As the community prepares for the holiday weekend, the Southern Nevada Health District reminds the public and business community to continue to take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The 4th of July holiday is traditionally a time of larger gatherings of family and friends and increased travel. With cases continuing to increase, the Health District urges everyone to take the recommended prevention measure seriously as they celebrate this holiday weekend. This includes avoiding large group settings, wearing face coverings in public, and practicing social distancing (keeping at least 6 feet of space between individuals who don’t share a home).

If planning or attending a gathering, it is better to be outdoors than indoors to reduce (but not eliminate) the risk of transmitting COVID-19. It is important for people to wear a face covering and avoid close contact with people who are not members of the same household. People who are older or have underlying medical conditions should continue to stay home and limit their contact with others as much as possible.

Currently, people aged 18-49 account for more than 50 percent of the reported cases of COVID-19 in Clark County. This predominantly younger age group is more likely to be out in the community and workforce and has the potential to spread the virus to older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.

“No common sources of exposure are linked to the recent increase in cases in Clark County,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, Acting Chief Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “It is important for everyone to be aware that community spread of the virus is still ongoing. It is up to everyone to continue to take steps to protect themselves and others, and to keep our community safe,” said Leguen.

More information and COVID-19 resources for the public and businesses are available on the Health District website at www.SNHD.info/covid.