By PPHD
The National Guard will be collecting samples for testing beginning on Friday, April 10 for Scotts Bluff County healthcare workers, Emergency Medical Services (EMS, fire department, and law enforcement that are showing symptoms or have had exposure. Testing will be limited to 150 and offers a point-in-time snapshot.
The testing is not intended for the general public at this time and was a resource shared with Panhandle Public Health District and Scotts Bluff County Health Department through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. First responders are being tested through this source because they are important for community safety.
Your supervisor would have notified you if you are being tested, a roster has already been developed and is being managed by the health district. Photo identification will be required. Persons that test negative today are not protected from COVID-19 exposure tomorrow.
Here’s what the current totals look like in the Panhandle:
March 2-April 8, 2020
Total Tests Conducted in the Panhandle: 315
Positive: 21
Scotts Bluff County: Ten Cases
Three have recovered and are out of isolation
Kimball County: Ten Cases
Two have recovered and are out of isolation
Cheyenne County: One case
All Panhandle residents are encouraged to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected. What does this mean to you?
Stay Home
Stay home whenever possible.
Avoid gathering in any groups.
Do not visit or host people who do not live with you.
Stay Healthy
Keep at least 6 feet distance from anyone you don’t live with.
Wash your hands
Stay home if you are sick or if someone in your home is sick.
Stay Connected
Stay in touch with friends and loved ones
Check in on people who may be alone or need help.
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.
The full list of community exposure locations can be found on the PPHD website http://www.pphd.org/potential_community_exposure_sites.html.
For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.