Reno Reporter

Additional COVID-19 testing is now available at Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center.

The Nevada National Guard has been re-deployed to assist with COVID-19 testing at the arena., according to a release from Gov. Steve Sisolak.

"I am grateful to the men and women of the Nevada National Guard for taking on this additional assignment to help with COVID-19 testing at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center, and I thank all those involved with the Washoe County Health District for their continued work," Sisolak said, according to the release.

The schedule for testing times has been updated and will now include appointments in the afternoons and on Saturdays. The expanded times have increase the number of available daily appointments to 800 up from 500. 

Testing has been increased in response to a surge of the omicron variant and COVID-19 cases in Washoe County. The county tallied a record high of 1,694 cases Jan. 20 and the seven-day moving average for new cases is currently 1,052.4, according to the release. 

"COVID-19 cases are still very high in Washoe County and this increase in testing availability comes at a crucial time," Sisolak said. "This federal, state and local partnership is a truly great example of what we can accomplish when we're working together to aid in the COVID-19 response."

COVID-19 testing will be available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors will need to schedule an appointment in advance by calling 775-328-2427, Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.