Navajo Nation Returns To Tighter Lockdowns Amid New COVID-19 Cases

Navajo Nation leaders have reissued a stay-at-home order. It tightens lockdowns and extends weekend curfews on the reservation meant to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The order follows reports of an increase of cases near Ganado and on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. Health officials say the clusters of infections resulted from off-reservation travel and family gatherings during which physical distancing and the wearing of facemasks weren’t observed.

"While these new cases are being investigated, our public health experts and contact tracers have begun to mobilize resources to help identify those who may have been exposed to the virus, to isolate positive cases, and provide food and other essential items to those who are now in isolation,” says Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez.

The order requires all businesses to close during weekend lockdowns that will last from Friday evening until Monday morning.