FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 18, 2021
Contact: Alexis Erikson, Public Relations Specialist
Phone: (907) 443-8918
28 COVID-19 Cases Identified on Wednesday
Nome, Alaska –Norton Sound Health Corporation identified 28 COVID-19 cases between three regional communities on Wednesday, Nov. 17. Of those cases, 20 were in Nome, five were in Unalakleet, and three were in Savoonga.
In Nome, 14 of the cases were close contacts to previously identified cases, four were community spread cases, and two were travel-related. Two of Nome’s cases were NSHC employees, who had no contact with patients during their infectious periods. In Unalakleet, two of the cases were close contacts, and one was travel-related. In Savoonga, all cases were community spread.
Region-wide, over 16% of children ages 5-11 years old have received their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
Across the U.S., 10% of children ages 5-11 years old have received their first dose. That number translates to about 2.6 million children. The pediatric figures come as the nation is about to cross another vaccination threshold: Nearly 80% of Americans aged 12 and older have had their first shot, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In Nome, COVID-19 vaccinations are available at the NSHC Pharmacy. Patients may walk in Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m. or schedule appointments Monday-Saturday at www.picktime.com/NSHC.
In villages, patients can contact their local clinic to schedule a vaccination appointment.
There are currently 183 active cases in the region: 115 are in Nome, 37 are in Savoonga, nine are in Shishmaref, six are in Brevig, six are in Gambell, six are in Unalakleet, two are in White Mountain, one is in St. Michael, and one is in Wales. Village leadership in all communities have been notified.