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By larongeNOW Staff

COVID outbreak

COVID-19 outbreak declaration for Hatchet Lake Dene Nation

Jun 30, 2021 | 12:18 PM

Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA) public health officials have declared an outbreak of coronavirus in the community of Hatchet Lake Dene Nation, about 500 kilometres north of La Ronge.

The declaration issued Monday follows an increasing number of confirmed cases linked to multiple gatherings in the community with evidence of community transmission. A contact tracing investigation is underway.

The local health team is working with NITHA and Prince Albert Grand Council to contain the outbreak. In a press release, NITHA officials said prevention remains the best way to protect yourself. These include getting your COVID-19 vaccine shot, wearing face masks, maintaining 2 meters physical distancing, washing your hands, staying home if sick, and following the public health guidelines.

Public health officials are advising individuals to immediately self-isolate if they have had or currently have symptoms of COVID-19 and to call HealthLine 811 or their community health clinic to arrange for assessment and testing.

As of yesterday, there are 38 active cases of COVID-19 in NITHA communities.
These cases are located in the Far North Central (Athabasca), four; Far North West, 14; Far North East, 20; North Central, 0; and North East, 0. There has been 3668 cases (98%) that have recovered, and six people are hospitalized.

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There are nine active cases of COVID-19 Variants of Concern (VOCs) in NITHA communities. These cases are located in the Far North West, six; and Far North East, three.

Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA) public health officials are advising northern residents that COVID-19 VOCs are increasing in northern Saskatchewan. These VOCs are 30-70 percent more transmissible, meaning they spread more easily.

NITHA is comprised of the Prince Albert Grand Council, Meadow Lake Tribal Council, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, and Lac La Ronge Indian Band.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

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