FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2021
Contact: Sarah Richards, Public Relations Specialist
Phone: 907-443-4591
Nome, Alaska – On June 7, Norton Sound Health Corporation identified five positive COVID-19 cases. All patients are residents of Nome, and the source is considered to be community spread. With the additional of these individuals, there are currently eighteen active cases in the region, all located in Nome.
Due to the greater infectious rate of the P.1 variant that has been found in the region, NSHC expects to see a higher number of COVID-19 cases this summer. The current vaccines have proven effective against this strain of virus, especially the mRNA vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna. Vaccination is the best way to prevent the spread of the new variant. Anyone who is not vaccinated should continue to practice hand washing, social distancing, and mask wearing until they are fully vaccinated.
There are many advantages to being vaccinated. The CDC has announced that vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear masks indoors or outdoors. This includes while playing sports or while meeting inside of public buildings. If you are vaccinated, you can also travel outside the region without getting tested or quarantining upon return. If you become a close contact, there is no need to quarantine. You will also be allowed to attend events and visit facilities that require vaccination.
Everyone in the region who is 12 years and older is eligible for COVID-19 vaccination. In a village, residents may contact their local clinic to arrange a vaccination. In Nome, vaccinations are available at the following places and times:
- Nome NSHC Pharmacy: walk in Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m. Appointments are available Monday-Saturday at picktime.com/NSHC.
- Nome airport: Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are offered to all incoming passengers 12 years and older.
- Nome post office: Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available Monday-Friday 12-5 p.m.
If you have any questions, please email . The Nurse Call Line – a free, Nome-based medical advice service – is available at 443-6411.
