Walpole Island First Nation officials announced a new active case of COVID-19 in the community on Tuesday, November 3, 2020.
This brings the total number of positive cases of the virus on the First Nation reserve to 16 since the pandemic began. This is the first new case of COVID-19 on Walpole Island since the end of July.
14 people have recovered and one person has died.
A total of 209 residents have been tested for the virus, with 188 negative results.
Five test results are still pending.
Chief Charles Sampson said the individual, who has tested positive, has reportedly had limited contact within the Walpole Island community.
“However, we urge all of you to follow our Health Centre’s recommended safety guidelines,” Chief Sampson said during a video post on social media.
“We must know and understand that COVID-19 is a very deadly disease. However, we can take actions to help stop the spread.”
Chief Sampson voted the following recommendations:
– Stay home, save lives and don’t put others at risk.
– Practice physical distancing. Stay two metres away from anyone who is not in your household.
– Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often.
– Learn about face coverings, how to use, clean and dispose of them.
– Create a social circle, safely expand the number of people you can come in close contact with.
“And, overall, I can say we’ve been doing an amazing job as a community,” Chief Sampson said.
“It appears we are entering a second wave of COVID-19 and we need to remain vigilant in practicing social distancing to prevent the spread of this deadly virus.”
Chief Sampson added: “We appreciate the continued cooperation and understanding from the community as we navigate these difficult times. We thank all of you for reaching out, sharing your concerns and ideas on this deadly disease. Stay safe. Stay healthy… and remember, there are healthy and better days ahead for all of us.”
Walpole Island officials said if residents are experiencing symptoms, they should self-isolate immediately and call the Walpole Island Health Centre at 519-627-0765 or after hours, call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000.
