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Lancaster County COVID-19 Risk Dial Remains In Elevated Orange Range

By News Oct 23, 2020 | 3:29 PM

The Covid-19 risk dial for Lancaster County remains unchanged and is remains in the elevated Orange, or high risk category for another week.  The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department reports 142 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Lancaster County today, bringing the community total to 8,668.  The number of deaths in the community remains at 42.  There were seven deaths this week alone.

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird says while the number of new cases remains high, numbers are leveling off.  Other positive news is the number of hospitalizations are down and there is faster turn-around testing for the virus.

There are 61 people hospitalized with COVID-19 in Lancaster County with nine patients on ventilators.

The testing process begins with a free online risk assessment available at BryanHealth.com, CHIHealth.com or TestNebraska.com.  Drive through test sites include:

  • Bryan Health: Former Graham Tire Store, northeast corner of 19th and “O” streets.
  • CHI Health St. Elizabeth and Test Nebraska: Gateway Mall, 6100 “O” St., northwest corner of the mall.  Test Nebraska’s hours are 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.

The COVID-19 Risk Dial is at “Elevated Orange,” indicating a high risk of the virus spreading.  Residents are advised to follow these recommendations to protect themselves and others:

  • Limit activities outside the home, unless for work, school, medical care, or food.
  • Work from home when possible.
  • Stay at least six feet from anyone outside the home.
  • Face masks should be worn by those over two years old when indoors and when unable to physical distance.
  • Avoid large gatherings.
  • Attend small gatherings and events only with modifications such as physical distancing, face masks, etc.
  • Follow CDC Travel Guidelines available at cdc.gov.