The B117 COVID variant has been confirmed in the Panhandle. 

Confirmation was received late Friday of a teen male, teen female, and female in her 30s from the Nebraska Public Health Lab testing and notification from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Any close contacts identified will be quarantined to slow the spread.

This variant was initially detected in the UK and in the US this past December. This variant seems to spread more easily and quickly than other variants which may lead to more COVID cases with the potential for increased severity. Viruses constantly change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time.

So far, studies suggest that antibodies generated through vaccination with currently authorized vaccines recognize these variants. This is being closely investigated and more studies are underway.&nbsp;

“Finding this strain in the Panhandle reinforces the importance of getting your COVID vaccine. Consider it your molecular PPE and one of the best protection against this insidious virus. Now that it’s available to anyone over 18, we urge you to get it,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

Anyone in the Panhandle age 18 and older can get a COVID vaccine. Roughly 35% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. People are urged to help friends, family, and neighbors sign up for theirs. This can be done by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://vaccinate.ne.gov/">https://vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or calling&nbsp;<a href="tel:+18339982275">833-998-2275.</a>

Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.</a>

If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t fret, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

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

By PPHDThe B117 COVID variant has been confirmed in the Panhandle. Confirmation was received late Friday of a teen male, teen female, and female in her 30s from the Nebraska Public Health Lab testing and notification from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Any close contacts identified will be quarantined to slow the spread.This variant was initially detected in the UK and in the US this past December. This variant seems to spread more easily and quickly than other variants which may lead to more COVID cases with the potential for increased severity. Viruses constantly change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time.So far, studies suggest that antibodies generated through vaccination with currently authorized vaccines recognize these variants. This is being closely investigated and more studies are underway.&nbsp;“Finding this strain in the Panhandle reinforces the importance of getting your COVID vaccine. Consider it your molecular PPE and one of the best protection against this insidious virus. Now that it’s available to anyone over 18, we urge you to get it,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.Anyone in the Panhandle age 18 and older can get a COVID vaccine. Roughly 35% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. People are urged to help friends, family, and neighbors sign up for theirs. This can be done by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://vaccinate.ne.gov/">https://vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or calling&nbsp;<a href="tel:+18339982275">833-998-2275.</a>Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.</a>If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t fret, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/">www.pphd.org</a>.

B117 COVID variant found in the Panhandle

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts will get his first coronavirus vaccination shot on Saturday at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha.

 The 56-year-old governor had previously signed up for the vaccine online, and was notified earlier this week that he was eligible for an appointment. 

Douglas County on Thursday started offering vaccinations to residents who are at least 45 years old. 

On Monday, the state will allow public health districts to vaccinate anyone who is at least 16 years old if they have an adequate supply of doses and appointments. 

Ricketts and state health officials are still urging residents to sign up for a shot on the state’s registration website, <a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>.

Phone registrations are available by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts will get his first coronavirus vaccination shot on Saturday at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha. The 56-year-old governor had previously signed up for the vaccine online, and was notified earlier this week that he was eligible for an appointment. Douglas County on Thursday started offering vaccinations to residents who are at least 45 years old. On Monday, the state will allow public health districts to vaccinate anyone who is at least 16 years old if they have an adequate supply of doses and appointments. Ricketts and state health officials are still urging residents to sign up for a shot on the state’s registration website, <a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>. Phone registrations are available by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.

Nebraska Gov. Ricketts to get coronavirus vaccine Saturday

LINCOLN – Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news regarding the development of vaccine passport systems that would use the sensitive health information of Americans to limit their freedoms.

“Nebraska will not participate in any vaccine passport program,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “This concept violates two central tenets of the American system: freedom of movement and healthcare privacy.&nbsp; Nebraska will take any necessary action to protect the private health information of our citizens and the freedoms we cherish.”

LINCOLN – Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news regarding the development of vaccine passport systems that would use the sensitive health information of Americans to limit their freedoms.“Nebraska will not participate in any vaccine passport program,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “This concept violates two central tenets of the American system: freedom of movement and healthcare privacy.&nbsp; Nebraska will take any necessary action to protect the private health information of our citizens and the freedoms we cherish.”

Gov. Ricketts opposes vaccine passports

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s public health districts will be allowed to open up COVID-19 vaccinations to all residents who are at least 16 years old starting next week if they have an adequate supply of doses. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts says the regional districts will have the option to do so starting Monday. 

State officials will let them decide whether they have enough open appointments and doses.

 Some rural public health districts have already started vaccinating that age group, but the wait will be a bit longer in Nebraska’s most populated cities. 

Douglas County, encompassing Omaha, will offer vaccinations to residents who are at least 45 years old starting Thursday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s public health districts will be allowed to open up COVID-19 vaccinations to all residents who are at least 16 years old starting next week if they have an adequate supply of doses. Gov. Pete Ricketts says the regional districts will have the option to do so starting Monday. State officials will let them decide whether they have enough open appointments and doses. Some rural public health districts have already started vaccinating that age group, but the wait will be a bit longer in Nebraska’s most populated cities. Douglas County, encompassing Omaha, will offer vaccinations to residents who are at least 45 years old starting Thursday.

Nebraska lets health districts open vaccines to more people

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Anyone in South Dakota over 16 years of age will be eligible for a vaccination against COVID-19 starting next week.

 Gov. Kristi Noem's announcement came amid a recent uptick in cases statewide. 

But state health officials also reported that 42% of people have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and about 65% those people have completed vaccination, which requires two shots in most cases.

 President Joe Biden and top health officials are warning that despite vaccines becoming widely available, Americans are declaring victory over the pandemic too early and letting their guard down against stopping infections.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Anyone in South Dakota over 16 years of age will be eligible for a vaccination against COVID-19 starting next week. Gov. Kristi Noem's announcement came amid a recent uptick in cases statewide. But state health officials also reported that 42% of people have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and about 65% those people have completed vaccination, which requires two shots in most cases. President Joe Biden and top health officials are warning that despite vaccines becoming widely available, Americans are declaring victory over the pandemic too early and letting their guard down against stopping infections.

South Dakota to open vaccines to all adults next week

Pfizer announced Wednesday that its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and strongly protective in kids as young as 12, a step toward possibly beginning shots in this age group before they head back to school in the fall.

Most COVID-19 vaccines being rolled out worldwide are for adults, who are at higher risk from the coronavirus. Pfizer’s vaccine is authorized for ages 16 and older. But vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to stopping the pandemic — and helping schools, at least the upper grades, start to look a little more normal after months of disruption.

In a study of 2,260 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15, preliminary data showed there were no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among those given dummy shots, Pfizer reported.

It’s a small study, that hasn’t yet been published, so another important piece of evidence is how well the shots revved up the kids’ immune systems. Researchers reported high levels of virus-fighting antibodies, somewhat higher than were seen in studies of young adults.

Kids had side effects similar to young adults, the company said. The main side effects are pain, fever, chills and fatigue, particularly after the second dose. The study will continue to track participants for two years for more information about long-term protection and safety.

Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech in the coming weeks plan to ask the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European regulators to allow emergency use of the shots starting at age 12.

“We share the urgency to expand the use of our vaccine,” Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement. He expressed “the hope of starting to vaccinate this age group before the start of the next school year” in the United States.

Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Results also are expected soon from a U.S. study of Moderna’s vaccine in 12- to 17-year-olds.

But in a sign that the findings were promising, the FDA already allowed both companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-pandemics-coronavirus-pandemic-coronavirus-vaccine-3c2490cd1bef6221c9b33146fee0fe4c">begin U.S. studies&nbsp;</a>in children 11 and younger, working their way to as young as 6-month-old.

AstraZeneca last month began a study of its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. Johnson &amp; Johnson is planning its own pediatric studies. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.

While most COVID-19 vaccines being used globally were first tested in tens of thousands of adults, pediatric studies won’t need to be nearly as large. Scientists have safety information from those studies and from subsequent vaccinations in millions more adults.

One key question is the dosage: Pfizer gave the 12-and-older participants the same dose adults receive, while testing different doses in younger children.

It’s not clear how quickly the FDA would act on Pfizer’s request to allow vaccination starting at age 12. Another question is when the country would have enough supply of shots — and people to get them into adolescents’ arms — to let kids start getting in line.

Supplies are set to steadily increase over the spring and summer, at the same time states are opening vaccinations to younger, healthier adults who until now haven’t had a turn.

Children represent about 13% of COVID-19 cases documented in the U.S. And while children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill, at least 268 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 13,500 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics. That’s more than die from the flu in an average year. Additionally, a small number have developed a serious inflammatory condition linked to the coronavirus.

Caleb Chung, who turns 13 later this week, agreed to volunteer after his father, a Duke University pediatrician, presented the option. He doesn’t know if he received the vaccine or a placebo.

“Usually I’m just at home doing online school and there’s not much I can really do to fight back against the virus,” Caleb said in a recent interview. The study “was really somewhere that I could actually help out.”

His father, Dr. Richard Chung, said he’s proud of his son and all the other children volunteering for the needle pricks, blood tests and other tasks a study entails.

“We need kids to do these trials so that kids can get protected. Adults can’t do that for them,” Chung said.

By LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated PressPfizer announced Wednesday that its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and strongly protective in kids as young as 12, a step toward possibly beginning shots in this age group before they head back to school in the fall.Most COVID-19 vaccines being rolled out worldwide are for adults, who are at higher risk from the coronavirus. Pfizer’s vaccine is authorized for ages 16 and older. But vaccinating children of all ages will be critical to stopping the pandemic — and helping schools, at least the upper grades, start to look a little more normal after months of disruption.In a study of 2,260 U.S. volunteers ages 12 to 15, preliminary data showed there were no cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated adolescents compared to 18 among those given dummy shots, Pfizer reported.It’s a small study, that hasn’t yet been published, so another important piece of evidence is how well the shots revved up the kids’ immune systems. Researchers reported high levels of virus-fighting antibodies, somewhat higher than were seen in studies of young adults.Kids had side effects similar to young adults, the company said. The main side effects are pain, fever, chills and fatigue, particularly after the second dose. The study will continue to track participants for two years for more information about long-term protection and safety.Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech in the coming weeks plan to ask the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European regulators to allow emergency use of the shots starting at age 12.“We share the urgency to expand the use of our vaccine,” Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement. He expressed “the hope of starting to vaccinate this age group before the start of the next school year” in the United States.Pfizer isn’t the only company seeking to lower the age limit for its vaccine. Results also are expected soon from a U.S. study of Moderna’s vaccine in 12- to 17-year-olds.But in a sign that the findings were promising, the FDA already allowed both companies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-pandemics-coronavirus-pandemic-coronavirus-vaccine-3c2490cd1bef6221c9b33146fee0fe4c">begin U.S. studies&nbsp;</a>in children 11 and younger, working their way to as young as 6-month-old.AstraZeneca last month began a study of its vaccine among 6- to 17-year-olds in Britain. Johnson &amp; Johnson is planning its own pediatric studies. And in China, Sinovac recently announced it has submitted preliminary data to Chinese regulators showing its vaccine is safe in children as young as 3.ADVERTISEMENTWhile most COVID-19 vaccines being used globally were first tested in tens of thousands of adults, pediatric studies won’t need to be nearly as large. Scientists have safety information from those studies and from subsequent vaccinations in millions more adults.One key question is the dosage: Pfizer gave the 12-and-older participants the same dose adults receive, while testing different doses in younger children.It’s not clear how quickly the FDA would act on Pfizer’s request to allow vaccination starting at age 12. Another question is when the country would have enough supply of shots — and people to get them into adolescents’ arms — to let kids start getting in line.Supplies are set to steadily increase over the spring and summer, at the same time states are opening vaccinations to younger, healthier adults who until now haven’t had a turn.Children represent about 13% of COVID-19 cases documented in the U.S. And while children are far less likely than adults to get seriously ill, at least 268 have died from COVID-19 in the U.S. alone and more than 13,500 have been hospitalized, according to a tally by the American Academy of Pediatrics. That’s more than die from the flu in an average year. Additionally, a small number have developed a serious inflammatory condition linked to the coronavirus.Caleb Chung, who turns 13 later this week, agreed to volunteer after his father, a Duke University pediatrician, presented the option. He doesn’t know if he received the vaccine or a placebo.“Usually I’m just at home doing online school and there’s not much I can really do to fight back against the virus,” Caleb said in a recent interview. The study “was really somewhere that I could actually help out.”His father, Dr. Richard Chung, said he’s proud of his son and all the other children volunteering for the needle pricks, blood tests and other tasks a study entails.“We need kids to do these trials so that kids can get protected. Adults can’t do that for them,” Chung said.___

Pfizer: COVID-19 vaccine effective in kids ages 12 to 15

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Now that coronavirus vaccines are becoming more widely available in the state, many Nebraskans are scouring the internet in search of an appointment to get a shot. 

Michael Nollett of Lincoln said he hopes to land an appointment soon because pharmacies participating in a federal program in the state opened up vaccine eligibility to all adults on Monday.

 Local health officials remain focused on vaccinating people aged 50 and older across the state although some public health districts in rural areas are already offering the shots to all adults. 

Officials have said they expect to make the vaccines available to the general public statewide by late April or early May.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Now that coronavirus vaccines are becoming more widely available in the state, many Nebraskans are scouring the internet in search of an appointment to get a shot. Michael Nollett of Lincoln said he hopes to land an appointment soon because pharmacies participating in a federal program in the state opened up vaccine eligibility to all adults on Monday. Local health officials remain focused on vaccinating people aged 50 and older across the state although some public health districts in rural areas are already offering the shots to all adults. Officials have said they expect to make the vaccines available to the general public statewide by late April or early May.

Nebraskans scouring for vaccine slots as availability grows

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Health officials say nearly 106,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots were administered in Nebraska last week, and that total was roughly in line with the previous week. 

The state said Monday that 20.9% of Nebraska's population over 16 has now been fully vaccinated.

 Most of those shots are being distributed by local health officials who are focused on vaccinating everyone aged 50 and older, but several public health districts across rural parts of the state have opened up vaccinations to all adults.

 Rural areas have been able to expand vaccine eligibility faster because they have fewer people in priority groups such as health care workers and educators.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Health officials say nearly 106,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots were administered in Nebraska last week, and that total was roughly in line with the previous week. The state said Monday that 20.9% of Nebraska's population over 16 has now been fully vaccinated. Most of those shots are being distributed by local health officials who are focused on vaccinating everyone aged 50 and older, but several public health districts across rural parts of the state have opened up vaccinations to all adults. Rural areas have been able to expand vaccine eligibility faster because they have fewer people in priority groups such as health care workers and educators.

Nebraska vaccinates more than 100,000 people again last week

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s economy continues to feel the pain of the coronavirus pandemic, but it’s clear that the state has ridden out the economic crisis better than most states. 

Nebraska has yet to recover roughly one-third of the nearly 100,000 jobs it lost last spring, but the rate of job losses in the state was the sixth-lowest in the country. And Nebraska’s unemployment rate is tied for the third-lowest. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts said “Nebraska has weathered this pandemic about as well as we could have.” 

It helps that the state has a diverse economy, and some of its biggest industries were able to transition to having employees work from home successfully.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s economy continues to feel the pain of the coronavirus pandemic, but it’s clear that the state has ridden out the economic crisis better than most states. Nebraska has yet to recover roughly one-third of the nearly 100,000 jobs it lost last spring, but the rate of job losses in the state was the sixth-lowest in the country. And Nebraska’s unemployment rate is tied for the third-lowest. Gov. Pete Ricketts said “Nebraska has weathered this pandemic about as well as we could have.” It helps that the state has a diverse economy, and some of its biggest industries were able to transition to having employees work from home successfully.

Nebraska economy fares better than most states in pandemic

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus continues to decline in Nebraska, and more than 19% of the state's population has now been vaccinated against the virus. 

The state said Thursday that 107 people were hospitalized with the virus, which is the lowest level since last July. 

That number has fallen steadily since peaking at 987 in November.

 Health officials said nearly 107,000 doses of the vaccines were administered in the state last week. 

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases declined over the past two weeks from 282.71 cases per day on March 9 to 246.43 cases per day on Tuesday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus continues to decline in Nebraska, and more than 19% of the state's population has now been vaccinated against the virus. The state said Thursday that 107 people were hospitalized with the virus, which is the lowest level since last July. That number has fallen steadily since peaking at 987 in November. Health officials said nearly 107,000 doses of the vaccines were administered in the state last week. The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases declined over the past two weeks from 282.71 cases per day on March 9 to 246.43 cases per day on Tuesday.

Nebraska virus hospitalizations at lowest level since July

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska still plans to make coronavirus vaccines available to the general public by late April or early May, but Gov. Pete Ricketts says a lot of factors could change the state’s timetable. 

Ricketts says the speed at which Nebraska moves through its current vaccination phase will depend on how many vaccine shipments the state gets in the next few weeks and how quickly health officials can administer them.

 He says the state expects to see a big jump in single-shot vaccine shipments from drug-maker Johnson &amp; Johnson next week, which could help speed up the massive undertaking.

 Nebraska is currently focused on vaccinating residents ages 50 to 64 and people with certain underlying health conditions.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska still plans to make coronavirus vaccines available to the general public by late April or early May, but Gov. Pete Ricketts says a lot of factors could change the state’s timetable. Ricketts says the speed at which Nebraska moves through its current vaccination phase will depend on how many vaccine shipments the state gets in the next few weeks and how quickly health officials can administer them. He says the state expects to see a big jump in single-shot vaccine shipments from drug-maker Johnson &amp; Johnson next week, which could help speed up the massive undertaking. Nebraska is currently focused on vaccinating residents ages 50 to 64 and people with certain underlying health conditions.

'A lot of variables' could affect Nebraska vaccine timetable

AP - Health experts say the surge in coronavirus cases in Europe should serve as a warning to the U.S. not to drop its safeguards too early.

 Optimism is spreading in the U.S. as virus deaths are plummeting and states are easing restrictions. 

But across Europe tighter restrictions are returning amid a surge of cases that are straining some hospitals.

 The pandemic’s diverging paths on the two continents can be linked to the more successful vaccine rollout in the U.S. and a wave of more transmissible variants in Europe. 

Health experts add that some areas of Europe also were too quick to relax distancing requirements.

AP - Health experts say the surge in coronavirus cases in Europe should serve as a warning to the U.S. not to drop its safeguards too early. Optimism is spreading in the U.S. as virus deaths are plummeting and states are easing restrictions. But across Europe tighter restrictions are returning amid a surge of cases that are straining some hospitals. The pandemic’s diverging paths on the two continents can be linked to the more successful vaccine rollout in the U.S. and a wave of more transmissible variants in Europe. Health experts add that some areas of Europe also were too quick to relax distancing requirements.

Experts: Virus surge in Europe a cautionary tale for US

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials say a variant of the coronavirus first found in Brazil has been found in Omaha. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed two people in Douglas County have tested positive for the so-called Brazil P.1 variant. 

That strain is believed to be responsible for a surge in hospitalizations in Brazil even though many people there had already developed COVID-19 and made antibodies against it. 

State health officials say the Douglas County cases were detected through COVID testing, and investigations into the cases are underway.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials say a variant of the coronavirus first found in Brazil has been found in Omaha. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed two people in Douglas County have tested positive for the so-called Brazil P.1 variant. That strain is believed to be responsible for a surge in hospitalizations in Brazil even though many people there had already developed COVID-19 and made antibodies against it. State health officials say the Douglas County cases were detected through COVID testing, and investigations into the cases are underway.

2 cases of new coronavirus variant found in Omaha

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty&nbsp;

More than half a million Americans, including 186 Panhandle residents, have died of COVID-19 in the last year. Thankfully the COVID-19 vaccination will&nbsp;greatly reduce your risk of&nbsp;getting the virus, and you don’t have to pay anything to receive it.

Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools we have available. We have all been asked to wear masks and practice social distancing to help reduce the chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. These measures are not enough to end the coronavirus pandemic. Now it is time for Americans to be vaccinated. There are three vaccines available, and all three are safe and effective.

Vaccines work with your immune system, so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. If you do get sick from COVID-19, it will be a much milder case.&nbsp;As of March 8, 13,958 or 21.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine.

Many people say they will not get the vaccine because there are side effects. That is true, but these side effects indicate the vaccine is working. Most of the reactions are temporary and pass within a few days, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Since you may feel under the weather, experts recommend not making any big plans for a few days after you get a dose of the vaccine.&nbsp;Realize that most people don’t have any side effects at all.

The most commonly reported side effects are pain and swelling at the injection site and fatigue. There have been some reports of headache, chills, low fever, muscle and joint pain, nausea, or swollen lymph nodes. &nbsp;The CDC advises against the use of pain relievers&nbsp;before&nbsp;vaccination. But if you are having side effects afterwards you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Nebraskans over the age of 18 are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. Vaccine&nbsp;phases are directed by state and federal COVID Vaccine Programs and doses&nbsp;are going to the most vulnerable first.

When you register, you will fill out a short questionnaire which sorts you into a group or phase. When it is time for the group or phase to schedule, a notification email will be sent for you to schedule an appointment, or a local vaccine administrator will call individuals to schedule appointments. 

For more information, go to Panhandle Public Health District at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;for the latest local updates. Box Butte General Hospital has a vaccine hotline (308-761-3097) for questions or assistance in scheduling vaccine appointments. Your primary care provider or local pharmacy can also answer questions and help direct you to vaccine providers.

Even though the risk dial has been dropping, we aren’t out of the woods yet. During the first week in March there were 71 new cases in the Panhandle, including three in Box Butte County. Remember to protect yourself&nbsp;by wearing face coverings and avoiding the 3 C’s (Crowded spaces, Close contact, and Confined Spaces).

&nbsp;Sign up for the COVID vaccine. It’s free!

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty&nbsp;More than half a million Americans, including 186 Panhandle residents, have died of COVID-19 in the last year. Thankfully the COVID-19 vaccination will&nbsp;greatly reduce your risk of&nbsp;getting the virus, and you don’t have to pay anything to receive it.Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools we have available. We have all been asked to wear masks and practice social distancing to help reduce the chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. These measures are not enough to end the coronavirus pandemic. Now it is time for Americans to be vaccinated. There are three vaccines available, and all three are safe and effective.Vaccines work with your immune system, so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. If you do get sick from COVID-19, it will be a much milder case.&nbsp;As of March 8, 13,958 or 21.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine.Many people say they will not get the vaccine because there are side effects. That is true, but these side effects indicate the vaccine is working. Most of the reactions are temporary and pass within a few days, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Since you may feel under the weather, experts recommend not making any big plans for a few days after you get a dose of the vaccine.&nbsp;Realize that most people don’t have any side effects at all.The most commonly reported side effects are pain and swelling at the injection site and fatigue. There have been some reports of headache, chills, low fever, muscle and joint pain, nausea, or swollen lymph nodes. &nbsp;The CDC advises against the use of pain relievers&nbsp;before&nbsp;vaccination. But if you are having side effects afterwards you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen.Nebraskans over the age of 18 are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. Vaccine&nbsp;phases are directed by state and federal COVID Vaccine Programs and doses&nbsp;are going to the most vulnerable first.When you register, you will fill out a short questionnaire which sorts you into a group or phase. When it is time for the group or phase to schedule, a notification email will be sent for you to schedule an appointment, or a local vaccine administrator will call individuals to schedule appointments. For more information, go to Panhandle Public Health District at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;for the latest local updates. Box Butte General Hospital has a vaccine hotline (308-761-3097) for questions or assistance in scheduling vaccine appointments. Your primary care provider or local pharmacy can also answer questions and help direct you to vaccine providers.Even though the risk dial has been dropping, we aren’t out of the woods yet. During the first week in March there were 71 new cases in the Panhandle, including three in Box Butte County. Remember to protect yourself&nbsp;by wearing face coverings and avoiding the 3 C’s (Crowded spaces, Close contact, and Confined Spaces).&nbsp;Sign up for the COVID vaccine. It’s free!

Poverty In Our Area: COVID vaccinations 

As of today, 16,866 or 25.7% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. People are urged to help friends, family, and neighbors sign up for theirs. This can be done by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">https://vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or calling 833-998-2275.

“The Panhandle’s COVID case fatality rate is double that of the state. With the risk of COVID variants increasing the chances of spread coupled with the Panhandle’s high case fatality rate, we can’t urge Panhandle residents enough to get vaccinated,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

The Panhandle’s case fatality rate is currently 2.15% and the state overall is 1.04%. There are several reasons for the higher rate, but it remains critical that we understand the severity COVID presents to our most vulnerable residents with age as the biggest predictor in outcome.

“We are hopeful with each resident choosing to get vaccinated and watching the COVID cases continuing to decline but we can’t be too cautious as we get into spring activities like Easter, Mother’s Day, and graduation,” added Engel. “The best way to prepare for those celebrations is to get vaccinated now.”

COVID vaccines are currently available for Panhandle residents 50 or older and phase 1b employees to include educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees. Residents within these phase 1b categories can register here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka</a>.

There’s no need to wait, if you are in any of the currently eligible populations, register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.

Studies are showing the COVID vaccines provide 100% protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.</a>

If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.

Three Panhandle residents were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, a Sheridan County female in her 80s and two Cheyenne County residents, a male in his 80s and a male in his 90s, bringing the Panhandle total to 189.

“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel. Unified Command confirms 43 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, March 8.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDAs of today, 16,866 or 25.7% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. People are urged to help friends, family, and neighbors sign up for theirs. This can be done by going to&nbsp;<a href="https://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">https://vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;or calling 833-998-2275.“The Panhandle’s COVID case fatality rate is double that of the state. With the risk of COVID variants increasing the chances of spread coupled with the Panhandle’s high case fatality rate, we can’t urge Panhandle residents enough to get vaccinated,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.The Panhandle’s case fatality rate is currently 2.15% and the state overall is 1.04%. There are several reasons for the higher rate, but it remains critical that we understand the severity COVID presents to our most vulnerable residents with age as the biggest predictor in outcome.“We are hopeful with each resident choosing to get vaccinated and watching the COVID cases continuing to decline but we can’t be too cautious as we get into spring activities like Easter, Mother’s Day, and graduation,” added Engel. “The best way to prepare for those celebrations is to get vaccinated now.”COVID vaccines are currently available for Panhandle residents 50 or older and phase 1b employees to include educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees. Residents within these phase 1b categories can register here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka</a>.There’s no need to wait, if you are in any of the currently eligible populations, register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.Studies are showing the COVID vaccines provide 100% protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.</a>If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.Three Panhandle residents were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, a Sheridan County female in her 80s and two Cheyenne County residents, a male in his 80s and a male in his 90s, bringing the Panhandle total to 189.“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel. Unified Command confirms 43 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, March 8.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615905929831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

PPHD: 1 in 4 Panhandle adults has received vaccine, 3 more deaths reported

“It’s the easiest way to care about someone,” Oshkosh art educator and community catalyst Lauren Olson said when talking about her recent first dose COVID vaccine experience.

Olson cares deeply about her community. If you travel through Oshkosh, you will see a legacy of this commitment to her students, school, and community with various artwork and murals throughout the town.

“This pandemic forces us to think about others. I’ve missed hanging out with my elderly neighbor but soon we will both have both doses, and we are looking forward to a vaccine card party,” Olson added.

Olson’s mom has a compromised immune system, so they have taken extra precautions during the pandemic by not going out with friends and ordering takeout from restaurants so they could still support local business. Eating in restaurants again is something she’s looking forward to.

Olson’s students have been at the forefront of her mind, too. She’s a former Garden County Eagle herself and has been an art educator at the school since graduating from UNL nearly a decade ago.

“There was a lot of uncertainty as the start of school was nearing last fall. I had an extended family member not fare well with a COVID infection, so I was concerned with what school reopening was going to look like. Thankfully, the school took precautions very seriously and the kids are resilient, they have done well wearing masks and not complaining,” she stated.

Olson encourages others to get their COVID vaccine. Her sister is a doctor and they both firmly believe in science with the significant amount of research put into it.

Despite many tattoos, Olson has a fear of needles, but said she wasn’t able to feel the small, brief stick in the arm.

“Regional West Garden County was well-organized with their COVID shot process and both my mom and I were in and out in less than twenty minutes,” Olson said. Her students were anxious to hear her experience and she relayed it was just a bit of a sore arm but nothing else.&nbsp;

COVID vaccines are currently available for Panhandle residents 50 or older and phase 1b employees to include educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees.

Residents are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at vaccinate.ne.gov or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. There’s no need to wait, if you are in any of the currently eligible populations, register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.

If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t fret, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.

The Panhandle COVID dashboard is updated weekdays at 4:30 pm MT and available at www.pphd.org. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.

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

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. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

By PPHD“It’s the easiest way to care about someone,” Oshkosh art educator and community catalyst Lauren Olson said when talking about her recent first dose COVID vaccine experience.Olson cares deeply about her community. If you travel through Oshkosh, you will see a legacy of this commitment to her students, school, and community with various artwork and murals throughout the town.“This pandemic forces us to think about others. I’ve missed hanging out with my elderly neighbor but soon we will both have both doses, and we are looking forward to a vaccine card party,” Olson added.Olson’s mom has a compromised immune system, so they have taken extra precautions during the pandemic by not going out with friends and ordering takeout from restaurants so they could still support local business. Eating in restaurants again is something she’s looking forward to.Olson’s students have been at the forefront of her mind, too. She’s a former Garden County Eagle herself and has been an art educator at the school since graduating from UNL nearly a decade ago.“There was a lot of uncertainty as the start of school was nearing last fall. I had an extended family member not fare well with a COVID infection, so I was concerned with what school reopening was going to look like. Thankfully, the school took precautions very seriously and the kids are resilient, they have done well wearing masks and not complaining,” she stated.Olson encourages others to get their COVID vaccine. Her sister is a doctor and they both firmly believe in science with the significant amount of research put into it.Despite many tattoos, Olson has a fear of needles, but said she wasn’t able to feel the small, brief stick in the arm.“Regional West Garden County was well-organized with their COVID shot process and both my mom and I were in and out in less than twenty minutes,” Olson said. Her students were anxious to hear her experience and she relayed it was just a bit of a sore arm but nothing else.&nbsp;COVID vaccines are currently available for Panhandle residents 50 or older and phase 1b employees to include educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees.Residents are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at vaccinate.ne.gov or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. There’s no need to wait, if you are in any of the currently eligible populations, register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.Studies are showing the COVID vaccines provide 100% protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.</a>If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t fret, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.The Panhandle COVID dashboard is updated weekdays at 4:30 pm MT and available at www.pphd.org. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.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. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.

PPHD: Oshkosh art educator cares for her community by getting vaccinated

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — State Department of Health officials say the variant strain of the coronavirus first detected in the United Kingdom has now been confirmed in South Dakota. 

Health officials say two cases have been reported and both of the patients recovered at home. State Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon says her department has been “closely monitoring” the progression of the new variant. 

The strain of the virus was first detected in the United Kingdom in September 2020 and has been found in numerous countries around the world.

 It is thought to be more contagious than other previously identified strains.

 South Dakota health officials on Thursday reported 203 new virus cases, increasing the total number of positive tests to 114,163 since the start of the pandemic.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — State Department of Health officials say the variant strain of the coronavirus first detected in the United Kingdom has now been confirmed in South Dakota. Health officials say two cases have been reported and both of the patients recovered at home. State Secretary of Health Kim Malsam-Rysdon says her department has been “closely monitoring” the progression of the new variant. The strain of the virus was first detected in the United Kingdom in September 2020 and has been found in numerous countries around the world. It is thought to be more contagious than other previously identified strains. South Dakota health officials on Thursday reported 203 new virus cases, increasing the total number of positive tests to 114,163 since the start of the pandemic.

UK COVID-19 variant discovered in South Dakota for 1st time

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — More than 250,000 people have signed up for a coronavirus vaccination on Nebraska’s official registration website, but state officials say they want more and urged residents to add their names. 

State officials want residents to sign up online at <a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov">vaccinate.ne.gov</a> or through a toll-free hotline at 833-998-2275.

The state is currently working to vaccinate residents who are at least 65 years and older, but the next phase will focus on people ages 50 to 64 and those with certain underlying health conditions.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — More than 250,000 people have signed up for a coronavirus vaccination on Nebraska’s official registration website, but state officials say they want more and urged residents to add their names. State officials want residents to sign up online at <a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov">vaccinate.ne.gov</a> or through a toll-free hotline at 833-998-2275. The state is currently working to vaccinate residents who are at least 65 years and older, but the next phase will focus on people ages 50 to 64 and those with certain underlying health conditions.

250K register on Nebraska vaccine site, officials want more

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon says the state will join a handful of others that have lifted mask-wearing mandates to limit spread of the coronavirus. 

Also being lifted are requirements for bars, restaurants, theaters and gyms, where employees must wear masks and customers not seated in small groups have to keep 6 feet apart. 

Gordon cites Wyoming’s declining number of COVID-19 cases and its success in distributing vaccines as reasons to lift the restrictions.

 The statewide order in place since December was set to expire next week.

 States including Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota and Texas also have lifted mask mandates.

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon says the state will join a handful of others that have lifted mask-wearing mandates to limit spread of the coronavirus. The changes take effect March 16. Also being lifted are requirements for bars, restaurants, theaters and gyms, where employees must wear masks and customers not seated in small groups have to keep 6 feet apart. Gordon cites Wyoming’s declining number of COVID-19 cases and its success in distributing vaccines as reasons to lift the restrictions. The statewide order in place since December was set to expire next week. States including Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota and Texas also have lifted mask mandates.

Governor: Wyoming to lift statewide mask mandate next week

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials continue to identify more cases of different variants of the coronavirus in the state. 

The state said Monday that five cases of the variant first identified in the United Kingdom and 14 cases of a variant first identified in California have now been confirmed. 

Both of those variants of the virus are believed to be more easily transmitted. 

State officials said they expect to receive 82,430 doses of the vaccines this week. 

That may lead to a small drop in the number of people vaccinated in the state this week after officials vaccinated 90,461 people across Nebraska last week.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials continue to identify more cases of different variants of the coronavirus in the state. The state said Monday that five cases of the variant first identified in the United Kingdom and 14 cases of a variant first identified in California have now been confirmed. Both of those variants of the virus are believed to be more easily transmitted. State officials said they expect to receive 82,430 doses of the vaccines this week. That may lead to a small drop in the number of people vaccinated in the state this week after officials vaccinated 90,461 people across Nebraska last week.

Nebraska confirms more cases of virus variants in the state

The Centers for Disease Control &amp; Prevention (CDC) has issued interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people. This guidance will be updated and expanded based on the level of community spread of COVID, the proportion of the population that is fully vaccinated, and the rapidly evolving science on COVID vaccines.

For now, fully vaccinated people should continue to:

As of today, 13,958 or 21.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. COVID vaccines are currently available for Panhandle residents 65 or older and phase 1b employees to include educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees. Residents within these phase 1b categories can register here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka</a>.

Residents over the age of 18 are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at vaccinate.ne.gov or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.

Unified Command confirms 71 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, March 1.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

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

By PPHDThe Centers for Disease Control &amp; Prevention (CDC) has issued interim public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people. This guidance will be updated and expanded based on the level of community spread of COVID, the proportion of the population that is fully vaccinated, and the rapidly evolving science on COVID vaccines.Fully vaccinated people can:<ul>
 <li>Visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing.</li><li>Visit with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID disease indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing.</li><li>Refrain from quarantine and testing following a known exposure if asymptomatic.</li>
 </ul>For now, fully vaccinated people should continue to:<ul>
 <li>Take precautions in public like wearing a well-fitted mask and physical distancing.</li><li>Wear masks, practice physical distancing, and adhere to other prevention measures when visiting with unvaccinated people who are at increased risk for severe COVID disease or who have an unvaccinated household member who is at increased risk for severe COVID disease.</li><li>Wear masks, maintain physical distance, and practice other prevention measures when visiting with unvaccinated people from multiple households.</li><li>Avoid medium- and large-sized in-person gatherings.</li><li>Get tested if experiencing COVID symptoms.</li><li>Follow guidance issued by individual employers.</li><li>Follow CDC and health department travel requirements and recommendations.</li>
 </ul>As of today, 13,958 or 21.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. COVID vaccines are currently available for Panhandle residents 65 or older and phase 1b employees to include educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees. Residents within these phase 1b categories can register here:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/3este7ka</a>.Residents over the age of 18 are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at vaccinate.ne.gov or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.There’s no need to wait, if you are in any of the currently eligible populations, register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.Studies are showing the COVID vaccines provide 100% protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.</a>If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t fret, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.Unified Command confirms 71 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, March 1.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615250778891.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-March 8, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 34,824</li><li>Positive: 8,764</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 99</li><li>Last week’s cases: 70</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 14.3%</li><li>Deaths: 186</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 3</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 533</li><li>Doubling time (November 12, 2020-March 8, 2021): 117 days</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: CDC issues public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — State health officials are reporting that South Dakota has reached 1,900 deaths due to complications from the coronavirus. 

Officials on Sunday confirmed two new COVID-19-related deaths in the last day, a person in their 40s and a person in their 60s. 

The COVID Tracking Project ranks South Dakota’s death count as the eighth highest per capita in the country at 215 deaths per 100,000 people.

 The daily state report included 211 new infections, bringing the total to 113,589 positive tests since the start of the pandemic. 

Active cases rose for a sixth straight day, from 2,109 to 2,158. Hospitalizations fell by two, to 72.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — State health officials are reporting that South Dakota has reached 1,900 deaths due to complications from the coronavirus. Officials on Sunday confirmed two new COVID-19-related deaths in the last day, a person in their 40s and a person in their 60s. The COVID Tracking Project ranks South Dakota’s death count as the eighth highest per capita in the country at 215 deaths per 100,000 people. The daily state report included 211 new infections, bringing the total to 113,589 positive tests since the start of the pandemic. Active cases rose for a sixth straight day, from 2,109 to 2,158. Hospitalizations fell by two, to 72.

South Dakota reaches 1,900 deaths due to the coronavirus

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials may start using mobile sites to help expand the number of places where residents can get a coronavirus vaccines as the number of available doses increases. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts made the comments came as the number of new vaccinations administered continues to trend upward. 

Health officials vaccinated a new one-day high of 20,949 people on Thursday. 

Statewide, 12% of Nebraska residents who are at least 16 years old have been fully vaccinated, according to the state’s online tracking portal.

 Nebraska hospitals that are working through the state’s vaccination program have received 502,470 doses so far.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials may start using mobile sites to help expand the number of places where residents can get a coronavirus vaccines as the number of available doses increases. Gov. Pete Ricketts made the comments came as the number of new vaccinations administered continues to trend upward. Health officials vaccinated a new one-day high of 20,949 people on Thursday. Statewide, 12% of Nebraska residents who are at least 16 years old have been fully vaccinated, according to the state’s online tracking portal. Nebraska hospitals that are working through the state’s vaccination program have received 502,470 doses so far.

Nebraska may add vaccination sites to accommodate ramp-up

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Roughly 5,000 teachers from the Omaha area received their coronavirus vaccine shots this weekend. 

The Douglas County Health Department held two large vaccination clinics Saturday at Millard North and Omaha North high schools to distribute doses of the new Johnson &amp; Johnson single-dose vaccine to educators.

 Tim Royers, president of the Millard Education Association, praised the mass vaccination effort.

 Royers said he’s optimistic all educators in Douglas County could be vaccinated by the end of next weekend.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Roughly 5,000 teachers from the Omaha area received their coronavirus vaccine shots this weekend. The Douglas County Health Department held two large vaccination clinics Saturday at Millard North and Omaha North high schools to distribute doses of the new Johnson &amp; Johnson single-dose vaccine to educators. Tim Royers, president of the Millard Education Association, praised the mass vaccination effort. Royers said he’s optimistic all educators in Douglas County could be vaccinated by the end of next weekend.

Thousands of teachers in Omaha area get virus vaccinations

NEW YORK (AP) — More than one-third of U.S. nonprofits are in jeopardy of closing within two years because of the financial harm inflicted by the viral pandemic, according to a study being released Wednesday by the philanthropy research group Candid and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.

The study’s findings underscore the perils for nonprofits and charities whose financial needs have escalated over the past year, well in excess of the donations that most have received from individuals and foundations.

The researchers analyzed how roughly 300,000 nonprofits would fare under 20 scenarios of varying severity.

NEW YORK (AP) — More than one-third of U.S. nonprofits are in jeopardy of closing within two years because of the financial harm inflicted by the viral pandemic, according to a study being released Wednesday by the philanthropy research group Candid and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.The study’s findings underscore the perils for nonprofits and charities whose financial needs have escalated over the past year, well in excess of the donations that most have received from individuals and foundations.The researchers analyzed how roughly 300,000 nonprofits would fare under 20 scenarios of varying severity.

Coronavirus Update