COVID-19 Variant of Concern identified at Six Nations as positivity rates decline

SIX NATIONS — Ohsweken Public Health reported the presence of two cases of a Variant of Concern at Six Nations over the weekend.

In a statement to the community, SNGR says, “A VOC can spread within a day or two as opposed to two weeks and can cause more severe illness. Ohsweken Public Health notes that all positive lab results are examined for Variants of Concern.”

Health officials have begun contact tracing for those affected, who are now in self-isolation.

“This action will limit further spread outside of the household and everyone is encouraged to take the self-isolation precautions seriously, especially as we begin to see a rise in VOCs in surrounding communities,” says SNGR.

Lori Davis Hill, Director of Six Nations Health Services said “the presence of a VOC found in the territory should be taken very seriously. It is a reminder that everyone must remain vigilant with protective measures with anyone outside of their own household.”

The news is concerning as Six Nations moves out of a devastating second wave spike that claimed the lives of 7 community members, and as the province’s top doctor announced Ontario is entering a third wave.

Meanwhile, the arrival of 6000 doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine on Six Nations means the community is actively vaccinating all interested band members of age. The community’s vaccine clinic was moved from the Emily C. General Elementary School over to the Gaylord Powless Arena, accommodating a larger number of people.

Ohsweken Public Health is urging the community to continue to follow health and safety guidelines to prevent any further spread of COVID-19 within the territory. This includes staying home as much as possible, practicing social distancing, wearing a mask, frequent hand washing, avoiding large gatherings and seeking the COVID-19 vaccination when possible.

Public Health is also advising people to get tested.

“It is also strongly encouraged that community members get tested for COVID-19 if they are experiencing symptoms or think they may have been exposed to the virus. It is possible to contract the virus and not have any symptoms while still being contagious.”

Currently there are 13 active COVID-19 cases with 1 person in hospital. A total of 113 people are in self-isolation. To date 979 people have been vaccinated.

To book a COVID-19 test at the assessment center, please visit www.sixnationscovid19.ca or call 1-855-977-7737 or locally at 226-446-9909.

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