As of August 6, ISC is aware of these confirmed cases of COVID-19 for First Nations on reserve in provinces:
- 422 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19
- 34 hospitalizations
- 381 recovered cases
There is a total of 17 confirmed positive cases in Nunavik, Quebec, and all have recovered.
Unfortunately, there were new cases reported in First Nations on reserve in Quebec. We are closely monitoring these recent cases and will continue to work in close communication with the community to ensure necessary supports are in place.
This week there were also 4 new cases on the island of Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, compared to 20 cases last week. With this curve, public health officials are not expecting a wide community spread; however, ISC continues to monitor the situation closely.
We must all remain vigilant in employing measures to protect ourselves, our families and our communities from the spread of COVID-19. While many provinces and territories are at varying stages of re-opening, we must continue to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by limiting the size of group gatherings and continue to maintain physical distancing of at least 2 arm-lengths from others (approximately 2 meters or 6 feet).
Additionally, individuals can help by:
- avoiding all non-essential trips in the community;
- limiting contact with people at higher risk, such as Elders, those in poor health, or with underlying health conditions;
- wearing a non-medical mask when physical distancing is not possible;
- following the recommended public health guidelines outlined by your province of residence.
The health and wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples remains a top priority for ISC. ISC continues to work with Indigenous leadership to flatten the COVID-19 curve in First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities as community leaders are working to ensure their members have access to the most up-to-date public health information and services.
In addition to physical health impacts, the Government of Canada recognizes the COVID-19 pandemic is having a significant effect on the mental wellness of Indigenous Peoples. Mental wellness services that support Indigenous communities are essential. These services continue to respect public health measures with many shifting to telehealth or virtual approaches and being innovative in terms of service delivery.
The Hope for Wellness Helpline provides immediate, culturally safe, telephone crisis intervention, 24 hours a day, seven days a week in English and French, and upon request in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut.
