October 25, 2020
Contact: Sarah Richards, Public Relations Specialist
Phone: 907-443-4591
Nome, Alaska – On October 24, Norton Sound Health Corporation identified an additional positive case of COVID-19 in Stebbins.
The patient is considered related to the recent outbreak in the community. The State of Alaska Section of Epidemiology and Public Health Nursing have been notified, and village leadership have been informed. Public buildings have limited to no access, and residents are encouraged to stay hunkered down. NSHC continues to work closely with the community by sending additional help and supplies for community-wide testing.
Local leaders encourage all residents to isolate and socially distance from anyone outside of their household, and wear face masks if it is essential to move about the community. Taking safety precautions seriously will help limit the spread of the virus, which has the potential to make people very ill. Many people who test positive for COVID-19 never notice any symptoms, but others experience mild, moderate or even severe symptoms, which can lead to hospitalization.
The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services announced 526 new cases of COVID-19 today, reaching a record high. “Alaskans are strong and resilient, and we care for each other. COVID-19 has asked a lot from all of us. Our current situation will not last forever,” Dr. Anne Zink, Alaska’s Chief Medical Officer, said. “There is much to be hopeful about with more treatment options and vaccines on the horizon, but now is the time for all of us to take all the steps we can as individuals and as communities to help slow the spread,” she said.
All residents in the region are strongly encouraged to get their flu vaccine this year to protect them against getting influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic. Getting the flu during the pandemic could lower your immune system defenses, and make you more vulnerable to other illnesses, including COVID-19.
