The president and vice president of the Navajo Nation are self-quarantining after being exposed to a coronavirus patient.
According to a press release from the Navajo Nation, President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer were in close proximity to a first responder on Tuesday. That first responder later learned about a positive coronavirus test result.
The announcement was made during an online town hall update Thursday.
“President Nez and Vice President Lizer said they are feeling fine, but will continue self-quarantining themselves as a precaution, and will continue their duties through teleconferences, e-mail, and other means of communication,” the press release says.
Other employees have also been guided to self-quarantine as a precaution.
As of Thursday, there are 558 reported cases of coronavirus on the Navajo Nation, which includes portions of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. Twenty two people have died from the virus.
The Navajo Nation is going under a 57-hour curfew beginning Friday at 8 p.m. until Monday at 5 a.m. Residents are asked to only leave their homes if they are a documented essential employee or have an emergency.
Citations from Navajo police could include 30 days in jail or a fine up to $1,000.
