Navajo Nation: 32 New COVID-19 Cases, 1 Death

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – The Navajo Nation reported 32 new cases of COVID-19 and one death Thursday as another weekend lockdown is set to begin and leaders keep an eye on rising cases in states that encompass the reservation.

There have now been 10,582 cases reported on the reservation with 7,312 people considered recovered. The total number of people who have died from the disease is 563.

A 57-hour long weekend begins Friday at 8 p.m.

Navajo health officials are watching the rising case numbers in the three states in which the reservation resides.

Utah reported a record high 1,501 cases Thursday and another 1,343 on Friday.

“This is very troubling for our communities in Utah. New Mexico and Arizona which also continue to report high numbers of new cases and hospitalizations,” said Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez.

Utah hospitals are increasingly concerned about available space as the number of ICU hospitalizations increase along with case numbers.

“We have to continue to lift each other up and keep our spirits high during this pandemic. People all over the world are struggling, but we must also remember that our ancestors were strong and overcame so much, so that we could be where we are today,” said Navajo Nation Vice President Myron Lizer.

Leaders are also pressing residents to respond to the 2020 Census while staying safe from coronavirus.