Navajo Department of Health issues advisory, preventative tips

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz.  — The Navajo Nation Department of Health has reported the first Hantavirus case of 2024 in San Juan County, New Mexico, and issued a public health advisory on Feb. 22.

In coordination with the Navajo Epidemiology Center and Indian Health Service, the advisory cautions the Navajo public regarding Hantavirus which is also referred to as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.

Deer mice are the primary carriers of Hantavirus. The virus is found in mice droppings and urine. Individuals are typically exposed to Hantavirus around their homes, cabins or sheds, especially when cleaning out or exploring enclosed...

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren welcomed Dr. David Manuelito, the Navajo Nation’s first veterinarian in over two years, to the Navajo Nation Veterinary Management on Feb. 26.

Office of the President and Vice President Division of Natural Resources Director W. Mike Halona and Department Manager Leo Watchman attended the meeting and also expressed their appreciation and congratulated Manuelito.

“Our Nation has a variety of large and small animals, and most pet owners are at a disadvantage traveling long distances for services and care,” Nygren said. “I am so excited that we finally have a Navajo veterinarian familiar with our land and the needs of all...

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Health announced the state’s first reported influenza-associated pediatric death for the 2023-2024 flu season on Feb. 28. A child (5-12 years old) in Bernalillo County died from complications associated with influenza. To protect the family’s privacy, NMDOH will not provide any further information regarding this death.

“We at the New Mexico Department of Health express our condolences to the child’s family,” Sec. Patrick Allen said.“The flu is common but can cause serious illness and even death. I urge everyone who is eligible to get their flu shot to protect themselves and those around them.”

Since the start of the flu season...

A scheduled water outage that will affect parts of Aztec Avenue, Highway 66, and Churchrock Street will take place on Feb. 29 from 9 am to 4 pm.

The outage will affect City of Gallup Water customers in the following areas:

• 3000 block of Churchrock Street
• 3300 E. Aztec Ave.
• 3400 E. Hwy. 66