Mar 30, 2021

PPHD: 18 and older can now get vaccine, 37 more virus cases

Posted Mar 30, 2021 1:02 PM

By PPHD

Anyone in the Panhandle age 18 and older can now get a COVID vaccine. To-date, 20,923 or nearly one-third 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 https://vaccinate.ne.gov or calling 833-998-2275.

“Today marks the one-year anniversary since announcing the first COVID case in the Panhandle. In a year full of ups-and-downs, the COVID vaccine provides a sense of hope for people ready to get together at upcoming celebrations, hug their grandchildren, and more safely travel. It’s your turn, please take it,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

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

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 https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu.

Two Panhandle females in their 80s were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, one in Box Butte County and one in Dawes County residents. This brings the Panhandle total to 191.

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

Unified Command confirms 37 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, March 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

March 2, 2020-March 29, 2021

  1. Total Tests Conducted: 36,466
  2. Positive: 8,894
  3. Last 14 days (active) cases: 85
  4. Last week’s cases: 37
  5. Last week’s positivity rate: 8.4%
  6. Deaths: 191
  7. Active Hospitalizations: 0
  8. Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 536
  9. Doubling time (November 15, 2020-March 29, 2021): 134 days
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