As of Friday, Oct. 9, four new staff members have tested positive for COVID-19 in Centennial Park Retirement Village in North Platte. A spokesperson says no new cases were found among residents.
Shannon Vanderheiden is the executive director of the West Central District Health Department. She said the department is working closely with the assisted living community, providing testing and large supplies of personal protective equipment.
“We're seeing a significant increase in our numbers, a significant increase in our hospitalizations, and a significant increase in the deaths that we are seeing related to COVID," Vanderheiden said.
According to Vanderheiden, the majority of Nebraska’s cases are related to large gatherings and fewer individuals wearing face masks or practicing social distancing. She reminds everyone that Nebraska is still in the middle of a pandemic and we must follow health safety measures.