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YKHC Announces Three More Coronavirus Cases

This scanning electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2 (in yellow), the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S., emerging from the surface of cells (in blue/pink) cultured in a lab.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases – Rocky Mountain Laboratories

Two more Bethel residents who were in close contact with a prior coronavirus case have tested positive for the virus. The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation confirmed the news on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 13. In addition, a resident in one of the villages in YKHC’s service area has also tested positive. All are currently self-isolating.

The news comes after YKHC announced a cluster of people who tested positive that are tied to a travel-related case, and after regional airline Grant Aviation announced that a pilot had also tested positive. Grant serves dozens of villages in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, and is currently going through its passenger list to notify people on those flights who might have been exposed. 

YKHC urges everyone to remain vigilant and practice all known protective measures against COVID-19. Protective measures include avoiding all non-essential travel, regularly washing hands, staying 6 feet away from non-household members, wearing a mask when in public, and disinfecting high-touch surfaces.

Everyone traveling into the region can get tested for the virus for free at the Bethel, Aniak, and St. Mary’s airports. Free testing is also offered at the Bethel hospital parking lot every Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. No appointment is needed.