On Tuesday Haines officials announced 25 active cases of COVID-19 in the borough, but those numbers keep rising. A SEARHC representative says they are reporting three more positive cases on Wednesday and have received informal reports of several positive at-home test results. It is unclear which variant is causing the outbreak.
Borough officials say the at-home tests are about 80% effective. Kits are available at the borough administration building on 3rd Avenue or at the public safety building on the Haines Highway, at no charge.
Borough officials suggest all travelers returning to Haines by air get tested first at the Juneau Airport, then again five days after arrival in town with an at-home kit. They also ask that people returning home wear masks until they finish testing protocols.
Tests are available at SEARHC Monday through Friday by appointment at 907-766-6300 however, the clinic is closed on Friday, December 31. Registered patients will pay no fee.
The Dahl Memorial Clinic in Skagway offers tests for $30 during business hours Monday through Friday by appointment at 907-983-2255. They are also closed this Friday.
The Skagway Traditional Council also offers tests free of charge from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays with no appointment necessary.
Skagway officials reported zero cases on Monday afternoon, however, the STC is reporting one active case in town.
