FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 16, 2022
Contact: Reba Lean, Public Relations Manager
Phone: 907-443-9674
Nome, Alaska – Norton Sound Health Corporation identified 55 COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, Feb. 15. Of the new cases, 16 were in Gambell, eight were in Savoonga, six were in Nome, five were in Teller, four were in each Koyuk, Stebbins, and White Mountain, three were in Diomede, two were in Shishmaref, and one was in each Brevig Mission, Elim, and Unalakleet.
NSHC recommends getting a booster COVID-19 vaccination for those who are eligible. Everyone 12 years and older who received a primary series of the Pfizer vaccine at least five months ago or the Moderna vaccine at least six months ago should receive a booster dose. Everyone who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago should receive a booster dose, preferably of an mRNA vaccine.
Vaccinations are available by walk-in appointment at the NSHC Pharmacy 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Patients in regional villages may contact their local clinic to arrange a booster vaccination.
While some people continue to have reservations about the vaccines, particularly for pregnant patients, one recent Scottish study has published promising results. The study found that COVID-19 vaccinations reduce COVID-19 risks in pregnancy, including hospital admissions, critical care admissions, and perinatal deaths. The vaccine is considered safe for pregnant women and is recommended. The study was published on Jan. 13 in Nature Medicine.
There are currently 183 active cases in the region: 48 in Nome, 36 in both Gambell and Savoonga, 15 in Koyuk, 13 in Unalakleet, 10 in Stebbins, eight in Teller, five in Shishmaref, four in White Mountain, three in Diomede, two in Elim, and one in each Brevig Mission, Golovin, and Shaktoolik.
