Coronavirus-related deaths on Navajo Nation now at 13

Coronavirus-related deaths on Navajo Nation now at 13

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The number of coronavirus-related deaths on the Navajo Nation is now 13, according to authorities.

The Navajo Department of Health and Navajo Area Indian Health Service announced one new death and 51 new confirmed cases.

Of the 321 confirmed positive cases, most are in Arizona including 137 in Navajo County.

Statistics show 30 COVID-19 cases in New Mexico’s San Juan County, 17 in McKinley County, seven in Cibola County and two in Socorro County.

The tribe’s vast reservation also stretches into Utah and seven coronavirus cases are reported in one county there.

The Navajo Police Department began issuing citations and fines to individuals who violated daily curfew hours or the stay-at-home order.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez is urging the public to wear face masks and other personal protective equipment to help prevent the spread of the virus.

In New Mexico, the Department of Health said there were 543 confirmed cases of coronavirus statewide with 11 known deaths as of Saturday.