After a year of severe travel restrictions that required mandatory testing and quarantines, the new ordinances are a relief to many in the region, particularly those in the villages.

Due to the increased risk of catching COVID-19 in places without sanitation or running water, communities in the region were among the first in the nation to have nearly their entire adult population vaccinated against the disease.

As travel once again opens up, at least for a large portion of the population, residents are again able to receive medical care, go shopping, and see family without a tedious and sometimes costly quarantine in Nome.

Image at top: Emergency Services Technician Rose Reale awaits travelers arriving in Nome.