Gov. Ricketts issues statement on omicron variant

According to the Nebraska Public Health Solutions District, six people in southeast Nebraska have tested positive for the omicron variant.

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts has issued a statement on the COVID-19 omicron variant, which has been identified in Nebraska.

Gov. Ricketts full statement:

“In Nebraska, we have learned how to balance living a more normal life while protecting our healthcare system,” said Governor Ricketts. “Coronavirus will be with us forever.  That’s why we’ll continue that balance while also urging everyone to get vaccinated.  Nebraska has maintained one of the lowest coronavirus death rates and protected our hospital capacity all without lockdowns, without mask mandates, and without vaccine mandates.  We aren’t going to follow the Biden Administration or Dr. Fauci’s draconian policies.”

According to the Nebraska Public Health Solutions District, six people in southeast Nebraska have tested positive for the omicron variant. Case investigations and contact tracing are ongoing.

Lancaster County’s mask mandate was extended until December 23. Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Director Pat Lopez made the decision based on current COVID-19 trends.