80 New COVID-19 Cases, 4 Deaths On Navajo Nation

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – The Navajo Nation reported 80 new cases of COVID-19 and four deaths as tribal leaders reminded residents to plan for another weekend lockdown that begins Friday.

Nearly 70,000 people have been tested for the virus with a total of 405 deaths and 8,486 positive cases. Over 6,000 people have recovered from the disease.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said that all residents should prepare for the upcoming 57-hour weekend lockdown, which is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Friday and last until 5 a.m. Monday.

“It’s important for families to plan ahead and prepare for the weekend lockdowns to make sure you have enough food, water, medication, and other essential items. When you shop for essential items, please wear your masks, practice social distancing, and please wipe down and sanitize all of your purchases.”

The Navajo Nation’s stay-at-home order is still in effect and it requires everyone on the reservation to stay home and leave only for emergencies or “essential activities.”

There is also a daily curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weekdays.

The Navajo Nation lies partially in San Juan County in the Four Corners area of Utah.

“The Navajo Nation has become a case study because we’ve gone from having one of the highest rates of COVID-19 cases to now flattening the curve in a time when cities and states around us are spiking,” said Vice President Myron Nez.

He added, “This is in large part due to the Navajo people and our health care professionals and other first responders. Now let’s keep fighting hard and stay the course.”