Month: July 2021

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REMINDER – Vaccination Clinics this week

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REMINDER – Vaccination Clinics this week

(Kahnawake – 27, Ohiarihkó:wa/July 2021)

The Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre (KMHC) wishes to remind Kahnawa’kehró:non that the following Vaccination Clinics are taking place this week at the Kahnawake Sports Complex:

  • Wednesday, July 28 and Thursday, 29 from 9am – 4:30pm: Pfizer 2nd doses and 1st doses if anyone is interested
  • Friday, July 30 from 9am – 4:30pm: Moderna 2nd doses and 1st doses if anyone is interested

Appointments are preferred by calling the KMHC at 450-638-3930, extension 2295. However, walk-ins are welcome while vaccine supplies are available.

The most recent cluster of cases is related to the DELTA variant. From the analysis of this cluster, Public Health has learned that this variant causes a more widespread transmission at a much quicker pace. Double vaccination is demonstrated in the literature to be most effective in protecting individuals from hospitalization and death, especially in the face of COVID-19 variants.  

If you are interested in reading more about recent studies regarding vaccination, visit the COVID-19 Messenger RNA Vaccine page on the Quebec Health portal.

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Main Featured News

Border Travel Reminder

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The Public Safety Commission wishes to remind the community that the United States-Canada border is still closed to non-essential travel. Anyone who decides to cross the border MUST comply with all enforced border regulations of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Public Safety and Public Health are NOT responsible for the rules and regulations in place at the border. The Kahnawà:ke Peacekeepers receive information from the CBSA to ensure follow-up on those re-entering Canada, as per normal protocols. For further information on Border rules and regulations, please visit https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/covid/menu-eng.html.

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Daily Bulletin Featured Bulletin Main Featured News

Current Public Health Measures as of July 20, 2021

Current Public Health Measures as of July 20, 2021 as per Directive # 65       

(updates/modifications highlighted in yellow)       

Symptomatic Individuals:

  • Individuals with COVID-like symptoms, whether vaccinated or not, are required to self-isolate and are required to be tested for COVID-19 at the KMHC testing site (preferable) or another testing site (Chateauguay is best following Kahnawake to ensure faster results)
  • Change to COVID-19 symptoms: Runny nose and/or congestion is no longer a COVID-19 symptom.  Therefore, testing not required for runny nose and/or congestion. (Especially important in daycare or school settings.  Your child can attend daycare if only presenting with a runny nose and no other symptoms). 
  • KMHC testing site presently opened on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  Make an appointment by calling 450-638-3930 ext. 2296 or ext. 2275.
  • Persons over 6 years of age may now get tested with a gargle test if you present to the testing site within the first 7 days of symptoms.  You must have symptoms at time of test or test will not be reliable.

•           Chateauguay testing site: 167 Maple Boulevard, 1-877-644-4545.  Appointment required.

Contact Tracing:

•           Fully vaccinated individuals (7 days post 2nd dose), will no longer be asked to self-isolate if in contact with a positive case (some exceptions possible as recommended by Public Health)

•           However, if fully vaccinated and in contact with a positive case, Public Health requires that you self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms daily over a period of 14 days.  If you develop symptoms, self-isolate and get tested for COVID-19.

  • All Kahnawake businesses and restaurants must maintain a registry of people who enter and leave the premises.  Public Health requires first and last name of each individual, their phone number and time of entry and departure

Masking:

•           Masks are still mandatory in all indoor public settings (example: pharmacy or grocery store)

•           Masking is no longer required in outdoor, public and private settings (example: ball field, small family gathering) if fully vaccinated. If partially vaccinated or not vaccinated, wearing a mask is recommended when 2-meter distance cannot be maintained.

•           Masking in office spaces of community organizations are no longer required when in a seated area and where 2-meter distancing can be maintained OR where protective barriers are in place (plexiglass, dividers).  Examples are: meeting/conference rooms in organizations such as MCK, KMHC or KSCS; group offices; classrooms in Kahnawake schools.  Masks remain mandatory in all common areas when moving from one area to another.

•           Masks are not required in indoor private settings if fully vaccinated and agreed upon by all participants (this includes in a person’s private vehicle).  Immunocompromised individuals who are fully vaccinated should still wear masks when in private settings.

•           Public Health recommends that individuals use their judgement, knowledge and education and acceptable level of risk when deciding about masking in their personal indoor and outdoor home environment

Distancing:

•           2-meter distancing is required in indoor public settings and in private areas of community organizations, if not fully vaccinated

•           2-meter distancing is recommended in outdoor public settings, if not fully vaccinated and especially if you are vulnerable person and not fully vaccinated

  • 2-meter distancing is not required in outdoor private settings if everyone is comfortable with that decision.

•           Public Health recommends that individuals use their judgement, knowledge and education and acceptable level of risk when deciding about distancing in their personal indoor and outdoor home environment

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Main Featured News

COVID-19 Outbreak

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The Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre’s (KMHC) local Public Health team and the Public Safety Commission would like to present updated statistics to the community regarding active COVID-19 cases.

As of July 14th, 2021:

• 8 active cases (none of which are fully vaccinated)

• Approximately 60 people in isolation

Although we have significantly reduced Public Health measures, COVID-19 is still present and is still a very real risk, especially for people who are not fully vaccinated (2 doses). Our current status of 8 active cases and high number of contacts in isolation is proof that we must remain vigilant and ensure to maintain masking and distancing measures where warranted. Although we are in a “green” state of alert, the pandemic is not over. 

We must learn to live with COVID-19 amongst us and in order to do so and remain healthy, we must maintain a certain amount of public health measures. We must also be mindful that children under 12 are not vaccinated. Also, only 44% of our community 12 and up are fully vaccinated and only 1 in 3 adults over 18 are fully vaccinated. There remains a risk of getting and transmitting COVID-19 within the community, with potential for long term COVID-19 consequences, severe illness or death. We have a collective responsibility to stay vigilant, respect measures when in groups of people who are not vaccinated or whose vaccination status is not known and to stay home when we have COVID-19 symptoms and be tested. If we follow these basic principles as a community, we can minimize the risk and still live our lives as openly and freely as possible.

We will provide you with updates regarding this most recent outbreak as it evolves. Local Public Health would like to emphasize the importance of being vaccinated with two doses in order for vaccination to be effective against the existing variants of concern as well as any new variants that may arise. One dose is no longer effective against predominant COVID-19 variants. Those contacts who are vaccinated with two doses are not required to isolate. Those with 1 dose or no vaccination at all who are contacts are required to self-isolate for 14 days if considered a contact of Public Health.

For anyone wishing to be vaccinated with their first dose, we currently have 78 doses of Moderna to be used within the next two weeks. Please call the KMHC at 450-638-3930 ext. 2295 and leave your name and phone number. We will arrange a vaccination time for you. We also have two upcoming vaccination clinics at the Kahnawake Sports Complex: July 28th and 29th – second doses primarily for Pfizer and first doses if requested. July 30th, second doses primarily for Moderna and first doses if requested.

A reminder again to get tested if you are experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms. This is the best and quickest way for Public Health to minimize the spread of the virus throughout the community and for us to continue to enjoy the relaxed measures that are currently in place.

The KMHC testing site is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. You can make an appointment by calling the KMHC at extension 2275 or 2296.

If you require information or clarification regarding Public Health measures please contact the local Public Health Team at KMHC at 438-836-5278 or 438-836-4853.

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News

Moderna Vaccines still available

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The Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre (KMHC) would like to inform Kahnawa’kehró:non who wish to receive their first or second COVID-19 vaccination, that you can still do so by leaving your name and contact info at 450-638-3930 ext. 2295.

At this time, 78 doses of the Moderna vaccine are still available to those whom are eligible. The vaccines will be administered at the KMHC, by appointment only.

We would also like to remind you that the Mass Vaccination Center is now closed, but will be operational at its new location, the Kahnawà:ke Sports Complex, towards the end of July. Stay updated and informed, by clicking here for the latest information on vaccination clinics and Public Health measures

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Kahnawake to maintain its own COVID-19 measures despite Quebec changes

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The Public Safety Commission and the Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre Public Health Department wish to advise the community that, despite next week’s planned changes to social distancing measures in Quebec, Kahnawà:ke will continue to follow its own timeline and public health measures.

“Public health measures around Kahnawà:ke are changing, and in order to continue to protect our most vulnerable and limit the spread of COVID-19 and its variants, the 2-meter social distancing will remain in place for the time-being,” said Lloyd Phillips, Commissioner of Public Safety. “We have our current public health measures in place, but we will be reviewing and updating Kahnawà:ke’s health measures on Friday, July 16th. We also want to remind Kahnawa’kehró:non that any changes to our public health measures will be immediately communicated and explained to the community.”

For more information on Kahnawà:ke current public health measures, please click here.

The Public Safety Commission appreciates everyone’s cooperation and respect of our local health and safety measures.

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REMINDER – NEW Recommended Masking Measures

The Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre Public Health Department and the Public Safety Commission wish to remind the community of newly-updated Recommended Masking Measures for those who have been partially or fully vaccinated.

These new recommendations are meant as a guide, but it is up to the individual and his/her accepted level of risk. Those who are in vulnerable population, 70+ and/or immunocompromised, and those who are not vaccinated are always at a higher risk of serious illness due to COVID-19.

Important:

  • Masking measures are still mandatory in all public indoor spaces
  • Masking measures are still mandatory for all local businesses and public buildings, in common spaces (exception in meeting rooms or offices where spaced at a 2-meter distance between participants)
  • Masking measures are mandatory when in public/community owned vehicles when occupied by two or more individuals
  • Be aware that masking measures for Kahnawà:ke may differ from that of Quebec.

When you are fully vaccinated (in a private setting or outdoor public setting):

  • No mask or physical distancing required when outdoors with a small group
  • No mask or physical distancing required when outdoors with people from multiple households
  • No mask required when indoors with a small group of fully vaccinated individuals
  • Follow measures put in place by the owner or organizer of indoor gatherings of multiple households. Keep windows and doors open if possible and consider wearing a mask if you are part of the vulnerable population.
  • It is recommended to wear a mask and follow all measures at indoor or outdoor gatherings where people may closely gather

When you are partially or not vaccinated (in a private setting or outdoor public setting):

  • No mask or physical distancing required when outdoors with a small group, depending on your accepted level of risk
  • It is recommended wearing a mask if physical distancing cannot be maintained, especially if you or others are part of the vulnerable population, when outdoors with people from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or vaccination status is unknown
  • It is recommended to wear a mask in indoor environments. Being physically close to fully vaccinated individuals is acceptable only if everyone is comfortable with that and nobody is part of the vulnerable population when indoors with a small group of fully vaccinated individuals
  • Wear a mask, maintain social distancing whenever possible, follow all measures put in place by the owner or organizer of the indoor or outdoor gatherings where people are closely gathering. Keep windows and doors open if possible, to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 (Note: Consider only attending events where there are safety plans in place that follow local public health advice.)

The Public Safety Commission and Public Health want to emphasize that although we are in a GREEN level alert, this does not mean the pandemic is over. We must remain vigilant and follow public health measures as a means to prevent any outbreaks and keep us on the right path forward.

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Phase 4 of Reopening begins as Alert Level reduced to GREEN tomorrow – Friday, July 2nd

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Phase 4 of Reopening begins as Alert Level reduced to GREEN tomorrow – Friday, July 2nd

(Kahnawake – 1, Ohiarihkó:wa/July 2021)

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The Public Safety Commission and the Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre Public Health Department wish to confirm that Phase 4 of the Reopening Process will begin thisFriday July 2, 2021 and is pleased to announce the lowering of the alert level to Green. This is the next step in the phased-in approach for the lowering of emergency measures in the community.

Phase 4 includes (but is not limited to) the following:

All Public Health Measures to be followed in all settings according to current, local Public Health recommendations. Please note that 100% capacity (as seen below) is based on maintaining two (2) meter distancing.

  • Indoor private gatherings: INCREASE to a maximum of 12 persons
  • Outdoor private & public gatherings: NO CHANGE – maximum of 50 persons
  • Restaurants: INCREASE to 100% capacity, with a maximum of ten (10) persons per table
  • Cigar lounges: INCREASE to 100% capacity, with a maximum of ten (10) persons per table
  • Bars & social clubs: INCREASE to 100% capacity. However, patrons must remain seated at the table (no mingling). Bar seats must maintain 2 meter distancing. Maximum of ten (10) persons per table
  • Gaming establishments: Open, with pre-approved Green Zone measures
  • Churches, funerals & ceremonial gatherings: INCREASE to 100% capacity
  • Gyms & fitness centers: INCREASE to 100% capacitywith 25 person maximum. Masking required when moving from one location to another
  • Organizations: Start phased-in return to office
  • Kahnawake Businesses: 100% capacity.  No more restrictions to operating hours in accordance with ABC Law and Gaming Law.
  • Private events or social activities in rented halls or indoor public settings: Maximum 50 persons, space permitting.  Must remain seated.  (Large indoor parties in rented halls still prohibited at this time)

The four (4) phased approach began on May 21, 2021. Please note that the Green Alert status does not mean that the pandemic is over; however, it is the lowest alert level and indicates that the situation in and around Kahnawà:ke continues to improve. The full Reopening Plan can be accessed by clicking here.

Due to the nature of the pandemic, it is possible that the situation may change, and restrictions may be reintroduced. It is important to note that, even with the large percentage of community as well as Quebec being vaccinated, we need to remain vigilant and continue to follow all health and safety measures in place to protect our community – especially our vulnerable population who remains at risk.

The Public Safety Commission appreciates everyone’s cooperation and respect of the health and safety measures, ensuring a safe reopening.

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Main Featured News

COMMUNIQUÉ – NEW Recommended Masking Measure

COMMUNIQUÉ

NEW Recommended Masking Measure

(Kahnawake – 1, Ohiarihkó:wa/July 2021)

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The Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre Public Health Department and the Public Safety Commission wish to inform the community of newly updated Recommended Masking Measures for those who have been partially or fully vaccinated.

These new recommendations are meant as a guide, but it is up to the individual and his/her accepted level of risk. Those who are part of the vulnerable population, 70+ and/or immunocompromised, and those who are not vaccinated are always at a higher risk of serious illness due to COVID-19.

When you are fully vaccinated:

  • No mask or physical distancing required when outdoors with a small group
  • No mask or physical distancing required when outdoors with people from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated, or vaccination status unknown
  • No mask required when indoors with a small group of fully vaccinated individuals
  • Follow measures put in place by the owner or organizer of indoor gatherings of multiple households with people who are unvaccinated, fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or if their vaccination status is unknown. Keep windows and doors open if possible and consider wearing a mask if you are part of the vulnerable population
  • It is recommended to wear a mask and follow all measures at indoor or outdoor gatherings where people may closely gather

When you are partially or not vaccinated:

  • No mask or physical distancing required when outdoors with a small group, depending on your accepted level of risk
  • It is recommended to wear a mask if physical distancing cannot be maintained, especially if you or others are part of the vulnerable population when outdoors with people from multiple households who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or vaccination status unknown
  • It is recommended to wear a mask in indoor environments.  Being physically close to fully vaccinated individuals is acceptable only if everyone is comfortable with that and nobody is part of the vulnerable population when indoors with a small group of fully vaccinated individuals
  • Wear a mask and follow measures put in place by the owner or organizer of gatherings of multiple households with people who are unvaccinated, fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or if their vaccination status is unknown. Keep windows and doors open if possible, to reduce the risk of COVID-19
  • Wear a mask, maintain social distancing whenever possible, follow all measures put in place by the owner or organizer of the indoor or outdoor gatherings where people are closely gathering  (Note: Consider only attending events where there are safety plans in place that follow local public health advice.)

Important:

Masking measures are still mandatory in all public indoor spaces. Masking measures for business and workplaces may differ according to the Public Health Measures. Masking measure for Kahnawa:ke may differ from that of Quebec.

Always follow good health and hygiene practices and ensure to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. It is also recommended to not be in close contact with others if you have any symptoms of COVID-19, even if vaccinated.

It is important to note that, even with the large percentage of the community as well as Quebec being vaccinated and returning to green zones, we are still in a pandemic. We need to remain vigilant and continue to follow all health and safety measures in place to protect our community.

For more information, click here.

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News

Current Public Health Measures as of July 1, 2021

Current Public Health Measures as of July 1, 2021 as per Directive # 65       

(updates/modifications highlighted in yellow)           

Symptomatic Individuals:

  • Individuals with COVID-like symptoms, whether vaccinated or not, are required to self-isolate and are required to be tested for COVID-19 at the KMHC testing site or another testing site
  • Change to COVID-19 symptoms: Runny nose and/or congestion is no longer a COVID-19 symptom.  Therefore, testing not required for runny nose and/or congestion. 
  • KMHC testing site presently opened on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  Make an appointment by calling 450-638-3930 ext. 2296 or ext. 2275.

•           Chateauguay testing site: 167 Maple Boulevard, 1-877-644-4545.  Appointment required.

Contact Tracing:

•           Fully vaccinated individuals (7 days post 2nd dose), will no longer be asked to self-isolate if in contact with a positive case (some exceptions possible as recommended by Public Health)

•           However, if fully vaccinated and in contact with a positive case, Public Health requires that you self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms daily over a period of 14 days.  If you develop symptoms, self-isolate and get tested for COVID-19.

Masking:

•           Masks are still mandatory in all indoor public settings (example: pharmacy or grocery store)

•           Masking is no longer required in outdoor, public and private settings (example: ball field, small family gathering) if fully vaccinated. If partially vaccinated or not vaccinated, wearing a mask is recommended when 2-meter distance cannot be maintained.

•           Masking in office spaces of community organizations are no longer required when in a seated area and where 2-meter distancing can be maintained OR where protective barriers are in place (plexiglass, dividers).  Examples are: meeting/conference rooms in organizations such as MCK, KMHC or KSCS; group offices; classrooms in Kahnawake schools.  Masks remain mandatory in all common areas when moving from one area to another.

•           Masks are not required in indoor private settings if fully vaccinated and agreed upon by all participants (this includes in a person’s private vehicle).  Immunocompromised individuals who are fully vaccinated should still wear masks when in private settings.

•           Public Health recommends that individuals use their judgement, knowledge and education and acceptable level of risk when deciding about masking in their personal indoor and outdoor home environment

Distancing:

•           2-meter distancing is required in indoor public settings and in private areas of community organizations, if not fully vaccinated

•           2-meter distancing is recommended in outdoor public settings, if not fully vaccinated and especially if you are vulnerable person and not fully vaccinated

  • 2-meter distancing is not required in outdoor private settings if everyone is comfortable with that decision.

•           Public Health recommends that individuals use their judgement, knowledge and education and acceptable level of risk when deciding about distancing in their personal indoor and outdoor home environment