78°F
weather icon Mostly Cloudy

Clark County’s public health leader stepping down

Updated September 6, 2024 - 7:30 pm

The Southern Nevada Health District announced Thursday that Dr. Fermin Leguen will retire as the district health officer in February.

Leguen, a medical doctor who fled his native Cuba in 2011, joined the health district in 2016 as chief medical officer. Three years later, he was named acting chief health officer, the public agency’s top position. In January 2021, he got that job — now known as district health officer — permanently.

He oversaw Southern Nevada’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and many other public health challenges, including West Nile virus and drug overdoses.

“Dr. Leguen has been an asset to the community and his leadership instrumental in strengthening the public health infrastructure that will continue to serve our community for years to come,” said County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick, who chairs the health district’s board.

In a news release announcing his retirement plan, Leguen thanked the district staff for their hard work and dedication.

“I have been inspired by the dedication, commitment and enthusiasm that our team brings to the Health District each and every day, and I’m thankful for all the achievements and contributions their efforts have brought to this community,” he said.

The health district said it will discuss a transition plan at a board meeting in October.

Contact Paul Pearson at ppearson@reviewjournal.com.

MOST READ
Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook.
THE LATEST
10 protein sources to help you lose body fat

We asked registered dietitians to explain how to strike the right balance of getting enough protein while trying to lose weight.

Tips to relieve wrist pain caused by swing sports

Wrist injuries from swing sports like golf, pickleball, tennis and baseball — tend to be from overuse and repeated motion.

 
Be on the lookout for this new Medicare scam

Do not accept “free” offers in exchange for your Medicare number. They will use your account to pay for whatever they are offering.

How to get relief from dry eyes

Dry, red, burning, irritated eyes are one of the most common reasons for visits to the eye doctor, but discomfort isn’t the only problem of dry eyes.

MORE STORIES