The Navajo Nation on Thursday reported 13 new COVID-19 cases, but no deaths for the fourth time in the last five days.
Tribal health officials said the total number of cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago now is 30,565 on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.
The known death toll remained at 1,282.
Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said more than half of the reservation’s adult population has been vaccinated, but people still need to stay home as much as possible, wear masks and avoid large gatherings.
“Reports indicate that COVID-19 cases have increased in the state of Arizona in the last couple of weeks,” Nez said in a statement Thursday. This data should encourage all of our Navajo Nation citizens … to continue taking all precautions even if you are fully vaccinated.”
Last week, the Navajo Department of Health loosened some virus-driven restrictions and transition to “yellow status.”
Restaurants are allowed to have in-door dining at 25% capacity and outdoor dining at 50% capacity and parks are permitted to open at 25% capacity but only for residents and employees.
Navajo casinos are open at 50% capacity, but only for residents and staff.
Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
