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LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Omaha-area hospitals are reporting another uptick in coronavirus patients, but local health officials are still managing the caseloads without any issues.
Nebraska Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Gary Anthone, says Douglas County’s hospitals are treating 135 patients, up from 122 last week. But Anthone says the increase hasn’t had much of an impact on the available bed space or ventilators within the hospitals.
Among the coronavirus patients is Nebraska state Sen. Mike Moser, of Columbus, who is receiving care at Nebraska Medical Center.
Gov. Pete Ricketts says he's praying for Moser's recovery.
3 News Now Reporter Jon Kipper provided live updates from Tuesday's press conference with Ricketts:
Ricketts says the state will test in Lincoln, Omaha, Hastings, Kearney, York, Seward, Beatrice and Clay Center this week.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
We’re talking DMV’s today. Service centers remained open throughout the pandemic. Gov Ricketts is extending the expiration of drivers licenses for older Nebraskans for one year.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
This executive order is for Nebraskans that are 72 and older, who’s licenses expired from 3/01 to the end of the year.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
Drivers tests will start Wednesday. Rhonda Lamm with the DMV says those younger drivers can now do the test and potentially get a license.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
Dr. Gary Anthone says 135 patients have been hospitalized in Omaha due to coronavirus.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
That’s 13 more than last week. A 3% increase in ICU bed availability.
No major changes in regular hospital bed availability. It’s down 1% from last week, according to Anthone.
Ricketts asked about the Life Care Center in Elkhorn, which has had a major outbreak. One family member wants it shut down.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
Ricketts says he’d like to keep people in places they feel comfortable, such as the center. But says if there’s not enough staff they may have to.
Ricketts can’t confirm his hospitalization says he read about it in the paper.
— Jon Kipper (@jonnykip21) May 26, 2020
You can watch the briefing below: