LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the State’s eighth COVID-19 related Directed Health&nbsp;Measure (DHM) includes Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties. It will be in effect beginning today at 10:00pm and will last until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.

Under this new DHM, schools are closed through May 31, 2020 and extracurricular activities are also cancelled. Additionally, the new DHM cancels elective dental procedures and&nbsp;surgeries.&nbsp;

The quarantine measures are for individuals who are COVID-19 positive or develop fever, sudden onset of a dry cough, or sudden onset of shortness of breath without provocation&nbsp;(such as walking up stairs, running, choking, etc.). This excludes those with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms. Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis&nbsp;from a healthcare provider. These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.

The State-issued DHM now applies to 56 counties in Nebraska.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The DHM and quarantine directions covering all of these counties can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/253ohztp9w96hzl/DHM%204.01.2020.pdf?dl=0">clicking here</a>.

The DHM imposes an enforceable limit on public gatherings. Among other steps, the DHM requires restaurants and bars in these areas to close their dining areas immediately and&nbsp;move to takeout, delivery, and/or curbside service only until further notice. Additionally, schools in these areas are directed to operate without students in their buildings. This restriction does not apply to school staff working in school buildings.&nbsp;It also does not apply to daycares that may be operated at a school per the Governor’s executive order regarding childcare, which you can access by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425011970&amp;sdata=ISjT8nnQp68uZFSSFb%2B43ZW1p4OBZiRgPW%2Fvq9AmLEM%3D&amp;reserved=0">clicking here</a>.

Counties other than those noted above remain under the guidance issued March 18th&nbsp;by the Governor’s Office. You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Events-Public-Gatherings-Schools%20Guidance.pdf">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;If further community transmission cases of COVID-19 occur in other regions of the state, the Governor will announce DHMs covering the additional regions.

In addition to the DHMs issued by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Douglas County Public Health Director Dr. Adi M. Pour has issued an order covering Douglas&nbsp;County from March 18, 2020 through April 30, 2020. Full details of the order can be found on the Douglas County Health Department website&nbsp;(<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425021921&amp;sdata=PxWr0l5VAP%2F3wtlnXcmhHdXMjXVQ17WZsXNuDG%2B7VIs%3D&amp;reserved=0">douglascountyhealth.com</a>)&nbsp;or by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2Fimages%2FCOVID-19%2F2020_03_ORDER_AMENDED_3-20-2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425021921&amp;sdata=nJ24U53MAWnKZW%2B%2FYi%2BBnk0c4PaUPwV6vWuXR86pGq8%3D&amp;reserved=0">clicking here</a>.

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department also issued a DHM, which can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The order lasts until May 6, 2020.

Furthermore, the Sarpy/Cass Health Department issued a DHM, which can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fdoc%2FSarpy%2520Cass%2520DHM%2520March%252031%252C%25202020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425031882&amp;sdata=xp%2BzbGdwxQpU8LHBA1jawdIbcb%2Fb78pXSgDCkxj6oZA%3D&amp;reserved=0">clicking here</a>. The order lasts until April 30, 2020.

UNDERSTANDING THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASURE

Who does the Directed Health Measure apply to?

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

Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?

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

Do I need to shut down my daycare?

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

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

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

Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?

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

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the State’s eighth COVID-19 related Directed Health&nbsp;Measure (DHM) includes Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties. It will be in effect beginning today at 10:00pm and will last until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.Under this new DHM, schools are closed through May 31, 2020 and extracurricular activities are also cancelled. Additionally, the new DHM cancels elective dental procedures and&nbsp;surgeries.&nbsp;The quarantine measures are for individuals who are COVID-19 positive or develop fever, sudden onset of a dry cough, or sudden onset of shortness of breath without provocation&nbsp;(such as walking up stairs, running, choking, etc.). This excludes those with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms. Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis&nbsp;from a healthcare provider. These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.The State-issued DHM now applies to 56 counties in Nebraska.&nbsp;The first DHM, issued on March 18th, applies to Cass, Douglas, and Sarpy counties and is in effect until at least April 30th.The second DHM, issued on March 25th, applies to Dodge, Lancaster, Saunders, and Washington counties and is in effect until at least May 6th.The third DHM, issued on March 28th, applies to&nbsp;Butler, Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, Polk, Seward, and York counties and is in effect until May 6th&nbsp;unless renewed.The fourth DHM, issued on March 29th, applies to Burt, Cuming, Madison, and Stanton counties and is in effect until May 6th&nbsp;unless renewed.The fifth DHM, issued on March 30th, applies to Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, and Sioux counties&nbsp;and is in effect until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.The sixth DHM, issued on March 31st, applies to Adams, Clay,&nbsp;Nuckolls,&nbsp;and Webster counties and is in effect until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.The seventh DHM, also issued on March 31st, applies to Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties and is in effect until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.The eighth DHM, issued on April 1st, applies to Antelope, Arthur, Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Hooker, Keya Paha, Knox, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Pierce, Rock, and Thomas counties&nbsp;and is in effect until May 11th&nbsp;unless renewed.The DHM and quarantine directions covering all of these counties can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/253ohztp9w96hzl/DHM%204.01.2020.pdf?dl=0">clicking here</a>.The DHM imposes an enforceable limit on public gatherings. Among other steps, the DHM requires restaurants and bars in these areas to close their dining areas immediately and&nbsp;move to takeout, delivery, and/or curbside service only until further notice. Additionally, schools in these areas are directed to operate without students in their buildings. This restriction does not apply to school staff working in school buildings.&nbsp;It also does not apply to daycares that may be operated at a school per the Governor’s executive order regarding childcare, which you can access by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F519dprxk19cogx2%2FEO%252020-08%2520-%2520Expanding%2520Access%2520to%2520Child%2520Care%2520Options.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425011970&amp;sdata=ISjT8nnQp68uZFSSFb%2B43ZW1p4OBZiRgPW%2Fvq9AmLEM%3D&amp;reserved=0">clicking here</a>.Counties other than those noted above remain under the guidance issued March 18th&nbsp;by the Governor’s Office. You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19-Events-Public-Gatherings-Schools%20Guidance.pdf">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;If further community transmission cases of COVID-19 occur in other regions of the state, the Governor will announce DHMs covering the additional regions.In addition to the DHMs issued by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Douglas County Public Health Director Dr. Adi M. Pour has issued an order covering Douglas&nbsp;County from March 18, 2020 through April 30, 2020. Full details of the order can be found on the Douglas County Health Department website&nbsp;(<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425021921&amp;sdata=PxWr0l5VAP%2F3wtlnXcmhHdXMjXVQ17WZsXNuDG%2B7VIs%3D&amp;reserved=0">douglascountyhealth.com</a>)&nbsp;or by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.douglascountyhealth.com%2Fimages%2FCOVID-19%2F2020_03_ORDER_AMENDED_3-20-2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425021921&amp;sdata=nJ24U53MAWnKZW%2B%2FYi%2BBnk0c4PaUPwV6vWuXR86pGq8%3D&amp;reserved=0">clicking here</a>.The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department also issued a DHM, which can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/covid19/pdf/directed-health-measure-20200325.pdf">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The order lasts until May 6, 2020.Furthermore, the Sarpy/Cass Health Department issued a DHM, which can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sarpycasshealthdepartment.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fdoc%2FSarpy%2520Cass%2520DHM%2520March%252031%252C%25202020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7CJustin.Pinkerman%40nebraska.gov%7C9fec7beac9b343ecea4e08d7d67e933a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213711425031882&amp;sdata=xp%2BzbGdwxQpU8LHBA1jawdIbcb%2Fb78pXSgDCkxj6oZA%3D&amp;reserved=0">clicking here</a>. The order lasts until April 30, 2020.UNDERSTANDING THE STATE’S DIRECTED HEALTH MEASUREWho does the Directed Health Measure apply to?It applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons, and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts, and athletic events.&nbsp;This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM applies to. &nbsp;Do I need to shut down my bar or restaurant?At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to your workforce. Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon&nbsp;arrival. Restaurants will play a key part in feeding people throughout the pandemic.Do I need to shut down my daycare?No. DHHS has issued new guidance that daycares need to follow. You can find it by&nbsp;<a href="http://dhhs.ne.gov/Documents/COVID-19%20Schools%20and%20Childcare.pdf">clicking here</a>.Do I need to shut down my office?No. The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses,&nbsp;court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs,&nbsp;and other traditional office settings. This is not an exhaustive list, but illustrates the types of locations the DHM does not apply to. &nbsp;Furthermore, we do not expect these facilities to be impacted by additional limits at this time.Do I need to cancel a wedding or a funeral?Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans.

Ricketts announces 15 Counties in North, Central NE now included in State’s Directed Health Measure

WASHINGTON (AP) – If you’re not sick with the new coronavirus, should you wear a mask in public? Global health authorities say no. Amid a shortage of masks, the United States is sticking with that advice but Tuesday, President Donald Trump suggested people who are worried wear a scarf.

That shortage is so severe that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jointcommission.org/covid-19">Joint Commission</a>, which accredits U.S. hospitals, said Tuesday that if facilities can’t provide proper masks, health workers are allowed to bring their own from home.

Front-line health workers have the greatest need for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jhsph.edu/covid-19/articles/the-right-mask-for-the-task.html">masks</a>. And when people are sick, wearing a mask helps lessen the chances of infecting others. In places where relatives care for the sick at home, the World Health Organization also has recommended they wear a mask.

But “there is no specific evidence to suggest that the wearing of masks by the mass population has any particular benefit,” Dr. Mike Ryan, the WHO’s epidemics chief, told reporters Monday.

“In fact, there’s some evidence to suggest the opposite,” he added, noting risks from an improperly fitted mask or touching the face while taking it off or putting it on.

For months as the COVID-19 crisis grew and masks disappeared from store shelves, U.S. health officials have agreed. The virus is believed to spread mostly through droplets from coughs or sneezes, and thus the main advice has been to keep your distance – staying 6 feet away – in addition to frequent hand-washing and not touching your face. Health workers who may be doing procedures that generate tinier particles are supposed to get high priority for tight-fitting filtering masks.

“Seriously people – STOP BUYING MASKS!” Surgeon General Jerome Adams wrote in a February 29 tweet. “They are not effective in preventing general public from catching #Coronavirus but if healthcare providers can’t get them to care for sick patients, it puts them and our communities at risk.”

But mask-wearing has long been common in some countries during respiratory outbreaks, especially in parts of Asia. As questions grow about whether people sometimes can spread the virus before realizing they’re sick – which social distancing is supposed to address – increasingly people ask what it would hurt to wear some form of mask in public.

Trump said Tuesday that his scientific advisers made clear the general public shouldn’t be competing with hospitals and health workers for scarce masks of any type.

His solution: “Use a scarf if you want,” Trump said at the daily White House briefing. “It doesn’t have to be a mask. It’s not a bad idea at least for a period of time.”

Earlier in the day, Dr. Anthony Fauci, infectious disease chief at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, had told CNN that once there are enough masks, there might be “some very serious consideration” about broadening the mask recommendations.

For now, the advice posted on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html">website</a>: “If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a face mask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a face mask).”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584894001370.png" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) – If you’re not sick with the new coronavirus, should you wear a mask in public? Global health authorities say no. Amid a shortage of masks, the United States is sticking with that advice but Tuesday, President Donald Trump suggested people who are worried wear a scarf.That shortage is so severe that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jointcommission.org/covid-19">Joint Commission</a>, which accredits U.S. hospitals, said Tuesday that if facilities can’t provide proper masks, health workers are allowed to bring their own from home.Front-line health workers have the greatest need for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jhsph.edu/covid-19/articles/the-right-mask-for-the-task.html">masks</a>. And when people are sick, wearing a mask helps lessen the chances of infecting others. In places where relatives care for the sick at home, the World Health Organization also has recommended they wear a mask.But “there is no specific evidence to suggest that the wearing of masks by the mass population has any particular benefit,” Dr. Mike Ryan, the WHO’s epidemics chief, told reporters Monday.“In fact, there’s some evidence to suggest the opposite,” he added, noting risks from an improperly fitted mask or touching the face while taking it off or putting it on.For months as the COVID-19 crisis grew and masks disappeared from store shelves, U.S. health officials have agreed. The virus is believed to spread mostly through droplets from coughs or sneezes, and thus the main advice has been to keep your distance – staying 6 feet away – in addition to frequent hand-washing and not touching your face. Health workers who may be doing procedures that generate tinier particles are supposed to get high priority for tight-fitting filtering masks.“Seriously people – STOP BUYING MASKS!” Surgeon General Jerome Adams wrote in a February 29 tweet. “They are not effective in preventing general public from catching #Coronavirus but if healthcare providers can’t get them to care for sick patients, it puts them and our communities at risk.”But mask-wearing has long been common in some countries during respiratory outbreaks, especially in parts of Asia. As questions grow about whether people sometimes can spread the virus before realizing they’re sick – which social distancing is supposed to address – increasingly people ask what it would hurt to wear some form of mask in public.Trump said Tuesday that his scientific advisers made clear the general public shouldn’t be competing with hospitals and health workers for scarce masks of any type.His solution: “Use a scarf if you want,” Trump said at the daily White House briefing. “It doesn’t have to be a mask. It’s not a bad idea at least for a period of time.”Earlier in the day, Dr. Anthony Fauci, infectious disease chief at the U.S. National Institutes of Health, had told CNN that once there are enough masks, there might be “some very serious consideration” about broadening the mask recommendations.For now, the advice posted on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html">website</a>: “If you are NOT sick: You do not need to wear a face mask unless you are caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a face mask).”

Should you wear mask in public if not sick with coronavirus?

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to allow online notary services to take place immediately and to provide regulatory flexibility to banks.&nbsp; He also talked about the critical need for Nebraskans to practice social distancing in April.

Gov. Ricketts’ Comments on the Executive Order

Read the executive order by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fzrjvm0zb957yn10%2FEO%252020-13%2520-%2520COVID-19%2520-%2520Accelerating%2520Online%2520Notary%2520%2526%2520Financial%2520Institutions%2520Regulatory%2520Flexibility%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C4442de135d3540557a0608d7d68dacde%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213776300032672&amp;sdata=31jfPeX1IqtgcqajPLVmtdAhA%2FBg1ZvNEn3ewZeSxW4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Director of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance, Mark Quandahl, joined the Governor to talk about the much-needed regulatory flexibility included in the Governor’s executive order.

Director Quandahl’s Comments on the Executive Order

Kathy Siefken, Executive Director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association, also took part in today’s press conference.&nbsp; She reinforced the importance of social distancing while shopping for groceries and gave advice to shoppers.

The Governor also reminded Nebraskans of social distancing guidelines and of the need to practice good hygiene.

Other Comments from Gov. Ricketts on COVID-19

Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F88xquthybo2sojr%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.01.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C4442de135d3540557a0608d7d68dacde%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213776300037651&amp;sdata=iFbhUfbsWvKPEFliTkU3pqXpePkNyDFGyZoMcxxSlPc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued an executive order to allow online notary services to take place immediately and to provide regulatory flexibility to banks.&nbsp; He also talked about the critical need for Nebraskans to practice social distancing in April.Gov. Ricketts’ Comments on the Executive Order<ol>
 <li>Many real estate, mortgage, insurance, and banking financial documents require notarized signatures to validate them.</li><li>Online notary services use audio/visual and automated software to verify the identity of the person who needs to obtain a notarized signature.&nbsp;</li><li>Today’s executive order allows online notarization to take place immediately in Nebraska.&nbsp;</li><li>This will enable Nebraskans to have documents notarized without in-person contact.</li>
 </ol>Read the executive order by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fzrjvm0zb957yn10%2FEO%252020-13%2520-%2520COVID-19%2520-%2520Accelerating%2520Online%2520Notary%2520%2526%2520Financial%2520Institutions%2520Regulatory%2520Flexibility%2520.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C4442de135d3540557a0608d7d68dacde%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213776300032672&amp;sdata=31jfPeX1IqtgcqajPLVmtdAhA%2FBg1ZvNEn3ewZeSxW4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.Director of the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance, Mark Quandahl, joined the Governor to talk about the much-needed regulatory flexibility included in the Governor’s executive order.Director Quandahl’s Comments on the Executive Order<ol>
 <li>The Department of Banking and Finance requires banks and credit unions to file reports within 90 days of their formal financial examinations.&nbsp;&nbsp;To help financial institutions adhere to social distancing requirements, these deadlines are being waived until 30 days after the lifting of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) emergency.&nbsp;</li><li>To help financial institutions adhere to social distancing requirements, these deadlines are being waived until 30 days after the lifting of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) emergency.&nbsp;</li><li>Companies licensed under the Installment Loan Act must have their books and records examined annually by the Department of Banking and Finance.&nbsp;The executive order waives the requirements for these examinations to take place within one calendar year. &nbsp;It directs the Department of Banking and Finance to accomplish the examination as soon as is practicable to maintain the integrity of the annual calendar year requirement.</li><li>The executive order waives the requirements for these examinations to take place within one calendar year. &nbsp;</li><li>It directs the Department of Banking and Finance to accomplish the examination as soon as is practicable to maintain the integrity of the annual calendar year requirement.</li><li>The Department of Banking and Finance requires some applications to be filed at its main office.&nbsp;The executive order authorizes electronic versions of these documents to be submitted and allows associated payments to be made via check or electronic ACH debit transactions.&nbsp; These changes are effective until 30 days after the lifting of the COVID-19 state of emergency.</li><li>The executive order authorizes electronic versions of these documents to be submitted and allows associated payments to be made via check or electronic ACH debit transactions.&nbsp; These changes are effective until 30 days after the lifting of the COVID-19 state of emergency.</li>
 </ol>Kathy Siefken, Executive Director of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association, also took part in today’s press conference.&nbsp; She reinforced the importance of social distancing while shopping for groceries and gave advice to shoppers.Health Tips for Shoppers<ol>
 <li>If stores appear busy or crowded, delay shopping until a later time.</li><li>Shop alone. &nbsp;Do not run errands with your family or a group of friends.</li><li>Make a list of what to buy in advance of your shopping trip to reduce time spent in the store.</li><li>Buy a week’s worth of groceries in a single visit to limit your number of trips to the store.</li><li>Shop with your eyes. &nbsp;Only touch products that you intend to purchase.</li><li>Maintain a minimum distance of six feet from other customers and store workers whenever possible.</li><li>Do not shop while sick.&nbsp; Contact friends, neighbors, and your church, synagogue, or faith community to ask for help getting essential supplies.</li><li>Do not bring reusable bags or backpacks into stores during the pandemic.</li><li>Do not hoard goods.&nbsp; The supply chain is working well, and items will be replenished in short order.&nbsp; In particular, manufacturers have ramped up production of in-demand goods like toilet paper.&nbsp;</li><li>Wash / sanitize your hands often.</li>
 </ol>The Governor also reminded Nebraskans of social distancing guidelines and of the need to practice good hygiene.The Governor’s Health Reminders<ol>
 <li>Remember to practice social distancing by keeping six feet from others.This applies in the workplace, when exercising outdoors, or when running errands.</li><li>This applies in the workplace, when exercising outdoors, or when running errands.</li><li>Don’t shop if you don’t feel well.</li><li>Cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze with a tissue or use your elbow.</li><li>Wash and sanitize your hands before and after shopping.</li><li>Whenever possible, shop online for curbside pickup or home delivery.</li>
 </ol>Other Comments from Gov. Ricketts on COVID-19<ol>
 <li>Companies with spare masks are encouraged to donate them to hospitals, medical clinics, or first responders.</li><li>The State’s guidance is that out-of-state travelers should self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival to Nebraska.</li><li>The State of Nebraska is hiring, including the Department of Corrections, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the State’s veterans’ homes.</li><li>Nebraskans can visit the Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s website&nbsp;<a href="https://nda.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">nda.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for guidance on livestock gatherings taking place during the coronavirus emergency.</li>
 </ol>Full video of today’s press briefing is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2F88xquthybo2sojr%2FPress%2520Conf%25204.01.2020.mp4%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C4442de135d3540557a0608d7d68dacde%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213776300037651&amp;sdata=iFbhUfbsWvKPEFliTkU3pqXpePkNyDFGyZoMcxxSlPc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Ricketts issues order for notary services, importance of social distancing in stores

Below are some examples of Furrier's innovation to use social media in connecting with the Wildcats and others who are looking to stay healthy while under severe restrictions due to COVID-19.

<div><iframe title="Chadron State Sports Journal: Former LB Dylan Furrier's career blossoming quickly at PAC-12 school" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/8ci5r-d7e32b?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=1&btn-skin=107&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>Below are some examples of Furrier's innovation to use social media in connecting with the Wildcats and others who are looking to stay healthy while under severe restrictions due to COVID-19.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TIME: The one thing we can never get back. Whether you want to lose weight, gain weight, maintain it, take this “extra” time we have to develop yourself as best you can! Don’t waste a meal!! 👀⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youknowitaintforeverybody?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#youknowitaintforeverybody</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ELITEMindset?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ELITEMindset</a> #🐻⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/9pOBG3BJU3">pic.twitter.com/9pOBG3BJU3</a>&mdash; Dylan Furrier (@CoachFurrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachFurrier/status/1243654724433227776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">• RECOVER QUICKER • FIGHT ILLNESS Slow recovery and getting sick is the last thing anyone needs right now... Stress plays a huge role in immune system function and health💪 3 🔑s to stay right ⬇️⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/ArizonaFBall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArizonaFBall</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/uaironcats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uaironcats</a> <a href="https://t.co/LbrwGRkMwS">pic.twitter.com/LbrwGRkMwS</a>&mdash; Dylan Furrier (@CoachFurrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachFurrier/status/1245129640156352513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WEEK 2 DAY 2 🔥🔥 PREWORK‼️ (2 of 4)<a href="https://twitter.com/uaironcats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uaironcats</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/_coachbee1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_coachbee1</a> <a href="https://t.co/3OVew9i6G4">pic.twitter.com/3OVew9i6G4</a>&mdash; Dylan Furrier (@CoachFurrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachFurrier/status/1245417320224190468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🔊 Podcast: Former CSC LB Dylan Furrier’s career blossoming quickly at PAC-12 school

LINCOLN, Neb. – The summer season of the Post Playhouse at Fort Robinson State Park has been cancelled to prevent the potential for spread of the coronavirus.

“We plan to pick up next year with our 2021 season and be stronger than ever,” said Tom Ossowski, producing artistic director for Post Playhouse Inc.

The Post Playhouse has been providing live theatre at Fort Robinson since 1967.

For more information and options for persons who have purchased tickets already, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk2MTI5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Bvc3RwbGF5aG91c2UuY29tLyJ9.bnRd0zLje_Sc3USYqqvBlcpwroWjkKiuOFfJa52OKek/br/76910573717-l" target="_blank">postplayhouse.com</a>.

LINCOLN, Neb. – The summer season of the Post Playhouse at Fort Robinson State Park has been cancelled to prevent the potential for spread of the coronavirus.“We plan to pick up next year with our 2021 season and be stronger than ever,” said Tom Ossowski, producing artistic director for Post Playhouse Inc.The Post Playhouse has been providing live theatre at Fort Robinson since 1967.For more information and options for persons who have purchased tickets already, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk2MTI5NzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3Bvc3RwbGF5aG91c2UuY29tLyJ9.bnRd0zLje_Sc3USYqqvBlcpwroWjkKiuOFfJa52OKek/br/76910573717-l" target="_blank">postplayhouse.com</a>.

Fort Robinson’s Post Playhouse summer season cancelled

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will answer questions from Nebraskans during another one-hour NET News town hall meeting about COVID-19 and our state’s response at 8:30 p.m. CT, Thursday, April 2.

“Speaking of Nebraska: COVID-19 Town Hall with Governor Ricketts” will be carried on television and radio by NET, Nebraska’s PBS &amp; NPR Stations. It will also be streamed on the NET website, the NET Nebraska app and on Facebook.

Viewers and listeners may ask questions during the town hall program by calling 1-800-676-5446 or 402-472-1212. Both before and during the broadcast, questions can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:news@netNebraska.org" target="_blank">news@netNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or submitted to the Facebook pages for&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2FnetNebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193506430&amp;sdata=O68e5iYAMKAltLCjuS784KcEmb5qFUOihP%2FAC%2Bj3OVE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET Nebraska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2FnetnewsNebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193516388&amp;sdata=4Hvskz3hsdbX8q89Akkapb5oWJ3cYn1H8sux2zdsEhA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET News</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNET-Radio-58056117013%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193516388&amp;sdata=G4s0ZD3L05HbtvSrHnXv6x11c1V74641Fqp773XuyV4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET Radio</a>. Questions can also be submitted via Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #COVID19Nebraska.

Along with Gov. Ricketts, questions will be answered by Dr. Ali Khan, dean of the College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and John Albin, commissioner of labor for Nebraska.

Nebraskans can follow the latest news on COVID-19 in Nebraska, plus get information on the coronavirus disease and resources for reducing risk of infection at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnetnebraska.org%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193516388&amp;sdata=1tR%2FTnOZlGkOfko8oYRfibHF9xT3S70nbLRMnmqjCi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">netNebraska.org/coronavirus.</a>

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will answer questions from Nebraskans during another one-hour NET News town hall meeting about COVID-19 and our state’s response at 8:30 p.m. CT, Thursday, April 2.“Speaking of Nebraska: COVID-19 Town Hall with Governor Ricketts” will be carried on television and radio by NET, Nebraska’s PBS &amp; NPR Stations. It will also be streamed on the NET website, the NET Nebraska app and on Facebook.Viewers and listeners may ask questions during the town hall program by calling 1-800-676-5446 or 402-472-1212. Both before and during the broadcast, questions can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:news@netNebraska.org" target="_blank">news@netNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or submitted to the Facebook pages for&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2FnetNebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193506430&amp;sdata=O68e5iYAMKAltLCjuS784KcEmb5qFUOihP%2FAC%2Bj3OVE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET Nebraska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2FnetnewsNebraska&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193516388&amp;sdata=4Hvskz3hsdbX8q89Akkapb5oWJ3cYn1H8sux2zdsEhA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET News</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNET-Radio-58056117013%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193516388&amp;sdata=G4s0ZD3L05HbtvSrHnXv6x11c1V74641Fqp773XuyV4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NET Radio</a>. Questions can also be submitted via Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #COVID19Nebraska.Along with Gov. Ricketts, questions will be answered by Dr. Ali Khan, dean of the College of Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and John Albin, commissioner of labor for Nebraska.Nebraskans can follow the latest news on COVID-19 in Nebraska, plus get information on the coronavirus disease and resources for reducing risk of infection at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnetnebraska.org%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7Ce4a4a08c458a4edc4bd808d7d662d017%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213592193516388&amp;sdata=1tR%2FTnOZlGkOfko8oYRfibHF9xT3S70nbLRMnmqjCi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">netNebraska.org/coronavirus.</a>

Gov. Ricketts to answer questions during 2nd COVID-19 town hall on NET

SCOTTSBLUFF ― Regional West Physicians Clinic is now offering virtual healthcare visits so patients can see their providers from the security of their homes.

“We are providing virtual visits so our patients can receive the healthcare exams they need while maintaining social distancing,” said Martha Stricker, MBA, RN, CMPE, executive director of Regional Services. “Patients who have an upcoming appointment should call to see if an in-person visit can be converted to a virtual visit.”

Virtual visits are now available with providers from Regional West Physicians Clinic-Family Medicine in Scottsbluff and Sidney; Internal Medicine, Skin Clinic and Medical Aesthetic Center, Behavioral Health, Pediatrics; Diabetes Care Center; Pain Clinic; Urology; and Ear, Nose, and Throat, Head and Neck Surgery. Efforts are underway to expand the virtual visit option to other Regional West clinics and services. Appointments will be scheduled to help avoid extended wait times.

“We are taking all necessary precautions to provide patient care for those who must still be seen in person by a provider, and we’re using technology to continue to provide check-ups and follow-up appointments for others,” said Family Medicine Physician Lindsey Mosel, MD. “We want our patients to know they continue to have access to care from Regional West during these unusual times.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call your Regional West Physicians Clinic provider.

<a href="http://www.rwhs.org/" target="_blank">Regional West Health Services</a>&nbsp;in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 in-network providers, and 2,000 employees, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

SCOTTSBLUFF ― Regional West Physicians Clinic is now offering virtual healthcare visits so patients can see their providers from the security of their homes.“We are providing virtual visits so our patients can receive the healthcare exams they need while maintaining social distancing,” said Martha Stricker, MBA, RN, CMPE, executive director of Regional Services. “Patients who have an upcoming appointment should call to see if an in-person visit can be converted to a virtual visit.”Virtual visits are now available with providers from Regional West Physicians Clinic-Family Medicine in Scottsbluff and Sidney; Internal Medicine, Skin Clinic and Medical Aesthetic Center, Behavioral Health, Pediatrics; Diabetes Care Center; Pain Clinic; Urology; and Ear, Nose, and Throat, Head and Neck Surgery. Efforts are underway to expand the virtual visit option to other Regional West clinics and services. Appointments will be scheduled to help avoid extended wait times.“We are taking all necessary precautions to provide patient care for those who must still be seen in person by a provider, and we’re using technology to continue to provide check-ups and follow-up appointments for others,” said Family Medicine Physician Lindsey Mosel, MD. “We want our patients to know they continue to have access to care from Regional West during these unusual times.”For more information or to schedule an appointment, call your Regional West Physicians Clinic provider.<a href="http://www.rwhs.org/" target="_blank">Regional West Health Services</a>&nbsp;in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 188-bed regional referral center and one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 in-network providers, and 2,000 employees, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.

Regional West Physicians Clinic now offering virtual healthcare visits

By John Furner, President &amp; CEO, Walmart U.S. and Kath McLay, President &amp; CEO, Sam’s Club

As our company and country continue to deal with the spread of COVID-19, we remain focused on the health and safety of our associates.

We continue to follow and communicate the CDC’s recommended guidance on behaviors like washing hands, social distancing and the cleaning of surfaces. And we have made significant operational changes in our stores, clubs, DCs and FCs this month – such as closing overnight for cleaning, starting to install sneeze guards at checkout and pharmacies, using wipes and sprayers for carts, putting in signing for social distancing and implementing a COVID-19 emergency leave policy.

Today we’re sharing additional steps we’re taking to promote a safe and healthy workplace.

As the COVID-19 situation has evolved, we’ve decided to begin taking the temperatures of our associates as they report to work in stores, clubs and facilities, as well as asking them some basic health screening questions. We are in the process of sending infrared thermometers to all locations, which could take up to three weeks.

Any associate with a temperature of 100.0 degrees will be paid for reporting to work and asked to return home and seek medical treatment if necessary. The associate will not be able to return to work until they are fever-free for at least three days.

Many associates have already been taking their own temperatures at home, and we’re asking them to continue that practice as we start doing it on-site. And we’ll continue to ask associates to look out for other symptoms of the virus (coughing, feeling achy, difficulty breathing) and never come to work when they don’t feel well.

Our COVID-19 emergency leave policy allows associates to stay home if they have any COVID-19 related symptoms, concerns, illness or are quarantined – knowing that their jobs will be protected.

Today we are also sharing more guidance with our associates regarding masks and gloves.

While the CDC and other health officials do not recommend masks or gloves for healthy people who don't ordinarily use them for their jobs, we will make them available — as supplies permit — for associates who want to wear them.

The masks will arrive in 1-2 weeks. They will be high-quality masks, but not N95 respirators – which should be reserved for at-risk healthcare workers.

We encourage anyone who would like to wear a mask or gloves at work to ask their supervisor for them, while keeping in mind that it is still possible to spread germs while wearing them.

This week we are also sharing a new framework with associates regarding healthy behaviors at work. We’re asking them to remember three numbers: 6, 20 and 100.

6 feet is the amount of space people should keep from others, when possible, to maintain social distancing.

20 seconds is the amount of time people should take to wash their hands with soap and water.

And 100 is the temperature that someone should stay home with.

We will continue to consult with health officials and experts inside and outside Walmart as this situation evolves. We greatly appreciate the work our associates are doing for customers, members, and their communities, and we will continue to prioritize their health and well-being.

By John Furner, President &amp; CEO, Walmart U.S. and Kath McLay, President &amp; CEO, Sam’s ClubAs our company and country continue to deal with the spread of COVID-19, we remain focused on the health and safety of our associates.We continue to follow and communicate the CDC’s recommended guidance on behaviors like washing hands, social distancing and the cleaning of surfaces. And we have made significant operational changes in our stores, clubs, DCs and FCs this month – such as closing overnight for cleaning, starting to install sneeze guards at checkout and pharmacies, using wipes and sprayers for carts, putting in signing for social distancing and implementing a COVID-19 emergency leave policy.Today we’re sharing additional steps we’re taking to promote a safe and healthy workplace.Temperature ChecksAs the COVID-19 situation has evolved, we’ve decided to begin taking the temperatures of our associates as they report to work in stores, clubs and facilities, as well as asking them some basic health screening questions. We are in the process of sending infrared thermometers to all locations, which could take up to three weeks.Any associate with a temperature of 100.0 degrees will be paid for reporting to work and asked to return home and seek medical treatment if necessary. The associate will not be able to return to work until they are fever-free for at least three days.Many associates have already been taking their own temperatures at home, and we’re asking them to continue that practice as we start doing it on-site. And we’ll continue to ask associates to look out for other symptoms of the virus (coughing, feeling achy, difficulty breathing) and never come to work when they don’t feel well.Our COVID-19 emergency leave policy allows associates to stay home if they have any COVID-19 related symptoms, concerns, illness or are quarantined – knowing that their jobs will be protected.Masks and GlovesToday we are also sharing more guidance with our associates regarding masks and gloves.While the CDC and other health officials do not recommend masks or gloves for healthy people who don't ordinarily use them for their jobs, we will make them available — as supplies permit — for associates who want to wear them.The masks will arrive in 1-2 weeks. They will be high-quality masks, but not N95 respirators – which should be reserved for at-risk healthcare workers.We encourage anyone who would like to wear a mask or gloves at work to ask their supervisor for them, while keeping in mind that it is still possible to spread germs while wearing them.6-20-100 GuidanceThis week we are also sharing a new framework with associates regarding healthy behaviors at work. We’re asking them to remember three numbers: 6, 20 and 100.6 feet is the amount of space people should keep from others, when possible, to maintain social distancing.20 seconds is the amount of time people should take to wash their hands with soap and water.And 100 is the temperature that someone should stay home with.We will continue to consult with health officials and experts inside and outside Walmart as this situation evolves. We greatly appreciate the work our associates are doing for customers, members, and their communities, and we will continue to prioritize their health and well-being.

Walmart taking additional steps for health and safety of associates

DEARBORN, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ford Motor Company, in collaboration with GE Healthcare, announced today it will begin producing in Michigan a third-party ventilator with the goal to produce 50,000 of the vitally needed units within 100 days and up to 30,000 a month thereafter as needed.

Ford will provide its manufacturing capabilities to quickly scale production, and GE Healthcare will provide its clinical expertise and will license the current ventilator design from Airon Corp. – a small, privately held company specializing in high-tech pneumatic life support products. GE Healthcare brought the Airon Corp. design to Ford’s attention as part of the companies’ efforts to scale production of ventilators quickly to help clinicians treat COVID-19 patients.

The GE/Airon Model A-E ventilator uses a design that operates on air pressure without the need for electricity, addressing the needs of most COVID-19 patients. Its production can be quickly scaled to help meet growing demand in the U.S.

“The Ford and GE Healthcare teams, working creatively and tirelessly, have found a way to produce this vitally needed ventilator quickly and in meaningful numbers,” said Jim Hackett, Ford’s president and CEO. “By producing this ventilator in Michigan, in strong partnership with the UAW, we can help health care workers save lives, and that’s our No. 1 priority.”

According to White House Defense Production Act Coordinator Peter Navarro, “the Ford/GE Healthcare team is moving in ‘Trump time’ to speed urgently needed ventilators to the front lines of the Trump Administration’s full-scale war against the coronavirus. Just as Ford in the last century moved its manufacturing might seamlessly from auto to tank production during World War II, the Ford team is working with GE Healthcare to use its awesome engineering and manufacturing capabilities to voluntarily help this nation solve one of its most pressing problems. We salute that effort and look forward to the first ventilators rolling off the Michigan assembly line in record time – and we’ll be there to salute that milestone.”

Ford will initially send a team to work with Airon to boost production in Florida, and by the week of April 20, will start production at Ford’s Rawsonville Components Plant in Ypsilanti, Mich., quickly ramping up to reach full production to help meet surging demand.

Ford expects to produce 1,500 by the end of April, 12,000 by the end of May and 50,000 by July 4 – helping the U.S. government meet its goal of producing 100,000 ventilators in 100 days.

Ford’s Rawsonville plant will produce the ventilators nearly around the clock, with 500 paid volunteer UAW-represented employees working on three shifts. Airon currently produces three Airon pNeuton Model A ventilators per day in Melbourne, Fla. At full production, Ford plans to make 7,200 Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilators per week.

“From the days of Rosie the Riveter, UAW members have stepped up during difficult times in this nation’s history for the good of us all,” said UAW International President Rory Gamble. “Today’s announcement by Ford that UAW employees will make ventilators at Rawsonville is in that tradition. We are working very closely with Ford to make sure that all CDC guidelines are followed and that we are exercising an abundance of caution inside the plant. Ford and our UAW Ford members should be commended for stepping up in these very uncertain times.”

The Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilator is the second Ford-GE Healthcare ventilator collaboration. Last week, Ford and GE Healthcare announced a separate effort to produce a simplified ventilator design from GE Healthcare. The combined ventilator supply will help address the increasing surge demand for ventilators around the U.S in the fight against COVID-19, each well suited to meet time, production volume and patient care requirements.

“We applaud Ford for its efforts to lend its manufacturing capabilities to help quickly scale the Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilator and arm clinicians in the fight against COVID-19,” said GE Healthcare President and CEO Kieran Murphy. “Our deep understanding of the health care industry with Ford’s supply chain and production expertise will help meet the unprecedented demand for medical equipment. We continue to be encouraged by how quickly companies are coming together in innovative ways to address this collective challenge.”

GE Healthcare and Ford consulted with medical experts in determining the Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilator is well suited for COVID-19 patient care. The design is expected to meet the needs of most COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure or difficulty breathing. The ventilator is designed for quick setup, making it easy for healthcare workers to use – and can be deployed in an emergency room setting, during special procedures or in an intensive care unit, wherever the patient may be located.

Ford, along with the companies it is supporting, will provide additional updates as these special projects progress.

Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected services. Ford employs approximately 190,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.corporate.ford.com%2F&amp;esheet=52196479&amp;newsitemid=20200330005720&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=corporate.ford.com&amp;index=1&amp;md5=43a96aa2d9e75efce71d6b9c74154362" rel="nofollow">corporate.ford.com</a>.

GE (NYSE:GE) rises to the challenge of building a world that works. For more than 125 years, GE has invented the future of industry, and today the company’s dedicated team, leading technology, and global reach and capabilities help the world work more efficiently, reliably, and safely. GE’s people are diverse and dedicated, operating with the highest level of integrity and focus to fulfill GE’s mission and deliver for its customers.&nbsp;<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ge.com&amp;esheet=52196479&amp;newsitemid=20200330005720&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=www.ge.com&amp;index=2&amp;md5=fb802d4f9d07a2f91cc5e48fd3652c91" rel="nofollow">www.ge.com</a>

DEARBORN, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ford Motor Company, in collaboration with GE Healthcare, announced today it will begin producing in Michigan a third-party ventilator with the goal to produce 50,000 of the vitally needed units within 100 days and up to 30,000 a month thereafter as needed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585756470507.jpeg" alt="A Model A-E ventilator, left, and a simple test lung. The ventilator uses a design that operates on air pressure without the need for electricity, addressing the needs of most COVID-19 patients. Its production can be quickly scaled to help meet growing demand in the U.S. (Photo by : Ford Motor Company, Ford&nbsp; Media Center)" />
 <figcaption>A Model A-E ventilator, left, and a simple test lung. The ventilator uses a design that operates on air pressure without the need for electricity, addressing the needs of most COVID-19 patients. Its production can be quickly scaled to help meet growing demand in the U.S. (Photo by : Ford Motor Company, Ford&nbsp; Media Center)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ford will provide its manufacturing capabilities to quickly scale production, and GE Healthcare will provide its clinical expertise and will license the current ventilator design from Airon Corp. – a small, privately held company specializing in high-tech pneumatic life support products. GE Healthcare brought the Airon Corp. design to Ford’s attention as part of the companies’ efforts to scale production of ventilators quickly to help clinicians treat COVID-19 patients.The GE/Airon Model A-E ventilator uses a design that operates on air pressure without the need for electricity, addressing the needs of most COVID-19 patients. Its production can be quickly scaled to help meet growing demand in the U.S.“The Ford and GE Healthcare teams, working creatively and tirelessly, have found a way to produce this vitally needed ventilator quickly and in meaningful numbers,” said Jim Hackett, Ford’s president and CEO. “By producing this ventilator in Michigan, in strong partnership with the UAW, we can help health care workers save lives, and that’s our No. 1 priority.”According to White House Defense Production Act Coordinator Peter Navarro, “the Ford/GE Healthcare team is moving in ‘Trump time’ to speed urgently needed ventilators to the front lines of the Trump Administration’s full-scale war against the coronavirus. Just as Ford in the last century moved its manufacturing might seamlessly from auto to tank production during World War II, the Ford team is working with GE Healthcare to use its awesome engineering and manufacturing capabilities to voluntarily help this nation solve one of its most pressing problems. We salute that effort and look forward to the first ventilators rolling off the Michigan assembly line in record time – and we’ll be there to salute that milestone.”Ford will initially send a team to work with Airon to boost production in Florida, and by the week of April 20, will start production at Ford’s Rawsonville Components Plant in Ypsilanti, Mich., quickly ramping up to reach full production to help meet surging demand.Ford expects to produce 1,500 by the end of April, 12,000 by the end of May and 50,000 by July 4 – helping the U.S. government meet its goal of producing 100,000 ventilators in 100 days.Ford’s Rawsonville plant will produce the ventilators nearly around the clock, with 500 paid volunteer UAW-represented employees working on three shifts. Airon currently produces three Airon pNeuton Model A ventilators per day in Melbourne, Fla. At full production, Ford plans to make 7,200 Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilators per week.“From the days of Rosie the Riveter, UAW members have stepped up during difficult times in this nation’s history for the good of us all,” said UAW International President Rory Gamble. “Today’s announcement by Ford that UAW employees will make ventilators at Rawsonville is in that tradition. We are working very closely with Ford to make sure that all CDC guidelines are followed and that we are exercising an abundance of caution inside the plant. Ford and our UAW Ford members should be commended for stepping up in these very uncertain times.”The Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilator is the second Ford-GE Healthcare ventilator collaboration. Last week, Ford and GE Healthcare announced a separate effort to produce a simplified ventilator design from GE Healthcare. The combined ventilator supply will help address the increasing surge demand for ventilators around the U.S in the fight against COVID-19, each well suited to meet time, production volume and patient care requirements.“We applaud Ford for its efforts to lend its manufacturing capabilities to help quickly scale the Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilator and arm clinicians in the fight against COVID-19,” said GE Healthcare President and CEO Kieran Murphy. “Our deep understanding of the health care industry with Ford’s supply chain and production expertise will help meet the unprecedented demand for medical equipment. We continue to be encouraged by how quickly companies are coming together in innovative ways to address this collective challenge.”GE Healthcare and Ford consulted with medical experts in determining the Airon-licensed Model A-E ventilator is well suited for COVID-19 patient care. The design is expected to meet the needs of most COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure or difficulty breathing. The ventilator is designed for quick setup, making it easy for healthcare workers to use – and can be deployed in an emergency room setting, during special procedures or in an intensive care unit, wherever the patient may be located.Ford, along with the companies it is supporting, will provide additional updates as these special projects progress.About Ford Motor CompanyFord Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected services. Ford employs approximately 190,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.corporate.ford.com%2F&amp;esheet=52196479&amp;newsitemid=20200330005720&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=corporate.ford.com&amp;index=1&amp;md5=43a96aa2d9e75efce71d6b9c74154362" rel="nofollow">corporate.ford.com</a>.About GEGE (NYSE:GE) rises to the challenge of building a world that works. For more than 125 years, GE has invented the future of industry, and today the company’s dedicated team, leading technology, and global reach and capabilities help the world work more efficiently, reliably, and safely. GE’s people are diverse and dedicated, operating with the highest level of integrity and focus to fulfill GE’s mission and deliver for its customers.&nbsp;<a href="https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ge.com&amp;esheet=52196479&amp;newsitemid=20200330005720&amp;lan=en-US&amp;anchor=www.ge.com&amp;index=2&amp;md5=fb802d4f9d07a2f91cc5e48fd3652c91" rel="nofollow">www.ge.com</a>

Ford to produce 50,000 ventilators in Michigan in next 100 days; partnering with GE Healthcare will help COVID-19 patients

COVID-19 branding guidelines 

Alliance - The City of Alliance has announced that Carhenge will remain open to the public and visitors are allowed to walk around the monument. 

Please practice social distancing guidelines for yourself and others’ safety. 

The Pit Stop Gift Shop will be closed until further notice and future plans will be reassessed in the coming weeks. 

Please call the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at 308-762-2384 with any questions.

Alliance - The City of Alliance has announced that Carhenge will remain open to the public and visitors are allowed to walk around the monument. Please practice social distancing guidelines for yourself and others’ safety. The Pit Stop Gift Shop will be closed until further notice and future plans will be reassessed in the coming weeks. Please call the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at 308-762-2384 with any questions.

Carhenge remains open, visitors urged to use social distancing

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The three Nebraska State College system schools have joined the four University of Nebraska system campuses in canceling May graduation ceremonies, citing public health concerns. 

Peru State College intends to postpone its May commencement until Dec. 18. 

Wayne State canceled its May 9 ceremony and intends to hold one later this summer. 

Chadron State College is expected to announce its plans later Wednesday.

 Commencement cancellations for the four University of Nebraska system schools were reported Tuesday.&nbsp; &nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The three Nebraska State College system schools have joined the four University of Nebraska system campuses in canceling May graduation ceremonies, citing public health concerns. Peru State College intends to postpone its May commencement until Dec. 18. Wayne State canceled its May 9 ceremony and intends to hold one later this summer. Chadron State College is expected to announce its plans later Wednesday. Commencement cancellations for the four University of Nebraska system schools were reported Tuesday.&nbsp; &nbsp;

State colleges also canceling May graduation ceremonies including Chadron

LINCOLN –&nbsp;The fourth death related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today. The person was a Buffalo County resident in his 90s -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cnBoZC5vcmcvIn0.YOCMIPM_Sza4wTUn2QafYA24Z-Lvk6fvrBNQuUPRy7o%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522959319&amp;sdata=ZvrMSYZ62oF6N5OLMVwloOKKw%2FW38AK7xYY3gM5n%2FPA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/</a>.

“We are saddened by the death of another fellow Nebraskan,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS. “Staying home if you’re sick and distancing yourself from others are actions we must continue to take to help protect those around us who may be more vulnerable to severe illness or death.”

Community transmission was identified in Adams and Buffalo Counties. Community transmission is when people have COVID-19 but public health officials are unable to identify how or where they became infected -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3NvdXRoaGVhcnRsYW5kaGVhbHRoLm9yZy8ifQ.zcxy13zC7aMqR2LQKzfI5B3FQf_IIK-QXPUdahMIX-o%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522959319&amp;sdata=vNvW62Zh4gPmM5kt3ElxPkVSFjnh6eztsMGyu3nMTTE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://southheartlandhealth.org/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cnBoZC5vcmcvIn0.NVcgGGzE2B000U3Qa4nHuKxgkaad3mHXf-JmSKqgNhw%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522969271&amp;sdata=oDhHVvH%2BgajmGzHzaiJN%2FC%2B4Jmyilq6I1hGIPN8QKcs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/</a>.

State Directed Health Measures (DHMs) were issued tonight for the following 11 counties: Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, Webster, Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kcm9wYm94LmNvbS9zL2s1bjdibnM3NjdjeWRuYS9ESE0lMjAzLjMxLjIwMjAucGRmP2RsPTAifQ.pAuwGiYdwjMOOzUdlFkgzrBQR7keTFGGlPbVrpGLEho%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522969271&amp;sdata=JtPhaqlNomjNRF5LAHK2PEKFrNtBqk0q99BONt1hrvA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.dropbox.com/s/k5n7bns767cydna/DHM%203.31.2020.pdf?dl=0</a>.

The quarantine measures included in the State DHMs are for individuals who are COVID-19 positive or develop fever, sudden onset of a dry cough, or sudden onset of shortness of breath without provocation (such as walking up stairs, running, choking, etc.). &nbsp;This excludes those with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.

Tonight’s state case total is 177. DHHS launched a new data dashboard that provides daily updates to the state’s COVID-19 case totals. You can find it at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.7RFsSW3UJ-BwmRHaepGf-kmqX19d-sU7uZGZtg5c50c%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522979227&amp;sdata=q8T8hXC88DrFO8iBle2f8xwK3t2v56VGQI%2F5zgv24aw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.

Certain people are at higher risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease. People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;

Recent data shows that the virus is also affecting younger people. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said 20% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S. were 20-44 years old.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.

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

Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.6Uas-cp8APP_SaPWnXLULCoxIAJvkWZV-UQKGbvBOhc%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038523009098&amp;sdata=1Z9smf9TsLI7s%2Fezt4GI2OOeDqPVibfwU2zffqC6LLU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.hKnKch1XMi0d6h-jzNjQaBk1K23-bgFY4Wa4-zgk-fw%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038523009098&amp;sdata=VcwipUR4xQhvWdGRbtnVw2zTxP1bgD6ENwtW%2FrhV3Hw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;

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

DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.b_KUgIkt3BG8x7eWxkKkUrpVSK05iAXqrEeBAOumcjg%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038523019058&amp;sdata=jjG4biZizpRr89XZVhJyatoJS3Tf8yEXJQZCtyUOMHE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;The fourth death related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) today. The person was a Buffalo County resident in his 90s -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cnBoZC5vcmcvIn0.YOCMIPM_Sza4wTUn2QafYA24Z-Lvk6fvrBNQuUPRy7o%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522959319&amp;sdata=ZvrMSYZ62oF6N5OLMVwloOKKw%2FW38AK7xYY3gM5n%2FPA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/</a>.“We are saddened by the death of another fellow Nebraskan,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for DHHS. “Staying home if you’re sick and distancing yourself from others are actions we must continue to take to help protect those around us who may be more vulnerable to severe illness or death.”Community transmission was identified in Adams and Buffalo Counties. Community transmission is when people have COVID-19 but public health officials are unable to identify how or where they became infected -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3NvdXRoaGVhcnRsYW5kaGVhbHRoLm9yZy8ifQ.zcxy13zC7aMqR2LQKzfI5B3FQf_IIK-QXPUdahMIX-o%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522959319&amp;sdata=vNvW62Zh4gPmM5kt3ElxPkVSFjnh6eztsMGyu3nMTTE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://southheartlandhealth.org/</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy50cnBoZC5vcmcvIn0.NVcgGGzE2B000U3Qa4nHuKxgkaad3mHXf-JmSKqgNhw%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522969271&amp;sdata=oDhHVvH%2BgajmGzHzaiJN%2FC%2B4Jmyilq6I1hGIPN8QKcs%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.trphd.org/</a>.State Directed Health Measures (DHMs) were issued tonight for the following 11 counties: Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, Webster, Buffalo, Dawson, Franklin, Gosper, Harlan, Kearney, and Phelps counties -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5kcm9wYm94LmNvbS9zL2s1bjdibnM3NjdjeWRuYS9ESE0lMjAzLjMxLjIwMjAucGRmP2RsPTAifQ.pAuwGiYdwjMOOzUdlFkgzrBQR7keTFGGlPbVrpGLEho%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522969271&amp;sdata=JtPhaqlNomjNRF5LAHK2PEKFrNtBqk0q99BONt1hrvA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.dropbox.com/s/k5n7bns767cydna/DHM%203.31.2020.pdf?dl=0</a>.The quarantine measures included in the State DHMs are for individuals who are COVID-19 positive or develop fever, sudden onset of a dry cough, or sudden onset of shortness of breath without provocation (such as walking up stairs, running, choking, etc.). &nbsp;This excludes those with seasonal allergies, COPD, or other diagnoses that may produce respiratory symptoms.&nbsp; Additionally, the directive doesn’t apply to patients who have an alternative non-COVID-19 diagnosis from a healthcare provider. These patients should follow the treatment and guidance provided by their healthcare provider for such conditions.Tonight’s state case total is 177. DHHS launched a new data dashboard that provides daily updates to the state’s COVID-19 case totals. You can find it at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.7RFsSW3UJ-BwmRHaepGf-kmqX19d-sU7uZGZtg5c50c%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522979227&amp;sdata=q8T8hXC88DrFO8iBle2f8xwK3t2v56VGQI%2F5zgv24aw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>.Certain people are at higher risk of severe illness or death from COVID-19 including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease. People in these higher-risk groups should:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNIYXZlLXN1cHBsaWVzLW9uLWhhbmQifQ.RrU9ZaeulsU00Or6DArxWaQZoglF8dzPlyA-aVaBf80%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522979227&amp;sdata=bCKHQNmgyXd092iRYhKCPJGgIPeZjeVGBTqB6BuMUEA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Stock up on supplies</a>, including extra necessary medications.</li><li>Take&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCN0YWtlLWV2ZXJ5ZGF5LXByZWNhdXRpb25zIn0.Sm5BXXTdc8ehacRtEgWtO-KP3LL-ulHJ9tplhn5g47o%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522989184&amp;sdata=vwNzgmxAcAkBMzfpbr2VvKMwXs5s%2FIIhmdzIwbVsq0Y%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">everyday precautions</a>&nbsp;to keep space between yourself and others.</li><li>When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.</li><li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNhdm9pZC1jcm93ZHMifQ._8paHRhzJJj936FNF5AujS5WGBy8u_m7CGiAgs5LNTw%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522989184&amp;sdata=NmBlp5DUPp7cieLHHM8GbJdLoSUcTD%2FM2K%2FLuUC28SU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Avoid crowds</a>&nbsp;as much as possible.</li><li>Avoid&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3d25jLmNkYy5nb3YvdHJhdmVsL25vdGljZXMvd2FybmluZy9jb3JvbmF2aXJ1cy1jcnVpc2Utc2hpcCJ9.6xWTHx5cBWhkBwUhWuce7wZPsYXDYnMYdpMMF5PLrCU%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522999138&amp;sdata=AMIT0CuAuIubGtGNrmz7j8hN2nP5ZJripxIUWNFOJbc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">cruise travel</a>&nbsp;and non-essential air travel.</li><li>If there is a COVID-19 outbreak in your community,&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2Nvcm9uYXZpcnVzLzIwMTktbmNvdi9zcGVjaWZpYy1ncm91cHMvaGlnaC1yaXNrLWNvbXBsaWNhdGlvbnMuaHRtbCNzdGF5LWhvbWUifQ.7qkkkGIVdqryHLMQXI4LdPGcNk88RIR7tzkUCKbKj-w%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038522999138&amp;sdata=GJACUEJ8dcwtljKymRG4S7Hoq9kkADsElIyhSRmaIsk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stay home</a>&nbsp;as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.</li>
 </ol>Recent data shows that the virus is also affecting younger people. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report said 20% of those hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S. were 20-44 years old.The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone.Everyone can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Avoiding close contact with sick people and staying home if you are sick.</li><li>Washing hands often with soap and water&nbsp;for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.</li><li>Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth&nbsp;with unwashed hands.</li><li>Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or&nbsp;sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.</li><li>Cleaning and disinfecting frequently&nbsp;touched objects and surfaces.</li>
 </ol>Here’s where to find tools and resources for individuals and families, schools, communities, businesses, healthcare facilities, and first responders on the DHHS website -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vZGhocy5uZS5nb3YvY29yb25hdmlydXMifQ.6Uas-cp8APP_SaPWnXLULCoxIAJvkWZV-UQKGbvBOhc%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038523009098&amp;sdata=1Z9smf9TsLI7s%2Fezt4GI2OOeDqPVibfwU2zffqC6LLU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">http://dhhs.ne.gov/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;and CDC’s website –&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.hKnKch1XMi0d6h-jzNjQaBk1K23-bgFY4Wa4-zgk-fw%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038523009098&amp;sdata=VcwipUR4xQhvWdGRbtnVw2zTxP1bgD6ENwtW%2FrhV3Hw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.&nbsp;DHHS opened a statewide COVID-19 information line to help answer general questions and share the latest information and resources with Nebraskans to help keep them informed. The number is (402) 552-6645; hours of operation are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. CST, 7 days a week.DHHS will continue to update Nebraskans through the DHHS website and on Facebook and Twitter as we have new information. The CDC’s website is also a good resource for COVID-19 information -&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flnks.gd%2Fl%2FeyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDA0MDEuMTk1NzQwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5jZGMuZ292L2NvdmlkMTkifQ.b_KUgIkt3BG8x7eWxkKkUrpVSK05iAXqrEeBAOumcjg%2Fbr%2F76868236105-l&amp;data=02%7C01%7Ctaylor.gage%40nebraska.gov%7C3ea0527bc1074766f16f08d7d5e1dc9a%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637213038523019058&amp;sdata=jjG4biZizpRr89XZVhJyatoJS3Tf8yEXJQZCtyUOMHE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/covid19</a>.

Community transmission identified in Adams, Buffalo Counties

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Tuesday warned Americans to brace for a “hell of a bad two weeks” ahead as the White House projected there could be 100,000 to 240,000 deaths in the U.S. from the coronavirus pandemic even if current social distancing guidelines are maintained.

Public health officials stressed that the number could be less if people across the country bear down on keeping their distance from one another.

“We really believe we can do a lot better than that,” said Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force. That would require all Americans to take seriously their role in preventing the spread of disease, she said.

Added Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, “This is a number that we need to anticipate, but we don’t necessarily have to accept it as being inevitable.”

Trump called it “a matter of life and death” for Americans to heed his administration’s guidelines and predicted the country would soon see a “light at the end of the tunnel” in a pandemic that has killed more than 3,500 Americans and infected 170,000 more.

“I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead,” Trump said.

“This is going to be one of the roughest two or three weeks we’ve ever had in our country,” Trump added. “We’re going to lose thousands of people.”

The jaw-dropping projections were laid out during a grim, two-hour White House briefing. Officials described a death toll that in a best-case scenario would likely be greater than the more than 53,000 American lives lost during World War I. And the model’s high end neared the realm of possibility that Americans lost to the virus could approach the 291,000 Americans killed on the battlefield during World II.

“There’s no magic bullet,” Birx said. “There’s no magic vaccine or therapy. It’s just behaviors. Each of our behaviors, translating into something that changes the course of this viral pandemic.”

Fauci called the numbers “sobering” and urged Americans to “step on the accelerator” with their collective mitigation efforts.

“We are continuing to see things go up,” Fauci said. “We cannot be discouraged by that because the mitigation is actually working and will work.”

Birx said pandemic forecasts initially predicted 1.5 million to 2.2 million deaths in the U.S. But that was a worst-case scenario, without efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus through social distancing. She added that states that have not yet seen a spike in cases as New York has could take action to flatten the curve of rising hospitalizations and deaths.

It’s not only social distancing that could make a difference, but also the frantic efforts by hospitals around the country to prepare for an onslaught of seriously ill patients. The better prepared hospitals are, the greater the chances of lives being saved.

There’s also a wild card when it comes to treatment: whether the experimental drug combination Trump has touted — a medicine for malaria and an antibiotic — will actually make a difference. That combination is already being used on thousands of patients, and Fauci said he would want to see a rigorous test of its effectiveness.

Trump’s comments came after he announced Sunday that he was extending to April 30 the social distancing guidelines that advise Americans to cease large gatherings, work from home, suspend onsite learning at schools and more in a nationwide effort to stem the spread of the virus.

It was an abrupt reversal for Trump, who spent much of last week targeting April 12 as the day he wanted to see Americans “pack the pews” for Easter Sunday services.

Trump called the data “very sobering,” saying it was his understanding that 100,000 deaths was a minimum that would be difficult to avoid. He also sought to rewrite his past minimization of the outbreak, saying he rejected those who compared the new coronavirus to the flu — when in fact he repeatedly did so publicly.

"This could be hell of a bad two weeks,’” Trump said. He added: “You know 100,000 is, according to modeling, a very low number. In fact, when I first saw the number ... they said it was unlikely you’ll be able to attain that. We have to see but I think we’re doing better than that.”

Trump played down concerns from New York’s Andrew Cuomo and other governors that their states’ hospitals don’t have enough ventilators to treat an anticipated crush of patients. Trump said the federal government currently has a stockpile of 10,000 ventilators that it plans on distributing as needed.

“Now, when the surge occurs, if it occurs fairly evenly, we’ll be able to distribute them very quickly before they need them,” Trump said. “But we want to have a reserve right now. It’s like having oil reserves.”

Birx said the experiences of Washington state and California give her hope that other states can keep the coronavirus under control through social distancing. That’s because they moved quickly to contain the early clusters of coronavirus by closing schools, urging people to work from home, banning large gatherings and taking other measures now familiar to most Americans, she noted.

“I am reassured by looking at the Seattle line,” she added. “California and Washington state reacted very early to this.” Many other states and local governments already have stiff controls in place on mobility and gatherings.

Trump said he would also ask Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to allow the docking of two cruise ships with passengers who have had contact with patients suffering from COVID-19. Passengers are anxious to disembark once they reach Florida, but DeSantis said the state’s health care resources are already stretched too thin to take on a ship’s coronavirus caseload.

“They’re dying on the ship,” Trump said. “I’m going to do what’s right, not only for us for but humanity.”

Trump also said he planned to curtail his travel for the month ahead and stay close to the White House to safeguard his health. The president hasn’t held one of his signature big-stadium rallies since early March, and it’s unlikely he’ll be holding another one anytime soon.

“I think it’s important that I remain healthy. I really do,” Trump said. “So for the most part we’re staying here.”

Trump spoke after another troubling day for the stock market, which has been in a free fall as the cononavirus ground the economy to a near-halt and left millions unemployed. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged more than 400 points, or roughly 1.9%, to seal the worst first-quarter finish of its 135-year history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585692040069.png" alt="Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Tuesday warned Americans to brace for a “hell of a bad two weeks” ahead as the White House projected there could be 100,000 to 240,000 deaths in the U.S. from the coronavirus pandemic even if current social distancing guidelines are maintained.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585691283364.png" alt="White House image" />
 <figcaption>White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>Public health officials stressed that the number could be less if people across the country bear down on keeping their distance from one another.“We really believe we can do a lot better than that,” said Dr. Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force. That would require all Americans to take seriously their role in preventing the spread of disease, she said.Added Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, “This is a number that we need to anticipate, but we don’t necessarily have to accept it as being inevitable.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585691441605.png" alt="White House image" />
 <figcaption>White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>Trump called it “a matter of life and death” for Americans to heed his administration’s guidelines and predicted the country would soon see a “light at the end of the tunnel” in a pandemic that has killed more than 3,500 Americans and infected 170,000 more.“I want every American to be prepared for the hard days that lie ahead,” Trump said.“This is going to be one of the roughest two or three weeks we’ve ever had in our country,” Trump added. “We’re going to lose thousands of people.”The jaw-dropping projections were laid out during a grim, two-hour White House briefing. Officials described a death toll that in a best-case scenario would likely be greater than the more than 53,000 American lives lost during World War I. And the model’s high end neared the realm of possibility that Americans lost to the virus could approach the 291,000 Americans killed on the battlefield during World II.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585691504295.png" alt="White House image" />
 <figcaption>White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>“There’s no magic bullet,” Birx said. “There’s no magic vaccine or therapy. It’s just behaviors. Each of our behaviors, translating into something that changes the course of this viral pandemic.”Fauci called the numbers “sobering” and urged Americans to “step on the accelerator” with their collective mitigation efforts.“We are continuing to see things go up,” Fauci said. “We cannot be discouraged by that because the mitigation is actually working and will work.”Birx said pandemic forecasts initially predicted 1.5 million to 2.2 million deaths in the U.S. But that was a worst-case scenario, without efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus through social distancing. She added that states that have not yet seen a spike in cases as New York has could take action to flatten the curve of rising hospitalizations and deaths.It’s not only social distancing that could make a difference, but also the frantic efforts by hospitals around the country to prepare for an onslaught of seriously ill patients. The better prepared hospitals are, the greater the chances of lives being saved.There’s also a wild card when it comes to treatment: whether the experimental drug combination Trump has touted — a medicine for malaria and an antibiotic — will actually make a difference. That combination is already being used on thousands of patients, and Fauci said he would want to see a rigorous test of its effectiveness.Trump’s comments came after he announced Sunday that he was extending to April 30 the social distancing guidelines that advise Americans to cease large gatherings, work from home, suspend onsite learning at schools and more in a nationwide effort to stem the spread of the virus.It was an abrupt reversal for Trump, who spent much of last week targeting April 12 as the day he wanted to see Americans “pack the pews” for Easter Sunday services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585691352994.png" alt="White House image" />
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 </figure>Trump called the data “very sobering,” saying it was his understanding that 100,000 deaths was a minimum that would be difficult to avoid. He also sought to rewrite his past minimization of the outbreak, saying he rejected those who compared the new coronavirus to the flu — when in fact he repeatedly did so publicly."This could be hell of a bad two weeks,’” Trump said. He added: “You know 100,000 is, according to modeling, a very low number. In fact, when I first saw the number ... they said it was unlikely you’ll be able to attain that. We have to see but I think we’re doing better than that.”Trump played down concerns from New York’s Andrew Cuomo and other governors that their states’ hospitals don’t have enough ventilators to treat an anticipated crush of patients. Trump said the federal government currently has a stockpile of 10,000 ventilators that it plans on distributing as needed.“Now, when the surge occurs, if it occurs fairly evenly, we’ll be able to distribute them very quickly before they need them,” Trump said. “But we want to have a reserve right now. It’s like having oil reserves.”Birx said the experiences of Washington state and California give her hope that other states can keep the coronavirus under control through social distancing. That’s because they moved quickly to contain the early clusters of coronavirus by closing schools, urging people to work from home, banning large gatherings and taking other measures now familiar to most Americans, she noted.“I am reassured by looking at the Seattle line,” she added. “California and Washington state reacted very early to this.” Many other states and local governments already have stiff controls in place on mobility and gatherings.Trump said he would also ask Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to allow the docking of two cruise ships with passengers who have had contact with patients suffering from COVID-19. Passengers are anxious to disembark once they reach Florida, but DeSantis said the state’s health care resources are already stretched too thin to take on a ship’s coronavirus caseload.“They’re dying on the ship,” Trump said. “I’m going to do what’s right, not only for us for but humanity.”Trump also said he planned to curtail his travel for the month ahead and stay close to the White House to safeguard his health. The president hasn’t held one of his signature big-stadium rallies since early March, and it’s unlikely he’ll be holding another one anytime soon.“I think it’s important that I remain healthy. I really do,” Trump said. “So for the most part we’re staying here.”Trump spoke after another troubling day for the stock market, which has been in a free fall as the cononavirus ground the economy to a near-halt and left millions unemployed. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged more than 400 points, or roughly 1.9%, to seal the worst first-quarter finish of its 135-year history.

White House projects up to 240K US deaths from virus

By Troy Brown, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Deputy

At around 12:08 p.m.&nbsp; the Communication Center in Scottsbluff received a complaint of a red Ford Fusion; which was actually a Ford Focus, traveling high rate of speed with a male “surfing “on the hood of the car, east bound on county road F.

Deputies responded to the area, identified the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. 

The driver refused to stop and accelerated to approximately 90 mph traveling south bound on Sugar Factory Road toward Scottsbluff. When it became apparent the vehicle wasn’t going to stop, was heading into Scottsbluff and the time of day the pursuit was terminated.

The vehicle in question was observed by an Investigator with the County Attorney’s office pulling into the north parking lot at Regional West Medical Center and the occupants exited the vehicle. 

Scotts Bluff County Deputies and Scottsbluff Police officers responded to the area and with assistance from employees of RWMC; were able to locate and identify all the occupants.

A 17 year old male driver was cited for Flight to Avoid and Obstructing a Peace Officer. 

Two other 16 year old male passengers were cited for Obstructing a Peace Officer, a 13 year old passenger was cited for False Information to a Peace Officer and Obstructing a Peace Officer, and&nbsp; 19 year old Abel Barron was cited for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Controlled Substance, False Information to a Peace Officer and Obstructing a Peace Officer.

Agencies assisting in the apprehension were the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Police Department, an Investigator with the Scotts Bluff County Attorney’s Office and employees of RWMC.

By Troy Brown, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff DeputyAt around 12:08 p.m.&nbsp; the Communication Center in Scottsbluff received a complaint of a red Ford Fusion; which was actually a Ford Focus, traveling high rate of speed with a male “surfing “on the hood of the car, east bound on county road F.Deputies responded to the area, identified the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. The driver refused to stop and accelerated to approximately 90 mph traveling south bound on Sugar Factory Road toward Scottsbluff. When it became apparent the vehicle wasn’t going to stop, was heading into Scottsbluff and the time of day the pursuit was terminated.The vehicle in question was observed by an Investigator with the County Attorney’s office pulling into the north parking lot at Regional West Medical Center and the occupants exited the vehicle. Scotts Bluff County Deputies and Scottsbluff Police officers responded to the area and with assistance from employees of RWMC; were able to locate and identify all the occupants.A 17 year old male driver was cited for Flight to Avoid and Obstructing a Peace Officer. Two other 16 year old male passengers were cited for Obstructing a Peace Officer, a 13 year old passenger was cited for False Information to a Peace Officer and Obstructing a Peace Officer, and&nbsp; 19 year old Abel Barron was cited for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Controlled Substance, False Information to a Peace Officer and Obstructing a Peace Officer.Agencies assisting in the apprehension were the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Police Department, an Investigator with the Scotts Bluff County Attorney’s Office and employees of RWMC.

90 MPH high speed chase in panhandle 

The Scotts Bluff County Health Department confirmed two people residing in Scotts Bluff County, presumed positive yesterday, are confirmed positive for COVID-19. A female in her 50s and a male in his 70s are close contacts to the first positive case in the county. They continue to recover through self-isolation at home.

There are no additional community exposure locations. The family was very thorough in putting the list together to include their community locations. This list was published yesterday, March 30, 2020. 

“We want to commend the family for being so cooperative throughout the investigation process and following public health recommendations,” said Paulette Schnell, Scotts Bluff County Health Department Director.

Any essential critical workers, especially healthcare workers, that were at the identified community locations at the date/time previously listed, need to follow guidance from their immediate supervisor, employer, or facility.

This brings the total count in the Panhandle to four cases, three in Scotts Bluff County and one in Kimball County. 

The presence of COVID-19 in the community suggests the possibility that more patients will be diagnosed. For your health, please follow these guidelines:

Practice good hand hygiene, including frequent and thorough hand washing and proper use of hand sanitizer

Avoid touching your face, including your eyes, nose, and mouth

Be sure you have all needed medications and supplies on hand as if you were preparing for a severe snowstorm

Practice social distancing – no closer than 6 feet from others

People are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease, according to the CDC. &nbsp;It is very important that those individuals and their families observe strict isolation practices.

Regional West asks anyone in the area who has potentially been exposed to COVID-19 and has a fever, sore throat, cough, or shortness of breath to call before going to any healthcare facility. Healthcare providers will determine if the person can be cared for at home or if screening is necessary. You may call your provider or public health at:

Scotts Bluff County Health Department: 308-630-1580

Panhandle Public Health District: 308-262-5764 

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. Important updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners. 

By PPHDThe Scotts Bluff County Health Department confirmed two people residing in Scotts Bluff County, presumed positive yesterday, are confirmed positive for COVID-19. A female in her 50s and a male in his 70s are close contacts to the first positive case in the county. They continue to recover through self-isolation at home.There are no additional community exposure locations. The family was very thorough in putting the list together to include their community locations. This list was published yesterday, March 30, 2020. “We want to commend the family for being so cooperative throughout the investigation process and following public health recommendations,” said Paulette Schnell, Scotts Bluff County Health Department Director.Any essential critical workers, especially healthcare workers, that were at the identified community locations at the date/time previously listed, need to follow guidance from their immediate supervisor, employer, or facility.This brings the total count in the Panhandle to four cases, three in Scotts Bluff County and one in Kimball County. The presence of COVID-19 in the community suggests the possibility that more patients will be diagnosed. For your health, please follow these guidelines:Practice good hand hygiene, including frequent and thorough hand washing and proper use of hand sanitizerAvoid touching your face, including your eyes, nose, and mouthBe sure you have all needed medications and supplies on hand as if you were preparing for a severe snowstormPractice social distancing – no closer than 6 feet from othersPeople are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease, according to the CDC. &nbsp;It is very important that those individuals and their families observe strict isolation practices.Regional West asks anyone in the area who has potentially been exposed to COVID-19 and has a fever, sore throat, cough, or shortness of breath to call before going to any healthcare facility. Healthcare providers will determine if the person can be cared for at home or if screening is necessary. You may call your provider or public health at:Scotts Bluff County Health Department: 308-630-1580Panhandle Public Health District: 308-262-5764 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. Important 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.

Coronavirus Update