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CHI Health gives coronavirus update

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OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — There are 43 states now that have mandatory stay-at-home orders, and Nebraska and Iowa are two of the states that don't. CHI Health is now giving weekly updates on where they stand with their patients, employees and supplies.

A lack of supplies has had deadly effects in other states. CHI Health CEO, Cliff Robertson says they have 49 confirmed patients with COVID-19, with 53 people admitted, waiting on results.

He says they do a daily check on their burn rate: how fast they go through face masks. But he says they have plenty of masks, gloves and ventilators and are getting a delivery of swabs for testing next week.

But Roberstson wants to change the focus for minute.

"While everybody is focusing on this new novel coronavirus, we cannot forget that there is still, everyday, hundred of patients that are suffering with other illnesses that need care."

Remembering those patients is also important because those with underlying conditions are extremely vulnerable.

The peak of coronavirus for Nebraska is projected to hit at the end of the month. Right now CHI Health is testing 150 people per day, but they say they have the capability to test even more.