The first Lincoln resident has died from COVID-19.
“I offer our deepest sympathy to the family and friends who have lost loved ones to this disease,” Leirion Gaylor Baird, Lincoln’s mayor said during her daily news update.
The man was in his 50s, had underlying health conditions and was hospitalized.
The community added five new cases bringing the total to 39. There are 18 community-acquired cases in the area. Some cases are continuing to be investigated by health officials.
The state total eclipsed 500 earlier today and stands at 521.
City officials also released new data how the coronavirus is affecting age groups throughout the community.
The largest group who’ve tested positive are people who are 30-49 because there have been more tests conducted.
“We don’t track the specific occupations of those tested, we would also expect that most of our front-line health care workers and first responders would fall in this age category,” Pat Lopez, interim director for the Lincoln-Lancaster County Heatlh Department said.
The highest percentage of positive tests are people who are 50-64. Tomorrow officials will release charts with more details.
Also at the daily briefing, officials continue to persuade people to use Lincoln’s parks and recreation areas responsibly.
Restrooms, water fountains, trash cans and now play ground equipment are all closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird used an anecdotal warning.
“We do not want a group of people potentially spreading the virus to each other with each bump, set and spike of the volleyball.”
Courts are open but with limited access. Fields with fences are gated shut. Officials are not recommeding team sports.
But Councilwoman Sandra Washington did offer positivity.
“Even if you’re able to ride your bike and play safely in the parks, fresh air and physical activity is good for our health and nature is really good for our soul.”
Lincoln is not enforcing a total closure similar to Omaha’s actions earlier today.