Health officials have confirmed the presence of COVID-19 in the Panhandle, announcing cases in Scotts Bluff and Kimball Counties.
The first case was announced by Panhandle Public Health on Sunday night. They confirmed that a male in his 30s, who resides in Scotts Bluff County tested positive for COVID-19, which was determined to be a case of community spread, leading Governor Pete Ricketts to issue a Directed Health Measure for 12 counties in the Panhandle: Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan and Sioux Counties.
The measure imposes enforceable limits on public gatherings and requires all restaurants and bars to close their dining areas and move to takeout, delivery or curbside service only. The Directed Health Measure alliance to theaters, churches, gyms, social clubs and salons. It also includes social gatherings such as weddings, funerals, concerts and athletic events.
Panhandle Public Health District announced locations of possible community exposure from the Scotts Bluff County Case, which can be referenced in the table. The individual has been isolated at their home since March 24, according to health officials.
On Monday, health officials announced that a male in his 50s, residing in Kimball County, tested positive for COVID-19. The case was determined to be travel related and the person was hospitalized. Officials are investigating people who came into close contact with the individual and will direct them to self-quarantine. They also released a list of possible community spread locations identified in the Kimball County case, which can be referenced in the table.
People who visited the locations at any of the dates and times listed in the table are requested to self-quarantine if they are not showing symptoms of COVID-19. People who are showing symptoms, such as fever, sore throat, cough or shortness of breath, are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or Panhandle Public Health District at 308-262-5764.
Health officials encourage people in these, and other communities with COVID-19 cases to practice good hygiene, including frequent and thorough hand washing, avoid touching their face, stock up on supplies and medication necessary, “as if you were preparing for a severe snowstorm,” and practice social distancing.
As of Monday, there were 155 cases confirmed in Nebraska, and a total of three people who have died from the virus. People, including older adults and people with chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease, are at a higher risk of becoming very sick from COVID-19, which is why officials encourage those individuals and their families to “observe strict isolation practices.
As of Tuesday, according to Panhandle Public Health District, there were a total of 14 tests for COVID-19 pending in the Panhandle, including one from Box Butte County.