More Coronavirus Cases Reported Among Arizona Native American Tribes
The Gila River Indian Community near Phoenix and the Navajo Nation in northern Arizona have reported new coronavirus cases.
The Gila River Indian Community announced its first two cases Monday night. One of its patients is a member of the tribe and the second is a member of another federally recognized tribe, according to a statement.
The patients are recovering in isolation at home and do not require hospitalization at this time.
On Tuesday, the Navajo Nation reported 10 new coronavirus cases bringing their tribe’s total to 39. Last week, President Jonathan Nez issued a shelter-in-place order for the entire Navajo Nation.
Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis said the tribe conducted 37 other tests which came back negative for coronavirus. Lewis issued executive orders on Monday that limit government functions to essential employees and prohibit evictions and utility shut-offs at this time.
The Gila River Indian Community has closed its schools and casinos and limited gatherings to 10 people or less in response to the virus.
