The Panhandle is showing signs of progress in limiting the spread of COVID-19 as the region saw the lowest positivity rate in months and no active hospitalizations as of Monday.
The risk dial for the Panhandle moved to yellow, representing moderate risk of COVID spread, a risk level not seen in the region since last fall.
Although the risk is reduced, officials with COVID-19 Unified Command still encourage people to take precautions to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, including social distancing, wearing a mask, and washing or sanitizing hands. Other health officials also urge precaution as two variants of the COVID-19 have been identified in Nebraska.
On Feb. 26, the Department of Health and Human Services announced the B-117 variant, also known as the U.K. variant, was identified in Douglas County after a woman in her 20s tested positive for the virus.
“This particulare variant has been found in 45 other states and is more easily transmitted, but both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have shown effective against it,” a press release from DHHS stated.
The following day, DHHS announced they identified the B.1.429 variant, also known as the California variant in 13 cases in four different health jurisdictions: nine in Douglas, two in Public Health Solutions, one in Lancaster and one in East Central.
“Less is known about B.1.429 than other variants,” a press release from DHHS stated. “It was first identified in California, and was discovered more recently than other variant strains of COVID-19. Similar to other variants, it has been spreading throughout the United States and is likely more contagious. It is expected that vaccinations will remain effective.”
As of Monday, 11,324 Panhandle residents have received the COVID-19 vaccine as the region prepares to receive new vaccine options.
“There are now three vaccine brands that have received the FDA Emergency Use Authorization-Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. We anticipate seeing the newest brand in the Panhandle beginning as soon as next week,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director. “It’s not a fair assessment to compare one vaccine to the other. Overall, they provide 100% assurance in preventing hospitalizations, 100% assurance in preventing deaths, and 0% difference in the things that matter the most.”
Since testing began in March 2020, Box Butte County has seen 912 cases, with 14 cases occurring in the last 14 days. Since that time, there have been eight deaths in Box Butte County related to COVID-19.