Walpole Island First Nation was set to install a large medical tent in the arena parking lot on Friday, May 1, 2020. Also, Walpole officials say there are now five confirmed cases of COVID-19 on the First Nation reserve.
“The emergency control group and Council have been working on setting up options for isolation facilities, in case any of our community members need to self-isolate but are unable to without putting others at risk,” Walpole Island First Nation officials said.
“Our hope is that the number of cases that we have stays low and we don’t need to use the tent, but it is important that we are prepared in case the need arises.”
Walpole Island First Nation officials added that masks, gloves and hand sanitizer is set to be delivered to the community next week.
“Finally, we know that many people are worried and there are many misconceptions going around out in the community,” Walpole Island First Nation officials said.
“If you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19, or self-isolation, please contact the Health Centre at 519-627-0765. We want to let you know that we are not aware of any instances of WIFN employees working while positive with COVID-19. No WIFN building or workplace has been compromised in any way.”
Walpole Island First Nation officials added: “We want to take this opportunity to thank the community for your continued diligence in staying home and physical distancing, and our staff for continuing to work to serve our members despite the challenges that we are currently facing. Miigwech for your dedication to making Walpole Island a safe and vibrant community.”
Councillor Allan Jacobs provided a video update on Facebook on Friday as well. He confirmed there are currently five positive COVID-19 cases on Walpole.
Watch the video, below:
Walpole Island First Nation officials say if you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, contact the Health Centre 519-627-0765 or telehealth after hours or on weekends at 1-877-797-0000.
If you think you may have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has symptoms, please self-isolate and use the Ontario Self-Assessment Tool to determine if you need to seek further care.
Here is some more details issued by Walpole Island First Nation officials:
– If you develop mild symptoms such as a fever or cough, move to self-isolation at home and rest, call the Walpole Island Health Centre 519-627-0765.
– COVID-19 has common symptoms, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
– COVID-19 also has less common symptoms, such as: unexplained fatigue, delirium (a serious medical condition that involves confusion, changes to memory, and odd behaviours), falls, acute functional decline, worsening of chronic conditions, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chills, headaches, croup, or loss of taste/smell.
– COVID-19 may also present as new or worsening respiratory symptoms, such
as: sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, hoarse voice, or difficulty swallowing.
– If your symptoms become more severe and you need to seek medical attention call your health care provider or Walpole Island Health Centre 519-627-0765, or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 for assessment.
– For extremely severe symptoms call 911 or visit the emergency department.
