20 active COVID-19 cases on Walpole Island

Walpole Island officials say there are now 20 active COVID-19 cases on the First Nation reserve.

Officials released the updated totals on social media on Wednesday, March 31, 2021.

Since the pandemic began last March, 120 Walpole Island residents have tested positive for the virus.

A total of 97 cases are resolved, while 898 COVID-19 tests have been completed.

There are three pending results currently and 775 tests have come back negative.

Three people from Walpole Island have died from COVID-19.

Walpole Island officials say there have been 640 first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine administered to residents, along with with 20 complete series’ of the vaccine.

Walpole Island officials say the community is currently in the ‘Black-Lockdown’ status of their First Nation’s COVID Action Plan, in order to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

Officials issued a reminder on Tuesday that social gathering are not currently permitted.

“Social gatherings have been a major source of COVID transmission,” Walpole Island officials posted on social media.

“To avoid this risk, please do not gather in other people’s homes or any other indoor setting. Every gathering can quickly contribute to the spread of the virus and lead to many active cases in our community. This is not the time for visiting.”

Walpole island officials say elementary students have reverted to remote learning, Bkejwanong Children’s Centre has suspended service and monitored gatherings are no longer be permitted.

Walpole Island departments have resources in place to prevent close contact among employees and the activation of Lockdown should have no direct impact on staff procedures, officials say.

Local businesses will also be able to continue to serve their clients following the same precautions they have had in place for Red, Walpole Island officials added.

Walpole Island officials say 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.