On Aug. 14, the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation announced two new cases of COVID-19. Both are Bethel residents and close contacts of previously known cases.
The second case was identified through testing of passengers arriving at the Bethel airport. The individuals are self-isolating, and all close contacts have been identified. These two cases mark the 13th cases of COVID-19 that YKHC has announced in just the past week, a new record by far. YKHC has not announced that there is community spread yet, because all of the cases are either travel-related or linked to a travel-related case.
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.
