COVID-19 in Indigenous communities: 3,290 active cases on-reserve

Over 1,000 new cases of COVID-19 were reported on First Nations reserves over the last week, according to the latest data from Indigenous Services Canada.

As of Jan. 4, the federal department reported 3,290 active cases on-reserve, with 1,138 new cases since last week, occurring primarily in the Prairies. An increase of cases in Quebec communities were also reported.

Several First Nations across the country received shipments of the Moderna vaccine and began administering vaccinations this week.

As of Jan. 4, Indigenous Services Canada is reportinga total of 9,392 cases on-reserve since the pandemic started. The death toll climbed to 87, and the total number of hospitalizations rose to 425. The number of First Nations people who have recovered from the disease reached 6,015.

Total cases on First Nations reserves per region reported as of Jan. 4

• British Columbia: 727
• Alberta: 2,846
• Saskatchewan: 2,440
• Manitoba: 2,771
• Ontario: 262
• Quebec: 313
• Atlantic: 3

Pandemic stories

• Nunavut woman dies weeks after contracting COVID-19 following childbirth in Winnipeg hospital
• 25-year-old COVID-19 victim being remembered as 'bright light' in her community
• Nunavut reports 0 active COVID-19 cases, but still warns of outbreaks
• 5,300 Moderna vaccines will go to First Nations communities around Manitoba
• B.C.'s All Native Basketball Tournament cancelled because of COVID-19 concerns
• Vaccinating Indigenous people will free up hospital beds, First Nations leaders say
• Nunavut to see up to 6,000 doses of Moderna vaccine this month

How we coped with COVID-19

4 years ago

Duration 2:19

The coronavirus pandemic changed how we live our lives, but we still found ways to connect with the ones we love and celebrate our communities.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

• new or worsening cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• temperature equal to or over 38C
• feeling feverish
• chills
• fatigue or weakness
• muscle or body aches
• new loss of smell or taste
• headache
• gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting)
• feeling very unwell

If you think you may have COVID-19, please consult your local health department to book an appointment at a screening clinic.

CBC Indigenous is looking to hear from First Nations, Mtis, and Inuit who have contracted COVID-19. If you would like to share your experience, please email us at indigenous@cbc.ca.