Third Navajo citizen contracts coronavirus
Editor’s Note: The Navajo Times in today’s edition reported that two cases of the coronavirus were confirmed. After press time on Wednesday, at 9:25 p.m., the president’s office issued a news release saying a third individual had been confirmed with the virus.
Since today’s newspaper was already printed and carriers were on their way to stores across the Navajo Nation, we could not include this third case.
However, check our webpage for any new updates. Our reporters and photographers are watching and monitoring the emergency and any breaking news will be reported to our online readers.
Meanwhile, pick up a copy of today’s Navajo Times to receive more coverage of the coronavirus and efforts by people and communities to prevent its spread.
WINDOW ROCK
A third person from the Chilchinbeto area tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.
The person, a 62-year-old man, reported his symptoms to the Kayenta Health Center. He was transported to a hospital in Phoenix where he is being monitored.
The man’s family members have been isolated and are being screened.
Health officials are investigating if two other people, a man and a woman, who contracted the virus on Tuesday, are related to the third one.
The Navajo Health Command Operations Center is considering issuing a shelter-in-place order for the community of Chilchinbeto, which would require residents to remain in their home due to the spread of the virus.
An order was also issued requiring restaurants operating on the reservation to operate at no greater than 50 percent of maximum occupancy and no greater than 50 percent of seating capacity. Restaurants also have to not allow more than six people to sit at a table, as well as requiring people to sit at least six feet from one another.
As a public service, the Navajo Times is making all coverage of the coronavirus pandemic fully available on its website. Please support the Times by subscribing.
How to protect yourself and others.
Why masks work. Which masks are best.
Resources for coronavirus assistance
“The responsibility is upon all of us as individuals to help keep each other safe and healthy by practicing social distancing and self-isolation – staying home is key to preventing the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. The Navajo Nation COVID-19 Preparedness Team is making progress in securing resources and funding from various entities to help our people – we are working hard each day to help our people. Please continue to pray for these individuals, their families, and all of the people of our Nation,” said President Nez.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends anyone who suspects they may have the coronavirus to call their hospital and report their symptoms, and to stay home unless directed by their doctor to drive to the hospital to get tested.
Highway 264,
I-40, WB @ Winslow