Clark County patient tests negative for novel coronavirus

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 2, 2020

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District received notice today from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that a Clark County resident has tested negative for the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). While waiting for the test results the patient’s symptoms had resolved and had remained isolated in compliance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. The adult patient arrived into the United States from Wuhan, China on January 14 and sought medical care on January 28.

“The Health District worked closely with local and state health care partners and the CDC to investigate this case,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, Acting Chief Health Officer of the Southern Nevada Health District. “We appreciate the cooperation and assistance we received,” said Dr. Leguen.

While the CDC considers 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak to be a serious public health threat, based on current information, the immediate risk to the public in the United States is believed to be low at this time. Southern Nevada residents who have not traveled to areas in China where the virus is circulating or have had close contact with a patient who has tested positive for the virus are at low risk for infection.

People who traveled to China and feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing within 14 days after they have returned should contact their health care provider. Potential patients are advised to contact their medical provider or emergency department before they arrive so the medical facility can take the appropriate precautions.

The Health District is encouraging the public to follow the current CDC recommendations, which include:

Practicing everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
- Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

It is important to note there are four common types of coronaviruses that are part of routine testing in health care facilities. These four strains cause respiratory infections, including colds. Currently, only the CDC has the capability to test for the novel coronavirus. Patients who receive a diagnosis of coronavirus in local health care facilities have tested positive for a common strain of the virus and not the 2019 Novel Coronavirus.

Up to date information on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus is available on the Health District website at http://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/coronavirus.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.