While the Panhandle has outlets for COVID testing, free at-home COVID testing will soon be widely available.
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will be providing at-home COVID tests to Nebraska residents. Panhandle Public Health District is organizing locations in communities for easy access. Watch for an announcement with community locations.
Once picked up, individuals can perform the test on their own or be helped through a video call. If done through the video call, you will receive a certified lab report that can be used for travel, medical procedures, and other documentation needs.
The second option was announced last week through the federal government at COVIDtests.gov or by calling 1-800-232-0233. Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID tests. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.
Why is this important? COVID testing is key to slowing transmission. It helps individuals make safer decisions about going to work or getting together with others especially those that may be particularly at-risk to severe complications from getting COVID.
“The idea is to have these tests on-hand so if you or your child wake up with a minor symptom you can quickly test to make a decision about how to proceed with your day in a safe way,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.
COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle for individuals age 5 and over, there are no out-of-pocket expenses.
Everyone age 12 and older is recommended to get a COVID booster shot at least two months after a 1-dose vaccine, Johnson & Johnson, or at least five months after a 2-dose vaccine, Pfizer or Moderna.
If you are homebound or have a condition that makes it hard for you to access a COVID vaccine, Call Vianey Zitterkopf, RN at 308-430-8390 or Janet Felix, LPN at 308-672-4653.
People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu.
| Confirmed CasesAll Ages: 697 | |
| Region | Cases |
| Banner | 5 |
| Box Butte | 91 |
| Cheyenne | 54 |
| Dawes | 22 |
| Deuel | 7 |
| Garden | 18 |
| Grant | 2 |
| Kimball | 25 |
| Morrill | 42 |
| Scotts Bluff | 423 |
| Sheridan | 18 |
| Sioux | 0 |
| Deaths: 8 | |
| 60-69 | 1 |
| 70-79 | 2 |
| 80+ | 5 |
