Warm Springs reports no new COVID-19 cases, plans offices, casino reopening

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs reported no new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, with the total holding at 35, and announced plans to begin having tribal government employees return to offices next Monday and to reopen the Indian Head Casino three days later.

There are also 27 tests pending and 483 have come back with negative results, according to Hyllis Dauhpinais Sr., CEO of the Warm Springs Health and Wellness Center. About half (17) of the confirmed cases have recovered, according to Tuesday’s update.

The tribes also said earlier reports that 10 new cases in recent days were a single event with a household were not accurate. More questions of those who tested positive have led to others they were in contact with, an investigation that takes time, officials said.

The Warm Springs Tribal Council set next Monday as the 25 percent start-up date for tribal government to begin a gradual reopening, ensuring work areas are sanitized, offices are rearranged for social distancing, hand sanitizers available, masks are required and phone conference calls, rather than in-person group meetings.

“Our tribal community is asked to continue being patient, be courteous to each other, social distancing, staying away from hot spots, wearing face coverings, avoiding crowds, wherever you travel—remember the Warm Springs reservation is still under a Stay Home order," the update said.