FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 13, 2022
Contact: Alexis Erikson, Public Relations Specialist
Phone: (907) 443-8918
40 COVID-19 Cases Identified on Wednesday
Nome, Alaska – On Wednesday, Jan. 12, Norton Sound Health Corporation identified 40 COVID-19 cases between seven regional communities. 17 were identified in Nome, 14 in Unalakleet, five in St. Michael, and one in each Elim, Shishmaref, Golovin, and Shaktoolik.
In Nome, nine were community spread, six were close contacts to previously identified cases, and two were travel-related. One of the Nome cases is a NSHC employee. In Unalakleet, eight were close contacts, three were community spread, and three were travel-related. In St. Michael, Elim, and Golovin, all were close contacts to previously identified cases. The case in Shishmaref was travel-related while the case in Shaktoolik was community spread. Leadership has been notified in each community.
Between Monday and Tuesday this week, 4,520 new COVID-19 cases were reported throughout Alaska, setting a record surge in the state. These numbers can be attributed to the highly contagious, but less severe Omicron variant. In Alaska, hospital officials share there are currently 81 hospitalizations, which is only one-third of the record hospitalizations seen last year.
Although Omicron appears more mild than previous variants, it is still important to take all the necessary precautions to limit the spread of the virus. This includes getting vaccinated and, if eligible, getting a booster shot.
In Nome, COVID-19 vaccinations are available at the following places and times:
• NSHC Pharmacy: Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.
• Airport: Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are offered to all incoming passengers 12 years and older.
Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments can also be made through www.picktime.com/NSHC.
There are currently 125 active cases in the region: 70 in Nome, 16 in St. Michael, 14 in Unalakleet, 13 in Elim, four in Stebbins, three in each Shishmaref and Golovin, and one in each Teller and Shaktoolik.
