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COVID-19 is a condition caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. SARS-CoV-2 stands for “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.” SARS-CoV-2 is a coronavirus. It is in the same family of viruses that cause the common cold, but it can have more severe health effects. COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs and sinuses (nose), or upper respiratory tract. It can also affect other...READ MORE

COVID-19 is an airborne illness. It is spread when we breathe, talk, cough, or sneeze. Steps to avoid spreading COVID-19 include: The best way to reduce your chances of getting COVID-19 is by staying up to date with vaccines. Other steps include washing your hands well and often, wearing a high- quality mask, opening windows, and keeping at least 3...READ MORE

No vaccine is 100% effective at preventing illness, but vaccines provide strong protection against serious illness, hospitalization, and death. You can still pass the disease on to another person after you’ve been vaccinated, which is why if you have symptoms of COVID or flu, you should consider staying home or think about wearing a mask that covers your nose and...READ MORE

Herd immunity is a way to protect a whole group of people from a virus or disease. Often this is done by vaccinating a large percentage of the population. Herd immunity is a way to protect those at increased risk from a disease, such as the Elderly, children, or those who are immunocompromised. It also protects those who can’t get...READ MORE

Information about the spread and prevention of COVID-19 and personal COVID-19 vaccination stories from early in the pandemic are shared by different Alaska Native elders....READ MORE