Navajo Nation transitions to ‘yellow’ COVID-19 status, mask mandates still in place

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – The Navajo Department of Health moved the Navajo Nation into the “yellow” pandemic status because of consistent low COVID-19 case numbers.

The Health Department issued three health orders that affected capacity at gatherings and continued a face mask mandate for public places.

“We are seeing consistent low numbers of daily COVID-19 cases on the Navajo Nation thanks to our Navajo people and our frontline warriors,” said Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez. “Capacity limits will increase for businesses and most gatherings, but we will keep the face mask mandate in place in all public places and this applies to all visitors and tourists that come to the Navajo Nation.”

The “yellow status” order increases occupancy to 75% in restaurants, casinos, movie theaters, and other public places. Gyms, wellness facilities, and recreation facilities are allowed to operate at 25% capacity.

The “safer at home” order affects in-person gatherings like traditional ceremonies, churches, youth programs, holiday gatherings, and in-person meetings. The order raises those indoor gathering limits from 15 to 25 people. Outdoor gatherings are limited to 50 people.

Navajo Department of Health implements “yellow status” for schools and increases capacity to 75% for businesses, mask mandate remains in effect  

Link to new public health orders: https://t.co/uvZTiOIZOU pic.twitter.com/FFNDT0d4v4

— Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez (@NNPrezNez) April 5, 2022

The third order requires face masks for students, teachers, and employees at schools. It limits gatherings to 25 or fewer for back-to-school orientations and other community gatherings. Indoor sports events are limited to 50% capacity and 75% for outdoor events.

“As we move forward in this pandemic, we continue to offer our appreciation and prayers for all frontline workers and those who are fighting COVID-19 at this moment. We ask our people to carefully read the new public health emergency orders and help to inform your elders and loved ones. Please be safe, be very cautious, especially in public places, and keep praying for our people,” said Vice President Myron Lizer.

The new public health emergency orders are available here.