A resident of Koyuk has tested positive for COVID-19. Norton Sound Health Corporation announced the latest case was identified yesterday.

According to NSHC, the source of the virus in this case is unknown. This is the first time the regional health corporation has publicly announced that a resident of Koyuk tested positive for COVID-19 since the pandemic began.

In response, NSHC says local community leaders have decided to limit the number of people who can enter public buildings and stores in Koyuk, as well as open up the health clinic to community-wide testing.

The local clinic staff requests that residents schedule appointments for COVID-19 tests by calling ahead of time.

Local residents are also encouraged to hunker down and limit interactions outside of their households. According to the lastest update, more than 45% of the adult population in Koyuk, over the age of 18, have received at least the first dose of the vaccine.

This newest case brings the total to 315 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Norton Sound. Six are currently active while 309 cases are considered recovered.

Image at top: A few buildings of Koyuk, Alaska and points beyond. (Photo by KNOM).