Panhandle Public Health reports 17 new virus deaths

SCOTTSBLUFF - The Nebraska Panhandle has reached 67 deaths linked to the COVID-19 virus.

Panhandle Public Health officials reported 17 new deaths Tuesday: 

Box Butte County

• One female in her 50s
• Two males in their 70s

Dawes County

• One female over 100
• One male in his 90s

Cheyenne County

• Three females: one in her 40s, one in her 80s, one in her 90s
• One male in his 60s

Kimball County

• One male in his 60s

Scotts Bluff County

• Two females: one in her 60s, one in her 80s
• Five males: two in their 50s, two in their 70s, one in his 80s

“We extend our deepest condolences to the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents," District Director Kim Engel said. "This insidious virus reminds us how precious life is and how we all must remain vigilant with safety precautions for one another."

Engel says there are several free and low-cost resources available for those who are struggling with feelings of depression, sadness or anxiety. 

She suggests finding healthy and safe outlets like going for a walk, calling or video chatting with a friend or family member, or enjoying a new book or TV series to help cope with the novel coronavirus.

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Other tips from Panhandle Public Health District:

Please do not wait to reach out for help if you are struggling with feelings of depression, sadness, or anxiety. Several free and low-cost resources are available:

• Mental Health Providers in the Area - https://tinyurl.com/y4m7a9g4
• Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority - https://tinyurl.com/y4wm4pzv
• Nebraska Strong Recovery Project
  • Nebraska Rural Response Hotline: 800-464-0258
  • Nebraska Family Helpline: 888-866-8660 
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
  • 800-273-8255 for English or 888-628-9454 for Spanish  
  • https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

This public health emergency requires the public to be caring citizens and to contribute to the solution for the sake of our communities and those we love.

Avoid the Three Cs:

• Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others
• Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with
• Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation

Panhandle Public Health District, Region 21, 22, and 23 Emergency Management, and Scotts Bluff County Health Department are working as a unified command on this evolving situation. Essential updates will be regularly communicated to the public and community partners.

The Panhandle COVID dashboard is updated weekdays at 4:30 pm MT and available at www.pphd.org. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle.  Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.org.