart at schools and using disposable plates and menus at restaurants. The draft guidance was obtained by The Associated Press from a federal official who was not authorized to release it.<a href="https://apnews.com/fbc35dc7c386447347d7254597b95b3b">Some states</a>&nbsp;have started to ease closure orders, and Trump is expected to spend coming days highlighting his administration’s efforts to help businesses and employees. Aides said the president would hold more frequent roundtables with CEOs, business owners and beneficiaries of the trillions of dollars in federal aid already approved by Congress, and begin to outline what he hopes to see in an additional recovery package.Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c52eb7fc343906ac2dbb9c60b3cf423e">last left the White House complex</a>&nbsp;a month ago, and plans are being drawn up for a limited schedule of travel within the next few weeks, aides said. It would be a symbolic show that the nation is beginning to reopen.The shift toward the economy comes in conjunction with what the White House sees as encouraging signs across the country, with the pace of new infections stabilizing and deaths declining.Still, medical experts warn that the virus will continue to haunt the country at least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b89077d3a652cc564a5b01083de8dbce">until a vaccine</a>&nbsp;is developed. And they say the risk of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/c5cbe2bb3160af9054a1ea5249fff091">severe second wave&nbsp;</a>is high if&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/fa1fda126fe191425abc20ab461dfbe7">social distancing</a>&nbsp;measures are relaxed too quickly or if testing and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/588a99e650336bd3e2dda838e0725a67">contact tracing</a>&nbsp;schemes aren’t developed before people return to normal behaviors.___

White House releases new coronavirus testing guidelines

Central District Health Department reports that as of today, April 27, 2020, the number of positive COVID-19 cases confirmed by a laboratory is 954, and there are 25 deaths. There are 8 cases in Merrick County, 47 cases in Hamilton County and 899 in Hall County.

News Release CDHDCentral District Health Department reports that as of today, April 27, 2020, the number of positive COVID-19 cases confirmed by a laboratory is 954, and there are 25 deaths. There are 8 cases in Merrick County, 47 cases in Hamilton County and 899 in Hall County.The Department of Health of the Central District reports that today April 27, 2020, the number of positive cases of COVID-19 confirmed by a laboratory is 954, and there are 25 deaths. There are 8 cases in Merrick County, 47 cases in Hamilton County, and 899 in Hall County.

Coronavirus Update