Cherokee reported seven additional confirmed cases of COVID-19 today, Thursday, June 4. That brings the total of confirmed cases tested at the Cherokee Indian Hospital to 36. According to the tribe, 16 have recovered. There have been a total of 2,625 tests administered.
Principal Chief Richard Sneed shared on his Facebook page that EBCI PHHS&CIHA were notified that three employees at Qualla Boundary Headstart and Early Headstart have tested positive for COVID-19. Because so many rely on childcare, Sneed said EBCI Tribal government offices will remain closed for an additional two weeks with a new reopening date of June 22.
He urged the community to continue following the CDC recommendations of social distancing.
The tribe will host drive-thru testing Friday, June 5 from 9-noon and additional testing to be announced.
“I sincerely appreciate everyone’s understanding and patience as we work through issues pertaining to COVID-19 and its impact on our community,” he said.
For questions, tribal members can call the COVID-19 hotline at 497-3743.