Eight Mu variant cases sequenced in Washoe County

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RENO, Nevada (KOLO) – The Washoe County Health District is closely monitoring new variants of COVID-19, including the Lambda variant and the Mu variant.

During their weekly COVID-19 press call on Wednesday, they said these two variants had not gained a foothold in Washoe County, but each time the virus is transmitted the chances of mutation are heightened.

“We have so far 8 cases of Mu sequenced so far in Washoe County. Not at a competing level with the Delta, but we are following it very closely, ”said Dr Nancy Diao, division director of epidemiology and public health preparedness.

The health district is also urging parents to encourage their children to continue wearing masks outside the home. They said what they see a lot is that a child who is not vaccinated becomes infected with COVID and the parents have sustained exposure with the child and they become breakthrough cases.

The health district said it continues to see an increase in demand for COVID-19 tests. He still offers tests at the Livestock Events Center but appointments fill up quickly. The district said it is working with its partners to see which tests they can speed up.

Surge testing sites that have opened at two local Walmarts can help residents get appointments earlier.

The two Walmarts offering this extended COVID test include the one on E. 2nd Street in Reno and the one in Lemmon Valley on Vista Knoll Parkway. The PCR test is free for residents.

All counties in Nevada currently have significant or elevated transmission of COVID-19.

The Nevada Health Response said Wednesday that Eureka County is high for the second week in a row and that more stringent mask requirements will come into effect on September 10.

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