COVID-19 & Coronavirus Precautions

Apache Behavioral Health Services (ABHS) follows the guidance and expertise of national and local health officials to help protect our clients and staff from all communicable diseases. ABHS is aware that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ​and Arizona Department of Health (ADHS) is monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness – COVID-19 – caused by a new coronavirus. We encourage everyone to visit the CDC's and ADHS's website for useful information.

The health and well-being of our White Mountain Apache community is the top priority for ABHS. At the time of this posting, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 on the Fort Apache Reservation. However, in accordance with CDC and ADHS recommendations and for the safety of our community, we are taking preventative measures.

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If you experience symptoms or have come into contact with someone experiencing symptoms, contact your medical provider immediately.

Preventative Measures

All Departments and Programs are directed to restrict and cancel off-reservation travel due to the growing concerns over the COVID-19 coronavirus. Employees currently on off-reservation travel are directed to return as soon as possible, provided you have not knowingly come into contact with someone carrying COVID-19.

If you have traveled to a known affected area, it is recommended that you self-quarantine for 14 days.

Reduce Potential Exposure

In addition to travel restrictions, we strongly recommend the following:

• Teleconference calls or video chat – When possible, attend meetings, events, or training through teleconference calls or video chat
• Work from home – If you have symptoms or have come into contact with someone with symptoms, we recommend working from home. Symptoms include fever, coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing.
• Avoid contact with people with sickness/symptoms
• Clean & sanitize your workplaces, office, and common areas routinely

Watch for Symptoms

According to the CDC, reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases. The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19, get medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face