McCarran Doesn't Decide On Passenger Tests For Coronavirus

McCarran International Airport

LAS VEGAS, NV (KXNT) - In spite of the high number of international travelers that come through McCarran Airport, as well as the fact that McCarran is the 9th busiest airport in the U.S., airport officials say they have no plans at this time to screen passengers for the coronavirus.

In a staement released on Thursday, a spokespoerson for McCarran said,

"McCarran International Airport is working closely with public health officials at the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor the status of COVID-19 in our region and support a coordinated response. 

The SNHD is currently investigating the circumstances of a Clark County resident deemed a “presumptive positive” for COVID-19. Health district representatives have confirmed that this individual recently traveled to the states of Washington and Texas, but the airport does not have any additional information regarding the details of his travels.

At this time, LAS has not been advised of a need for public health officials to conduct any coronavirus screening or related activity at the airport.

Our custodial teams are deploying hospital-grade disinfectant on all high-touch surfaces around the airport, such as kiosks, escalators, door handles, etc. This is not a new precaution – McCarran makes these extra efforts to sanitize every flu season.

With the emergence of the coronavirus in Clark County, we have increased the frequency of application and expanded the areas of the airport that are covered. The disinfectant in use is recommended by the CDC to combat COVID-19 and is being applied in the highest concentration for maximum impact"

Like other public health officials, McCarran folk recommend that travelers follow the guidelines put out by the CDC:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick.

In addition to the "presumptive positive" case in Clark County, there was also one reported in Washoe County. Tests from both cases have been sent to the CDC in Atlanta for confirmation.