Gov. Ricketts Extends Statewide Restrictions On Social Gathering

LINCOLN- Governor Pete Ricketts has extended Nebraska’s statewide restrictions on social gatherings until at least April 30 and urged residents to brace for another “tough month” in April, when the number of new coronavirus cases is expected to peak.

Ricketts said Monday that state health officials predict that the number of cases will continue to increase until mid- to late-April before it gradually declines. He implored residents to continue following the state’s “social distancing” requirements, including a 10-person limit on gatherings. State officials have imposed even tougher restrictions on some hard-hit counties that include Omaha, Lincoln and other population centers.

Public health officials say Nebraska’s third COVID-19 death was that of a Lincoln County man in his 90s. The officials say the man had underlying health conditions and had tested positive along with a woman in her 80s. She’s been hospitalized. The first two COVID-19 fatalities were an Omaha man in his 50s and a Hall County woman in her 60s. State health officials said in a news release Monday night that the state’s total of confirmed COVID-19 cases has risen to 155. More than 2,700 people have tested negative.