OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The pace of coronavirus vaccinations in Nebraska has slowed significantly over the past month. 

The state said 49,016 vaccine doses were administered in Nebraska last week. That continues the steady decline seen in recent weeks when roughly 70,000 and 93,000 doses were administered. 

The latest weekly total of vaccine doses is less than one-quarter of the mid-April peak of 211,057 doses in a single week. 

Health officials said 49.9% of the state’s population over the age of 16 has now been vaccinated.

 The state reported 411 new virus cases and one death Tuesday to give Nebraska a total of 221,911 cases and 2,247 deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1619996336144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The pace of coronavirus vaccinations in Nebraska has slowed significantly over the past month. The state said 49,016 vaccine doses were administered in Nebraska last week. That continues the steady decline seen in recent weeks when roughly 70,000 and 93,000 doses were administered. The latest weekly total of vaccine doses is less than one-quarter of the mid-April peak of 211,057 doses in a single week. Health officials said 49.9% of the state’s population over the age of 16 has now been vaccinated. The state reported 411 new virus cases and one death Tuesday to give Nebraska a total of 221,911 cases and 2,247 deaths.

Pace of virus vaccinations slows significantly in Nebraska

WASHINGTON (AP) —COVID-19 vaccines finally are headed for more kids as U.S. regulators on Monday expanded use of Pfizer’s shot to those as young as 12, sparking a race to protect middle and high school students before they head back to class in the fall.

Shots could begin as soon as a federal vaccine advisory committee issues recommendations for using the two-dose vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds, expected Wednesday.

Vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to a return to normalcy. Most COVID-19 vaccines rolling out worldwide have been authorized for adults. Pfizer’s vaccine is being used in multiple countries for teens as young as 16, and Canada recently became the first to expand use to 12 and up. Parents, school administrators and public health officials elsewhere are anxiously awaiting the shot to become available to more kids.

“This is a watershed moment in our ability to fight back the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Bill Gruber, a Pfizer senior vice president who’s also a pediatrician, told The Associated Press.

The Food and Drug Administration declared the Pfizer vaccine is safe and offers strong protection for younger teens based on testing of more than 2,000 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15. The study found no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among kids given dummy shots. More intriguing, researchers found the kids developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than earlier studies measured in young adults.

The younger teens received the same vaccine dosage as adults and had the same side effects, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal a revved-up immune system, especially after the second dose.

Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech recently requested similar authorization in the European Union, with other countries to follow.

The latest news is welcome for U.S. families struggling to decide what activities are safe to resume when only the youngest family members remain unvaccinated.

“I can’t feel totally comfortable because my boys aren’t vaccinated,” said Carrie Vittitoe, a substitute teacher and freelance writer in Louisville, Kentucky, who is fully vaccinated as are her husband and 17-year-old daughter.

The FDA decision means her 13-year-old son soon could be eligible, leaving only her 11-year-old son who would be unvaccinated. The family hasn’t yet resumed going to church, and summer vacation will be a road trip so they don’t have to get on a plane.

“We can’t really go back to normal because two-fifths of our family don’t have protection,” Vittitoe said.

Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects. Another U.S. company, Novavax, has a COVID-19 vaccine in late-stage development and just began a study in 12- to 17-year-olds as well.

Next up is testing whether the vaccine works for even younger children. Both Pfizer and Moderna have begun U.S. studies in children ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore whether babies, preschoolers and elementary-age kids will need different doses than teens and adults. Gruber said Pfizer expects its first results sometime in the fall.

Outside of the U.S., AstraZeneca is studying its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.

Children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill from COVID-19 yet they still have been hard-hit by the pandemic. They represent nearly 14% of the nation’s coronavirus cases. At least 296 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 15,000 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

That’s not counting the toll of family members becoming ill or dying -- or the disruption to school, sports and other activities so crucial to children’s overall well-being.

“Children right now are struggling,” Gruber said. Plus, “we need as many people in the country who have the potential to transmit the virus to be protected.”

Experts say children must get the shots if the country is to vaccinate the 70% to 85% of the population necessary to reach what’s called herd immunity.

In the meantime, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says unvaccinated people -- including children -- should continue taking precautions such as wearing masks indoors and keeping their distance from other unvaccinated people outside of their households.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608677701818.png" alt="A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 -Photo courtesy Truman Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>A worker at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City prepares doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against the virus that causes COVID-19 -Photo courtesy Truman Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —COVID-19 vaccines finally are headed for more kids as U.S. regulators on Monday expanded use of Pfizer’s shot to those as young as 12, sparking a race to protect middle and high school students before they head back to class in the fall.Shots could begin as soon as a federal vaccine advisory committee issues recommendations for using the two-dose vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds, expected Wednesday.Vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to a return to normalcy. Most COVID-19 vaccines rolling out worldwide have been authorized for adults. Pfizer’s vaccine is being used in multiple countries for teens as young as 16, and Canada recently became the first to expand use to 12 and up. Parents, school administrators and public health officials elsewhere are anxiously awaiting the shot to become available to more kids.“This is a watershed moment in our ability to fight back the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dr. Bill Gruber, a Pfizer senior vice president who’s also a pediatrician, told The Associated Press.The Food and Drug Administration declared the Pfizer vaccine is safe and offers strong protection for younger teens based on testing of more than 2,000 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15. The study found no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among kids given dummy shots. More intriguing, researchers found the kids developed higher levels of virus-fighting antibodies than earlier studies measured in young adults.The younger teens received the same vaccine dosage as adults and had the same side effects, mostly sore arms and flu-like fever, chills or aches that signal a revved-up immune system, especially after the second dose.Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech recently requested similar authorization in the European Union, with other countries to follow.The latest news is welcome for U.S. families struggling to decide what activities are safe to resume when only the youngest family members remain unvaccinated.“I can’t feel totally comfortable because my boys aren’t vaccinated,” said Carrie Vittitoe, a substitute teacher and freelance writer in Louisville, Kentucky, who is fully vaccinated as are her husband and 17-year-old daughter.The FDA decision means her 13-year-old son soon could be eligible, leaving only her 11-year-old son who would be unvaccinated. The family hasn’t yet resumed going to church, and summer vacation will be a road trip so they don’t have to get on a plane.“We can’t really go back to normal because two-fifths of our family don’t have protection,” Vittitoe said.Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Moderna recently said preliminary results from its study in 12- to 17-year-olds show strong protection and no serious side effects. Another U.S. company, Novavax, has a COVID-19 vaccine in late-stage development and just began a study in 12- to 17-year-olds as well.Next up is testing whether the vaccine works for even younger children. Both Pfizer and Moderna have begun U.S. studies in children ages 6 months to 11 years. Those studies explore whether babies, preschoolers and elementary-age kids will need different doses than teens and adults. Gruber said Pfizer expects its first results sometime in the fall.Outside of the U.S., AstraZeneca is studying its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.Children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill from COVID-19 yet they still have been hard-hit by the pandemic. They represent nearly 14% of the nation’s coronavirus cases. At least 296 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 15,000 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics.That’s not counting the toll of family members becoming ill or dying -- or the disruption to school, sports and other activities so crucial to children’s overall well-being.“Children right now are struggling,” Gruber said. Plus, “we need as many people in the country who have the potential to transmit the virus to be protected.”Experts say children must get the shots if the country is to vaccinate the 70% to 85% of the population necessary to reach what’s called herd immunity.In the meantime, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says unvaccinated people -- including children -- should continue taking precautions such as wearing masks indoors and keeping their distance from other unvaccinated people outside of their households.___

US children age 12-15 can now get Pfizer COVID shot 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — State health officials say a small number of Nebraskans who have been vaccinated for the coronavirus later developed COVID-19. 

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said that 343 people have tested positive for COVID-19 after being fully vaccinated. 

But that represents just 0.05% of the 689,561 people who have been fully vaccinated in the state. 

So far, 46.5% of Nebraska’s population over 16 has been vaccinated. 

The state also said school-aged children who come in contact with someone who is infected with the coronavirus no longer have to quarantine themselves at home.

 Instead, those children can just monitor themselves for symptoms while continuing to attend school.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — State health officials say a small number of Nebraskans who have been vaccinated for the coronavirus later developed COVID-19. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said that 343 people have tested positive for COVID-19 after being fully vaccinated. But that represents just 0.05% of the 689,561 people who have been fully vaccinated in the state. So far, 46.5% of Nebraska’s population over 16 has been vaccinated. The state also said school-aged children who come in contact with someone who is infected with the coronavirus no longer have to quarantine themselves at home. Instead, those children can just monitor themselves for symptoms while continuing to attend school.

Nebraska says small number of vaccinated people got COVID-19

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 99 new cases of COVID-19 and three new deaths due to complications from the coronavirus. 

It's the third day in a row that officials have confirmed three deaths, raising the total number of fatalities to 1,976 since the start of the pandemic. 

The COVID Tracking Project reports that the death count is the eighth highest per capita in the country at 224 deaths per 100,000 people. 

There have been 123,073 positive COVID-19 tests reported in South Dakota. 

A total of 331,863 South Dakotans have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, which is more than 55% of the people who are eligible for shots.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 99 new cases of COVID-19 and three new deaths due to complications from the coronavirus. It's the third day in a row that officials have confirmed three deaths, raising the total number of fatalities to 1,976 since the start of the pandemic. The COVID Tracking Project reports that the death count is the eighth highest per capita in the country at 224 deaths per 100,000 people. There have been 123,073 positive COVID-19 tests reported in South Dakota. A total of 331,863 South Dakotans have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, which is more than 55% of the people who are eligible for shots.

South Dakota reports 99 COVID-19 cases, 3 additional deaths

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Many parents and educators are excited over the news that the Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine by next week for youngsters ages 12 to 15.

 Officials are hoping that extending vaccinations to children will drive down the nation’s caseload even further and allow schools to reopen with minimal disruption this fall. 

It could also reassure parents and teachers alike. 

While children are less likely to get seriously ill from the coronavirus, they can still get sick and spread it to others, too.

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Many parents and educators are excited over the news that the Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine by next week for youngsters ages 12 to 15. Officials are hoping that extending vaccinations to children will drive down the nation’s caseload even further and allow schools to reopen with minimal disruption this fall. It could also reassure parents and teachers alike. While children are less likely to get seriously ill from the coronavirus, they can still get sick and spread it to others, too.

US parents excited over prospect of virus shots for children

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new virus cases in the state has declined to levels not seen since last July but the pace of vaccinations is also slowing down across Nebraska.

 The state reported 1,166 new cases during the seven days that ended on Saturday.

 The Omaha World-Herald reports that’s down 29% from the 1,653 cases the state reported the week before. 

Douglas County Health Director Adi Pour said the case numbers are headed in the right direction. 

The state said more than 70,000 vaccine doses were administered across Nebraska last week. But that is significantly below the mid-April peak of 211,057 doses in a week.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new virus cases in the state has declined to levels not seen since last July but the pace of vaccinations is also slowing down across Nebraska. The state reported 1,166 new cases during the seven days that ended on Saturday. The Omaha World-Herald reports that’s down 29% from the 1,653 cases the state reported the week before. Douglas County Health Director Adi Pour said the case numbers are headed in the right direction. The state said more than 70,000 vaccine doses were administered across Nebraska last week. But that is significantly below the mid-April peak of 211,057 doses in a week.

New virus cases at lowest level since July in Nebraska

Dr. Matthew Bruner, OB/GYN and Chief Medical Officer at Regional West Health Services based in Scottsbluff joined the regular Monday briefing to discuss COVID vaccines and answer questions from attendees. Bruner has been involved regionally and statewide in COVID response and addressed an array of misconceptions and information circulating.

One misconception has been commonly shared around the vaccine causing infertility.

“We’ve seen people into their second trimester who have received the vaccine prior to pregnancy. The concern has been debunked and this has been affirmed by reproductive endocrinologists,” said Dr. Bruner.

As a freedom-loving American, he believes people are able to make their own decisions, but those decisions involve the safety of the person and the safety of the population which is improved with vaccinations.

When asked about encouraging older people to get the vaccine, Dr. Bruner relayed the importance of weighing the risk and benefits. Some people find that 24-36 hours of potentially not feeling good is not worth it but what they don’t realize is this could keep them from having a very serious bout of COVID. Potential side effects are true with getting your shingles, whooping cough, and measles shots as well.

While he acknowledged the reluctance, he shared the importance of more people needing to get the COVID shot, or we must continue with social distancing and masking as it just prolongs the pandemic.

“The vaccines are safe and the ability of the vaccine to cover the disease is excellent. I encourage everybody to take the leap and get the vaccination. Finish the course, don’t skip it just with one [specific to a two-dose series]. Don’t be afraid of it, patients that we have seen recently in medical care have been unvaccinated individuals,” Dr. Bruner concluded.

Ample COVID vaccine supply and appointments are available. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule with two easy steps:

The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. There is no charge for the vaccine. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov. For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results.

<a>People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

Unified Command confirms 20 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 26.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – May 3, 2021): 169 days

Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others

Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with

Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation

Current COVID testing access can be found at www.pphd.org.

The Panhandle COVID dashboard is now being updated on Mondays only prior to the 3:30pm MT briefing and available at www.pphd.org. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

By PPHDDr. Matthew Bruner, OB/GYN and Chief Medical Officer at Regional West Health Services based in Scottsbluff joined the regular Monday briefing to discuss COVID vaccines and answer questions from attendees. Bruner has been involved regionally and statewide in COVID response and addressed an array of misconceptions and information circulating.One misconception has been commonly shared around the vaccine causing infertility.“We’ve seen people into their second trimester who have received the vaccine prior to pregnancy. The concern has been debunked and this has been affirmed by reproductive endocrinologists,” said Dr. Bruner.As a freedom-loving American, he believes people are able to make their own decisions, but those decisions involve the safety of the person and the safety of the population which is improved with vaccinations.When asked about encouraging older people to get the vaccine, Dr. Bruner relayed the importance of weighing the risk and benefits. Some people find that 24-36 hours of potentially not feeling good is not worth it but what they don’t realize is this could keep them from having a very serious bout of COVID. Potential side effects are true with getting your shingles, whooping cough, and measles shots as well.While he acknowledged the reluctance, he shared the importance of more people needing to get the COVID shot, or we must continue with social distancing and masking as it just prolongs the pandemic.“The vaccines are safe and the ability of the vaccine to cover the disease is excellent. I encourage everybody to take the leap and get the vaccination. Finish the course, don’t skip it just with one [specific to a two-dose series]. Don’t be afraid of it, patients that we have seen recently in medical care have been unvaccinated individuals,” Dr. Bruner concluded.Ample COVID vaccine supply and appointments are available. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule with two easy steps:<ul>
 <li>Register on the vaccinate.ne.gov website.</li><li>For the corresponding counties, pick a location, day, and time that works for you.&nbsp;Dates and times will be added to the links as they are made available.</li><li>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Garden:&nbsp;sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;– a provider will call you</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Scottsbluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li>
 </ul>The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. There is no charge for the vaccine. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov. For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results.<a>People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>. Unified Command confirms 20 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 26.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620139196496.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-May 3, 2021Total Tests Conducted: 38,191Positive: 9,020Last 14 days (active) cases: 31Last week’s cases: 20Last week’s positivity rate: 5.3%Deaths: 191Active Hospitalizations: 2Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 546Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – May 3, 2021): 169 daysAvoid the Three Cs:Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from othersAvoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live withAvoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilationCurrent COVID testing access can be found at www.pphd.org.The Panhandle COVID dashboard is now being updated on Mondays only prior to the 3:30pm MT briefing and available at www.pphd.org. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Dr. Bruner: 'Don’t be afraid of it, the vaccines are safe,' more cases reported

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The pace of coronavirus vaccinations is slowing down across Nebraska as the state reported less than 100,000 shots were given in a week for the first time this month. 

State health officials said 93,284 doses of the vaccines were administered last week in Nebraska.

 That is less than half the 211,057 doses the state reported a week earlier. In each of the two previous weeks, roughly 120,000 doses of the shots were given statewide. 

Terra Uhing, who leads Three Rivers Public Health that serves Dodge, Saunders and Washington counties said there doesn't seem to be the same urgency to get the vaccine across the state.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The pace of coronavirus vaccinations is slowing down across Nebraska as the state reported less than 100,000 shots were given in a week for the first time this month. State health officials said 93,284 doses of the vaccines were administered last week in Nebraska. That is less than half the 211,057 doses the state reported a week earlier. In each of the two previous weeks, roughly 120,000 doses of the shots were given statewide. Terra Uhing, who leads Three Rivers Public Health that serves Dodge, Saunders and Washington counties said there doesn't seem to be the same urgency to get the vaccine across the state.

Pace of virus vaccinations slows across Nebraska

The Panhandle COVID risk dial is informed on the latest science available and updated accordingly. Guidance, counties, and communities will be updated at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;in the next few days. Updates include the following:

After a temporary pause, CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommend use of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s Janssen (J&amp;J/Janssen) COVID Vaccine resume in the United States. A review of all available data at this time shows that the J&amp;J/Janssen COVID vaccine’s known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks.

Women under 50 years old should be aware of the rare but increased risk of the adverse event called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), and that there are other COVID vaccine options available for which this risk has not been seen. CDC and FDA will continue to monitor the safety of all COVID vaccines.&nbsp;

The South African COVID variant B1.351 has been confirmed in the Panhandle. Variants are more contagious and can cause more severe illness and hospitalization.

“Getting vaccinated is critical to slowing the spread of COVID, especially with the presence of variants in the Panhandle,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

<a>People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

Unified Command confirms 31 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 19. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDThe Panhandle COVID risk dial is informed on the latest science available and updated accordingly. Guidance, counties, and communities will be updated at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;in the next few days. Updates include the following:<ul>
 <li>Testing&nbsp;– access and turnaround time (if the result is back within 48 hours)</li><li>Case rate&nbsp;– will change to a 7-day rolling average per day per 100,000</li><li>ICU bed availability&nbsp;– will shift to hospital beds with a COVID patient, not ICU beds individually</li><li>Deaths -&nbsp;new deaths per week, this is a new indicator being added</li><li>Overall Panhandle vaccination rate -&nbsp;this is a new indicator being added</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619534458458.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a temporary pause, CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommend use of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s Janssen (J&amp;J/Janssen) COVID Vaccine resume in the United States. A review of all available data at this time shows that the J&amp;J/Janssen COVID vaccine’s known and potential benefits outweigh its known and potential risks.Women under 50 years old should be aware of the rare but increased risk of the adverse event called thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), and that there are other COVID vaccine options available for which this risk has not been seen. CDC and FDA will continue to monitor the safety of all COVID vaccines.&nbsp;The South African COVID variant B1.351 has been confirmed in the Panhandle. Variants are more contagious and can cause more severe illness and hospitalization.“Getting vaccinated is critical to slowing the spread of COVID, especially with the presence of variants in the Panhandle,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.Ample COVID vaccine supply and appointments are available. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule with two easy steps:<ul>
 <li>Register on the vaccinate.ne.gov website.</li><li>For the corresponding counties, pick a location, day, and time that works for you.&nbsp;Dates and times will be added to the links as they are made available.</li><li>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Garden:&nbsp;sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;– a provider will call you</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Scottsbluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li>
 </ul>The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. There is no charge for the vaccine. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov. For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results.<a>People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.Unified Command confirms 31 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 19. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619534312762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-April 26, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 37,899</li><li>Positive: 9,000</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 42</li><li>Last week’s cases: 27</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 7.9%</li><li>Deaths: 191</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 1</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 543</li><li>Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – April 26, 2021): 155 days</li>
 </ul>

PPHD: COVID risk dial updated, 31 more virus cases reported

Our goal has always been to keep Panhandle residents safe and healthy, and that is especially true during the COVID pandemic. The COVID vaccines offer us the opportunity to protect ourselves and those around us.

We know you want to stay safe and keep your family safe, and part of that involves ensuring you have the information you need about the vaccines to make an informed decision. Our focus is on listening to your questions, providing clear, accurate, science-based information, and keeping the Panhandle’s health front and center.

Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule for their COVID vaccine with two easy steps:

The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. Residents can easily get vaccinated this week. There is no charge for the vaccine.

For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov.

Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to <a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

COVID funeral assistance recently opened on April 12, 2021, there is no deadline to apply. FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020, under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 7am to 7pm MT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. If you receive a busy signal, please be patient as they are receiving thousands of calls and are working hard to answer each call.

To be eligible for funeral assistance, applicants must meet these conditions:

You can also visit fema.gov/funeral-assistance/faq with questions. The COVID pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families.&nbsp;Free and confidential help is available if you need it:

Unified Command confirms 26 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 12. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

By PPHDOur goal has always been to keep Panhandle residents safe and healthy, and that is especially true during the COVID pandemic. The COVID vaccines offer us the opportunity to protect ourselves and those around us.We know you want to stay safe and keep your family safe, and part of that involves ensuring you have the information you need about the vaccines to make an informed decision. Our focus is on listening to your questions, providing clear, accurate, science-based information, and keeping the Panhandle’s health front and center.Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule for their COVID vaccine with two easy steps:<ul>
 <li>Register on the vaccinate.ne.gov website.</li><li>For the corresponding counties, pick a location, day, and time that works for you.&nbsp;Dates and times will be added to the links as they are made available.</li><li>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Garden:&nbsp;sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;– a provider will call you</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Scottsbluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li>
 </ul>The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. Residents can easily get vaccinated this week. There is no charge for the vaccine.For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov.Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to <a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.COVID funeral assistance recently opened on April 12, 2021, there is no deadline to apply. FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020, under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 7am to 7pm MT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. If you receive a busy signal, please be patient as they are receiving thousands of calls and are working hard to answer each call.To be eligible for funeral assistance, applicants must meet these conditions:<ul>
 <li>The death must have occurred in the United States. The applicant must be a US citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.</li><li>The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID.</li><li>There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a US citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>You can also visit fema.gov/funeral-assistance/faq with questions. The COVID pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families.&nbsp;Free and confidential help is available if you need it:<ul>
 <li>Nebraska Rural&nbsp;Response Hotline:&nbsp;<a href="tel:1-800-464-0258" target="_blank">1-800-464-0258</a>, MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM TO 5PM</li><li>Nebraska Family Helpline:&nbsp;<a href="tel:+1-888-866-8660" target="_blank">1-888-866-8660</a>, 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK</li>
 </ul>Unified Command confirms 26 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 12. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618881372906.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-April 19, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 37,503</li><li>Positive: 8,970</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 52</li><li>Last week’s cases: 27</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 8.1%</li><li>Deaths: 191</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 4</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 543</li><li>Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – April 19, 2021): 155 days</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: Vaccines offer us the opportunity to protect ourselves and those around us

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska administered nearly 135,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines last week as the state continued to ramp up distribution of the shots. 

State health officials said 134,829 doses of the vaccines were administered last week, including one day when more than 40,000 shots were given. 

That is up from roughly 116,000 doses the week before. 

The state said Monday that 36.3% of the state’s population has now been fully vaccinated. 

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 484 new cases per day on April 3 to 323.71 new cases per day on Saturday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska administered nearly 135,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines last week as the state continued to ramp up distribution of the shots. State health officials said 134,829 doses of the vaccines were administered last week, including one day when more than 40,000 shots were given. That is up from roughly 116,000 doses the week before. The state said Monday that 36.3% of the state’s population has now been fully vaccinated. The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, going from 484 new cases per day on April 3 to 323.71 new cases per day on Saturday.

Nearly 135,000 virus shots given last week in Nebraska

WASHINGTON (AP) — The global death toll from the coronavirus topped a staggering 3 million people Saturday amid repeated setbacks in the worldwide vaccination campaign and a deepening crisis in places such as Brazil, India and France.

The number of lives lost, <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">as compiled by Johns Hopkins University</a>, is about equal to the population of Kyiv, Ukraine; Caracas, Venezuela; or metropolitan Lisbon, Portugal. It is bigger than Chicago (2.7 million) and equivalent to Philadelphia and Dallas combined.

And the true number is believed to be significantly higher because of possible government concealment and the many cases overlooked in the early stages of the outbreak that began in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019.

When the world back in January passed the bleak threshold of 2 million deaths, immunization drives had just started in Europe and the United States. Today, they are underway in more than 190 countries, though progress in bringing the virus under control varies widely.

While the campaigns in the U.S. and Britain have hit their stride and people and businesses there are beginning to contemplate life after the pandemic, other places, mostly poorer countries but some rich ones as well, are lagging behind in putting shots in arms and have imposed new lockdowns and other restrictions as virus cases soar.

Worldwide, deaths are on the rise again, running at around 12,000 per day on average, and new cases are climbing too, eclipsing 700,000 a day.

“This is not the situation we want to be in 16 months into a pandemic, where we have proven control measures,” said Maria Van Kerkhove, one of the World Health Organization’s leaders on COVID-19.

In Brazil, where deaths are running at about 3,000 per day, accounting for one-quarter of the lives lost worldwide in recent weeks, the crisis has been likened to a “raging inferno” by one WHO official. A more contagious variant of the virus has been rampaging across the country.

As cases surge, hospitals are running out of critical sedatives. As a result, there have been reports of some doctors diluting what supplies remain and even tying patients to their beds while breathing tubes are pushed down their throats.

The slow vaccine rollout has crushed Brazilians’ pride in their own history of carrying out huge immunization campaigns that were the envy of the developing world.

Taking cues from President Jair Bolsonaro, who has likened the virus to little more than a flu, his Health Ministry for months bet big on a single vaccine, ignoring other producers. When bottlenecks emerged, it was too late to get large quantities in time.

Watching so many patients suffer and die alone at her Rio de Janeiro hospital impelled nurse Lidiane Melo to take desperate measures.

In the early days of the pandemic, as sufferers were calling out for comfort that she was too busy to provide, Melo filled two rubber gloves with warm water, knotted them shut, and sandwiched them around a patient’s hand to simulate a loving touch.

Some have christened the practice the “hand of God,” and it is now the searing image of a nation roiled by a medical emergency with no end in sight.

“Patients can’t receive visitors. Sadly, there’s no way. So it’s a way to provide psychological support, to be there together with the patient holding their hand,” Melo said. She added: “And this year it’s worse, the seriousness of patients is 1,000 times greater.”

This situation is similarly dire in India, where cases spiked in February after weeks of steady decline, taking authorities by surprise. In a surge driven by variants of the virus, India saw over 180,000 new infections in one 24-hour span during the past week, bringing the total number of cases to over 13.9 million.

Problems that India had overcome last year are coming back to haunt health officials. Only 178 ventilators were free Wednesday afternoon in New Delhi, a city of 29 million, where 13,000 new infections were reported the previous day.

The challenges facing India reverberate beyond its borders since the country is the biggest supplier of shots to COVAX, the U.N.-sponsored program to distribute vaccines to poorer parts of the world. Last month, India said it would suspend vaccine exports until the virus’s spread inside the country slows.

The WHO recently described the supply situation as precarious. Up to 60 countries might not receive any more shots until June, by one estimate. To date, COVAX has delivered about 40 million doses to more than 100 countries, enough to cover barely 0.25% of the world’s population.

Globally, about 87% of the 700 million doses dispensed have been given out in rich countries. While 1 in 4 people in wealthy nations have received a vaccine, in poor countries the figure is 1 in more than 500.

In recent days, the U.S. and some European countries put the use of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine on hold while authorities investigate extremely rare but dangerous blood clots. AstraZeneca’s vaccine has likewise been hit with delays and restrictions because of a clotting scare.

Another concern: Poorer countries are relying on vaccines made by China and Russia, which some scientists believe provide less protection than those made by Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca.

Last week, the director of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledged the country’s vaccines offer low protection and said officials are considering mixing them with other shots to improve their effectiveness.

In the U.S., where over 560,000 lives have been lost, accounting for more than 1 in 6 of the world’s COVID-19 deaths, hospitalizations and deaths have dropped, businesses are reopening, and life is beginning to return to something approaching normalcy in several states. The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits tumbled last week to 576,000, a post-COVID-19 low.

But progress has been patchy, and new hot spots — most notably Michigan — have flared up in recent weeks. Still, deaths in the U.S. are down to about 700 per day on average, plummeting from a mid-January peak of about 3,400.

In Europe, countries are feeling the brunt of a more contagious variant that first ravaged Britain and has pushed the continent’s COVID-19-related death toll beyond 1 million.

Close to 6,000 gravely ill patients are being treated in French critical care units, numbers not seen since the first wave a year ago.

Dr. Marc Leone, head of intensive care at the North Hospital in Marseille, said exhausted front-line staff members who were feted as heroes at the start of the pandemic now feel alone and are clinging to hope that renewed school closings and other restrictions will help curb the virus in the coming weeks.

“There’s exhaustion, more bad tempers. You have to tread carefully because there are a lot of conflicts,” he said. “We’ll give everything we have to get through these 15 days as best we can.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618692413792.png" alt="John Hopkins -Number of Daily Deaths" />
 <figcaption>John Hopkins -Number of Daily Deaths</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The global death toll from the coronavirus topped a staggering 3 million people Saturday amid repeated setbacks in the worldwide vaccination campaign and a deepening crisis in places such as Brazil, India and France.The number of lives lost, <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">as compiled by Johns Hopkins University</a>, is about equal to the population of Kyiv, Ukraine; Caracas, Venezuela; or metropolitan Lisbon, Portugal. It is bigger than Chicago (2.7 million) and equivalent to Philadelphia and Dallas combined.And the true number is believed to be significantly higher because of possible government concealment and the many cases overlooked in the early stages of the outbreak that began in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019.When the world back in January passed the bleak threshold of 2 million deaths, immunization drives had just started in Europe and the United States. Today, they are underway in more than 190 countries, though progress in bringing the virus under control varies widely.While the campaigns in the U.S. and Britain have hit their stride and people and businesses there are beginning to contemplate life after the pandemic, other places, mostly poorer countries but some rich ones as well, are lagging behind in putting shots in arms and have imposed new lockdowns and other restrictions as virus cases soar.Worldwide, deaths are on the rise again, running at around 12,000 per day on average, and new cases are climbing too, eclipsing 700,000 a day.“This is not the situation we want to be in 16 months into a pandemic, where we have proven control measures,” said Maria Van Kerkhove, one of the World Health Organization’s leaders on COVID-19.In Brazil, where deaths are running at about 3,000 per day, accounting for one-quarter of the lives lost worldwide in recent weeks, the crisis has been likened to a “raging inferno” by one WHO official. A more contagious variant of the virus has been rampaging across the country.As cases surge, hospitals are running out of critical sedatives. As a result, there have been reports of some doctors diluting what supplies remain and even tying patients to their beds while breathing tubes are pushed down their throats.The slow vaccine rollout has crushed Brazilians’ pride in their own history of carrying out huge immunization campaigns that were the envy of the developing world.Taking cues from President Jair Bolsonaro, who has likened the virus to little more than a flu, his Health Ministry for months bet big on a single vaccine, ignoring other producers. When bottlenecks emerged, it was too late to get large quantities in time.Watching so many patients suffer and die alone at her Rio de Janeiro hospital impelled nurse Lidiane Melo to take desperate measures.In the early days of the pandemic, as sufferers were calling out for comfort that she was too busy to provide, Melo filled two rubber gloves with warm water, knotted them shut, and sandwiched them around a patient’s hand to simulate a loving touch.Some have christened the practice the “hand of God,” and it is now the searing image of a nation roiled by a medical emergency with no end in sight.“Patients can’t receive visitors. Sadly, there’s no way. So it’s a way to provide psychological support, to be there together with the patient holding their hand,” Melo said. She added: “And this year it’s worse, the seriousness of patients is 1,000 times greater.”This situation is similarly dire in India, where cases spiked in February after weeks of steady decline, taking authorities by surprise. In a surge driven by variants of the virus, India saw over 180,000 new infections in one 24-hour span during the past week, bringing the total number of cases to over 13.9 million.Problems that India had overcome last year are coming back to haunt health officials. Only 178 ventilators were free Wednesday afternoon in New Delhi, a city of 29 million, where 13,000 new infections were reported the previous day.The challenges facing India reverberate beyond its borders since the country is the biggest supplier of shots to COVAX, the U.N.-sponsored program to distribute vaccines to poorer parts of the world. Last month, India said it would suspend vaccine exports until the virus’s spread inside the country slows.The WHO recently described the supply situation as precarious. Up to 60 countries might not receive any more shots until June, by one estimate. To date, COVAX has delivered about 40 million doses to more than 100 countries, enough to cover barely 0.25% of the world’s population.Globally, about 87% of the 700 million doses dispensed have been given out in rich countries. While 1 in 4 people in wealthy nations have received a vaccine, in poor countries the figure is 1 in more than 500.In recent days, the U.S. and some European countries put the use of Johnson &amp; Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine on hold while authorities investigate extremely rare but dangerous blood clots. AstraZeneca’s vaccine has likewise been hit with delays and restrictions because of a clotting scare.Another concern: Poorer countries are relying on vaccines made by China and Russia, which some scientists believe provide less protection than those made by Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca.Last week, the director of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledged the country’s vaccines offer low protection and said officials are considering mixing them with other shots to improve their effectiveness.In the U.S., where over 560,000 lives have been lost, accounting for more than 1 in 6 of the world’s COVID-19 deaths, hospitalizations and deaths have dropped, businesses are reopening, and life is beginning to return to something approaching normalcy in several states. The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits tumbled last week to 576,000, a post-COVID-19 low.But progress has been patchy, and new hot spots — most notably Michigan — have flared up in recent weeks. Still, deaths in the U.S. are down to about 700 per day on average, plummeting from a mid-January peak of about 3,400.In Europe, countries are feeling the brunt of a more contagious variant that first ravaged Britain and has pushed the continent’s COVID-19-related death toll beyond 1 million.Close to 6,000 gravely ill patients are being treated in French critical care units, numbers not seen since the first wave a year ago.Dr. Marc Leone, head of intensive care at the North Hospital in Marseille, said exhausted front-line staff members who were feted as heroes at the start of the pandemic now feel alone and are clinging to hope that renewed school closings and other restrictions will help curb the virus in the coming weeks.“There’s exhaustion, more bad tempers. You have to tread carefully because there are a lot of conflicts,” he said. “We’ll give everything we have to get through these 15 days as best we can.”

Global COVID deaths on the rise again, top 3 million

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — State health officials say the highly contagious variant of COVID-19 first found in South Africa, known as B.1.351, has now been found in Nebraska. 

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services say in a news release Friday that the first case of the variant was recently confirmed in a Lancaster County resident. 

News of the discovery of the variant comes as the agency says about 524,000, or just over 35% of Nebraskans, have been fully vaccinated.

 Everyone 16 and older in Nebraska is now eligible to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — State health officials say the highly contagious variant of COVID-19 first found in South Africa, known as B.1.351, has now been found in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services say in a news release Friday that the first case of the variant was recently confirmed in a Lancaster County resident. News of the discovery of the variant comes as the agency says about 524,000, or just over 35% of Nebraskans, have been fully vaccinated. Everyone 16 and older in Nebraska is now eligible to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.

South African variant of COVID-19 found in Nebraska

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials continue to find more coronavirus cases caused by different strains of the virus in the state.

 Health officials said 291 cases of variants of the virus have been confirmed in Nebraska, up from 237 a week ago. 

Most of those cases were caused by a variant that was first identified in the United Kingdom that is more contagious. 

The state said the number of people hospitalized with the virus in the state has generally been increasing since late March although the number has declined slightly in the past few days and it remains well below the peak of 987 reached in November.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials continue to find more coronavirus cases caused by different strains of the virus in the state. Health officials said 291 cases of variants of the virus have been confirmed in Nebraska, up from 237 a week ago. Most of those cases were caused by a variant that was first identified in the United Kingdom that is more contagious. The state said the number of people hospitalized with the virus in the state has generally been increasing since late March although the number has declined slightly in the past few days and it remains well below the peak of 987 reached in November.

Nebraska identifies more variants of the coronavirus

TOPEKA – A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emerging Variant known as the Brazilian or P.1 variant has been identified in an individual in Sedgwick County. 

A case investigation is being conducted to determine how the person became infected with this particular variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as well as, if others may have been exposed. No further details will be released concerning the patient, including demographics.

The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing conducted through the laboratories at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

The P.1 variant was originally identified in four travelers from Brazil, who were tested during routine screening at Haneda airport outside Tokyo, Japan. 

This variant was detected in the U.S. at the end of January 2021 and has been&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi90cmFuc21pc3Npb24vdmFyaWFudC1jYXNlcy5odG1sP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.-0O-9-5IJTolc4wspUsudU4lji1mIZypKY8N4R-85iQ/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">found in 31 states and territories</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. At this point, there is still much to learn about the transmission characteristics and potential severity of the P.1 variant. Although this strain can reduce the effectiveness of some vaccines, vaccines still provide strong protection against severe illness and death.

“We continue to encourage people to take the appropriate precautions. This includes wearing a mask that fits snuggly around the nose and face and has multiple layers of fabric or layering thinner masks with an additional cloth face mask to improve the fit,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Kansans should also follow isolation and quarantine recommendations, practice physical distancing, good hygiene, staying home if ill and getting the vaccine if you are able to.”

Two other variants of concern have been identified in Kansas, including the UK variant, B.1.1.7, and the South African variant, B.1.351. Variant information in Kansas can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy5rZGhla3MuZ292LzE2MC9DT1ZJRC0xOS1pbi1LYW5zYXM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.a6rqq0vuenhfl1r_L-wUWD8_7IdAZBLRbMDQNKguKPM/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">COVID-19 dashboard</a>&nbsp;under the “Variants” tab.

“In addition to following these healthy behaviors, this finding also shows the importance of getting tested for COVID-19,” Adrienne Byrne, Sedgwick County Health Director, adds.

Testing is available and free for all Kansans. To find a location near you, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmNvcm9uYXZpcnVzLmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvMjgwL0NPVklELTE5LVRlc3Rpbmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.s-jifUbFDBcqbLVz4HKQIs6RcJ95wptgslZfZQG_61o/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/280/COVID-19-Testing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608566572342.png" alt="VIrus variant image courtesy GISAID" />
 <figcaption>VIrus variant image courtesy GISAID</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emerging Variant known as the Brazilian or P.1 variant has been identified in an individual in Sedgwick County. A case investigation is being conducted to determine how the person became infected with this particular variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as well as, if others may have been exposed. No further details will be released concerning the patient, including demographics.The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing conducted through the laboratories at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).The P.1 variant was originally identified in four travelers from Brazil, who were tested during routine screening at Haneda airport outside Tokyo, Japan. This variant was detected in the U.S. at the end of January 2021 and has been&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi90cmFuc21pc3Npb24vdmFyaWFudC1jYXNlcy5odG1sP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.-0O-9-5IJTolc4wspUsudU4lji1mIZypKY8N4R-85iQ/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">found in 31 states and territories</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. At this point, there is still much to learn about the transmission characteristics and potential severity of the P.1 variant. Although this strain can reduce the effectiveness of some vaccines, vaccines still provide strong protection against severe illness and death.“We continue to encourage people to take the appropriate precautions. This includes wearing a mask that fits snuggly around the nose and face and has multiple layers of fabric or layering thinner masks with an additional cloth face mask to improve the fit,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Kansans should also follow isolation and quarantine recommendations, practice physical distancing, good hygiene, staying home if ill and getting the vaccine if you are able to.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618343095662.png" alt="Tuesday April 13, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday April 13, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>Two other variants of concern have been identified in Kansas, including the UK variant, B.1.1.7, and the South African variant, B.1.351. Variant information in Kansas can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy5rZGhla3MuZ292LzE2MC9DT1ZJRC0xOS1pbi1LYW5zYXM_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.a6rqq0vuenhfl1r_L-wUWD8_7IdAZBLRbMDQNKguKPM/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">COVID-19 dashboard</a>&nbsp;under the “Variants” tab.“In addition to following these healthy behaviors, this finding also shows the importance of getting tested for COVID-19,” Adrienne Byrne, Sedgwick County Health Director, adds.Testing is available and free for all Kansans. To find a location near you, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MDgwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmNvcm9uYXZpcnVzLmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvMjgwL0NPVklELTE5LVRlc3Rpbmc_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.s-jifUbFDBcqbLVz4HKQIs6RcJ95wptgslZfZQG_61o/s/1305913448/br/101976527309-l" target="_blank">www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/280/COVID-19-Testing</a>.

Brazilian COVID variant identified in Kansas

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming 187 new COVID-19 cases and one new death over the last two days.

 The state Department of Health reported that a Hughes County man in his 60s died from complications due to the coronavirus. 

There have been 12 fatalities in April and 1,947 deaths since the start of the pandemic. 

The COVID Tracking Project reports that South Dakota’s death count is the eighth highest per capita in the country at nearly 221 deaths per 100,000 people. 

There were 279 new cases per 100,000 people in South Dakota over the past two weeks, which ranks 21st in the country for new cases per capita.

 One in every 656 people in South Dakota tested positive in the past week.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming 187 new COVID-19 cases and one new death over the last two days. The state Department of Health reported that a Hughes County man in his 60s died from complications due to the coronavirus. There have been 12 fatalities in April and 1,947 deaths since the start of the pandemic. The COVID Tracking Project reports that South Dakota’s death count is the eighth highest per capita in the country at nearly 221 deaths per 100,000 people. There were 279 new cases per 100,000 people in South Dakota over the past two weeks, which ranks 21st in the country for new cases per capita. One in every 656 people in South Dakota tested positive in the past week.

South Dakota reports 187 new COVID-19 cases in last 2 days

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nearly 3,000 students who attend one of Nebraska’s state colleges will be eligible for up to $3,000 in additional aid because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Full-time students who attend Chadron, Wayne or Peru state colleges during the 2021-2022 school year and who are eligible for federal Pell grants will qualify to receive the money that is part of the federal stimulus bill that approved last month. 

The Nebraska State College System expects to receive more than $14 million from the federal government with half that money earmarked for students and the other half set to go to the colleges.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nearly 3,000 students who attend one of Nebraska’s state colleges will be eligible for up to $3,000 in additional aid because of the coronavirus pandemic. Full-time students who attend Chadron, Wayne or Peru state colleges during the 2021-2022 school year and who are eligible for federal Pell grants will qualify to receive the money that is part of the federal stimulus bill that approved last month. The Nebraska State College System expects to receive more than $14 million from the federal government with half that money earmarked for students and the other half set to go to the colleges.

Some college students to get $3,000 in pandemic aid including CSC

Additional community locations to access the COVID vaccine have been added. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule for their COVID vaccine with two easy steps:

For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results. Johnson and Johnson (one dose) is widely available throughout the Panhandle. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov.

Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

The Governor will soon be updating the Directed Health Measure to include the following:

Unified Command confirms 34 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 12.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDAdditional community locations to access the COVID vaccine have been added. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule for their COVID vaccine with two easy steps:<ul>
 <li>Register on the vaccinate.ne.gov website.</li><li>For the corresponding counties, pick a location, day, and time that works for you.&nbsp;Dates and times will be added to the links as they are made available.</li><li>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Garden:&nbsp;sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;– a provider will call you</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Scottsbluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li>
 </ul>The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. Residents can easily get vaccinated this week. There is no charge for the vaccine.For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results. Johnson and Johnson (one dose) is widely available throughout the Panhandle. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov.Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.The Governor will soon be updating the Directed Health Measure to include the following:<ul>
 <li>Unvaccinated persons who have tested antibody positive within 3 months before or immediately following an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID and who have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID exposure do not need to quarantine in low-risk situations.</li><li>Low risk situations include settings where contact with persons at high risk of COVID severe illness, including older adults and persons with certain medical conditions, is not anticipated for at least 10 days following exposure.</li><li>Contacts to COVID should still monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID during the 14 days after exposure and if symptoms of COVID develop, they should self-isolate and seek testing.</li><li>It will be verified by public health.</li>
 </ul>Unified Command confirms 34 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 12.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618268567166.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-April 12, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 37,174</li><li>Positive: 8,945</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 45</li><li>Last week’s cases: 32</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 10.2%</li><li>Deaths: 191</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 3</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 537</li><li>Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – April 12, 2021): 148 days</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: 34 more virus cases reported in the Panhandle 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. is recommending a “pause” in administration of the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to investigate reports of potentially dangerous blood clots.

In a joint statement Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration said it was investigating clots in six women in the days after vaccination, in combination with reduced platelet counts. More than 6.8 million doses of the J&amp;J vaccine have been administered in the U.S.

U.S. federal distribution channels, including mass vaccination sites, will pause the use of the J&amp;J shot, and states and other providers are expected to follow.

CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet Wednesday to discuss the cases and the FDA has also launched an investigation of the cases.

“Until that process is complete, we are recommending a pause in the use of this vaccine out of an abundance of caution,” Dr. Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director of the CDC and Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research said in a joint statement.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. is recommending a “pause” in administration of the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to investigate reports of potentially dangerous blood clots.In a joint statement Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration said it was investigating clots in six women in the days after vaccination, in combination with reduced platelet counts. More than 6.8 million doses of the J&amp;J vaccine have been administered in the U.S.U.S. federal distribution channels, including mass vaccination sites, will pause the use of the J&amp;J shot, and states and other providers are expected to follow.CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet Wednesday to discuss the cases and the FDA has also launched an investigation of the cases.“Until that process is complete, we are recommending a pause in the use of this vaccine out of an abundance of caution,” Dr. Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director of the CDC and Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research said in a joint statement.

US recommends 'pause' of Johnson & Johnson vaccine 

By&nbsp;Department of Health and Human Services

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed that the New York variant of COVID-19, known as B1.526 has arrived in the state. The initial case has been identified as a Douglas County resident. An investigation is underway and ongoing. The identified B1.526 variant has been spreading throughout the United States, specifically in the Northeast, and is still being studied to determine the level of contagiousness and severity. Testing platforms like Test Nebraska and others will still produce a “positive" result for the identified B1.526 variant (and other variants). It is expected that vaccinations will remain effective.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Anthone said, “We have continued to stress that Nebraskans cannot let up on our mitigation efforts and testing remains critical against not only the spread, but preventing another major surge of COVID-19 cases. As these variants continue to be discovered in the state, vaccinations, testing, masking, and distancing remain the best defenses we have in this fight. I strongly encourage that individuals continue to get tested, especially if they have symptoms and have not yet been vaccinated."

As researchers learn more about this and other variants it remains as important as ever to continue masking, distancing, and avoiding the 3Cs. Get a test if you're exposed or if you develop symptoms. Register now at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/">vaccinate.​ne.gov&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;and get the vaccine when it's offered to you to help Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/FinishStrong.aspx">FinishStrong</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DHHS and NPHL have been working to increase sequencing capabilities within the state. Higher volumes of in-state sequencing began in January and NPHL currently has capacity to sequence more than 100 specimens per week. Creighton University is also sequencing roughly 100 specimens per week.

Nebraska's top goal remains protecting hospital capacity. The efforts undertaken by the state over the course of the emergency have resulted in significantly lower hospitalizations as compared to the last several months.&nbsp;

Nebraska continues to move through Phase 2B, which means anyone in the state 16 and older can get vaccinated.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are several options available. Residents can register at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>, or with a local health district, interested individuals can also check with area pharmacies that may be scheduling appointments. Scheduling vaccination as soon as possible will help Nebraska Finish Strong!

To-date about 29% of Nebraskans are fully vaccinated. To&nbsp;&nbsp;schedule an appointment visit&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>. Those interested in registering will need to provide name and contact information, date of birth and answer health questions used to help determine priority group eligibility. Any information entered is strictly confidential and used solely for this purpose. Friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to assist others with vaccine sign-up if needed. The DHHS Information line can assist those with limited technology, language or Internet access, and is available by calling (531)&nbsp;249-1873 or (833)&nbsp;998-2275.

By&nbsp;Department of Health and Human ServicesThe Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed that the New York variant of COVID-19, known as B1.526 has arrived in the state. The initial case has been identified as a Douglas County resident. An investigation is underway and ongoing. The identified B1.526 variant has been spreading throughout the United States, specifically in the Northeast, and is still being studied to determine the level of contagiousness and severity. Testing platforms like Test Nebraska and others will still produce a “positive" result for the identified B1.526 variant (and other variants). It is expected that vaccinations will remain effective.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Anthone said, “We have continued to stress that Nebraskans cannot let up on our mitigation efforts and testing remains critical against not only the spread, but preventing another major surge of COVID-19 cases. As these variants continue to be discovered in the state, vaccinations, testing, masking, and distancing remain the best defenses we have in this fight. I strongly encourage that individuals continue to get tested, especially if they have symptoms and have not yet been vaccinated."As researchers learn more about this and other variants it remains as important as ever to continue masking, distancing, and avoiding the 3Cs. Get a test if you're exposed or if you develop symptoms. Register now at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/">vaccinate.​ne.gov&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;and get the vaccine when it's offered to you to help Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/FinishStrong.aspx">FinishStrong</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS and NPHL have been working to increase sequencing capabilities within the state. Higher volumes of in-state sequencing began in January and NPHL currently has capacity to sequence more than 100 specimens per week. Creighton University is also sequencing roughly 100 specimens per week.Nebraska's top goal remains protecting hospital capacity. The efforts undertaken by the state over the course of the emergency have resulted in significantly lower hospitalizations as compared to the last several months.&nbsp;Nebraska continues to move through Phase 2B, which means anyone in the state 16 and older can get vaccinated.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are several options available. Residents can register at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>, or with a local health district, interested individuals can also check with area pharmacies that may be scheduling appointments. Scheduling vaccination as soon as possible will help Nebraska Finish Strong!To-date about 29% of Nebraskans are fully vaccinated. To&nbsp;&nbsp;schedule an appointment visit&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>. Those interested in registering will need to provide name and contact information, date of birth and answer health questions used to help determine priority group eligibility. Any information entered is strictly confidential and used solely for this purpose. Friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to assist others with vaccine sign-up if needed. The DHHS Information line can assist those with limited technology, language or Internet access, and is available by calling (531)&nbsp;249-1873 or (833)&nbsp;998-2275.

Coronavirus Update