COVID-19 in Indigenous communities: What you need to know

While the number of active cases of COVID-19 in First Nations communities continues to trend downward, cases are rising in Inuit communities in northern Quebec.

There were 1,268 active cases of COVID-19 reported in First Nationsas of Nov. 8, according to the latest data from Indigenous Services Canada. The majority of new infections occurred on the Prairies, with over 200 cases reported in each ofAlberta, Saskatchewan andManitoba.

According to the Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services, there were 30 new cases inInuit communities innorthern Quebec as of Nov. 8, bringing the total of active cases to 259. The majority of cases are in Salluit, Que.

Since the pandemic began, there have been 47,976 cases in First Nations communities. Over the last week, 14 First Nations people living on-reserve died from the virus, bringing the total number of deaths to 508. Total hospitalizations also increasedto 2,237 from 2,195.

There have been 46,200 recovered cases to date.

Total cases in First Nations communities per region reported as of Nov. 8:

• British Columbia: 5,612
• Alberta: 13,855
• Saskatchewan: 13,351
• Manitoba: 10,564
• Ontario: 3,439
• Quebec: 1,035
• Atlantic: 120

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Vaccinations

As of Nov. 2, a total of 825,618 vaccine doses have been administered to individuals aged 12 years and older in 687 First Nations and Inuit communities. Of that number, 366,282 were second doses.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

• New or worsening cough.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
• Temperature equal to or over 38 C.
• Feeling feverish.
• Chills.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Muscle or body aches.
• New loss of smell or taste.
• Headache.
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting.
• Feeling very unwell.

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