Navajo Nation reports 96 new cases, 4 COVID-19 deaths Sunday

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Lummi Nation member James Scott (native name Qwelexwbed), left, receives the first COVID-19 vaccination on the Lummi Reservation by registered nurse Alyssa Lane, Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020, near Bellingham, Wash. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Officials on the Navajo Nation reported 96 new COVID-19 cases and four more deaths Sunday.

The latest figures bring the total reported coronavirus cases on the reservation to 26,383, including 919 deaths.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said in a statement that with the holidays having passed, he is optimistic that the reservation has begun to flatten its curve of positive cases. He is hopeful that the administration of the vaccine will help flatten the curve even more.

Nez said residents still need to remain vigilant and practice health safety measures like staying home.

The number of infections is thought to be higher than reported because many people haven’t been tested.

Studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.

The Navajo Nation extends into Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.

Residents of the vast reservation were required to stay home from Friday evening until early Monday morning, except for essential workers and in the case of an emergency.

Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.