Kodiak Community COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How will we know when there is a case of COVID-19 in Kodiak?

A: When a Kodiak (including Coast Guard) person’s test result comes back as positive for the virus, the patient will be contacted and directed to remain isolated. The Emergency Services Director will release an announcement to the public. An investigation will begin to determine people who may have had direct contact with that person and further announcements will follow as necessary to safeguard the health of the community.

Q: Should I be wearing a mask?

A: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) the Governor’s Health Alert #10 have recommended that we all wear non-surgical masks while out in public. People who wear masks in public should also continue to wash their hands regularly with soap and water and avoid toughing their mouth, nose and eyes.

Q: Is there a designated place for people who are visiting Kodiak and need to quarantine but don’t have a place to go?

A: Yes, plans are being prepared to allow these people to stay at St. Mary’s Marian Center.

Q: What is being done about travelers arriving at the airport?

A: The Governor’s Health Mandate #10 provides a form for travelers coming into the State of Alaska to fill out. If travelers have not received the form by the time they arrive in Kodiak, there are forms and a drop box available in the terminal. Any person arriving in Alaska is required self-quarantine for 14 days.

Q: What is being done about fishing boats and their crew arriving in town for upcoming fisheries?

A: Any vessel that is not from Kodiak Island arriving in Kodiak must contact the Harbor Office to check in. These vessels should have COVID-19 safety and social distancing plans in place and must quarantine based on the time and place they departed. Their plans may include a quarantine onboard the vessel where they should remain and refrain from visiting local stores and other people.

Q: Is testing for COVID-19 available in Kodiak?

A: Kodiak health care providers are screening patients and referring people who meet the criteria for possible COVID-19 infections to be tested. Samples are sent off-island for testing. Additionally, the island now has two rapid test machines available.

Q: Why are there non-resident cannery workers in town?

A: The local processors have submitted COVID-19 safety plans describing how they will address the need for any workers to quarantine and maintain social distancing. Many of those workers were in town before travel mandates were in place.

Q: Is anything being done for the homeless people in town?

A: The team at the Emergency Operations Center has been working with the Brother Francis Shelter and other agencies to address needs specific to COVID-19 for homeless people in Kodiak.

Q: Why isn’t the airport shut down?

A: The Kodiak airport is owned by the State of Alaska and the local governments cannot shut it down. Also, there is a need to keep the airport open for freight, medical transfers, and people traveling for critical personal and business needs.