Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Tuesday, Aug. 25
7:09 p.m. | August 25, 2020
Nevada Reports 30 Additional COVID-19-Related Deaths
By Lucia Starbuck
The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services reported more than 400 additional cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday. The department reported 30 additional COVID-19-related deaths statewide. There are now 1,230 COVID-19-related deaths in Nevada, and there have been nearly 820,000 tests performed in the state.
For the most up to date information please visit: https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/
Washoe County Reports 88 New Cases Of COVID-19
By Lucia Starbuck
Washoe County reported 88 new cases of COVID-19 and 42 recoveries on Tuesday. There have been over 106,000 COVID-19 tests performed in Washoe County. There were no additional COVID-19-related deaths reported on Tuesday.
For the most up to date information please visit: https://gis.washoecounty.us/COVID19
No More Fines on Overdue Books Washoe County Libraries
By Lucia Starbuck
Washoe County libraries are going fine-free in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Washoe County Board of Trustees approved eliminating fines on overdue books and materials, but borrowers will still be responsible for the cost of lost items.
The Library System said in a statement that the new policy will help expand access to vulnerable populations, like low-income families, people with disabilities and seniors, who might struggle to keep up with payments, and fine-free policies can improve the circulation of materials.
Water Use At Home Rises Due To COVID-19 Pandemic
By Lucia Starbuck
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in more people at home, whether they’re working, studying, or just spending most of their time at home, in general.
The increase in time at home also leads to more hand-washing and flushing at home, which has raised home-use of water.
KRNV is reporting that water use in homes and apartments rose by more than 25 percent in May of this year, compared to last year. The difference has decreased slightly. In July, water use was up by almost 10 percent.
Gaming Revenue Still Down From Last Year’s Numbers
By Lucia Starbuck
Casinos have been open for nearly three months since they were shut down due to the pandemic, and gaming revenue remains steady, but not as strong as last year.
The Nevada Gaming and Control Board’s most recent report, from June, shows that the state’s casinos brought in $567 million, which is 45% less than last June, according to KRNV.
Gov. Sisolak Rejects Restrictions On Ballot Harvesting
By The Associated Press
Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak ratcheted up tensions in Nevada's increasingly partisan battle over election management when he rejected a request from his Republican secretary of state that would require so-called “ballot harvesters” to register with her office. Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske opposed the state Legislature's decision to allow third-party individuals to collect and return mailed ballots on voters' behalf in early August because she said it would open the election up to fraud. In response, she proposed requiring “ballot harvesters” register with the state. Sisolak responded in a letter on Tuesday by accusing Cegavske of partisanship and questioning whether her proposal would actually prevent fraud.
California Unemployment Agency Not Answering 60% Of Calls
By The Associated Press
California's unemployment agency is not answering 60% of the calls it receives for help as the state struggles to work through a backlog of more than 1 million pending claims. Employment Development Director Sharon Hilliard told a panel of frustrated state lawmakers on Monday that California is on pace to have 3,700 people working in its call center by January. That's compared to the 350 it had working before the pandemic. Hilliard said the state is receiving about 6.7 million calls a week.
The state has processed 10.6 million unemployment claims since March and paid more than $67 billion in benefits.
1:02 p.m. | August 25
Quad Counties Report Nine New COVID-19 Cases
By Danna O'Connor
Carson City Health and Human Services is reporting nine new cases and nine recoveries of COVID-19 in the Quad-County Region.
This brings the total number of cases to 952, with 854 recoveries and fifteen deaths.
The Quad Counties are Carson City, and Douglas, Lyon and Storey counties.
Elko County Reports Sixteen New COVID-19 Cases
By Danna O'Connor
Elko County is reporting sixteen new cases and fifty-five recoveries as of Monday. One confirmed case is currently hospitalized.
Currently, Elko County has 734 confirmed cases, 87 active cases, 644 recovered cases and 3 deaths.
Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Monday, Aug. 24
6:05 p.m. | August 24, 2020
Nevada Reports 409 Additional Cases Of COVID-19 And 1,200 Total COVID-19-Related Deaths
By Lucia Starbuck
The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services reported 409 additional cases of COVID-19 on Monday. The department reported 3 additional COVID-19-related deaths statewide. There are now 1,200 COVID-19-related deaths in Nevada, and there have been nearly 815,000 tests performed in the state.
For the most up to date information please visit: https://nvhealthresponse.nv.gov/
Washoe County Reports 49 New Cases Of COVID-19, And 40 Percent Of All Cases Identified Themselves As Hispanic
By Lucia Starbuck
Washoe County reported 49 new cases of COVID-19 and 71 recoveries on Monday. There have been nearly 106,000 COVID-19 tests performed in Washoe County.
Washoe County officials reported that the Hispanic population continue to be disproportionately affected by COVID-19. About 40 percent of all COVID-19 cases identified as Hispanic.
For the most up to date information please visit: https://gis.washoecounty.us/COVID19
Nevada Releases COVID Contact Tracing App
By Lucia Starbuck
A new app has launched to alert Nevadans and visitors if they’ve potentially been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. KUNR’s Lucia Starbuck has the details.
The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services designed the app; it’s called COVID Trace.
The app automatically exchanges anonymous information with other phones around you that also have the app. It checks if you have come into contact with another app user who has tested positive for COVID-19, and if so, the app will notify you, along with providing instructions on what to do next.
Gov. Steve Sisolak talked about the app during a recent call with members of the press.
“What I really like about this app is that it's an opt-in service, and it is completely voluntary for Nevadans and visitors to use. I know that's a big concern, and a big goal in development to create a secure app that helped protect people's privacy while also helping alert folks that they may have come into contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19,” Sisolak said.
The app does not give away your name, address, location or health information. Despite the app being voluntary, Julia Peek with the Department of Health and Human Services, says it will work best if more people have it downloaded.
"We're recommending it be downloaded by not only our residents, but our visitors. The more people that use it the more effective the app will be. So, no specific target audience, whoever can get it, should get it,” Peek said.
COVID Trace is available for Apple and Android phones.
First Day Back At UNR
By Lucia Starbuck
Colleges under the Nevada System of Higher Education started school today on Monday, with some returning to the physical campus, including students at the University of Nevada, Reno. But, the start of this fall semester looks a little different.
There will be no lecture halls, and classes will be kept to under 25 people, with 6 feet between them, according to the university’s reopening plan.
Face coverings are required by everyone on campus at all times except by employees in private offices or when it is deemed not advisable by a healthcare professional. Masks may be removed when eating or drinking but must be immediately put back on afterward.
UNR has also designated a floor in one of the dorms for students with communicable conditions, like COVID-19, to quarantine.
Out of the nearly 20,000 students enrolled this fall, 1,900 opted for a fully online program, according to the Reno-Gazette Journal, which added that nearly 80 percent of all courses have gone to a remote learning approach.
Lockwood Landfill Reopens Residential Dump Days
By Lucia Starbuck
After a closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, free residential dump days will be available again at the Lockwood Landfill east of Sparks, as reported by KTVN.
The dump will be open again on Sept. 17-19, Sept. 24-26, and Oct. 1-3.
Some of the items than can be thrown away include coolant-free refrigerators, water heaters, stoves, dishwashers, washers and dryers, sofas, chairs, mattresses and box springs.
Some materials are prohibited including dirt, concrete, liquids, toxic or hazardous materials, engines and transmissions.
Dump days are available to all residential waste management users in Reno, Sparks, and unincorporated Washoe County and Storey County.
Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Sunday, Aug. 23
7:57 p.m. | August 23, 2020
Washoe County Reports Two New COVID-19 Related Deaths
By Stephanie Serrano
Washoe County reported two new COVID-19 related deaths on Sunday: a man in his 90s and a man in his 60s; both had underlying health conditions. The county’s death toll increased to 133.
Additionally, there were 55 new coronavirus cases recorded on Sunday, along with 92 new recoveries.
There are now close to 1,200 active cases and more than 6,700 total cases in the county.
As More Hospitals Merge, California Eyes Stronger Oversight
By The Associated Press
California's attorney general is asking the state Legislature to give him the power to block hospital mergers he says would limit competition and drive up prices. The bill is headed for a vote this week. It's one of hundreds of bills lawmakers will consider in the final week of a coronavirus-shortened session. The California Hospital Association opposes the bill, arguing it would give the attorney general too much power. But Attorney General Xavier Becerra says it is important he provide more oversight as more and more hospitals and health providers are consolidating.
Washoe County Will Open School Monday
By Stephanie Serrano
Washoe County Schools plan to reopen on Monday. According to the Reno Gazette Journal, students participating in hybrid-learning tomorrow are to follow the B schedule. Superintendent Dr. Kristen McNeill sent out a letter to staff and families stating that after monitoring recent fires, the air quality is getting better, but she warned that smoke patterns can be unpredictable.
Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Saturday, Aug. 22
5:15 p.m. | August 22, 2020
Washoe County School District Employees Eligible For Free COVID-19 Testing
By Stephanie Serrano
Washoe County School District employees experiencing COVID-19 symptoms will have the opportunity to get tested. The district is partnering with Renown Regional Medical Center to provide drive-thru testing.
Additionally, the district has hired an Employee Health Nurse. Employees are encouraged to call the nurse who will then assess their symptoms. Sierra Nevada Corporation is providing financial support for the employee tests. If a student or family member of an employee is experiencing symptoms they are being asked to contact the Washoe County Health District.
Nevada Reports More than 600 New COVID-19 Cases
By Stephanie Serrano
Nevada health officials on Saturday reported 636 additional confirmed COVID-19 cases and 12 more deaths, increasing the state's totals in the coronavirus outbreak to 65,069 cases and 1,197 deaths.
Washoe County reported 60 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday along with 51 new recoveries. There are now 1,186 active cases and more than 6,700 total cases of COVID-19 in Washoe County.
Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Friday, Aug. 21
7:57 p.m. | August 21, 2020
Nevada Reports 849 New COVID-19 Cases, 13 Deaths
By Jayden Perez
The State of Nevada reported 849 new COVID-19 cases Friday, bringing the total of confirmed cases to more than 64,400. The death toll statewide is 1,185, according to the state’s online dashboard. Thirteen deaths have been reported Friday.
Washoe Co. Reports 107 New COVID-19 Cases, 43 Recoveries
By Jayden Perez
Washoe County reported 107 new cases of COVID-19 Friday, and 43 new recoveries have also been reported. There are now over 1,100 active cases and more than 6,600 total cases of COVID-19 in Washoe County.
Elko Co. Reports 18 New COVID-19 Cases, 19 Recoveries
By Jayden Perez
In Elko County, health officials reported 18 new COVID-19 cases Friday and 19 recoveries. There are now 127 active cases and more than 700 total cases in Elko County.
Vegas Council Denies Motion To End Virus Compliance Program
By The Associated Press
The Las Vegas City Council denied a motion to halt an enforcement program that sends people to make sure businesses are complying with measures to contain the coronavirus. The motion by Councilwoman Michele Fiore was defeated Wednesday on a 5-3 vote after she called the workers "snitches." City officials say program workers have visited more than 8,300 businesses. The Las Vegas Sun reported the effort has led to 580 violations in its one month of existence, nearly all of which were corrected. Officials did agree to reduce the number of employees from 65 to 12, which they say is the result of more compliance with state regulations.
Bishop Manogue High School Is Sixth School In Washoe Co. To Report COVID-19
By Jayden Perez
A Bishop Manogue High School student present at the school tested positive for COVID-19 Thursday, according to KRNV. Bishop Manogue High School is the sixth school in Washoe County to report a case of the coronavirus.
Nevada Judge Denies Mass Payout Of Late Unemployment Claims
By The Associated Press
Nevada's unemployment system continues to be plagued by computer glitches and phone-hotline delays, despite incremental progress to pay out claims erroneously delayed or denied. In the class-action lawsuit filed by applicants who have yet to see their claims processed, a Nevada judge ruled Thursday to not require the state unemployment office to pay out benefits en masse to laid-off workers. The judge limited the scope of a July court order that required the state pay out claims to gig and independent workers who had their wages cut.
Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Thursday, Aug. 20
6:45 p.m. | August 20, 2020
Nevada Experiences High COVID-19 Death Count For Three Straight Days
By Stephanie Serrano
Nevada health officials reported 38 new COVID-19-related deaths Thursday. It's the third consistently high death count reported in a row. Additionally, 556 cases of the novel coronavirus were confirmed statewide. Health officials in Nevada have recorded a total of more than 63,000 COVID-19 cases so far, with the state's death toll at 1,172 people.
In Washoe County, health officials reported three COVID-19-related deaths and 72 new cases Thursday, and 1,113 cases remain active.
WCSD Finds COVID-19 Case At Reed High School
By Stephanie Serrano
The Washoe County School District reported a confirmed positive case of COVID-19 at Reed High School. At this time, only one individual will be excluded. Currently, the district is working with the Washoe County Health District to conduct contact tracing.
According to health officials, the school is being thoroughly cleaned. As of Thursday, all school was canceled because of unhealthy air quality from the Loyalton fire. It is unknown at this time if schools will reopen Friday.
Elko County Ditches Plans For Classroom Teaching For Now
By The Associated Press
The Elko County School Board has decided to follow the lead of the largest school district in the state in Las Vegas and begin the new school year in rural northeast Nevada with only distance learning to help guard against the spread of the coronavirus. The board voted unanimously this week to push back the beginning of the school year until Sept. 8. School resumes next week in Las Vegas on a strictly remote basis until the Clark County School Board determines COVID-19 trends have improved enough to satisfy multiple criteria. That includes a downward trajectory of documented cases over a 14-day period.
Nevada Task Force: Bars In Las Vegas, Reno Areas Stay Closed
By The Associated Press
The Nevada COVID-19 task force has decided that bars and taverns in the Las Vegas and Reno areas have to remain closed for at least another two weeks. A panel of about a dozen officials unanimously endorsed a call made by state coronavirus response chief Caleb Cage Thursday to wait until virus case counts decline before lifting restrictions in Clark and Washoe counties. They also delayed the reopening of drinking establishments in Pahrump and Elko. The decisions keep in place, at least for now, restrictions that Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak re-imposed July 27 to prevent people from gathering and spreading the virus.
Regional Novel Coronavirus Updates: Wednesday, Aug. 19
7:25 p.m. | August 19, 2020
Nevada Reports 32 COVID-19-related Deaths
By Jayden Perez
The State of Nevada reported 389 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total of confirmed cases to more than 63,000. The death toll statewide is 1,134, according to the state’s online dashboard. Thirty-two deaths have been reported Wednesday.
Washoe County Reports One COVID-19-related Death
By Jayden Perez
Washoe County reported one COVID-19-related death Wednesday. The individual was a female in her 50s, with underlying health conditions. The new death total in the county is 128.
The county also reported 71 new cases of COVID-19. There are now over 1,000 active cases and more than 6,400 total cases of COVID-19 in Washoe County.
Quad-Counties Report 12 New COVID-19 Cases
By Jayden Perez
Carson City Health and Human Services reported 12 new positive cases of COVID-19 Wednesday and 39 additional recoveries. The region’s case total since the start of the pandemic has now surpassed 900, with 100 still active. The Quad-Counties include Carson City, along with Douglas, Lyon and Storey Counties.
Failure To Wear Mask Carries $100 Fine In South Lake Tahoe
By The Associated Press
Violators of California's mask requirement will be subject to a hefty fine in South Lake Tahoe by the end of the week. The South Lake Tahoe City Council approved a $100 fine on individuals and $500 fine on businesses that fail to comply with the statewide requirement to wear a mask in public to help guard against the spread of the coronavirus. On Tuesday the council directed the city manager to issue an emergency order authorizing the fines by Friday. Mayor Jason Collin says failure to wear a mask is a blatant disregard for the safety of people who live and work in South Lake Tahoe.
Increasing Reports In Washoe County Of Party Houses
By Jayden Perez
Washoe County officials announced Wednesday that party houses are a growing problem in the effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Over the past few months, Washoe County has received over 60 calls regarding large private gatherings, but it is likely that there have been more. Officials encouraged the public to report such incidents, but can only offer citations after the party has occurred, and are unable to perform any actions if not allowed into the residence.
There is a significant age-range involved with these parties, encompassing college-aged individuals to older adults. Smaller private gatherings have also caused problems, and officials recommend that gatherings should be limited to 10 people or less.
Whether these houses are spreading COVID-19 remains under investigation.
Get Caught Up:
August 18, 2020 | Regional Updates
- Nevada Reports 25 New COVID-19 Deaths
- Washoe Co. Reports More Than 100 COVID-19 Cases
- Masked Students Returning To Northern Nevada Classrooms
- California Health Officials Fret About Mix Of COVID-19, Flu
For continued updates on the novel coronavirus in Nevada, visit our related stories page.
