TAHOLAH — The Quinault Indian Nation was set to reopen normal government operations on Tuesday after it was shut down Aug. 22 in response to an increase in COVID-19 infections among households on the reservation.
The number of active cases and households in quarantine has stabilized, the tribe said in a press release, but as a precaution, the Quinault Indian Reservation will remain closed to visitors and under Phase 2 reopening guidelines until further notice.
The Quileute Tribe in La Push and the Makah Tribe in Neah Bay also remained closed to visitors this week. That includes trails in their jurisdiction, such as Second Beach in La Push and Shi Shi Beach and Cape Flattery Trail in Neah Bay.
Both marinas are closed to visitors — excerpt in emergencies, the Quileute said. The Hobuck Beach Resort and The Cape Resort also are closed as is the Makah Cultural and Research Center.
“Working together we have stopped further spread of COVID-19 in our community, but we have to stay vigilant,” said Quinault Indian Nation Vice President Tyson Johnston.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation and ask that reservation residents continue to stay home and travel only for essential needs such as food, medicine and medical attention.”
Currently there is one active case among QIN citizens, a tribal member in isolation and receiving critical care at Grays Harbor Community Hospital, and eight in recovery, the tribe said.
A total of 15 QIN citizens are currently in quarantine among nine households.
Access to the Quinault Indian Reservation remains restricted to village residents, Quinault tribal members, government employees, local school employees and Quinault Indian Nation Enterprise personnel. The closure does not impact businesses on tribal trust lands such as the Quinault Beach Resort & Casino and Q-Mart locations.
Access is still allowed for individuals performing essential services to reservation residents.
