COVID-19 Update: February 7, 2022

UPDATE X2 - February 7, 2022: Through testing that took place in the community today, the Metlakatla Health Department has identified an additional seven positive cases of COVID-19 in Metlakatla, bringing the total number of active cases to 10. Based on the population of the community, this is a COVID-19 OUTBREAK under the guidelines of the Centre for Disease Control.

In light of this outbreak, and with the health and safety of all residents in mind, the decision has been made to cancel all ferry service to the community through the weekend. In order to minimize the impact to residents, each household will be contacted during the week to determine if there are any essential groceries or medications that are needing to be delivered to the community as was done earlier in the COVID-19 pandemic. As well, the Metlakatla Health Department will accommodate trips to Prince Rupert for individuals who have medical appointments that cannot be rescheduled, however we encourage people to reschedule non-essential appointments if possible.

At this time, there are to be no visitors to Metlakatla unless deemed to be essential and the Band Office will remain closed during this time.

Health staff will be doing additional tests in the community as needed. However, given the fast spread of COVID experienced over the weekend, we encourage everyone to stay within their household and minimize travel as much as possible while continuing to frequently wash hands and wear masks.

Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time and stay safe everyone.

 
UPDATE: Further to our initial bulletin, additional results have come back indicating there are now three confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in the community.
As a result of the increasing numbers and with the protection and health of Metlakatla residents in mind, the decision has been made to cancel all scheduled ferry service to the community through the weekend and Monday morning, including cancellation of the school run.
 
On Monday morning, the situation will be re-examined based on the most recent information available and a decision will be made on extending or lifting this directive. We appreciate your understanding in this regard. Discussion will also take place on additional measures that may be required should this cancellation of service be extended.
 
Please stay safe, minimize time spent in other households, and continue to follow all Provincial Health Guidelines.
 
INITIAL POST: The Metlakatla Health Department has confirmed a positive case of COVID-19 in the community. At this time, contact tracing has been done by the department and all potentially affected individuals have been asked to isolate and monitor for symptoms. Follow-ups will take place with all individuals identified.
 
Please remember that at this time, and in particular due to the current situation, all non-residents are Strictly Prohibited from entering the community of Metlakatla. As well, we would ask that resident travel between Prince Rupert and Metlakatla be kept to a minimum and strongly recommend not visiting other households at this time. Any residents displaying symptoms, or anyone who feels unwell, is asked to isolate and monitor their symptoms and those with symptoms will be tested on Monday if the symptoms remain.
 
As always, please continue to follow all Provincial Health Guidelines, including wearing a mask when at indoor public spaces, social distancing and frequent handwashing.
Stay safe everyone.
Category: 
Governing Council