Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Director Pat Lopez said on Tuesday that the COVID-19 Risk Dial is moving back into the low orange level. She says it’s due to an increase in new cases, the high positivity rate and continued concerns of high hospital capacity. “Orange means there’s a high risk of COVID-19 spread and impact in the community.”
Lopez says vaccine approval for children ages 5 to 11 is likely to come very soon and they will be ready. “We anticipate we should be receiving a shipment of over 4,000 doses,” Lopez says. “Then a couple of days later we will receive an additional, greater amount.”
In anticipation of vaccine approval for younger children the health department has opened vaccine registration for this age group. Parents and guardians can register at COVID19.lincoln.ne.gov. Those who are registered will be contacted to schedule an appointment when vaccine is available. People who don’t have online access or need assistance can call 402-441-4200.
On Tuesday afternoon the vaccine advisory committee of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended use of the vaccine among children in that age group. Now, the final step is approval by the CDC.
“LLCHD has met with local pediatricians and other partners and has a plan to begin offering vaccine to children 5 through 11 years old if the CDC gives its stamp of approval,” said Health Director Pat Lopez. “The plan includes partnering with school districts to host vaccination clinics at local high schools within the city and county. Vaccine would also be provided at local pediatric practices.”