Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez says the tribe urgently needs more test kits as the number of known cases of COVID-19 continues to grow. Nez is also requesting testing labs be set up on the nation to speed up processing results.
“The public needs to be mindful that these numbers are going to continue to increase if every family, every individual does not follow the advice of health care experts,” said President Nez in a press release. “We’re working around the clock to get the word out, but ultimately, it’s the decision of every individual. Stay home, stay safe, save lives!”
Nez urged all people on the Navajo Nation to physically distance to prevent the spread of coronavirus. As of Wednesday night, 241 known cases of coronavirus cases had been reported on the reservation and eight people are known to have died of the disease there. In Navajo County alone, 104 cases have been confirmed and there are 22 known cases in Apache County.
Nez this week ordered the closure of the tribe’s executive branch to be extended until April 26 except for essential personnel. He also urged the Navajo National Board of Education to close schools through the end of the school year, which the board later unanimously voted to do.
A curfew remains in effect on the nation from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect current numbers of coronavirus cases.
