COVID-19 on the Navajo Nation: Experiences of Dine Families of Children with Asthma

Sixty-six of 193 families (34%) were interviewed. The average age of the child with asthma was 13.5 (SD = 3.9) and 33% were female. Most Diné children with asthma in our study did not contract COVID-19. However, the pandemic had a significant impact on them and their families. Many family members contracted COVID-19, some children lost family members, and half of interviewed parents reported a decline in their child's mental health. Twenty-five percent of families sought the help of a traditional healer. Many accessed medical care through telehealth and most were able to obtain asthma medications when needed. Despite significant challenges, our research indicated resilience among Navajo families.