775-328-2447

Health District launches text message, email notification system for close contacts to COVID-19 cases

by | Jan 11, 2022 | Press Release

Reno, Sparks Nev. Jan. 11, 2022. The Washoe County Health District (WCHD) is supplementing COVID-19 disease investigation efforts and improving efficiency by launching an automated text messaging and email notification system designed to notify residents who are a close contact to someone who has COVID-19.

This new process will allow for quicker notification of close contacts in this surge. The notifications will include instructions on what to do if you are a close contact, which includes a direct link to the covid19washoe.com website self isolation and quarantine page.

If you receive an email or text message please read the important information provided and follow the instructions to keep our community safe. These texts will not be sent to persons under the age of 18 years.

“Adding these tools to our contact tracing efforts will make a big impact on our ability to get information out to people more efficiently in this surge,” said Nancy Diao, Division Director for Epidemiology and Public Health Preparedness for the Health District.

The COVID-19 Omicron variant is highly contagious and is spreading through the community quickly. On Jan. 11, 2022, we reported the most cases in a day during this pandemic with 1,024, which breaks the record set on Thursday, Jan. 6, of 1,011. For more COVID-19 data in Washoe County, see this dashboard.

COVID-19 test results from Northshore Clinical Laboratory

Northshore Clinical Lab Laboratory continues to administer free COVID-19 tests at four community sites. Results for those tests will be notified to residents by Northshore.

The Washoe County Health District, and the COVID-19 call center 775-328-2427, does not have access to test results, nor does it provide notification to residents, for tests administered by Northshore at the four community test sites.

The Health District continues to administer tests at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center and recently extended operations to mornings Monday-Friday. Schedule an appointment here.

The Washoe County Health District is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making Washoe County District Board of Health. The District consists of five divisions: Administrative Health Services, Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Epidemiology & Public Health Preparedness. More info can be found here.

Regional Information Center update about COVID-19 tests in Washoe County

Regional Information Center update about COVID-19 tests in Washoe County

by | Jan 7, 2022 | Press Release

Jan. 7, 2021. Reno/Sparks, NV – The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is spreading quickly in Washoe County and creating high demand for COVID-19 tests. Washoe County recently contracted with NorthShore Lab to augment testing capacity by adding four locations around the county that are open seven days a week. These locations have testing supplies for more than 400 tests per day per location, and they are meeting that capacity early in the day. They will be increasing staffing to meet the need.

With this in mind, the Regional Information Center is providing the following advice for those seeking COVID-19 tests:

  1. Be patient. Lines are long at testing locations and may require that you wait in line. Please be aware and prepared to wait to receive a test.
  2. If you are testing with NorthShore, you can help speed up the process by pre-registering for your COVID-19 test. This is not an appointment. Appointments are not required for the NorthShore Lab testing sites.
  3. Due to the high volume of tests conducted daily by NorthShore Lab, they will only be offering rapid antigen tests. PCR tests require lab processing and take longer to receive results. Antigen tests are less sensitive but provide results in about an hour.
  4. The Washoe County Health District is still conducting COVID-19 tests by appointment at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Event Center. Visit com to schedule a test.
  5. If you schedule a test at the Health District but decide not to go, please cancel your appointment. The Health District is experiencing a high number of no-show appointments every day, and therefore not able to meet the need of those who need to be tested.
  6. Many area pharmacies offer COVID-19 tests. Walgreens, CVS and Walmart, as well as local health facilities, can provide COVID-19 tests. Please visit com to find a location near you.
  7. While Omicron spreads easily and rapidly. If you are feeling ill and waiting to get a COVID-19 test, the best action is to stay home and isolate from others for the length of time recommended by the CDC. The isolation guidance varies depending on vaccination status.
  8. COVID-19 test providers are working quickly and diligently to serve everyone who needs a test, but lines may be long and you may be required to wait outside or in your car. Be aware of traffic and ensure that you are not blocking other cars or roadways while you wait.

For the latest updates on COVID-19 testing and other news, visit www.COVID19Washoe.com and follow @COVID19Washoe on Twitter.

The COVID-19-19 Regional Information Center is working together to deliver COVID-19-19 community updates in a unified manner. While press releases are only sent periodically for significant events, you can always get daily results on our website, https://COVID-1919washoe.com/, our COVID-19-19 Dashboard or by following us on Twitter @COVID-1919Washoe. The entities include: City of Reno, City of Sparks, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, Regional Transportation Commission, REMSA Health, Reno Sparks Indian Colony, Reno Police Department, Reno Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, University of Nevada, Reno, Washoe County, Washoe County Health District, Washoe County School District and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Also in the group are Community Health Alliance and the area hospitals, Northern Nevada Medical Center, Renown Health and Saint Mary’s.

Regional Information Center update about COVID-19 tests in Washoe County

Recent wastewater testing reports increased amount of COVID-19 Omicron variant

by | Jan 5, 2022 | Press Release

Reno, Sparks Nev. Jan. 5, 2022. Recent sampling of wastewater in Washoe County found a 10-fold increase in COVID-19 detection as well as a high proportion of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, according to researchers from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Data from the Truckee Meadows Water Reclamation Facility, where a majority of wastewater comes through for the area, first detected the presence of the Omicron variant on Dec. 12, 2021. The first COVID-19 Omicron variant case confirmed through sequencing was reported Dec. 20, 2021.

As of Jan. 5, 2022, there have been 61 confirmed COVID-19 Omicron variant cases in Washoe County.  Only a portion of positive tests are sequenced, and the total number of Omicron cases is significantly higher. Based on the wastewater sampling almost all of the current new cases should be considered to be Omicron.

Since November 29, 2021, data indicated that the SARS-CoV-2 concentrations increased, even though the daily COVID-19 clinical cases were trending down. During the Christmas holidays, the concentrations of COVID-19 increased dramatically.

Testing, analyzing and sequencing wastewater samples – which includes sewage from homes, businesses and facilities like airports, hotels and casinos – can be used as an indicator of COVID-19 up to 7 days in advance. The samples are collected from 12 sewer sites, spread all over the region, and together give comprehensive data on COVID-19 without interrupting people’s lives.

“This data is predictive of the significant increase in new cases that we are currently experiencing,” said Kevin Dick, District Health Officer in Washoe County. “We hope people will understand that COVID-19 is still impacting the community. Omicron is here in a big way and receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, and booster when eligible, is what’s going to help us get through this pandemic in the safest way possible.”

Initial funding for the wastewater research was provided by the Cities of Reno and Sparks and Washoe County through CARES Act funding.

With the spread of the Omicron variant and COVID-19 cases increasing in Washoe County, it’s recommended that you receive a COVID-19 test if you are showing signs of COVID-19 or were in close contact (6 feet or less for 15 minutes) to a positive case.

You can find testing at four area test sites seven days a week, the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center or other locations here.

The COVID-19 vaccine remains the best way to protect you and your loved ones from severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. Those aged 5 and older are eligible to receive the free vaccine. To get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, visit http://www.vaccines.gov. You can also find a community vaccine event here.

The COVID-19 Regional Information Center is working together to deliver COVID-19 community updates in a unified manner. While press releases are only sent periodically for significant events, you can always get daily results on our website, https://covid19washoe.com/, our COVID-19 Dashboard or by following us on Twitter @COVID19Washoe. The entities include: City of Reno, City of Sparks, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, Regional Transportation Commission, REMSA Health, Reno Sparks Indian Colony, Reno Police Department, Reno Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, University of Nevada, Reno, Washoe County, Washoe County Health District, Washoe County School District and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Also in the group are Community Health Alliance and the area hospitals, Northern Nevada Medical Center, Renown Health and Saint Mary’s.

Regional Information Center update about COVID-19 tests in Washoe County

UPDATED: Northshore Labs COVID-19 testing no longer available in Washoe County

by | Jan 4, 2022 | Press Release

EDITOR’S NOTE: Northshore Clinical Laboratories informed us that they are closing COVID-19 testing operations at the below locations effective immediately. Testing is no longer offered at those locations. For other COVID-19 testing operations, go here.

Reno, Sparks Nev. Jan. 4, 2022. Additional free COVID-19 testing is available to all Washoe County residents at four locations starting Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022. The testing is being operated by Northshore Clinical Laboratories.

The testing locations, which are open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., are:

  • Bartley Ranch Regional Park, 6000 Bartley Ranch Rd, Reno
  • Eagle Canyon Park, 400 Eagle Canyon Drive, Spanish Springs
  • South Valleys Regional Park, 15650 Wedge Pkwy, Reno
  • North Valleys Regional Park, 8085 Silver Lake Rd, Reno

Appointments are not required for any sites. The testing locations are walk-up – not drive-through – and parking is available. All residents are eligible to get a test. Registration can be done online to speed up your visit. To register, go here. More than 1,600 people per day can get a test in Washoe County.

For questions about results, email Northshore Clinical Labs at results@northshorepartners.io.

The testing will include both a rapid antigen test (results in 1 hour) and a confirmatory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test (results in 48-72 hours). Those who receive a positive test result will be notified via email and phone; if the test is negative, the results will be sent only by email.

The testing is being performed by North Shore Clinical Labs, which is also conducting testing for the Washoe County School District, with no announced end date.

With the spread of the Omicron variant and COVID-19 cases increasing in Washoe County, it’s recommended that you receive a COVID-19 test if you are showing signs of COVID-19 or were in close contact (6 feet or less for 15 minutes) to a positive case. There has been a 150 percent increase in COVID-19 cases since Dec. 26, 2021, according to the Washoe County COVID-19 dashboard.

You can also find additional testing at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center here or other locations here.

The COVID-19 vaccine remains the best way to protect you and your loved ones from severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. Those aged 5 and older are eligible to receive the free vaccine. To get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, visit http://www.vaccines.gov. You can also find a community vaccine event here.

The COVID-19 Regional Information Center is working together to deliver COVID-19 community updates in a unified manner. While press releases are only sent periodically for significant events, you can always get daily results on our website, https://covid19washoe.com/, our COVID-19 Dashboard or by following us on Twitter @COVID19Washoe. The entities include: City of Reno, City of Sparks, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, Regional Transportation Commission, REMSA Health, Reno Sparks Indian Colony, Reno Police Department, Reno Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, University of Nevada, Reno, Washoe County, Washoe County Health District, Washoe County School District and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Also in the group are Community Health Alliance and the area hospitals, Northern Nevada Medical Center, Renown Health and Saint Mary’s.

Regional Information Center update about COVID-19 tests in Washoe County

2nd Omicron COVID-19 case confirmed in Washoe County

by | Dec 22, 2021 | Press Release

Reno, Sparks Nev. Dec. 22, 2021. The Nevada State Public Health Laboratory (NSPHL) has confirmed the second case with the COVID-19 Omicron Variant in Washoe County.

The individual who tested positive for this variant is a male in his early 30s, fully vaccinated but did not receive a booster. He was at a gathering with friends, some of whom traveled internationally recently. He is no longer symptomatic, did not require hospitalization and is feeling better.

The COVID-19 vaccine has been proven to help prevent people from contracting, being hospitalized from, and dying from COVID-19. Those who are fully vaccinated can contract the virus, but the symptoms are usually not as severe and fully vaccinated persons typically recover from illness faster. The COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for anyone 5 years and older. Those who are 16 years and older are encouraged to get a COVID-19 booster to strengthen their protection two months after receiving the Janssen vaccine or six months after completing their initial series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

To get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, visit http://www.vaccines.gov. You can also find a community vaccine event here.

The COVID-19 Regional Information Center is working together to deliver COVID-19 community updates in a unified manner. While press releases are only sent periodically for significant events, you can always get daily results on our website, https://covid19washoe.com/, our COVID-19 Dashboard or by following us on Twitter @COVID19Washoe. The entities include: City of Reno, City of Sparks, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, Regional Transportation Commission, REMSA, Reno Sparks Indian Colony, Reno Police Department, Reno Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, University of Nevada, Reno, Washoe County, Washoe County Health District, Washoe County School District and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Also in the group are Community Health Alliance and the area hospitals, Northern Nevada Medical Center, Renown Health and Saint Mary’s.

Washoe County Health District Reports First Case of COVID-19 Omicron Variant in Washoe County

by | Dec 20, 2021 | Press Release

Reno, Sparks Nev. Dec. 20, 2021. The Nevada State Public Health Laboratory (NSPHL) has confirmed the first case with the COVID-19 Omicron Variant in Washoe County.

The individual who tested positive for this variant is a male in his early 50s, fully vaccinated and received a booster. He had both international and domestic air travel as likely source of exposure. The individual is recovering and isolating at home.

“As we mentioned before it was only a matter of time before we identified this variant in Washoe County,” said Kevin Dick, District Health Officer. “The best form of protection residents can take against all variants is getting fully vaccinated and receiving a booster. It is also imperative, especially now with the cold weather and holiday gatherings, that they continue taking safety precautions such as staying home and getting tested if they feel sick and wearing a mask indoors in public.”

The Washoe County Health District (WCHD) also urges residents to implement consistent mask wearing, handwashing and isolate if tested positive for COVID-19 or waiting for results to avoid getting others sick.

“Variants develop when the virus has the opportunity to spread from person to person,” explained Dr. Nancy Diao, WCHD Director of Epidemiology. “Which is why vaccines and other preventive measures are so important in reducing the spread of the COVID-19 and slowing the rate of new variants developing.”

The World Health Organization named Omicron and classified it as a Variant of Concern on November 26, 2021.

This is the first case reported in Washoe County, the first case in Nevada was reported in Clark County.

The COVID-19 vaccine has been proven to help prevent people from contracting, being hospitalized from, and dying from COVID-19. Those who are fully vaccinated can contract the virus, but the symptoms are usually not as severe and fully vaccinated persons typically recover from illness faster. The COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for anyone 5 years and older. Those who are 16 years and older are encouraged to get a COVID-19 booster to strengthen their protection two months after receiving the Janssen vaccine or six months after completing their initial series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

To get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster, visit http://www.vaccines.gov. You can also find a community vaccine event here.

The COVID-19 Regional Information Center is working together to deliver COVID-19 community updates in a unified manner. While press releases are only sent periodically for significant events, you can always get daily results on our website, https://covid19washoe.com/, our COVID-19 Dashboard or by following us on Twitter @COVID19Washoe. The entities include: City of Reno, City of Sparks, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, Regional Transportation Commission, REMSA, Reno Sparks Indian Colony, Reno Police Department, Reno Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, University of Nevada, Reno, Washoe County, Washoe County Health District, Washoe County School District and Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Also in the group are Community Health Alliance and the area hospitals, Northern Nevada Medical Center, Renown Health and Saint Mary’s.