The first community spread case of coronavirus was identified in Douglas County on Saturday, the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed.

Three additional cases in Nebraska have also been identified, bringing the total to 17.

The community spread case is the woman in her 60s who tested positive Friday and was reported as a travel-related case. The Douglas County Health Department’s continuing investigation determined her symptoms were present before she traveled so the case is now being classified as community spread. She continues to self-isolate at home.

“We will continue see more cases in Nebraska and we expect additional community transmission of COVID-19, but we can all work together to help slow the spread,” said Dr. Gary Anthone, Chief Medical Officer and Director of Public Health for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “Nebraskans need to be extra vigilant and stay home if they’re experiencing any symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses including fever, cough, shortness of breath and in some cases a sore throat.”

Two additional presumptive positive cases that are travel-related were reported to DHHS today, along with another case under investigation. All are from Douglas County. One is a male in his 50s who recently traveled to Spain and the other is a male in his 30s who traveled to Douglas County from Singapore. Both are self-isolating and DCHD is in the process of identifying close contacts to help reduce further spread.

You can find further information on the Douglas County Health Department’s website - https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news

People who are concerned they may have COVID-19 should self-isolate and call ahead to their primary care provider to be screened over the phone. The provider can evaluate and determine if testing is necessary. Flu activity is also still high in Nebraska. Flu tests should be considered as a first test option before considering a COVID-19 test.