/ Modified jan 6, 2021 5:14 p.m.

Navajo Nation reports 15 COVID deaths Tuesday

The increase in reported deaths was due to a lag in reporting and confirming cases, a spokesperson said.

navajo billboard COVID Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said the "Stay home, stay safe" message from the tribal government guarantees that businesses in the nation have the "the safest environment" compared to those outside its tribal lands during the pandemic.
Daja E. Henry/Cronkite News

The Navajo Nation reported Tuesday that 15 more people have died from COVID-19 complications. It also added 118 more cases.

A spokesperson for President Jonathan Nez, Jared Touchin, said the high number of deaths is due to a reporting lag.

As of Tuesday, 837 people have died, out of 23,978 cases recorded .

Health care workers, and those associated with long-term care facilities have already been vaccinated. Now, the tribal government is vaccinating the next phase of people which includes those with high-risk health conditions, essential workers and spiritual leaders.

On Monday, tribal and Indian Health Services health facilities will turn their efforts to vaccinating those over 65 years old as well.

Those interested in receiving the vaccine should contact their local Navajo Area IHS Service Unit.

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