On the Governor’s Monday briefing, Ricketts encouraged Nebraskans to get vaccinated and make use of readily available coronavirus tests for a healthy holiday season.
“Nine of 10 Nebraskans hospitalized with COVID since the end of October have been unvaccinated,” Ricketts stated.
A therapeutic gap is expected with only one out of the four monoclonal antibody treatments effective against the Omicron variant. Nebraska’s allocation of this treatment will initially be 210 doses a week compared to the current 1,400 doses of antibody treatment.
Pfizer’s antiviral pill was approved through the FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) today and will roll out in January. Supplies will initially be limited.
“For anyone age five and older, please get vaccinated. With the looming concern of the Omicron variant and the anticipated therapeutic gap, vaccination and getting boosted will ideally prepare Panhandle residents for safer outcomes when this variant is identified in the area and help keep hospitalizations lower,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.
Everyone age 16 and older is recommended to get a COVID booster shot at least two months after a 1-dose vaccine, Johnson & Johnson, or at least six months after a 2-dose vaccine, Pfizer or Moderna.
COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle and there is no charge.