WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) — Navajo Nation health officials report 64 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 but no additional deaths for the fifth consecutive day.

The latest figures released Saturday night bring the total number of cases to 11,217 with the known death toll remaining at 574.

Tribal health officials said 121,274 people on the vast reservation that covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah have been tested for COVID-19 since the pandemic started and 7,466 have recovered.

On Saturday, officials addressed concern over the number of new cases in the states which encompass and surround the Navajo Nation.

“Today, New Mexico reported a record-high number of new COVID-19 cases with 875 in a single day,” said Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, “and the states of Arizona and Utah are even higher.

“If we keep trending this way, our health care system on the Navajo Nation might not be able to handle it with the limited resources and available health care workers.

“Our Navajo Nation residents have to think of our elders, children, and those with underlying health conditions before deciding to travel or holding family gatherings. We can issue many public health orders and public messages, but it ultimately comes down to every person’s actions. Please stay home during the weekend lockdown and take care of your loved ones,” said Nez. 

On Tuesday, Oct. 27, the Nez-Lizer Administration will host an online town hall on the Nez-Lizer Facebook page beginning at 10:00 a.m. to provide more updates on COVID-19.

“Keep praying and do your best to remain strong during this pandemic. We are seeing rising numbers, so please be careful and keep your family and elders safe. We will overcome this eventually. Thank you to all of the first responders who are working hard every day to fight for all of us,” said Vice President Myron Lizer.

A shelter-in-place order, mask mandate, daily curfews and weekend lockdowns remain in effect on the Navajo Nation. The most recent lockdown remains in effect until Monday, Oct. 26 at 5:00 a.m. (MDT). Another weekend lockdown will take place from Oct. 30 through Nov. 2.

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How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
• If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
• Get a flu shot.

Local resources

KSL Coronavirus Q&A

Utah’s Coronavirus Information

UtahState Board of Education

Utah Hospital Association

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707

National Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization

Cases in the United States