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Navajo Nation president, vice president in self-quarantine after being exposed to COVID-19

Published  April 9, 2020 12:01pm MST
Coronavirus in Arizona
FOX 10 Phoenix
article

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. - Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer are in self-quarantine after being in close proximity with an individual who had the coronavirus, according to a press statement on April 9.

Nez and Lizer announced the news during a live town hall update that Wednesday. They had been in close proximity to a first responder who later tested positive for COVID-19.

While both wore gloves and masks at the time, the two plan to continue their official duties online and through other forms of telecommunication, according to the statement.

Several of their employees have also been ordered to self-quarantine as a precaution.

"This is real and no one is immune from contracting the virus," Nez said in the statement. "We will continue to hep fight for our people while we self-quarantine - this is a precautionary measure."

A 57-hour weekend curfew takes effect in the Navajo Nation starting Friday, April 10 at 8 P.M. to Monday, April 13 at 5 A.M. to slow the spread of the virus.  

MORE:  57-hour curfew planned for Navajo Nation as COVID-19 pandemic worsens there

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In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends: 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.