COVID-19 in Indigenous communities: What you need to know
CBC
The number of active cases of COVID-19 in First Nations communities is trending downward, according to the latest data from Indigenous Services Canada.
The federal department reported 1,473 active cases of the virus reported in First Nations, as of Nov. 1. The majority of new infections occurred in Alberta.
The current rate of reported active cases of COVID-19 in First Nations people living on-reserve is 5.4 times the respective rate in the general Canadian population.
Overall, there have been 47,078 cases in First Nations communities since the pandemic began. Within the last week, 20 First Nations people living on-reserve died from the virus, bringing the number of deaths to 494. Total hospitalizations increased from 2,128 to 2,195.
There have been 45,111 recovered cases to date.
Total cases in First Nations communities per region reported as of Nov. 1:
According to the Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services, there are 23 new cases of the virus in Nunavik as of Nov. 2, bringing the total active cases in the region to 212. Active cases were reported in Ivujivik, Kangiqsujuaq, Kangirsuk, Kuujjuaq, and Salluit.
Three of region's 14 communities are at the highest risk alert level as there is evidence of ongoing local COVID-19 transmission.
The other 11 other communities are at the second highest risk alert level, which means there is limited local transmission of COVID-19.
As of Oct. 27, a total of 813,450 vaccine doses have been administered to individuals aged 12 years and older in 687 First Nations and Inuit communities. Of that number, 361,809 were second doses.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
If you think you might have COVID-19, please consult your local health department to book an appointment at a screening clinic.