LINCOLN, Neb. (KMTV) — On Wednesday, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts and others held a coronavirus briefing.
During the briefing, Gov. Ricketts mentioned the Directed Health Measures for Lincoln/Lancaster, West Central and Three Rivers health districts will now go until May 11. At that point, restrictions will loosen like they are for Douglas, Sarpy and Cass counties on May 4.
Additionally, Gov. Ricketts mentioned holidays are approaching, including Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day. He urged people to celebrate in their homes if possible and to keep in mind that the 10-person rule remains in effect statewide through May 31.
He also discussed how there will be an announcement next week from the Dept. of Veteran Affairs about a virtual Memorial Day celebration. He said he hopes area legions and others are able to take part.
Gov. Ricketts said people should be making changes to plans. While groups larger than 10 might be allowed in June onward, it likely won’t be loosened to allow huge groups. He says reunions with elderly groups aren’t recommended.
Tony Green, interim director for the Division of Developmental Disabilities, mentioned implementing Appendix K in regards to waivers for those with developmental disabilities who want to live in a community versus in centers.
Green added that some services for those with developmental disabilities will be delivered electronically. Additionally, it will allow funding for in-home care as opposed to day care centers.
Gov. Ricketts mentioned that individuals should try to acquire their own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Local health departments should be contacted for PPE. They will receive it from the state and distribute to those who need it.
Gov. Ricketts said that those providing direct care for COVID-19 patients will have priority when it comes to getting PPE.
The governor added that patients on ventilators are down. He said 76% of ventilators are available in Omaha.
You can watch the briefing below: