COVID-19 in Indigenous communities: What you need to know this week
North American Indigenous Games in Halifax postponed indefinitely
There are currently 120 active cases of COVID-19 on First Nations reserves across Canada, according to data from Indigenous Services Canada.
New cases since last week were primarily reported in Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. One death was reported, bringing the total of deaths on-reserve from COVID-19 to 10.
There has been a total of 616 cases of COVID-19 on First Nations reserves as of Sept. 21, as well as 51 hospitalizations. A total of 486 First Nations people have recovered.
Cases on First Nations reserves reported per region as of Sept. 21 :
- British Columbia: 132
- Alberta: 265
- Saskatchewan: 96
- Manitoba: 8
- Ontario: 68
- Quebec: 47
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Métis Nation-Saskatchewan president Glen McCallum tested positive for COVID-19, and at least five people who attended meetings in Waskesiu, Sask., last week with McCallum now have COVID-19 symptoms.The Hawood Inn, where the meetings were held, is now closed for extensive cleaning. Owner Nancy Wood said McCallum ignored pleas to follow COVID-19 protocols during the two-day meeting.
- Pikangikum First Nation, Sandy Lake First Nation and Kasabonika Lake First Nation in northern Ontario reported new cases of COVID-19.
- The North American Indigenous Games in Halifax, postponed this year due to COVID-19 and scheduled to take place in 2021, were postponed again.
- A COVID-19 testing site for Indigenous people is scheduled to open in Toronto in mid-October.
- A beader from northern Quebec has created a COVID-19 mask to pay tribute to how Cree and other Indigenous communities are dealing with the pandemic.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
- new or worsening cough
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- temperature equal to or over 38°C
- feeling feverish
- chills
- fatigue or weakness
- muscle or body aches
- new loss of smell or taste
- headache
- gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting)
- feeling very unwell
If you think you may have COVID-19, please consult your local health department to book an appointment at a screening clinic.
CBC Indigenous is looking to hear from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit who have contracted COVID-19. If you would like to share your experience, please email us.