On July 28, YKHC identified two new COVID-19 cases in the YK Delta.
July 28: Case 1
On July 28, YKHC confirmed an individual tested positive for COVID-19 in Bethel. The individual was identified through testing of inbound passengers at the Bethel airport. The individual is not a resident of the YK Delta and, therefore per State reporting protocols, will not be counted in the YK Delta positive case count.
July 28: Case 2
On July 28, YKHC confirmed an individual who temporarily resides in a YKHC service area village tested positive for COVID-19. The individual was identified through testing of inbound passengers at the Bethel airport. To protect patient privacy, YKHC is not releasing the name of the service area village. The individual is not a resident of the YK Delta and, therefore per State reporting protocols, will not be counted in the YK Delta positive case count.
YKHC has confirmed through case investigations of both cases that while these individuals tested positive for COVID-19, they are no longer considered contagious for the virus and their COVID-19 infections have resolved. As evidenced in previous cases in the region and worldwide, it is not uncommon for positive COVID-19 tests results to persist in individuals who were previously infected with the virus.
YKHC has also confirmed through case investigations of both cases that these individuals previously completed quarantine and contact tracing requirements prior to arrival in the YK Delta.
The pandemic and the public health risks it poses is not over. These additional cases emphasize the importance of continuing to practice all known protective measures. Protective measures include: avoid all non-essential travel, opt for free COVID-19 testing upon arrival at the Bethel, St. Mary’s, and Aniak airports when arriving from out-of-region, practice regular handwashing, remain physically distant (more than six feet) from anyone who does not reside in your same household, wear a mask when in public, and frequently disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home.
YKHC continues to offer COVID-19 testing, without an appointment, at the Bethel drive-thru testing site every Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. Testing also continues by appointment at the Bethel drive-thru testing site on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, by calling 543-6949.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include a fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and diminished sense of taste or smell. If you have these symptoms, do not go to your village clinic or to the emergency room in Bethel. Instead, call your village clinic or in Bethel call 543-6949 so a health care provider can assist you.
Get the latest information on COVID-19 from YKHC at www.ykhc.org/covid-19.