COVID is continuing to spread throughout the state, especially among unvaccinated individuals according to data released by COVID-19 Unified Command.
According to a press release issued on Monday, from Jan. 1 to Aug. 21, unvaccinated individuals in the state made up 94.5 percent of Nebraska’s cases, 96 percent of deaths and 95.2 percent of hospitalizations. The data were compiled by Acting State Epidemiologist Matt Donahue, MD.
“This is confirming poor outcomes for COVID remain overwhelmingly among unvaccinated individuals,” the press release stated.
Charts showcasing the data were presented during a briefing on Monday, showing cases in the state are spreading at an increasing rate among those who are not fully vaccinated. They also revealed that the rate of hospitalizations is lower for those who are fully vaccinated.
“Data was compared from the pre-Delta variant, considered January 1- June 30, 2021, vs. when greater than 50% of cases match the Delta variant, considered July 1-August 21, 2021. Vaccine effectiveness is reduced since the arrival of Delta, but the vaccine is still working very well at protecting against severe outcomes. This has and remains the goal overall in the COVID response effort,” the press release stated.
Panhandle Public Health District Director Kim Engel noted an increased interest in vaccinations since the Pfizer vaccine was approved by the FDA.
“We are hearing reports from area vaccine providers about increasing interest in COVID vaccines among Panhandle residents, especially with the Pfizer FDA full approval announcement,” said Engel. “This has been encouraging but we can’t stress enough for people to not wait, it’s widely available and is showing to be one of the best protections.”
In Box Butte and Grant Counties, people may receive the vaccine at Dave’s Pharmacy Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the Pfizer vaccine available from 2 to 5:30 p.m., and at Alliance Community Pharmacy Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Walk ins are welcome.
People who are homebound or with a condition that makes it difficult to access the vaccine are encouraged to contact Engel at 308-633-2866 extension 101.
Since Aug. 23, the Panhandle has seen 215 more cases of COVID, with 89 cases occurring in Scotts Bluff County and 126 throughout the rest of the Panhandle’s counties.