Coronavirus cluster reported in Whittier

The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services is reporting 11 cases of COVID-19 in seafood workers in Whittier.

"The city of Whittier and Whittier Seafoods are both working together and in coordination with DHSS to respond to the cluster of cases," the department said. "After arriving in Whittier, the workers were quarantined, screened daily and tested. When one worker tested positive, additional testing was immediately initiated to identify the other positive cases and track close contacts. All individuals are now isolated, being monitored and receiving appropriate medical care. The workers have been quarantined on their employer's campus since arriving in Whittier."

Gillnet gang goes west

Bowpickers raft in Whittier. Wesley Loy photo

Spent my Sunday afternoon over in Whittier, where I was surprised to see the harbor packed with gillnet boats you'd normally expect to find around the Copper River on the opposite side of Prince William Sound.

Some fishermen told me they came to the western Sound to pick up hatchery chum salmon, and maybe try for Main Bay sockeye.

It figures boats would move west, as the Copper River District was closed for most of last week.