All Neb. counties are now on state DHM list

LINCOLN — All of Nebraska’s 93 counties are now under a State Directed Health Measure.

Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Friday all the state’s counties are now being directed to operate under a Directed Health Measure

The DHM went into effect Friday at 10 p.m., and will last until May 11, unless renewed.

“Now that we have seen community spread across the state, the State is applying directed health measures for all 93 counties until May 11,” said Gov. Ricketts. “The next several weeks will be key to slowing the spread of the virus in Nebraska. We are asking Nebraskans to further limit social interactions, work, go home, and shop once a week.”

Prior to the announcement about 70 percent of Nebraska counties were operating under a Directed Health Measure.

Under the DHM, all schools (public, private, and parochial) must operate without students through May 31.

The measure limits public gatherings to 10 or fewer participants and restricts restaurants and bars.

It also prohibits medical and dental elective surgeries and procedures.

The Directed Health Measure applies to places such as theaters, churches, houses of worship, gyms, social clubs, salons and social gatherings, including weddings, funerals, concerts and athletic events.

At bars and restaurants, it applies to patrons, not to the workforce.

Restaurants and bars are encouraged to ask their patrons if they can prepare their order for takeout upon arrival.

Weddings and funerals are also subject to the 10-person limit. Event planners and facilities are encouraged to be flexible with people who are rearranging their plans

DHHS has also issued new guidance that daycares need to follow.

The Directed Health Measure does not apply to places such as office buildings, grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, court houses, court rooms, banks, car dealerships, auto repair shops, or small shops, golf courses, big box stores, gas stations, convenience stores, shopping malls, manufacturing facilities, packing facilities, construction jobs, and other traditional office settings.

The first health measures were issued for Cass, Douglas and Sarpy counties, March 18.