OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials administered nearly 87,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines last week as the state worked to distribute more shots.

 The number of doses of the vaccines administered jumped to 86,737 last week from the previous week’s total of 52,731. 

State health officials said 436,474 doses of the vaccines have now been administered, and 10% of Nebraska’s population has now been fully vaccinated. 

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, from 500.29 new cases per day on Feb. 15 to 271.57 new cases per day on Monday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials administered nearly 87,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines last week as the state worked to distribute more shots. The number of doses of the vaccines administered jumped to 86,737 last week from the previous week’s total of 52,731. State health officials said 436,474 doses of the vaccines have now been administered, and 10% of Nebraska’s population has now been fully vaccinated. The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, from 500.29 new cases per day on Feb. 15 to 271.57 new cases per day on Monday.

Nebraska administered nearly 87,000 vaccine doses last week

Panhandle Unified Command announced on today’s briefing the risk dial has moved to yellow, moderate risk of COVID spread. The Panhandle hasn’t seen this risk level since last fall.

Important and optimistic factors that are shifting this risk level are no active hospitalizations and the lowest positivity rate in months. Panhandle residents are encouraged to take the important precautions according to the yellow risk level: maintain a physical distance from anyone outside the home, wear a mask, frequently wash or sanitize your hands, be cautious with gatherings and consider outdoor activities when possible, and stay home and get tested if experiencing any COVID-like symptoms.

As of today, 11,324 or 17.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Local vaccine providers will continue to vaccinate individuals 65 and older and moving towards other tiers of phase 1b including educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees.&nbsp;

“There are now three vaccine brands that have received the FDA Emergency Use Authorization-Pfizer, Moderna, &amp; Johnson &amp; Johnson. We anticipate seeing the newest brand in the Panhandle beginning as soon as next week,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

She added, “It’s not a fair assessment to compare one vaccine to the other. Overall, they provide 100% assurance in preventing hospitalizations, 100% assurance in preventing deaths, and 0% difference in the things that matter the most.”

The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program includes three locations in the Panhandle: Alliance Community Pharmacy and Walmart in Chadron and Scottsbluff.&nbsp; All are using the coordinated Panhandle list. This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle.

All Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered, please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.

If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. The Spanish version will be coming soon.

COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.

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

If you have 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 panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.

Four Panhandle residents were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, a Sheridan County female in her 70s and three Scotts Bluff County residents, two males in their 70s and one female in her 70s, bringing the Panhandle total to 186.

“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.

Unified Command confirms 31 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDPanhandle Unified Command announced on today’s briefing the risk dial has moved to yellow, moderate risk of COVID spread. The Panhandle hasn’t seen this risk level since last fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614699505018.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Important and optimistic factors that are shifting this risk level are no active hospitalizations and the lowest positivity rate in months. Panhandle residents are encouraged to take the important precautions according to the yellow risk level: maintain a physical distance from anyone outside the home, wear a mask, frequently wash or sanitize your hands, be cautious with gatherings and consider outdoor activities when possible, and stay home and get tested if experiencing any COVID-like symptoms.As of today, 11,324 or 17.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Local vaccine providers will continue to vaccinate individuals 65 and older and moving towards other tiers of phase 1b including educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees.&nbsp;“There are now three vaccine brands that have received the FDA Emergency Use Authorization-Pfizer, Moderna, &amp; Johnson &amp; Johnson. We anticipate seeing the newest brand in the Panhandle beginning as soon as next week,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.She added, “It’s not a fair assessment to compare one vaccine to the other. Overall, they provide 100% assurance in preventing hospitalizations, 100% assurance in preventing deaths, and 0% difference in the things that matter the most.”The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program includes three locations in the Panhandle: Alliance Community Pharmacy and Walmart in Chadron and Scottsbluff.&nbsp; All are using the coordinated Panhandle list. This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle.All Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered, please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. The Spanish version will be coming soon.COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.If you have 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 panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.Four Panhandle residents were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, a Sheridan County female in her 70s and three Scotts Bluff County residents, two males in their 70s and one female in her 70s, bringing the Panhandle total to 186.“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.Unified Command confirms 31 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614699615630.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-March 1, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 34,824</li><li>Positive: 8,685</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 103</li><li>Last week’s cases: 31</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 7.5%</li><li>Deaths: 186</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 0</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 532</li><li>Doubling time (November 12, 2020-March 1, 2021): 110 days</li>
 </ul>

PPHD: Panhandle moves to yellow on the virus risk dial

Longtime Chadron resident and local and college sports reporter Con Marshall was happy to receive his first COVID shot in early February.

“My wife Peggy and I were able to get our shots at Western Community Health Resources and have had no pain and no problems whatsoever,” said Marshall in a recent phone interview.

On the morning of the conversation, Marshall was anxious to get off the phone so he could get the weekend stories and sports updates compiled with a Monday end-of-day deadline. He jokingly shared “he needed to get back to his half-day,” which he estimated to be 5am to 5pm.&nbsp;

Marshall and his wife have been getting their flu shot annually and had just had a conversation about how they haven’t even had so much as a sniffle in the past 3-4 years. This helped convince them about how important vaccines are. He also shared three of his friends passed away from COVID this past year.

“None of them had any previous problems or health conditions at all, one was one of the most successful CSC graduates and played football in the early ‘80s,” he shared. “It’s really important that we do what we can to prevent getting this virus. I sincerely appreciate all the healthcare workers and all that are working so hard.”

Marshall is no stranger to the Chadron community and college sports with his 50+ year tenure at Chadron State College. He and his wife are looking forward to getting their second COVID shot next week.

Panhandle Public Health District is grateful Marshall is an iCon for the Panhandle community and encourages others to share their important COVID vaccine stories and experiences.

Panhandle residents 65 or older 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, anyone 65 or older is encouraged to 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.

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>

By PPHDLongtime Chadron resident and local and college sports reporter Con Marshall was happy to receive his first COVID shot in early February.“My wife Peggy and I were able to get our shots at Western Community Health Resources and have had no pain and no problems whatsoever,” said Marshall in a recent phone interview.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614647939922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On the morning of the conversation, Marshall was anxious to get off the phone so he could get the weekend stories and sports updates compiled with a Monday end-of-day deadline. He jokingly shared “he needed to get back to his half-day,” which he estimated to be 5am to 5pm.&nbsp;Marshall and his wife have been getting their flu shot annually and had just had a conversation about how they haven’t even had so much as a sniffle in the past 3-4 years. This helped convince them about how important vaccines are. He also shared three of his friends passed away from COVID this past year.“None of them had any previous problems or health conditions at all, one was one of the most successful CSC graduates and played football in the early ‘80s,” he shared. “It’s really important that we do what we can to prevent getting this virus. I sincerely appreciate all the healthcare workers and all that are working so hard.”Marshall is no stranger to the Chadron community and college sports with his 50+ year tenure at Chadron State College. He and his wife are looking forward to getting their second COVID shot next week.Panhandle Public Health District is grateful Marshall is an iCon for the Panhandle community and encourages others to share their important COVID vaccine stories and experiences.Panhandle residents 65 or older 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, anyone 65 or older is encouraged to 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.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 panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.

Longtime Chadron resident Con Marshall happy to receive his COVID shot

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska could get its first doses of drug-maker Johnson &amp; Johnson's new coronavirus vaccine as early as this week, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Monday.

Ricketts said the state has been allowed to order up 15,000 doses, but state officials don't yet know how much they'll get.

The announcement came days after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnson-johnson-1-shot-dose-cleared-f13611719ad8d1655ed7b354af75a9a9" target="_blank">approved the vaccine,</a>&nbsp;clearing the way for a third shot that's shown to be effective. Unlike the vaccines from manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna, which require two doses to provide full immunity, the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine can be delivered in one shot.

Ricketts said the state also expects to get 18,720 Pfizer doses and 17,000 Moderna doses this week. He said he was told on a recent call between governors and the White House that the Johnson &amp; Johnson supplies may be inconsistent for the first few weeks of the rollout.

"We may be allowed to order 15,000 this week, but may not be able to get that many in weeks two and three," he said a coronavirus news conference.

Ricketts said residents who go to a clinic to get vaccinated will only be able to choose the vaccine that's available on site, at least for now. He said the newly approved Johnson &amp; Johnson won't change the state's plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-2668c4173fcc9185dcdfe42b4a1badae" target="_blank">focus almost entirely on residents who are at least 65 years old,</a>&nbsp;the demographic that has been most likely to die from the virus in Nebraska.

But he said the greater flexibility of the one-dose vaccine could be helpful in rural areas or with certain groups that are harder to reach for a follow-up shot.

Nebraska has confirmed 200,946 virus cases and 2,082 deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal. Roughly 83% of those who have died were 65 or older.

The number of new, known cases and the number of people hospitalized with the virus continue to trend downward since the record highs set in mid-November.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="Vaccine photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Vaccine photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska could get its first doses of drug-maker Johnson &amp; Johnson's new coronavirus vaccine as early as this week, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Monday.Ricketts said the state has been allowed to order up 15,000 doses, but state officials don't yet know how much they'll get.The announcement came days after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnson-johnson-1-shot-dose-cleared-f13611719ad8d1655ed7b354af75a9a9" target="_blank">approved the vaccine,</a>&nbsp;clearing the way for a third shot that's shown to be effective. Unlike the vaccines from manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna, which require two doses to provide full immunity, the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine can be delivered in one shot.Ricketts said the state also expects to get 18,720 Pfizer doses and 17,000 Moderna doses this week. He said he was told on a recent call between governors and the White House that the Johnson &amp; Johnson supplies may be inconsistent for the first few weeks of the rollout."We may be allowed to order 15,000 this week, but may not be able to get that many in weeks two and three," he said a coronavirus news conference.Ricketts said residents who go to a clinic to get vaccinated will only be able to choose the vaccine that's available on site, at least for now. He said the newly approved Johnson &amp; Johnson won't change the state's plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-2668c4173fcc9185dcdfe42b4a1badae" target="_blank">focus almost entirely on residents who are at least 65 years old,</a>&nbsp;the demographic that has been most likely to die from the virus in Nebraska.But he said the greater flexibility of the one-dose vaccine could be helpful in rural areas or with certain groups that are harder to reach for a follow-up shot.Nebraska has confirmed 200,946 virus cases and 2,082 deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal. Roughly 83% of those who have died were 65 or older.The number of new, known cases and the number of people hospitalized with the virus continue to trend downward since the record highs set in mid-November.

Ricketts: Nebraska could receive new J&J vaccine this week

WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.

Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.

“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.

After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.

The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.

“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”

U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.

“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”

But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.

L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.

President Joe Biden has promised to revamp the nation’s testing system by investing billions more in supplies and government coordination. But with demand falling fast, the country may soon have a glut of unused supplies. The U.S. will be able to conduct nearly 1 billion monthly tests by June, according to projections from researchers at Arizona State University. That’s more than 25 times the country’s current rate of about 40 million tests reported per month.

With more than 150 million new vaccine doses due for delivery by late March, testing is likely to fall further as local governments shift staff and resources to giving shots.

“You have to pick your battles here,” said Dr. Jeffrey Engel of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. “Everyone would agree that if you have one public health nurse, you’re going to use that person for vaccination, not testing.”

Some experts say the country must double down on testing to avoid flare-ups from coronavirus variants that have taken hold in the U.K., South Africa and other places.

“We need to use testing to continue the downward trend,” said Dr. Jonathan Quick of the Rockefeller Foundation, which has been advising Biden officials. “We need to have it there to catch surges from the variants.”

Last week, Minnesota began urging families to get tested every two weeks through the end of the school year as more students return to the classroom.

“To protect this progress, we need to use all the tools at our disposal,” said Dan Huff, an assistant state health commissioner.

But some of the most vocal testing proponents are less worried about the declines in screening. From a public health viewpoint, testing is effective if it helps to quickly find the infected, trace their contacts and isolate them to stop the spread. In most parts of the U.S., that never happened.

Over the holiday season, many Americans still had to wait days to receive test results, rendering them largely useless. That’s led to testing fatigue and dwindling interest, said Dr. Michael Mina of Harvard University.

“It doesn’t exactly give you a lot of gratifying, immediate feedback,” Mina said. “So people’s willingness or interest in getting tested starts to go down.”

Still, U.S. test manufacturers continue ramping up production, with another 110 million rapid and home-based tests expected to hit the market next month.

Government officials long assumed this growing arsenal of cheap, 15-minute tests would be used to regularly screen millions of students and teachers as in-person classes resume. But recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t emphasize testing, describing it as an “additional layer” of protection, behind basic measures like masking and social distancing.

Even without strong federal backing, educational leaders say testing programs will be important for marshaling public confidence needed to fully reopen schools, including in the fall when cases are expected to rise again.

“Schools have asked themselves, justifiably, ‘Is the juice worth the squeeze to set up a big testing effort?’” said Mike Magee, CEO of Chiefs for Change, a nonprofit that advises districts in more than 25 states. “Our message to the school systems we work with is: ‘Yes, you need to stand up comprehensive testing because you’re going to need it.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591208066312.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Just five weeks ago, Los Angeles County was conducting more than 350,000 weekly coronavirus tests, including at a massive drive-thru site at Dodger Stadium, as health workers raced to contain the worst COVID-19 hotspot in the U.S.Now, county officials say testing has nearly collapsed. More than 180 government-supported sites are operating at only a third of their capacity.“It’s shocking how quickly we’ve gone from moving at 100 miles an hour to about 25,” said Dr. Clemens Hong, who leads the county’s testing operation.After a year of struggling to boost testing, communities across the country are seeing plummeting demand, shuttering testing sites or even trying to return supplies.The drop in screening comes at a significant moment in the outbreak: Experts are cautiously optimistic that COVID-19 is receding after killing more than 500,000 people in the U.S. but concerned that emerging variants could prolong the epidemic.“Everyone is hopeful for rapid, widespread vaccinations, but I don’t think we’re at a point where we can drop our guard just yet,” said Hong. “We just don’t have enough people who are immune to rule out another surge.”U.S. testing hit a peak on Jan. 15, when the country was averaging more than 2 million tests per day. Since then, the average number of daily tests has fallen more than 28%. The drop mirrors declines across all major virus measures since January, including new cases, hospitalizations and deaths.Officials say those encouraging trends, together with harsh winter weather, the end of the holiday travel season, pandemic fatigue and a growing focus on vaccinations are sapping interest in testing.“When you combine all those together you see this decrease,” said Dr. Richard Pescatore of the health department in Delaware, where daily testing has fallen more than 40% since the January peak. “People just aren’t going to go out to testing sites.”But testing remains important for tracking and containing the outbreak.L.A. County is opening more testing options near public transportation, schools and offices to make it more convenient. And officials in Santa Clara County are urging residents to “continue getting tested regularly,” highlighting new mobile testing buses and pop-up sites.President Joe Biden has promised to revamp the nation’s testing system by investing billions more in supplies and government coordination. But with demand falling fast, the country may soon have a glut of unused supplies. The U.S. will be able to conduct nearly 1 billion monthly tests by June, according to projections from researchers at Arizona State University. That’s more than 25 times the country’s current rate of about 40 million tests reported per month.With more than 150 million new vaccine doses due for delivery by late March, testing is likely to fall further as local governments shift staff and resources to giving shots.“You have to pick your battles here,” said Dr. Jeffrey Engel of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists. “Everyone would agree that if you have one public health nurse, you’re going to use that person for vaccination, not testing.”Some experts say the country must double down on testing to avoid flare-ups from coronavirus variants that have taken hold in the U.K., South Africa and other places.“We need to use testing to continue the downward trend,” said Dr. Jonathan Quick of the Rockefeller Foundation, which has been advising Biden officials. “We need to have it there to catch surges from the variants.”Last week, Minnesota began urging families to get tested every two weeks through the end of the school year as more students return to the classroom.“To protect this progress, we need to use all the tools at our disposal,” said Dan Huff, an assistant state health commissioner.But some of the most vocal testing proponents are less worried about the declines in screening. From a public health viewpoint, testing is effective if it helps to quickly find the infected, trace their contacts and isolate them to stop the spread. In most parts of the U.S., that never happened.Over the holiday season, many Americans still had to wait days to receive test results, rendering them largely useless. That’s led to testing fatigue and dwindling interest, said Dr. Michael Mina of Harvard University.“It doesn’t exactly give you a lot of gratifying, immediate feedback,” Mina said. “So people’s willingness or interest in getting tested starts to go down.”Still, U.S. test manufacturers continue ramping up production, with another 110 million rapid and home-based tests expected to hit the market next month.Government officials long assumed this growing arsenal of cheap, 15-minute tests would be used to regularly screen millions of students and teachers as in-person classes resume. But recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention don’t emphasize testing, describing it as an “additional layer” of protection, behind basic measures like masking and social distancing.Even without strong federal backing, educational leaders say testing programs will be important for marshaling public confidence needed to fully reopen schools, including in the fall when cases are expected to rise again.“Schools have asked themselves, justifiably, ‘Is the juice worth the squeeze to set up a big testing effort?’” said Mike Magee, CEO of Chiefs for Change, a nonprofit that advises districts in more than 25 states. “Our message to the school systems we work with is: ‘Yes, you need to stand up comprehensive testing because you’re going to need it.’”___

Plunging demand for COVID-19 tests may leave US exposed

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials expect to release a plan in the next two weeks for vaccinating residents with underlying health conditions after they were removed from the high-priority group of senior citizens that are eligible for a coronavirus vaccine right now. 

Dr. Gary Anthone said Friday that the plan will likely give priority to people on dialysis, who have lung problems or whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients and recent organ transplant recipients.

 Ricketts faced criticism after state officials changed their vaccination plan to exclude people with underlying conditions from the current phase of eligibility so they could focus on residents who are at least 65 years old.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials expect to release a plan in the next two weeks for vaccinating residents with underlying health conditions after they were removed from the high-priority group of senior citizens that are eligible for a coronavirus vaccine right now. Dr. Gary Anthone said Friday that the plan will likely give priority to people on dialysis, who have lung problems or whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients and recent organ transplant recipients. Ricketts faced criticism after state officials changed their vaccination plan to exclude people with underlying conditions from the current phase of eligibility so they could focus on residents who are at least 65 years old.

Nebraska vaccine plan to prioritize certain ailments

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — With the floodgates set to open on another round of unemployment aid, states are being hammered with a new wave of fraud as they scramble to update security systems and block scammers who already have siphoned billions of dollars from pandemic-related jobless programs.

The fraud is fleecing taxpayers, delaying legitimate payments and turning thousands of Americans into unwitting identity theft victims. Many states have failed to adequately safeguard their systems, and a review by The Associated Press finds that some will not even publicly acknowledge the extent of the problem.

The massive sham springs from prior identity theft from banks, credit rating agencies, health care systems and retailers. Fraud perpetrators, sometimes in China, Nigeria or Russia, buy stolen personal identifying information on the dark web and use it to flood state unemployment systems with bogus claims.

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating unemployment fraud by “transnational criminal organizations, sophisticated domestic actors, and individuals across the United States,” said Joshua Stueve, a spokesman for the department’s criminal division.

The Labor Department inspector general’s office estimates that more than $63 billion has been paid out improperly through fraud or errors — roughly 10% of the total amount paid under coronavirus pandemic-related unemployment programs since March.

“We’re all learning that there is an epidemic of fraud,” said U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the ranking Republican on the House’s powerful Ways and Means Committee. Brady said the $63 billion estimate “is larger than the entire budget of the Department of Homeland Security.”

“These are frightening levels of fraud,” he said.

California has been the biggest target, with an estimated $11 billion in fraudulent payments and an additional $19 billion in suspect accounts. Colorado has paid out nearly as much to scammers — an estimated $6.5 billion — as it has to people who filed legitimate unemployment claims.

Other estimates, according to AP reporting across the states, range from several hundred thousand dollars in smaller states such as Alaska and Wyoming to hundreds of millions in more populous states such as Massachusetts and Ohio.

The nationwide fraud has fed on twin vulnerabilities: a flood of jobless benefit applications since the pandemic began that has overwhelmed state unemployment agencies and antiquated benefit systems that are easy prey for crafty and persistent criminals.

In Ohio, weekly first-time unemployment claims have ranged from 17,000 to more than 40,000 during the pandemic. But since late last month, those claims have topped more than 140,000 some weeks, with many of them believed to be fraudulent. The state has paid at least $330 million in fraudulent pandemic unemployment benefit claims.

Trying to catch so many bogus claims delays payouts to Ohioans who are legitimately in need of help. In the Columbus suburb of Upper Arlington, Cynthia Sbertoli was receiving $228 a week after she was laid off in March from her job with a nonprofit that runs high school student exchange programs.

Her benefits were put on hold in January after she informed the state that someone had tried to use her identity in a scam to claim benefits. She thought the problem was resolved but has yet to see a renewal of her benefit checks, which she and her husband use to help pay for a son’s vision and auditory therapy.

“It’s just not a good way to take care of people,” said Sbertoli, 49.

In Indiana, Kentucky and Maryland, officials have said that for certain weeks in the new year at least two-thirds of the claims they received were classified as suspicious due to problems verifying identities. It’s not the first brush with serious fraud for Maryland. In July, officials said they’d discovered a massive criminal enterprise that had stolen more than $500 million in unemployment benefits.

Among states that have been hardest hit are those participating in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program adopted by Congress last year. It has been a lifeline for out-of-work freelancers and gig workers who normally don’t qualify for unemployment insurance, but it’s also been a boon for criminals who use stolen identities to make claims. Nearly 800,000 of the 1.4 million claims Ohio has received through this program have been tagged for potential fraud.

Scams have been so widespread that the U.S. Department of Justice is setting aside money to hire more prosecutors. In New York alone, the Department of Labor says it has referred “hundreds of thousands of fraud cases” to federal prosecutors. The state says it has blocked $5.5 billion in fraudulent claims, while New Jersey says it’s prevented $2.5 billion from flowing into the hands of criminals.

Despite those efforts, a government watchdog agency says not enough states are taking the necessary steps to prevent fraud.

In its memo this past week, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General said that by the end of last year, 22 of the 54 state and territorial workforce agencies were still not following its repeated recommendation to join a data exchange run by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.

That system is designed to check Social Security numbers used in claims to see if they are being used in multiple states, or are linked to dead people or other scam methods. The office said it had found $5.4 billion in fraudulent payments from March through October.

The biggest chunk of that, $3.5 billion, came through claims that used the same Social Security numbers in multiple states. One number was used on claims in 40 states. Twenty-nine of the states paid those claims, totaling more than $220,000.

“The Department needs to take immediate action and increase its efforts to ensure (states) implement effective controls to mitigate fraud in these high risk areas,” the inspector general warned Labor officials.

The people whose identities are used to claim improper benefits often don’t find out until they receive their tax statements.

Andrew Heidtke received a letter in September from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development notifying him that unemployment claims he never applied for were being processed.

“I had no idea what was happening,” said Heidtke, who works as an administrative assistant for an engineering lobbying organization. “I kind of just thought it was spam at first.”

Another victim was 99-year-old Harry Hollingsworth of Strongsville, Ohio. The retired elevator car factory worker received a form in late January showing he had received $3,156 in benefits. Hollingsworth died recently, and his son, Jim Hollingsworth, said the bogus claim created a big hassle.

“It looks like the state, they dropped the ball on this completely,” he said.

In its own survey of state governments, the AP found that many are not publicly disclosing the level of fraud. Some officials expressed concern that providing any information, no matter how general, could provide criminals an opening to exploit their systems further.

President Joe Biden’s administration is pledging to cut down on unemployment fraud even as it tries to extend benefits through September. As part of previous legislation, the administration is sending states $200 million to fight it.

That would be welcome in Virginia, where House Minority Leader Todd Gilbert, a Republican, said the Legislature’s watchdog agency should investigate how the state allowed $40 million in bogus payments through prison inmate-related scams.

“How many desperate people, laid off through no fault of their own, could have been helped with that money?” he asked. “It’s maddening.”

Mulvihill reported from Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

Associated Press writers Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia; Todd Richmond in Madison, Wisconsin; and Casey Smith in Indianapolis contributed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561209733269.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — With the floodgates set to open on another round of unemployment aid, states are being hammered with a new wave of fraud as they scramble to update security systems and block scammers who already have siphoned billions of dollars from pandemic-related jobless programs.The fraud is fleecing taxpayers, delaying legitimate payments and turning thousands of Americans into unwitting identity theft victims. Many states have failed to adequately safeguard their systems, and a review by The Associated Press finds that some will not even publicly acknowledge the extent of the problem.The massive sham springs from prior identity theft from banks, credit rating agencies, health care systems and retailers. Fraud perpetrators, sometimes in China, Nigeria or Russia, buy stolen personal identifying information on the dark web and use it to flood state unemployment systems with bogus claims.The U.S. Justice Department is investigating unemployment fraud by “transnational criminal organizations, sophisticated domestic actors, and individuals across the United States,” said Joshua Stueve, a spokesman for the department’s criminal division.The Labor Department inspector general’s office estimates that more than $63 billion has been paid out improperly through fraud or errors — roughly 10% of the total amount paid under coronavirus pandemic-related unemployment programs since March.“We’re all learning that there is an epidemic of fraud,” said U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the ranking Republican on the House’s powerful Ways and Means Committee. Brady said the $63 billion estimate “is larger than the entire budget of the Department of Homeland Security.”“These are frightening levels of fraud,” he said.California has been the biggest target, with an estimated $11 billion in fraudulent payments and an additional $19 billion in suspect accounts. Colorado has paid out nearly as much to scammers — an estimated $6.5 billion — as it has to people who filed legitimate unemployment claims.Other estimates, according to AP reporting across the states, range from several hundred thousand dollars in smaller states such as Alaska and Wyoming to hundreds of millions in more populous states such as Massachusetts and Ohio.The nationwide fraud has fed on twin vulnerabilities: a flood of jobless benefit applications since the pandemic began that has overwhelmed state unemployment agencies and antiquated benefit systems that are easy prey for crafty and persistent criminals.In Ohio, weekly first-time unemployment claims have ranged from 17,000 to more than 40,000 during the pandemic. But since late last month, those claims have topped more than 140,000 some weeks, with many of them believed to be fraudulent. The state has paid at least $330 million in fraudulent pandemic unemployment benefit claims.Trying to catch so many bogus claims delays payouts to Ohioans who are legitimately in need of help. In the Columbus suburb of Upper Arlington, Cynthia Sbertoli was receiving $228 a week after she was laid off in March from her job with a nonprofit that runs high school student exchange programs.Her benefits were put on hold in January after she informed the state that someone had tried to use her identity in a scam to claim benefits. She thought the problem was resolved but has yet to see a renewal of her benefit checks, which she and her husband use to help pay for a son’s vision and auditory therapy.“It’s just not a good way to take care of people,” said Sbertoli, 49.In Indiana, Kentucky and Maryland, officials have said that for certain weeks in the new year at least two-thirds of the claims they received were classified as suspicious due to problems verifying identities. It’s not the first brush with serious fraud for Maryland. In July, officials said they’d discovered a massive criminal enterprise that had stolen more than $500 million in unemployment benefits.Among states that have been hardest hit are those participating in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program adopted by Congress last year. It has been a lifeline for out-of-work freelancers and gig workers who normally don’t qualify for unemployment insurance, but it’s also been a boon for criminals who use stolen identities to make claims. Nearly 800,000 of the 1.4 million claims Ohio has received through this program have been tagged for potential fraud.Scams have been so widespread that the U.S. Department of Justice is setting aside money to hire more prosecutors. In New York alone, the Department of Labor says it has referred “hundreds of thousands of fraud cases” to federal prosecutors. The state says it has blocked $5.5 billion in fraudulent claims, while New Jersey says it’s prevented $2.5 billion from flowing into the hands of criminals.Despite those efforts, a government watchdog agency says not enough states are taking the necessary steps to prevent fraud.In its memo this past week, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General said that by the end of last year, 22 of the 54 state and territorial workforce agencies were still not following its repeated recommendation to join a data exchange run by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.That system is designed to check Social Security numbers used in claims to see if they are being used in multiple states, or are linked to dead people or other scam methods. The office said it had found $5.4 billion in fraudulent payments from March through October.The biggest chunk of that, $3.5 billion, came through claims that used the same Social Security numbers in multiple states. One number was used on claims in 40 states. Twenty-nine of the states paid those claims, totaling more than $220,000.“The Department needs to take immediate action and increase its efforts to ensure (states) implement effective controls to mitigate fraud in these high risk areas,” the inspector general warned Labor officials.The people whose identities are used to claim improper benefits often don’t find out until they receive their tax statements.Andrew Heidtke received a letter in September from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development notifying him that unemployment claims he never applied for were being processed.“I had no idea what was happening,” said Heidtke, who works as an administrative assistant for an engineering lobbying organization. “I kind of just thought it was spam at first.”Another victim was 99-year-old Harry Hollingsworth of Strongsville, Ohio. The retired elevator car factory worker received a form in late January showing he had received $3,156 in benefits. Hollingsworth died recently, and his son, Jim Hollingsworth, said the bogus claim created a big hassle.“It looks like the state, they dropped the ball on this completely,” he said.In its own survey of state governments, the AP found that many are not publicly disclosing the level of fraud. Some officials expressed concern that providing any information, no matter how general, could provide criminals an opening to exploit their systems further.President Joe Biden’s administration is pledging to cut down on unemployment fraud even as it tries to extend benefits through September. As part of previous legislation, the administration is sending states $200 million to fight it.That would be welcome in Virginia, where House Minority Leader Todd Gilbert, a Republican, said the Legislature’s watchdog agency should investigate how the state allowed $40 million in bogus payments through prison inmate-related scams.“How many desperate people, laid off through no fault of their own, could have been helped with that money?” he asked. “It’s maddening.”____Mulvihill reported from Cherry Hill, New Jersey.___Associated Press writers Kimberlee Kruesi in Nashville, Tennessee; Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia; Todd Richmond in Madison, Wisconsin; and Casey Smith in Indianapolis contributed.

Fraud overwhelms pandemic-related unemployment programs

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska health officials said Saturday they have found the first known cases in the state of a California variant of COVID-19.

The Department of Health and Human Services said in a news release that the variant has been identified by the Nebraska Public Health Lab in 13 cases in four different jurisdictions of the state.

Nine cases were identified in Douglas County, two in the Public Health Solutions district (which includes Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline and Thayer counties), one in the East Central district (Boone, Colfax, Nance and Platte counties), and one in Lancaster County.

This particular variant strain was first identified in California and more recently has spread to multiple states, health officials said. Less is known about the California variant than other variants, but it is likely more easily transmitted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612437418456.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska health officials said Saturday they have found the first known cases in the state of a California variant of COVID-19.The Department of Health and Human Services said in a news release that the variant has been identified by the Nebraska Public Health Lab in 13 cases in four different jurisdictions of the state.Nine cases were identified in Douglas County, two in the Public Health Solutions district (which includes Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline and Thayer counties), one in the East Central district (Boone, Colfax, Nance and Platte counties), and one in Lancaster County.This particular variant strain was first identified in California and more recently has spread to multiple states, health officials said. Less is known about the California variant than other variants, but it is likely more easily transmitted.

First known cases of California variant found in Nebraska

Dr. Gary Anthone said Friday that the plan will likely give priority to people on dialysis, who have lung problems or whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients and recent organ transplant recipients. 

Ricketts faced criticism after state officials changed their vaccination plan to exclude people with underlying conditions from the current phase of eligibility so they could focus on residents who are at least 65 years old.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials expect to release a plan in the next two weeks for vaccinating residents with underlying health conditions after they were removed from the high-priority group of senior citizens that are eligible for a coronavirus vaccine right now. Dr. Gary Anthone said Friday that the plan will likely give priority to people on dialysis, who have lung problems or whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients and recent organ transplant recipients. Ricketts faced criticism after state officials changed their vaccination plan to exclude people with underlying conditions from the current phase of eligibility so they could focus on residents who are at least 65 years old.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new coronavirus cases continues to decline in Nebraska, and the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 in the state remains at its lowest level since fall began.

 Nebraska reported 1,724 new coronavirus cases last week, down from 3,606 the week before. 

The state says there have now been 199,402 cases and 2,050 deaths reported since the pandemic began. 

There are 166 people hospitalized with the virus across the state. 

The last time the number was that low was in mid September, and the level of hospitalizations remains well below the peak of 987 that was recorded in November.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new coronavirus cases continues to decline in Nebraska, and the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 in the state remains at its lowest level since fall began. Nebraska reported 1,724 new coronavirus cases last week, down from 3,606 the week before. The state says there have now been 199,402 cases and 2,050 deaths reported since the pandemic began. There are 166 people hospitalized with the virus across the state. The last time the number was that low was in mid September, and the level of hospitalizations remains well below the peak of 987 that was recorded in November.

Nebraska reports fewer new coronavirus cases last week

The state has updated its vaccine timeline and the Panhandle continues to align with the phasing and calendar estimations. Anyone concerned with where they are at in phasing is asked to be patient and there will be significant communication released with each phasing shift.

“We are anxious to see how many more people will get their COVID vaccine this week with last week’s winter weather putting a damper on clinics and appointments. Thankfully, there are incredibly committed community vaccine providers working hard to get vaccines in arms,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

As of today, 9,373 or 14.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Health care personnel, long-term care, and those 65 and older are currently being vaccinated.

The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program includes three locations in the Panhandle: Alliance Community Pharmacy and Walmart in Chadron and Scottsbluff.&nbsp; All are using the coordinated Panhandle list. This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle. Current eligibility for the vaccine remains at health care personnel, long-term care, and individuals 65 and older.

If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.&nbsp;The Spanish version will be coming soon.

People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.

A Sheridan County female in her 80s and a Deuel County male in his 80s are the most recent COVID deaths bringing the Panhandle total to 182.

“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.

Unified Command confirms 95 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 15.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDThe state has updated its vaccine timeline and the Panhandle continues to align with the phasing and calendar estimations. Anyone concerned with where they are at in phasing is asked to be patient and there will be significant communication released with each phasing shift.“We are anxious to see how many more people will get their COVID vaccine this week with last week’s winter weather putting a damper on clinics and appointments. Thankfully, there are incredibly committed community vaccine providers working hard to get vaccines in arms,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.As of today, 9,373 or 14.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Health care personnel, long-term care, and those 65 and older are currently being vaccinated.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614038336021.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program includes three locations in the Panhandle: Alliance Community Pharmacy and Walmart in Chadron and Scottsbluff.&nbsp; All are using the coordinated Panhandle list. This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle. Current eligibility for the vaccine remains at health care personnel, long-term care, and individuals 65 and older.All Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered, please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.&nbsp;The Spanish version will be coming soon.COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.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 panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.A Sheridan County female in her 80s and a Deuel County male in his 80s are the most recent COVID deaths bringing the Panhandle total to 182.“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel. Unified Command confirms 95 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 15.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614038293713.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-February 22, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 34,603</li><li>Positive: 8,662</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 182</li><li>Last week’s cases: 95</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 18%</li><li>Deaths: 182</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 5</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 531</li><li>Doubling time (November 11, 2020-February 22, 2021): 104 days</li>
 </ul>

PPHD: Panhandle continues to align with state vaccine phasing, 95 more cases announced

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska has launched a federally funded aid program for renters and landlords who have lost income due to the pandemic, but residents of the state’s two largest counties won’t be eligible. 

The program managed by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority offers a maximum of 15 months of rental or mortgage assistance per applicant, up to $20,000. 

State officials say it’s only available to tenants who make 80% or less of their county’s median income, and who can show they’re unable to pay rent because of a financial hardship caused by the pandemic or they’re at risk of becoming homeless. 

Douglas and Lancaster counties will have their own programs.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska has launched a federally funded aid program for renters and landlords who have lost income due to the pandemic, but residents of the state’s two largest counties won’t be eligible. The program managed by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority offers a maximum of 15 months of rental or mortgage assistance per applicant, up to $20,000. State officials say it’s only available to tenants who make 80% or less of their county’s median income, and who can show they’re unable to pay rent because of a financial hardship caused by the pandemic or they’re at risk of becoming homeless. Douglas and Lancaster counties will have their own programs.

Nebraska launches virus aid program for tenants, landlords

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials are watching for variants of the coronavirus by sequencing the entire genome of samples of the virus.

 Peter Iwen, the director of Nebraska’s Public Health Laboratory, said the detailed tests performed each week help scientists identify mutations of the virus and track how they affect the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

 So far, the lab hasn’t identified either of the main variants of the virus that were first identified in the United Kingdom and in South Africa in the state. 

But the researchers have found two other mutations that may affect the virus’ ability to cause infections and severe symptoms.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials are watching for variants of the coronavirus by sequencing the entire genome of samples of the virus. Peter Iwen, the director of Nebraska’s Public Health Laboratory, said the detailed tests performed each week help scientists identify mutations of the virus and track how they affect the spread of COVID-19 in the state. So far, the lab hasn’t identified either of the main variants of the virus that were first identified in the United Kingdom and in South Africa in the state. But the researchers have found two other mutations that may affect the virus’ ability to cause infections and severe symptoms.

Nebraska lab conducts detailed tests to track coronavirus

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - The coronavirus has devastated many types of businesses, and a new study in Nebraska shows just how hard the pandemic has hit child care centers.

<a href="https://starherald.com/news/local/education/new-state-data-show-state-childcare-industry-devastated-by-pandemic/article_0e84c473-8731-5b02-8752-2ffc234b597a.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">The Scottsbluff Star-Herald</a>&nbsp;cited a new legislative study that found 231 licensed child care providers across the state have closed permanently since the pandemic began. Hundreds more shuttered temporarily, and more than half of operators said they would close permanently without further government financial assistance.

At Golden Child Development Center in Mitchell, operator JoAnne Golden is licensed for 50 children. On some days, she has just five.

The study suggests that facility is among the lucky ones.

Nebraska ranks highest in the nation for households with children where both parents work. Lawmakers are concerned, said state Sen. John Stinner of Gering. His resolution introduced last year read that ensuring "all families and children have equitable access to affordable, high-quality care is key to both the healthy growth and development of Nebraska's children as well as the economic vitality and prosperity of communities and the state."

Stinner's resolution funded the study. It found that 12 Nebraska counties now have no licensed childcare providers.

At Kids R Us in Scottsbluff, owner Danielle Self closed her business for a week in March. At that time, she had about 105 children and 33 staff members. When she opened a week later, she had 45 kids in the program. She had to reduce her staff to eight. Things have turned around a bit - the center is back got 60 children and 16 staff members.

"I think that's the new normal," Self said. "I'm hoping we're still going up (with enrollment). I need to peak and then see if we can maintain the peak."

Self and Golden both said their income dropped by 50%. The legislative study, which included survey data from the Buffett Early Childhood Institute, found that about 25% of child care providers' incomes fell by at least half.

The study found that about half of Nebraska's parents had to miss work because of child care issues. Another 25% had to depend on family, friends, or neighbors. About 43% reduced their working hours to care for children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613843323391.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (AP) - The coronavirus has devastated many types of businesses, and a new study in Nebraska shows just how hard the pandemic has hit child care centers.<a href="https://starherald.com/news/local/education/new-state-data-show-state-childcare-industry-devastated-by-pandemic/article_0e84c473-8731-5b02-8752-2ffc234b597a.html#tracking-source=home-top-story-1" target="_blank">The Scottsbluff Star-Herald</a>&nbsp;cited a new legislative study that found 231 licensed child care providers across the state have closed permanently since the pandemic began. Hundreds more shuttered temporarily, and more than half of operators said they would close permanently without further government financial assistance.At Golden Child Development Center in Mitchell, operator JoAnne Golden is licensed for 50 children. On some days, she has just five.The study suggests that facility is among the lucky ones.Nebraska ranks highest in the nation for households with children where both parents work. Lawmakers are concerned, said state Sen. John Stinner of Gering. His resolution introduced last year read that ensuring "all families and children have equitable access to affordable, high-quality care is key to both the healthy growth and development of Nebraska's children as well as the economic vitality and prosperity of communities and the state."Stinner's resolution funded the study. It found that 12 Nebraska counties now have no licensed childcare providers.At Kids R Us in Scottsbluff, owner Danielle Self closed her business for a week in March. At that time, she had about 105 children and 33 staff members. When she opened a week later, she had 45 kids in the program. She had to reduce her staff to eight. Things have turned around a bit - the center is back got 60 children and 16 staff members."I think that's the new normal," Self said. "I'm hoping we're still going up (with enrollment). I need to peak and then see if we can maintain the peak."Self and Golden both said their income dropped by 50%. The legislative study, which included survey data from the Buffett Early Childhood Institute, found that about 25% of child care providers' incomes fell by at least half.The study found that about half of Nebraska's parents had to miss work because of child care issues. Another 25% had to depend on family, friends, or neighbors. About 43% reduced their working hours to care for children.

Study shows pandemic's impact on Nebraska child care centers

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is defending the state’s decision to prioritize the elderly for coronavirus vaccination shots over people with underlying health conditions, noting that most Nebraska residents who have died so far were at least 65 years old. 

Ricketts made the comments after his administration amended its coronavirus vaccination plan this week. 

People who have cancer, diabetes and other major health problems were previously eligible in the current phase of the state’s vaccination plan, but they were removed from their spot on the list so health officials could focus on older residents, who account for the majority of Nebraska's virus deaths.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is defending the state’s decision to prioritize the elderly for coronavirus vaccination shots over people with underlying health conditions, noting that most Nebraska residents who have died so far were at least 65 years old. Ricketts made the comments after his administration amended its coronavirus vaccination plan this week. People who have cancer, diabetes and other major health problems were previously eligible in the current phase of the state’s vaccination plan, but they were removed from their spot on the list so health officials could focus on older residents, who account for the majority of Nebraska's virus deaths.

Ricketts defends change to Nebraska virus vaccination plan

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Preliminary finding by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that the death of a Nebraska was not caused by the coronavirus vaccine that had been administered to him, according to Nebraska's top medical officer.

Dr. Gary Anthone, Nebraska's chief medical officer,&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska-mans-death-likely-not-related-to-vaccine-chief-medical-officer-says/article_33a090ca-721c-11eb-ae63-cb635193e1b2.html#tncms-source=login" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>the Omaha World-Herald that a CDC official conveyed that finding to him in recent days. Anthone said the CDC has not yet released an official report on the death.

Last week, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said the man died Jan. 17, one to two weeks after he received his first dose of the vaccine. The state health agency said the man was in his 40s and a long-term care facility resident who had several underlying health conditions. His name was not released.

The man's death was entered into the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, a national vaccine safety surveillance program run by the CDC and the FDA. Anytime a death or any adverse event occurs after a vaccination, the case must be reported to VAERS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604926559777.png" alt="Photo courtesy Pfizer" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pfizer</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Preliminary finding by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that the death of a Nebraska was not caused by the coronavirus vaccine that had been administered to him, according to Nebraska's top medical officer.Dr. Gary Anthone, Nebraska's chief medical officer,&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/nebraska-mans-death-likely-not-related-to-vaccine-chief-medical-officer-says/article_33a090ca-721c-11eb-ae63-cb635193e1b2.html#tncms-source=login" target="_blank">told&nbsp;</a>the Omaha World-Herald that a CDC official conveyed that finding to him in recent days. Anthone said the CDC has not yet released an official report on the death.Last week, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said the man died Jan. 17, one to two weeks after he received his first dose of the vaccine. The state health agency said the man was in his 40s and a long-term care facility resident who had several underlying health conditions. His name was not released.The man's death was entered into the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, a national vaccine safety surveillance program run by the CDC and the FDA. Anytime a death or any adverse event occurs after a vaccination, the case must be reported to VAERS.

CDC: Nebraska man's death likely not from virus vaccine

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska ranks in the middle of the pack in the rate of administering coronavirus vaccines, but state officials are working to speed up distribution of the shots. 

The state ranked 33rd among states and the District of Columbia by administering 14,770 shots per 100,000 people as of Sunday, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 Overall, Nebraska has administered 285,708 of the 407,500 doses it has received — or roughly 70% of the doses. 

Lincoln Dr. Bob Rauner, who is president of the Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln, said the state should be distributing the vaccines faster.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska ranks in the middle of the pack in the rate of administering coronavirus vaccines, but state officials are working to speed up distribution of the shots. The state ranked 33rd among states and the District of Columbia by administering 14,770 shots per 100,000 people as of Sunday, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Overall, Nebraska has administered 285,708 of the 407,500 doses it has received — or roughly 70% of the doses. Lincoln Dr. Bob Rauner, who is president of the Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln, said the state should be distributing the vaccines faster.

Nebraska ranks 33rd in rate of administering virus shots

Monoclonal Antibody Treatment may help COVID symptoms improve sooner and reduce hospitalizations

When a person becomes infected with COVID, their body makes antibodies to fight off the virus. Monoclonal Antibody Treatment is a COVID neutralizing antibody treatment infusion that helps the body make enough antibodies to successfully fend off the virus while the body continues naturally making its own.

Receiving the treatment may help COVID symptoms improve sooner and make a hospital visit less likely by nearly a 70% reduction.&nbsp;The treatment is available at long-term care facilities and for the general population.

“This treatment should be administered as soon as possible after a positive COVID test, ideally within the first five days from symptoms starting. Don’t hesitate and don’t wait to contact your healthcare provider to see if you meet the criteria and before symptoms become severe,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

She added, “With a case fatality rate higher than the state average, we must use all options necessary to fight this insidious virus.”

The infusion takes about three hours, and patients will be charged an outpatient administration fee but not charged for the medication. Improvements can be seen anywhere from one to three days after treatment. However, this does not shorten the length of time needed to stay isolated.

The Federal Pharmacy Program announced last week will include three locations in the Panhandle. Alliance Community Pharmacy is using the coordinated Panhandle list. The Walmart’s in Chadron and Scottsbluff will also be using the coordinated Panhandle list by early March but in the meanwhile, they are taking registrations for people who are 65 and older. This can be accessed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.walmart.com/" target="_blank">www.walmart.com</a>&nbsp;and using or creating an account.

This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle. Current eligibility for the vaccine remains at health care personnel, long-term care, and individuals 65 and older.

We are encouraging all Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered yet to please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.

As of today, 8,604 or 13.1% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Health care personnel, long-term care, and those 65 and older are currently being vaccinated. This will take several more weeks. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.

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

Unified Command confirms 81 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 8.&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 PPHDMonoclonal Antibody Treatment may help COVID symptoms improve sooner and reduce hospitalizations<ul>
 <li>Newly confirmed COVID positive residents encouraged to reach out to their healthcare provider to see if they meet the criteria and before symptoms become severe </li>
 </ul>When a person becomes infected with COVID, their body makes antibodies to fight off the virus. Monoclonal Antibody Treatment is a COVID neutralizing antibody treatment infusion that helps the body make enough antibodies to successfully fend off the virus while the body continues naturally making its own.Receiving the treatment may help COVID symptoms improve sooner and make a hospital visit less likely by nearly a 70% reduction.&nbsp;The treatment is available at long-term care facilities and for the general population.“This treatment should be administered as soon as possible after a positive COVID test, ideally within the first five days from symptoms starting. Don’t hesitate and don’t wait to contact your healthcare provider to see if you meet the criteria and before symptoms become severe,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.She added, “With a case fatality rate higher than the state average, we must use all options necessary to fight this insidious virus.”The infusion takes about three hours, and patients will be charged an outpatient administration fee but not charged for the medication. Improvements can be seen anywhere from one to three days after treatment. However, this does not shorten the length of time needed to stay isolated.The Federal Pharmacy Program announced last week will include three locations in the Panhandle. Alliance Community Pharmacy is using the coordinated Panhandle list. The Walmart’s in Chadron and Scottsbluff will also be using the coordinated Panhandle list by early March but in the meanwhile, they are taking registrations for people who are 65 and older. This can be accessed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.walmart.com/" target="_blank">www.walmart.com</a>&nbsp;and using or creating an account.This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle. Current eligibility for the vaccine remains at health care personnel, long-term care, and individuals 65 and older.We are encouraging all Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered yet to please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873.&nbsp;The Spanish version will be coming soon.COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.As of today, 8,604 or 13.1% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Health care personnel, long-term care, and those 65 and older are currently being vaccinated. This will take several more weeks. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and achieved recovery status. 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 panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.Unified Command confirms 81 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 8.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613489899446.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-February 15, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 34,145</li><li>Positive: 8,557</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 164</li><li>Last week’s cases: 81</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 16.6%</li><li>Deaths: 180</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 8</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 529</li><li>Doubling time (November 11, 2020-February 15, 2021): 97 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: Monoclonal Antibody Treatment may help COVID symptoms

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming six new deaths due to complications from the coronavirus, raising the total fatalities to 13 for the weekend, 66 in February and 1,844 since the start of the pandemic.

 Johns Hopkins University researchers say data collected Saturday shows that that the state's death count is the 40th highest in the country overall and the seventh highest per capita at about 208 deaths per 100,000 people. 

State officials listed 111 new positive COVID-19 tests in the last day, increasing the total number of cases to 110,315. 

The Department of Health update showed that 152,992 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to 103,895 residents, with 49,097 people receiving both shots.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming six new deaths due to complications from the coronavirus, raising the total fatalities to 13 for the weekend, 66 in February and 1,844 since the start of the pandemic. Johns Hopkins University researchers say data collected Saturday shows that that the state's death count is the 40th highest in the country overall and the seventh highest per capita at about 208 deaths per 100,000 people. State officials listed 111 new positive COVID-19 tests in the last day, increasing the total number of cases to 110,315. The Department of Health update showed that 152,992 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to 103,895 residents, with 49,097 people receiving both shots.

Coronavirus Update