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The Blood Tribe, which is the largest First Nation in Canada with more than 14,000 members, has recorded 214 total cases from over 10,500 tests.
Of those, two members have died and 137 have recovered, with 65 still active and 10 having just finished isolation. Four are in hospital, according to the Blood Tribe’s department of health.
“Many of those that have tested positive are innocent and unsuspecting victims and they are suffering from the harmful effects of this persistent virus,” said Fox. “We require everyone’s cooperation (and) help in combatting this dangerous virus.”
Soup announced a series of measures, which came into effect immediately, during the Friday address. He said they will be in place for at least 30 days until further notice from Blood Tribe leadership.
A curfew is now in effect between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. and travel on the reserve is restricted to essential reasons only, such as authorized work, medical purposes and purchasing food and fuel. All social gatherings are prohibited, including at private residences.
Temperature checks will be conducted at public Blood Tribe service sites and all staff will work rotating shifts with three days at the office and two days at home.
Funerals and wakes were also banned at private residences, with direction to follow all Government of Alberta guidance on funeral services.
Soup reminded community members to wear masks, practice physical distancing and limit contact with anyone outside their household. For those required to isolate, Fox said an additional $200 will be available to on and off-reserve members to assist with food and cleaning supplies.
All restrictions will be strictly enforced, said leadership.
“I know COVID-19 has taken us on a long journey, even though we haven’t been able to actually go any place,” said Soup. “But your continued cooperation to help us to make sure we are safe and that we will be ready once the vaccine arrives to our community.”
Fox said he has been in discussion with the provincial and federal government to ensure the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines for the Blood Tribe. He said elders and frontline workers will be among the first to receive it.
alsmith@postmedia.com
Twitter: @alanna_smithh
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