COVID-19 (coronavirus) has affected virtually every aspect of our lives. The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reports that 51,199 cases of the virus have been confirmed in the state as of August 4th, 2020. While our region is moving towards its long-term reopening and recovery plan, the virus is still present. You might ask yourself “is Vegas actually safe?”
At Ladah Law Firm, we are committed advocates for public safety. As strong supporters of the community, our attorneys want to make sure that everyone who visits Las Vegas is able to do so in the safest possible manner. Here we offer tips for navigating Vegas during the COVID-19 outbreak and we explain what you should do if you believe you were exposed to the virus.
Six Tips for Safe Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Are you considering traveling to Las Vegas during the COVID-19 pandemic? If so, it is crucial that you know how to take the proper safety precautions to keep yourself and your family as safe as possible. While there is no better way to limit your risk of being exposed to the virus than staying home, there are many proactive steps you can take to protect yourself while traveling. Here are six tips to help keep you safe if you are visiting Vegas during the era of COVID-19:
1. Consider the Unique Risk the Virus Poses to You and Your Loved Ones: Before traveling to Las Vegas, it is crucial that you consider the unique health risk that the coronavirus poses to you and your family members. As noted by the Centers Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), not everyone is equally susceptible to developing severe complications for this virus. To be clear, we all need to take proper safety precautions. At the same time, senior citizens and immunocompromised people should consider the heightened risk that they face. Travelling may not be advisable for everyone. Your unique health factors—age, pre-existing conditions, etc.—must be considered.
2. Social Distancing Still Matters: One of the best ways to limit your risk of contracting COVID-19 is limiting close contact with other people. Even while visiting Las Vegas, social distancing still matters. Do not let travel be an excuse for lapsing social distancing practice. To the maximum extent possible, you should always try to keep at least six feet of distance between yourself and other people. More space is always better. Additionally, it is highly recommended that you avoid large gatherings or crowded places. The latest research suggests that outdoor spaces are safer than indoor spaces. If social distancing is not possible, it is probably best to go somewhere else.
3. Wear a Mask and Wash Your Hands Frequently: Public health experts and government officials believe that masks can help to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Putting on a mask is a small price to pay to protect your health and well-being. Recently, a partial mask mandate was put into place in Las Vegas. Further, many private businesses—including retail stores and major casinos—are requiring their patrons to wear facial coverings while indoors. To travel safely to Las Vegas during the pandemic, you should wear a mask. In addition, there are other basic sanitizing measures that you can take as well. Wash your hands frequently, and try to avoid touching your mouth and nose. By doing so, you will reduce your risk of contracting the disease.
4. Pay Extra Attention to Transportation: Certainly, planning your transportation is always a big part of visiting another city. During the COVID-19 outbreak, public health officials recommend that people put some extra time, though, and effort into planning transportation. You need to consider the best ways to navigate Las Vegas during the pandemic. To start, it is important to note that some transportation options are operating on reduced schedules. Make sure you find transportation options that are safe, secure, and well-sanitized. The more you can maintain your distance, the better. If you are traveling by plane, bus, or train, be sure to wear a mask.
5.Carefully Monitor the Latest Information: The COVID-19 outbreak is still developing. Clark County recorded its highest level of new cases in late July. We cannot assume that the virus simply disappears as the fall approaches. Things are changing on an almost daily basis—meaning advice given last month may not be as applicable today. It is crucial that you stay up to date with the latest information when traveling. As a helpful resource, the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority (LVCVA) is publishing updates for the public. Among other things, the LVCVA has compiled information on state and local regulations and travel advisories. We strongly recommend following the protocols and guidance from state and local health authorities.
6. Remember that COVID-19 is Not the Only Safety Risk: Finally, it is worth emphasizing that safely visiting Las Vegas during the COVID-19 outbreak involves more than just keeping your distance and wearing a mask. As important as the coronavirus-specific safety precautions are, it is important to remember that there are other safety risks. Many serious accidents happened before the virus emerged and many serious accidents will happen long after the virus is gone. Whether you are looking for the most reliable transportation option or creating a plan for safely seeing Vegas at night, please be sure to give proper consideration to all of the risks associated with travel.
What Should I Do If I Develop COVID-19 Symptoms While Visiting Las Vegas
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 virus spreads rapidly. The studies are clear: This is a highly transmissible respiratory disease. Even if you take virtually all of the proper safety precautions, there is still a risk that you could be exposed to the virus. While developing COVID-19 symptoms is always stressful, it is especially unnerving for people who get sick away from home. The Mayo Clinic offers guidance for what to do if you develop coronavirus symptoms while traveling. Here are four steps you should take:
Seek emergency care if needed: Emergency medical needs always come first. While most people who are exposed to COVID-19 do not need to go to the hospital, those with serious complications need immediate attention. If you are experiencing severe shortness of breath or other severe symptoms, you need professional help.
Isolate yourself. Once you develop symptoms, you should assume that you are contagious to other people. It is better to be safe than sorry. To the best of your ability, try to self-quarantine and limit any further transmission of the virus.
Report the possible exposure. Report your possible exposure to the appropriate parties. For example, if you are staying at a hotel, call the front desk and explain your condition. They can help get you in touch with the local health authorities.
Get a COVID-19 Test: Coronavirus testing is available in Clark County. If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19, testing is available in Las Vegas. Here is a resource with COVID-19 testing sites in Southern Nevada.
What If I Get Hurt In An Accident do to Other Unsafe Conditions While In Vegas?
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Personal Injury Attorney in Las Vegas. At Ladah Law Firm, our Nevada personal injury lawyers are strong and dedicated advocates for public safety. We are always staying up-to-date on the latest developments. If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions around Las Vegas, get in touch with a Las Vegas injury lawyer to discuss your options. To set up a free, strictly confidential initial consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer, please contact our legal team today. From our office in Las Vegas, we serve communities throughout Clark County.