2020 Media Releases

Date:

March 25, 2020

Media Contact:

Patricia Lopez, RN, MSN, Interim Health Director, 402-441-8093

Tim Timmons, RN, Communicable Disease Supervisor, 402-441-8056

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Those With Questions on Directed Health Measures Should Contact Health Department

Measures allow many operations to continue

Those with questions about the Directed Health Measures issued today to prevent the community spread of the novel coronavirus can contact the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) at 402-441-6280. The Directed Health Measures and more information are posted at covid19.lincoln.ne.gov. The new measures will be in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday, March 26 through Wednesday, May 6.

The measures state that these gatherings are prohibited:

• More than 10 people in single spaces
• Less than 10 people in single spaces where a minimum of six feet between all individuals cannot be maintained

The staff of a business is excluded from the 10-person limit, which only applies to customers, patrons, and other invitees.

Food and beverage sales at any dine-in establishments including restaurants, bars, taverns, and private clubs are restricted to drive-thru, carry out, and delivery only.

The public is again reminded that those who observe suspected violations should not call the Police or Sheriff's 911 or non-emergency numbers. Those lines of communication must remain open for emergencies. Those situations should be reported to UPLNK either through the phone app or online at UPLNK.lincoln.ne.gov. The initial response to any complaint will be handled by LLCHD.

The Directed Health Measures also include a list of exceptions. The measures do not apply to the following:

• Courts of law, meetings or sessions of the Nebraska Legislature, or operations of any other political subdivision
• Essential federal, state, county, and city operations
• Election offices and polling places on an election day
• Medical providers or facilities and pharmacies
• Public utilities
• Logistics and distribution centers
• Congregate living settings, group homes, residential drug and/or mental health treatment facilities, and shelters
• Public transportation and airport travel
• Necessary shopping at fuel stations, grocery stores and other retailers
• Dwelling units housing ten or more related people.

Those in these excepted settings should maintain at least six feet of separation between individuals as much as possible.

Violating the Directed Health Measures in the Lincoln city limits is a city misdemeanor, subject to six months in jail, a $500 fine, or both. In Lancaster County but outside the City limits, violations are Class III misdemeanors subject to three months in jail, a $500 fine, or both.