Lancaster County’s COVID-19 risk dial moves up to mid-yellow as cases rise

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department announced Tuesday that the COVID-19 risk dial will move up to mid-yellow.

The dial was at low-yellow, but the health department chose to move it up as it saw an increase in COVID cases and hospitalizations.

Yellow indicates that the risk of spread in the community is moderate, according to the health department.

Cases rose from 210 to 273 from the previous week, the department reported.

Hospitalizations also increased, as the seven-day rolling average went from 40 last week to 48 as of Tuesday.

The department did detect a decrease in virus particles in its wastewater survelliance in comparison to the previous week.

“This rise in cases and hospitalizations is happening right as we enter the holiday season – a prime time for indoor events and gatherings where respiratory viruses can spread more easily,” Health Director Pat Lopez said in a press release. “If you’re eligible for an updated booster, I strongly recommend you get it now to help you stay healthy this winter and protect against severe illness if you do get COVID-19.”