NITHA declares COVID-19 outbreak at James Smith Cree Nation

By northeastNOW’s Mat Barrett 

The Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak on the James Smith Cree Nation.

In an announcement from NITHA, they say the declaration comes after a number of positive cases in the community with evidence of community transmission.

The outbreak comes just over a week after the community imposed a curfew as well as more security to limit non-essential travel.

In its update, NITHA said staff members are working with members of the James Smith Health team to contain the outbreak. They’re also encouraging everyone to wear masks, staying home when sick, wash hands and stay two metres apart.

Any individuals experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 are advised to immediately self-isolate and arrange for testing.

Muskoday school temporarily closed

Further north on the Muskoday First Nation, the chief and council made the decision Monday to close the school for two weeks after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19.

Explaining that both employees are non-residents of the community, Chief Herman Crain said the time will be used to make sure the building has been thoroughly cleaned.

“We just need to buy a bit of time to make certain we are comfortable there’s no other staff members carrying the virus,” he said.

Crain added school staff are also reviewing possibilities related to virtual learning.

In addition to those two cases at the school, Crain said the chief and council were also informed Sunday night of another positive case in the community, with 16 close contacts.

In an effort to help prevent the spread, the community has undertaken a number of measures including re-stating checkpoints at the entrance off Highway 3.

“The community members are still allowed to leave and re-enter but what we are hoping to accomplish is stopping the non-residents from entering the community,” Crain said, adding contractors and service personnel will be allowed entrance.

While encouraging residents to follow and respect provincial health regulations, Crain also noted in a community the size of Muskoday, controlling the spread can be a challenge.

“In a small community where everybody knows each another, it’s difficult to control the spread, ” he said. “Children especially like to visit their friends so we really have to keep a close eye on things”