Navajo Nation reports 69 new COVID-19 cases, 4 more deaths

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Department of Health has reported 69 new cases of coronavirus on the Navajo Nation and four more known deaths.

That pushes the totals to 6,963 positive COVID-19 cases and 334 known deaths as of Saturday night.

Tribal officials also said preliminary reports from 11 health care facilities indicate about 3,470 people have recovered from COVID-19 with more reports still pending.

The Navajo Nation has resumed weekend lockdowns with businesses closed as the number of coronavirus cases off the reservation increases, most notably in Arizona.

MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code

The tribe’s vast reservation stretches into northeastern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico and southeastern Utah.

Related

LIST: Arizona cities with face mask requirements

Coronavirus cases continue to skyrocket in Arizona and now, several cities are looking at possible mask mandates.

Related

Navajo Nation resumes weekend lockdowns as Arizona coronavirus cases rise

Tribal President Jonathan Nez made the announcement Tuesday in a virtual town hall. He cited Arizona, which hit an alarmingly high new daily number of cases with nearly 2,400 — almost double the previous record, in urging people to stay home. Businesses will be closed during the weekend lockdown.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

But for some — especially older adults and people with existing health problems — it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

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.

Continuing Coverage

FOX 10 is working to keep you up to date with local and national developments on COVID-19. Every weekday on FOX News Now, our live coverage begins at 7 a.m. MST reporting the latest news, prevention tips and treatment information.

You can watch live in your FOX 10 News app or on the FOX 10 Facebook page.

You can also get the latest coronavirus news from around the country at coronavirusnow.com