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Sisolak Says New COVID-19 Cases And Hospitalizations Upward Trend Is 'Alarming'

An older man behind a podium is wearing a blue surgical mask. He is pointing to his mask.
Benjamin Hager
/
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Gov. Steve Sisolak discusses Nevada’s recent COVID-19 figures during a press conference at the Grant Sawyer State Office Building on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020, in Las Vegas. ";

Nevada is beginning to see an alarming upward trend of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Gov. Steve Sisolak held a brief press conference to provide an update on the current status of the virus in Nevada.

Nevada currently has the 24th highest COVID-19 case rate in the nation. Sisolak said the state has seen a jump in new cases from last month.

Sisolak is concerned with increased COVID-19-related hospitalizations. Hospitals aren’t at capacity yet, but he said that can change quickly as flu season approaches.

“COVID-19 wasn’t supposed to last this long. We all feel 'COVID fatigue' and it results in riskier behavior and complacency. We cannot let that happen. Unfortunately, this virus doesn't get fatigued. It’s alive and well. It’s that simple.”

The governor said Nevada is also designated as a “Red Zone” by the White House Coronavirus Task Force. This means the state is reporting more than 100 new cases per 100,000 residents.

Washoe County currently has the highest rate of COVID-19 cases per population statewide. Right now, the county is reporting more than 540 cases per 100,000 people.

Sisolak reminded Nevadans to wear masks and practice social distancing, but he did not place any new restrictions.

Lucia Starbuck is a corps member with Report for America, an initiative of the GroundTruth Project.

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Lucia Starbuck is an award-winning political journalist and the host of KUNR’s monthly show Purple Politics Nevada. She is passionate about reporting during election season, attending community events, and talking to people about the issues that matter most to them.
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