Today, Central District Health Department (CDHD) reports a total of 1,620 total COVID-19 positive cases and 54 deaths. The county breakdown is as follows: Hall 1,533 cases and 41 deaths; Hamilton 61 cases and 13 deaths; and Merrick 26 cases and zero deaths.

Based on the above, CDHD has advanced to PHASE I Directed Health Measures (DHM) effective June 1, 2020. You can access the new DHM on our website at: cdhd.ne.gov. While we are able to relax restrictions at this point, it is important to remember that the virus is still present in our community. We are certain to see additional cases; we just do not know how many or when. Each of us can do our part in reducing the number of people who get COVID-19. We need to continue to practice social distancing and consistently use cloth masks, as well as stay home when not feeling well. These actions, along with frequent handwashing and use of sanitizer will make us successful in keeping our numbers low while we are in Phase I. Reducing the spread of COVID-19 is essential in order for us to advance to Phase II as quickly as possible.

COVID-19 Nebraska Guidance Documents can be found at http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Nebraska-Guidance-Documents.aspx.

Central District Health Department (CDHD) reports a total of 150 lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases as of 12 p.m. today.  Merrick County has 2 cases, Hamilton County has 10, and Hall County has 138. Yesterday, we reported a total of 140 lab-confirmed cases.

Tomorrow is a time when families and friends generally come together in celebration. We strongly advise you against coming in contact with anyone other than household members. Stay home. Connect electronically. Do not be a part of spreading the virus to loved ones.

Take a moment to check out our newly created CDHD COVID-19 Dashboard on our website: cdhd.ne.gov. This dashboard will be updated daily.

We have several rough weeks ahead of us, but working together, we are stronger and healthier. In order to give our staff a much-deserved break, we will not be in the office on Sunday, April 12, 2020. Please direct any calls to the DHHS COVID-19 Information line: 402-552-6645.