Washoe County Health District Announces Third Positive Case of COVID-19

Resident recently traveled to Germany, France; is self isolating at home

Reno, Nev. March 13, 2020. The Washoe County Health District (WCHD) has received a third presumptive positive case of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus). The test has been sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for confirmation.

The case is a female in her 20s who had recent travel to Germany and France. Her condition is stable and she is self isolating at home. The Health District is investigating and working to identify close contacts to prevent any community spread of the disease. Due to medical privacy requirements and to protect their identity, no further information about the case will be released.

Washoe County now has three cases of COVID-19 total; two are presumpitve positives and one is confirmed by the Centers of Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). We strongly believe the two presumptive positive cases will be confirmed by the CDC.

The best ways for people to reduce their risk of getting sick, and preventing COVID-19 are: 

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds 
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve, or tissue
• Avoid touching your face 
• Stay home if you are sick 
• Try alternatives to shaking hands, like an elbow bump
• There is no recommendation to wear masks at this time to prevent yourself from getting sick
• If possible, work from home
• For businesses, go here for cleaning information

More information on COVID-19 can be found at www.washoecounty.us/covid19 or by calling Washoe 311 (Dial 3-1-1). Residents concerned they might have COVID-19 can contact their healthcare provider or telemedicine provider, or call the Health District at 775-328-2427 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday) or 3-1-1 after hours. 

Media: There is no scheduled media briefing for Friday due to above medical and privacy requirements. Go here to see our media briefing from earlier today at 11 a.m.