Updated Directed Health Measure for Panhandle start May 4th, relaxes some restrictions

Governor Pete Ricketts announced that an updated directed health measure will go into effect on May 4th. The new measure relaxes some restrictions.

PPHD wants to remind people that the risk of exposure to COVID-19 has not been reduced.

"This DHM leads us into a new phase of developing a new ‘normal’ – a way to move forward. Also, know that if we see an increase in exposures and the threat of overwhelming our hospitals, the DHM will become stricter. The phase we are moving into is a true balancing act, and we need your help," PPHD said in a news release.

The details of the new DHM are as follows:

Starting Monday, May 4,, hospitals and dental offices can resume elective surgeries. Hospital can only do this if the have 30 percent general and ICU bed availability, 30 percent ventilator availability. They must also have a two-week supply of PPE in their facility. 

The Nebraska Dental Association has also released Interim Guidance for Minimizing Risk of COVID-19 Transmission. It can be found here: https://www.nedental.org/member-center/covid-19-update

Churches and religious institutions can start having services, including funerals and weddings, with some limitations beginning May 4.

Households can sit together, but churches will need to ensure six feet of separation between different household units. There can also be no passing of any items amongst congregants. More guidance will be provided soon. 

Beauty and nail salons will remain closed until May 4. Once allowed to reopen, they will need to abide by the 10-person rule. Both workers and patrons will be required to wear masks. 

Restaurants can allow dine-in options if all of the following conditions are met:

- Limited to 50 percent of rated occupancy maximum at a time

- Six feet of separation between seating of different parties

- Maximum of six individuals in a dining party

- Self-serve buffets and salad bars are prohibited.

- Bar seating is not permitted

- Patrons may only consume alcohol on-premise if also consuming a meal

Bars that do not serve food will remain limited to carry-out and delivery only. 

Day care facilities will expand to not more than 15 kids per room. All other state provisions, statutes, regulations, including child to staff ratios still apply.

Bars, Gentleman's Clubs, Bottle Clubs and Indoor Theaters will remain closed until May 31st.