Increasing Access to Safe Water on the Navajo Nation during the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Health Service, the Navajo Nation, and other partnering organizations have collaborated on a project using $5.2 million from IHS-appropriated Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funding to increase water access on the Navajo Nation. The IHS is supporting the Navajo Nation to ensure the availability of safe water sources both during COVID-19 and beyond.

COVID-19 has brought more attention to some of the issues faced in many homes throughout Indian Country and the importance of addressing these challenges after the pandemic. For example, on the Navajo Nation, while many have access to modern day amenities, there are segments of people without running water and bathroom facilities. This clearly poses challenges to following CDC guidance Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  to slow the spread of COVID-19, of which frequent hand washing is a critical part.

See more about how the partnerships between the IHS, the Navajo Nation, and others are helping to increase access to safe water for over 9,500 homes without piped water.

Related Content

• Video: Increasing Access to Safe Water on the Navajo Nation during the COVID-19 Pandemic Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 
• Navajo Safe Water: Protecting You and Your Family’s Health Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 
• IHS Office of Environmental Health and Engineering