Nevada Hits 1-Day Death Record But Reports Fewer New Cases

CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Nevada has reported 71 new deaths from the coronavirus, a new single-day record.

The state's COVID-19 response director said Wednesday that those who died likely contracted the virus in mid-December. Although deaths continue to surge, the number of new cases reported daily in Nevada has slowed.

Officials say that gives some cautious optimism about the pandemic's trajectory. Because most of those who have died have been older than 70, the state has prioritized the group for early vaccine distribution.

But officials say limited supplies and logistical hurdles pose challenges, especially in Las Vegas.