Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Cases in Kimball County decreased significantly in the past week with four new cases of COVID-19 being reported to Panhandle Public Health District.
Most of the cases in the area, 68%, are contacted through community spread, according to the data from PPHD. The COVID-19 Risk Dial has remain unchanged but still is in the orange or high category.
Vaccines continue to hit the Panhandle with 2,200 doses plus the required second doses to arrive this week.
As of Monday, 8,604 people have received the COVID-19 vaccine in the PPHD area. The Federal Pharmacy Program will receive 600 doses, which will include Walmart in Scottsbluff and Chadron. Those two facilities are taking registrations for people who are 65 and older at http://www.walmart.com. Also, Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic will receive 100 doses.
PPHD reported that it is finishing up individuals 75 and older and will continue working down by age to the 65 and older.
As the number of cases declines in the area and the vaccine is hitting the Panhandle, it is important to continue to be vigilant by wearing a mask, washing your hands, staying at home if you are sick and avoiding the three Cs: crowded places, close contact and confined spaces.