PHOENIX – The Navajo Nation Department of Health has issued a health advisory warning to residents about the “uncontrolled” spread of the coronavirus as the number of confirmed cases increases.
The department announced Wednesday that 29 communities were affected by the spread throughout the reservation, including in the Arizona communities of Cameron, Leupp, Dilkon, Ganado and Round Rock.
“The uncontrolled spread of COVID-19 means that people who are testing positive in these areas likely do not know where or how they contracted the virus,” Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said. “We strongly urge everyone to take precautions and to keep their guard up.”
Officials have urged residents to wear face masks, practice social distancing and limit gatherings to fewer than five people. A daily curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. also remains in effect on the Navajo Nation.
“Protect yourselves and continue to be strong as we move forward through this pandemic. Please think of your children, elders and those with underlying health conditions,” Vice President Myron Lizer said.
The Navajo Nation spans more than 27,000 square miles of land in Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.
Health officials have said the Navajo Nation has had more than 11,900 confirmed virus cases and 582 deaths as of Tuesday.
