As his been stated throughout this pandemic, although the State of Alaska has eased restrictions on travel and moved to reopen Alaska’s economy, the pandemic and the public health risks it poses is not over. YKHC has continued to emphasize the importance of continuing all known protective measures, such as: avoiding all non-essential travel, opting for free COVID-19 testing upon arrival at the Bethel, Aniak, and St. Mary’s airports when arriving from out-of-region, practicing regular hand hygiene, remain physically distant (more than six feet) from anyone who does not reside in your same household, wearing a mask when in public, and frequently disinfect high-touch surfaces in your home.

This week has been Alaska’s worst of the pandemic in terms of rapid increases in resident and nonresident new cases. The total cases in Alaska residents rose 34% this week. The majority of new cases are among Alaskans aged 20-29, with cases among Alaskans in their 20s and 30s rising sharply. Most nonresident cases have been identified before the person had significant community interaction, so most new cases in Alaskans are acquired from other Alaskans who have not traveled. Hospital capacity is currently adequate, but hospitalizations and deaths are increasing. With current rates of physical distancing, face covering use and other measures to prevent transmission, cases are expected to continue to rise rapidly.

Again, Alaskans should avoid large and indoor gatherings, wear face coverings in public, keep six feet of distance from non household members and practice good hand hygiene to slow transmission of COVID-19. 

It is our responsibility as healthcare providers and employees of YKHC that we set the best example for our communities to combat this virus. It is our responsibility to echo guidance provided by YKHC and to reject misinformation about this virus. Ending this virus starts with each and every one of us. The sooner we can get everyone to adhere to what medical professionals are asking of us, the sooner we can return to normalcy. We are all in this together, so we must all work together.