FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 2, 2022

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District is warning the community about the impact seasonal respiratory illnesses coupled with the ongoing circulation of the COVID-19 virus can have on the health care system and the county’s medical resources this winter, as well as on individuals who may be more at risk for complications from these illnesses.

SNHD is currently reporting more than 1,800 cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during November in Clark County. This is a 200% increase compared to the same time last year (approximately 600 cases). RSV is a common respiratory virus that primarily spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Although most people who get RSV will recover in a week or two, it can cause more serious illness in infants less than 6 months of age, children under the age of 2, and older adults with underlying health conditions such as asthma or congestive heart failure. There is no vaccine, and treatment consists of managing symptoms. RSV is a seasonal virus that typically peaks in winter, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted its pattern of circulation, as well as that of other seasonal respiratory viruses, has been disrupted since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

SNHD recently announced the first two influenza deaths for this season. Two women, one in her 40s and one in her 60s, died in November from complications from the flu. The agency reported 67 influenza-associated hospitalizations confirmed for the week of November 13 to November 19, a 72 percent increase when compared to the previous week. Emergency department and urgent care visits for influenza-like illness are also increasing, and the respiratory illness activity level in the state of Nevada is high. Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older, and SNHD is urging all Southern Nevadans to get vaccinated this season. Flu vaccines are available at SNHD clinics as well as doctors’ offices and pharmacies throughout Clark County.

Along with these and other seasonal respiratory viruses, COVID-19 metrics are trending upward. The community level for Clark County, which is used to monitor the burden of COVID-19 on the health care system, is low but cases and hospitalizations are increasing. Meanwhile, community transmission levels, which monitor how much COVID-19 is circulating in the community, continue to fluctuate between moderate and substantial levels in Clark County.

“The best way to protect yourself and others this season is to take proactive steps to stay healthy,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “There is no vaccine for RSV, but vaccines for seasonal flu and COVID-19 are readily available, and there are additional measures everyone can take to stay safer and healthier this winter.”

SNHD recommends that all people, but especially those who are more at risk for severe illness or live with someone who is, take extra precautions at this time:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and running water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Throw the tissue away after using it.
• Consider wearing a well-fitting, good-quality mask when indoors or in crowded spaces
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean commonly touched surfaces.
• Stay home when sick and limit contact with others.
• Take a COVID-19 test. People who develop flu-like symptoms should take a COVID-19 test, especially if they have underlying conditions that put them more at risk for severe illness or hospitalization from flu or 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.