FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 25, 2021
The first known case of the new B.1.1.7 coronavirus strain in Nevada has been detected in a sample that was initially tested in the Southern Nevada Public Health Laboratory (SNPHL). The specimen was collected during routine community collection activities and tested by the SNPHL to determine if it was positive for the virus that causes COVID-19. During testing, it was discovered the specimen was showing characteristics of the variant. It was then sent the Nevada State Public Health Laboratory for sequencing and confirmation.
The Clark County resident who tested positive is a woman in her 30s. She reported no travel history and has had limited contact with people outside her household. The patient was not hospitalized and remained isolated in her home.
The B.1.1.7 strain is thought to spread more easily but is not believed to cause more severe illness or increase the risk of death. The vaccines currently being used will still provide protection against the variants of the virus.
“As more reports of the B.1.1.7 strain were reported throughout the United States, we knew it was just a matter of time that we would report a case here in Southern Nevada,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, acting Chief Health Officer of the Southern Nevada Health District. “People can continue to protect themselves by wearing masks in public and when around others, staying home as much possible, and by avoiding large gatherings.”
Additional information about new COVID-19 vaccine is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant.html. More information about COVID-19, including case updates, vaccination clinics, and available resources is available on the Health District website at www.SNHD.info/covid.
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.