Panhandle COVID Deaths Reach 136, More Pending Confirmation

Sixteen additional COVID-related deaths were reported by Panhandle Public Health officials Thursday, bringing the total since the start of the pandemic to 136.

“We share our sincerest sympathies with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents and wish you peace and comfort,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

The additional deaths were announced as follows:

Scotts Bluff County

Six females
- One in her 70s, one in her 80s, four in their 90s
Ten males
- One in his 70s, four in their 80s, five in their 90s

The number of deaths is expected to rise, as officials said there are 30 deaths awaiting confirmation from the state.

Over 2,000 people 75 years and older have signed up for vaccinations so far, a little more than one-quarter of the region’s population in that age category according to Engel. Area residents were asked to be sure to help elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up for the list, which puts them in line to be called when vaccines are available. It was noted it may be several weeks before those vaccinations can start due to availability of doses, and that Phase 1b, which includes that part of the population, is expected to take several months to complete.

Anyone 75 and older and interested in getting a COVID vaccine, please call 308-262-5764 or 308-633-2866 ext. 101 and leave a message with your name, date of birth, county, and phone number. The form can also be completed at https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d.

To date, 3,310 people in the eligible populations have received the COVID vaccine in the Panhandle. This number will continue to increase with each weekly distribution to the eligible populations at the corresponding times.

Unified Command confirmed 142 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, January 4. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

All Ages: 142
County	Cases
Banner	0
Box Butte	22
Cheyenne	22
Dawes	11
Deuel	3
Garden	4
Grant	0
Kimball	2
Morrill	9
Scotts Bluff	49
Sheridan	19
Sioux	1
Under investigation	0