Southern Nevada Health District announces eight new positive cases of COVID-19

– CORRECTION –

Southern Nevada Health District announces eight new positive cases of COVID-19

Sixteen cases total in Clark County

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 13, 2020

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting eight new presumptive positive COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 16 cases in Clark County. All investigations are ongoing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available. Based on current information, close contacts of these individuals are being identified or have been notified and are following self-quarantine procedures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a close contact as someone who was within approximately 6 feet of a confirmed COVID-19 case for a prolonged period of time. Close contact can occur while caring for or living with someone. Health care workers who care for patients are also at higher risk.

Community Guidance

Today, the Health District issued public health recommendations and guidance for high-risk populations, workplaces and businesses, large gatherings, and schools. The guidance includes advice to high risk populations to limit their interactions, workplace and businesses to minimize exposure by providing education to employees, and to consider implementing policies and limiting travel to decrease exposures; postponing large community gatherings and non-essential events; and additional recommendations for schools to protect students, faculty and staff.

New Case Update

A male in his 20s who is isolating at home and is a close contact of a confirmed case.
A female in her 40s who is hospitalized in good condition.
A female in her 50s who is hospitalized in stable condition.
A male in his 30s who is isolated at home.
A female in her 30s. No additional details are available at this time.
A female in her 70s. No additional details are available at this time
A male in his 50s. No additional details are available at this time.
A male in his 30s who is isolating at home.

Previously Reported Case Updates

A male in his 40s who is isolating at home.
A male in his 60s who is isolating at home.
A male in his 60s who is in serious condition.
A female in her 70s who is isolating at home and is a close contact of a previously reported case.
A male in his 60s who is isolating at home and is a close contact of a previously reported case.
A female in her 40s who was hospitalized on March 8. She is isolated and in stable condition. This individual is a visitor from New York. She arrived in Las Vegas on March 5, and attended the Women of Power Summit at The Mirage.
A female in her 70s with underlying medical conditions with in-state travel history to Reno, Nev., and no out-of-state or international travel history. The patient was asymptomatic while traveling. The patient remains hospitalized in serious condition.
A male in his 50s with a travel history to Washington state. The patient remains hospitalized in serious condition.

If a patient’s travel history dictates a notification to passengers that are not Clark County residents, this is determined and coordinated through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Health District continues to remind the public that flu and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in Clark County. Not everyone who feels ill will need to be tested for COVID-19. Health care providers determine who should be tested based on an individual’s specific symptoms and circumstances. People who have mild symptoms such as a cough or fever should stay home and away from other people.

The Health District is working with its health care and community partners to ensure there are strong public health measures in place to respond to COVID-19 in the community. Updates about COVID-19 are also available by calling the Health District’s Information Line at 702-759-INFO (4636) or 1-866-767-5038.

The public can help the response:

Do not go to the emergency department unless it is essential. Emergency departments need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs.
- If you have a mild cough, fever, or other respiratory symptoms, contact your doctor first.
Practice everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
- Wash 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.
Stay home when you are sick.
Stay informed. The COVID-19 situation is changing frequently. Up to date information is available on the Health District website at southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/coronavirus or the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

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.