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YKHC Announces Two More Positive Coronavirus Cases

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ALLERGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES – ROCKY MOUNTAIN LABORATORIES

The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation announced two more positive coronavirus cases today. Both people tested positive at the Bethel airport, and neither are Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta residents. But one of the people who tested positive temporarily lives in a village that YKHC serves.

YKHC says that both people are no longer considered infectious, and had previously completed quarantine and contact-tracing prior to coming into the region. YKHC says that it’s not uncommon for people to test positive for the virus long after they recover.

Also this week, YKHC announced its 30th positive case tied to the region, as well as it’s first COVID-related death. The person who died was self-isolating in Bethel, and was medevaced to Anchorage earlier this week for advanced care, where they later died.

YKHC urges everyone to remain vigilant and practice all known protective measures against COVID-19. There is no vaccine for this novel virus. 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.

YKHC also urges everyone traveling into the region to 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.