For immediate release:                                                   
Seskéha/August 5, 2021

Communications Department

Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe

srmt-nsn.gov 

SRMT Health Services Reports 54.1% Not Vaccinated

AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services reports that 54.1% of eligible community members under the Tribe’s jurisdiction are not protected from COVID-19. They report that only 45.9%; or 3,624 individuals; have received either the Pfizer or Moderna Vaccine — leaving approximately 4,270 family members and friends susceptible to developing severe symptoms and, possibly, requiring hospitalization. In response to the low rate; individuals are reminded that washing your hands, social distancing, wearing a mask, and vaccinations are the most effective tools to stopping the virus.

“Protecting the health and safety of the people we serve will always come first — particularly the health of those who cannot get the vaccine to protect themselves, such as our children and those with existing medical conditions,” shared SRMT Medical Director Dr. Benson Kelly. Dr. Kelly added, “With cases now being reported among our youngest community members, our health professionals cannot stress enough the urgent need for older brothers and sisters, parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and others to please get vaccinated as soon as possible to keep them safe.”

The tribal vaccination rate of 45.9% continues to fall behind Franklin County’s rate of 59.7% of eligible residents who are completely vaccinated and 57.5% for St. Lawrence County. The tribal rate is also under the national rate of 58.4% of individuals ages 12-years or older who have been fully vaccinated. (based on data from CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker as of August 5, 2021).

As of August 5^th, Health Services reports that 7,505 total vaccinations have been administered, with ONLY 65 conducted during the past week. This includes 3,881 Primes, or first doses, provided to individuals of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines. Additionally; 3,624 Boosters; or second doses, have been provided at the Wednesday Walk-in Vaccine Clinic or during scheduled medical appointments.

Individuals ages 18 years or older were the largest age group to get vaccinated this week, with 46 people receiving 27 Primes and 19 Booster shots. This was followed by 12 to 15-year olds at 12 vaccinations: 8 Primes and 4 Boosters. Seven (7) 16 and 17-year olds were divided at 3 Primes and 4 Boosters.

Health Services is holding Open Walk-In Vaccine Clinics Wednesday, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the former-IGA Building located at 850 State Route 37 in Akwesasne. All individuals ages 12 years or older can attend, but keep in mind that minors require a parent to be present. Individuals can also receive a COVID-19 vaccination during their normally scheduled medical appointment.

If you have any questions about vaccine clinics being conducted by Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services please call (518) 333-0230. To schedule a vaccination appointment, please call (518) 358-3141.