News & Information
News Releases & Media Advisories
The Great American Smokeout is Thursday, November 21
Thursday, November 21, is the Great American Smokeout, an opportunity for smokers to take the first step to quit the habit. It is estimated that eight out of 10 smokers would like to quit smoking, which remains the single largest preventable cause of death and illness in the world. Smoking causes many health problems including cancer and cardiovascular and lung diseases. The Southern Nevada Health District has cessation resources and tools as well as information about alternative tobacco products and smoke-free living on its GetHealthyClarkCounty.org website.
Norovirus — It’s not the flu!
The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting an increase in norovirus detected in community wastewater. Often referred to as the “stomach flu,” norovirus is not related to the influenza virus. It is the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea and foodborne illness in the United States.
November is American Diabetes Month
In recognition of American Diabetes Month in November, the Southern Nevada Health District is raising awareness of one of the most widespread diseases in the United States. Diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S. and the primary cause of kidney failure, lower limb amputations and blindness. People with diabetes also face a higher risk of developing serious complications from flu and COVID-19.
Reminder: Next Pop-Up Produce Stand set for November 5 in Las Vegas
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) reminds area residents that the next Pop-Up Produce Stand is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, in Las Vegas, giving people increased access to affordable, locally grown, organic fresh fruits and vegetables. The pop-ups are being held this season at the Bonneville Transit Center (BTC) in Las Vegas. Customers can use their SNAP/EBT card, cash, debit or credit cards.
Health District observes National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) observes National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD) on Tuesday, October 15, focusing on the disproportionate impact of HIV in Hispanic/Latinx communities while promoting effective ways to prevent, treat and stop the transmission of HIV among Hispanic/Latinx people.
Reminder: Next Pop-Up Produce Stand set for October 1 in Las Vegas
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) reminds area residents that the next Pop-Up Produce Stand is scheduled for Tuesday, October 1, in Las Vegas, giving people increased access to affordable, locally grown, organic fresh fruits and vegetables. The pop-ups are being held this season at the Bonneville Transit Center (BTC) in Las Vegas. Customers can use their SNAP/EBT card, cash, debit or credit cards.
Southern Nevada Health District launches Substance Use Dashboard
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) has launched a new data dashboard and a test strip mail order program as part of its ongoing efforts to reduce overdoses. These programs provide harm reduction resources and education to Clark County residents.
Southern Nevada Health District observes National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
Friday, September 27, is National Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, focusing on the continuing and disproportionate impact of HIV on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) is calling attention to efforts to end the HIV epidemic by expanding testing, prevention, treatment, and to reducing stigma.
Updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines now available at Health District clinics
Updated 2024-2025 flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are now available at Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) clinics. The vaccines can be administered at the same time, and SNHD is recommending everyone eligible get their updated vaccines to protect against more serious illness from COVID-19 and flu this upcoming respiratory season.
September is National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month, a time to spotlight the critical importance of being ready for unexpected disasters. Potential emergencies in Southern Nevada could include natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, wildfires, extreme heat, and storms as well as Intentional acts. The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) encourages everyone to assess their personal and community readiness for emergencies that could strike at any time.
District Health Officer announces pending retirement
Dr. Fermin Leguen, District Health Officer of the Southern Nevada Health District, has announced plans to retire from his position on February 2025, marking the end of a tenure characterized by resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to public health.
Health District warns against drinking raw milk
The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) is alerting people to the health risks associated with consuming raw milk, following an increase in the illegal sale of these products in Clark County. The sale of raw milk, and its products, is illegal in Clark County due to serious health concerns. SNHD advises residents to only consume pasteurized milk, which is treated to eliminate germs that can cause severe illness.
Health District observes Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, a time to learn about how to prevent obesity and reduce the stigma around it. The Southern Nevada Health District’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, along with Partners for a Healthy Nevada Coalition, are promoting the 5-2-1-0 guidelines. These evidence-based recommendations can help children — and people of all ages — adopt healthier lifestyles. Activities and events scheduled during the month are available on the Get Healthy Clark County and Spanish-language Viva Saludable websites.
Pop-Up Produce Stands return for fall season
As the fall season approaches, the Pop-Up Produce Stands return to Las Vegas on September 3, giving people increased access to affordable, locally grown, organic fresh fruits and vegetables. The pop-ups are scheduled for six dates in September, October and November at the Bonneville Transit Center (BTC) in Las Vegas. Customers can use their SNAP/EBT card, cash, debit or credit cards.
Mpox Update
The Southern Nevada Health District continues to report sporadic cases of Mpox in Clark County residents. To date in 2024, the Health District has reported seven probable and confirmed Mpox cases in Clark County.
August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day
The Southern Nevada Harm Reduction Alliance (SNHRA) is hosting its 8th Annual International Overdose Awareness Day event on Saturday, August 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the LGBTQ Center of Southern Nevada, 401 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV 89101. The event is an opportunity to remember those who have died, while acknowledging those who have survived.
Southern Nevada Health District Update on Lifeguard Requirements
In June, the Southern Nevada Health District issued an order upholding its decision to revoke a variance that allowed Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC) to monitor pool users via video camera in lieu of an in-person lifeguard. An important factor in the Health District’s decision was video showing an incident in February 2024 in which an LVAC customer died in one of its indoor pool facilities. At that time, the Health District gave LVAC 60 days’ notice that the revocation would go into effect on August 12, 2024.
Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit set for August 1
This morning, partners and community members convene for the 2024 Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit. Titled “The Beat of Community: Exploring the Changing Substance Use Movement,” the summit focuses on addressing and prioritizing the evolving needs of the local response to the overdose crisis. It takes place Thursday, August 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Cox Pavilion, #2022, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154. The event is coordinated by the Southern Nevada Health District in collaboration with the PACT Coalition, Nevada HIDTA’s Overdose Response Strategy, and the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research & Policy.
Southern Nevada Community Health Center celebrates National Health Center Week Aug. 4-10
The Southern Nevada Community Health Center is celebrating National Health Center Week August 4-10, by raising awareness of its services, celebrating its dedicated employees, and showing appreciation for patients with giveaways and raffle prizes.
Southern Nevada Health District conducting Legionnaires’ disease investigation at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino
The Southern Nevada Health District is investigating two travel-associated cases of Legionnaires’ disease in guests who stayed at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino. On two occasions during the last six months, individuals were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease shortly after a stay at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino. One individual stayed during December 2023; the other individual stayed during June 2024.
Updated on: May 2, 2024