State health and government officials launched a new public awareness campaign Thursday aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19.

"Do Right, Right Now" encourages Nebraskans to wear masks, wash their hands, and stay six feet away from others. The campaign will include public signage, as well as messages on radio, TV and in newspapers with dozens of community partners. 

It also encourages people to get flu shots and a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. The campaign will continue for at least nine months. 

Officials touted the Do Right, Right Now campaign as a practical call for a unified response to fight the virus and “get the good life back.”

“As we work together to slow the spread of the virus, it’s on all of us to take personal responsibility for wearing a mask, washing our hands, and watching our distance,” Gov. Pete Ricketts said.  “This campaign will encourage individuals to be proactive in doing what is right and taking the necessary precautions. It will help our schools and businesses stay open.”

Dr. James Lawler, a top infectious disease expert at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, says this is the most dangerous time of the pandemic so far.

Lawler says the number of new cases and active hospitalizations is doubling every two to three weeks.

"And so that means two to three weeks from now, unless we are able to dramatically change course, we will see roughly 2,000 patients requiring hospitalization across the state," Lawler said.

Lawler said during the launch event that the state should immediately institute a statewide mask mandate, citing extensive research that shows mandates increase mask wearing compliance.

In response, Gov. Ricketts said he believes mandates inspire resistance, citing public comment in opposition to a mandate in Omaha.