On November 6, 2020, Lancaster County’s risk dial for COVID-19 moved into mid-red, or severe risk for infection, for the first time, putting the public on high alert. 374 confirmed-positive cases have been reported, while the death toll has remained unaffected.
A risk dial is what the city of Lincoln uses to inform residents of the level of risk the virus poses. What determines the position of the dial is based on 5 factors; case numbers, testing capacity, number of positive cases, tracing contacts, and the capacity of hospitals. It is separated into 4 levels, based on color, and ranked from least consequential to most.
Green, on the left side of the spectrum, means the community is safe to resume normal activities outside of homes because the virus is controlled.
Yellow is for remaining vigilant, but alright to attend social outings while wearing a face mask and keeping 6 feet of distance.
Orange approaches the right side of the spectrum, which means to minimize all contact outside the home, as the virus could come into contact with anyone in public. It’s not controlled as with Green and Yellow, and urges people to remain at home unless leaving for work, school, receiving medical attention, or buying groceries.
Red, which is the current level, warns citizens to remain at home to the best of their abilities, especially older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
“At this level, residents should take actions to minimize contact with others wherever possible and limit activities outside the home unless for work, school, medical care, and food,” the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department states. “Residents should wear face masks, ensure 6 feet of distance from others, avoid all gatherings with anyone outside of the home, and only visit businesses that follow public health guidance.”
As of now, Lincoln Public Schools have given the option for students to go either 100% remote, or participate in the A-B-C weekly schedule in-class. More information can be found on the official LPS website.