SHA faced ‘challenges’ with COVID-19 protocols in Hutterite communities

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and Hutterian Safety Council (HSC) say “a false sense of security” contributed to a recent outbreak of COVID-19 in Hutterite colonies in southern Saskatchewan.

In a joint media release issued late Monday, the organizations admitted they faced “challenges” in getting some Hutterite communities to put in place COVID-19 protocols and to follow public health orders that the provincial government enacted to help limit the spread of the virus.

“Many Hutterites feel that their communities are isolated and thus are insulated communities,” the release said. “This creates a false sense of security in the face of the COVID-19, and HSC continues to work at dispelling this notion.

“While the remoteness and the separateness of our communities can be beneficial, it does not eliminate the risk of the virus entering our communities.”

Last week, the SHA said there had been an outbreak in two Hutterite communities near Maple Creek. More cases were being investigated that were tied to local and interprovincial travel from those communities.

Since the outbreaks, case numbers have risen in the southern region of Saskatchewan. On June 17, there were only two active cases. As of Monday, there were 34.

In the media release, the HSC said it had formed a task force in March to promote physical distancing, proper hygiene and limits on the size of gatherings in Hutterite communities. The council confirmed some of those suggestions weren’t followed.

As well, the HSC and SHA admitted some residents were reluctant to be tested due to a fear it would cause them to have to stop working.

“Since the declaration of the outbreak at two Hutterite communities, the unfortunate misunderstanding has taken root that positive COVID-19 tests would lead to an economic shutdown of their communities,” the statement read. “As a result, the Saskatchewan Health Authority experienced some resistance to COVID-19 testing at some Hutterite communities.

“While the vast majority embraced the leadership of the SHA and HSC, a small group has resisted intervention. This is regrettable, but also not wholly unexpected for a group of diverse people spread over a vast political and geographical area.”

The statement said the HSC and SHA are talking with Hutterite communities to ease those concerns. It noted that “a lot of progress has been made” in getting communities on board with following public health orders and getting tested.