Finding reliable information on infectious diseases can be difficult, so here is a brief roundup of some of the ones “going viral” in Las Vegas, along with important information from health experts.
COVID-19
Wastewater monitoring throughout the state currently shows Nevada’s viral levels as “very high,” while data from the NV EMPOWER program shows increased virality levels in Las Vegas. Both are similar to virality levels across the country this summer.
How testing works: Nevada was one of the first states to monitor COVID-19 infection levels by testing the amount of viral genetic material in wastewater. While this method does not reveal the exact number of people infected, the data provides infection trends between communities without relying on self-reporting data. It’s important to note that these reports should serve as a monitoring tool for communities to prepare, not as a singular source of information.
Where to get tested: Visit the SNHD website for COVID-19 testing locations and advice on how to self-test. The Clark County Library District also has a helpful list of free testing locations.
How to get vaccinated: The Southern Nevada Health District estimates only 5% of Clark County residents are up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations. Currently, all Nevadans over the age of six are eligible to receive updated vaccines.
MPox
Formerly known as “monkeypox,” the contagious disease can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal. Its symptoms are often similar to those of the flu and include a skin rash. According to the Southern Nevada Health District, there have been seven probable and confirmed cases of Mpox in Clark County this year.
How to get vaccinated: Effective Mpox vaccines consist of two doses administered four weeks apart and are recommended only for those with certain risks. The SNHD has three Mpox vaccine clinics in Las Vegas for those who are eligible.
A little spray keeps the mosquitoes away. (SeventyFour / Getty)
Mosquito-Related Diseases
There has been an increase in the number of mosquitoes in Las Vegas this summer, particularly the Aedes Aegypti species.
According to the CDC, mosquito bites do not correlate with more illness in the community, but can create opportunities for locally transmitted diseases like Zika, dengue fever, and Chikungunya. There have been no reported cases of the Zika virus in the continental United States since 2019. Dengue fever is rare and has only been reported in neighboring states. Chikungunya cases have not been reported in Nevada and is typically acquired by people who have traveled to areas where it is most common.
Mosquitoes can also transmit the West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. As of July 3, SNHD has reported seven cases of people infected with the West Nile virus, which is now endemic in Clark County, meaning it is expected every year between April and November. Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is extremely rare but serious — approximately 30% of infected people die and survivors can often experience long-term health issues.
The CDC says that not all mosquitoes carry diseases, and the best way for people to protect themselves is to use repellents and eliminate standing water around their homes, which can become breeding spaces. Visit the SNHD website for information on how to prevent mosquito breeding.
