Coronavirus updates: Washoe reports another death, a woman in her 90s; county death toll at 60
This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day Saturday, May 30. This story is part of the Reno Gazette Journal’s essential COVID-19 coverage and is being provided for free. Please consider subscribing to the RGJ to support our work.
Washoe death toll rises to 60
12:35 p.m.
Washoe County reported another COVID-19-related death Saturday, bringing the county's death toll to 60, according to the Regional Information Center.
The most recent death was a woman in her 90s with underlying health conditions.
There were also 30 more recoveries reported and 17 new cases reported Saturday. There are now 602 active cases in Washoe County and 886 total recoveries.
More than 26,000 COVID-19 tests have been performed in Washoe County.
Sierra Safari Zoo opening Monday
11:30 p.m.
Sierra Safari Zoo, north of Reno, will be opening with restrictions on Monday.
The zoo officials ask visitors to practice social distancing measures, which include maintaining 6 feet of distance from other groups, limiting the amount of people in the gift shop at a time and requiring face masks.
Officials said the mask requirement is inline with guidance from the USDA for the protection of the animals, guests and staff.
Officials said if children are not able to wear a mask, exceptions can be made.
Washoe reports four deaths — highest single day increase
Friday
"Four COVID-19-related deaths were reported in Washoe County on Friday, bringing the death toll from the virus to 59.
Friday’s total was the most deaths reported in a single day.
The county’s Regional Information Center said those who died were three females in their 80s (all with underlying health conditions) and a male in his 60s.
It is unknown if the male had any medical conditions.
The county also recorded 22 recoveries and 17 new cases.
In all, there have been 1,531 reported COVID-19 cases in the county, with 616 of those classified as active. A total of 856 recoveries have also been recorded.
Phase 2: Businesses reopen in Reno
Washoe County and the state have officially entered Phase 2 of the reopening plan with bars, gyms, theaters, spas, churches, tattoo shops and Black Hole Body Piercing opening for the first time in 72 days.
Some are waiting to open until next week. Movie theaters and City of Reno pools likely won't open until June. St. Mary's Fitness Center and Sports West Athletic Club open on Monday.
Manager DeeDee Desiderio Schula said Sports West was open for membership sales on Friday, and it was busy.
"We have had about 10 people sign up today, which is busy for a summer day," she said.