SRMT EOC Reports 2 New COVID-19 Cases, 12 Total Active

August 31, 2021

Source: smrt-nsn.gov

AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Emergency Operations Center and Health Services reported two (2) new cases of COVID-19 today for the southern portion of Akwesasne. No cases have resolved since yesterday — leaving 12 total active cases under the Tribe’s jurisdiction. There are nine (9) family members and friends in quarantine at home to prevent any further spread. We extend our appreciation for their cooperation in placing the community’s overall health and safety as a priority.

In comparison with local areas; there are now 102 total active cases in Franklin County, 365 active cases in St. Lawrence County, and 56 positive cases reported by the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, with 3 cases under the jurisdiction of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. Due to the increase in cases, all individuals are required to wear a mask in all public places and tribal facilities in Akwesasne’s southern portion.

With public schools scheduled to reopen for in-class instruction during the next week, parents are encouraged to please check the COVID-19 reopening plans for their respective schools, which can be found on their school’s website. For any students who might need masks, the Tribe’s EOC has disposable and reusable masks that are available by calling the EOC at (518) 320-0019; Monday-Friday, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

COVID-19 VACCINATIONS:

The COVID-19 Vaccine is safe, effective, and easy to obtain. Those who are 18 years or more and choose to get vaccinated will receive a $100 gift certificate from the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino. The gift certificates are being provided to tribal members and employees of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, Akwesasne Mohawk Casino, or tribal enterprises for each dose received. The gift certificates can be redeemed at the casino for cash, while individuals under 18 years will receive a $100 Walmart gift card.

The casino gift certificates and Walmart gift card will be provided for new vaccinations only. Individuals who previously received the COVID-19 Vaccine are automatically eligible to receive a monetary prize at two vaccination milestones. Five (5) $1,000 Milestone Incentive Drawings will be conducted when the Tribe’s vaccination rate reaches 50% and 60%. As of August 27^th, the vaccination rate is 47.2%.

Individuals who are unvaccinated are highly encouraged to attend the Open Walk-In Vaccine Clinic being held tomorrow on Wednesday, September 1st, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the former-IGA Building in Akwesasne. The vaccine clinic is open to anyone ages 12-years old or more, with a parent/guardian presence required for minors. This is the only time for walk-in vaccinations. To receive a COVID-19 vaccination directly at Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services, individuals are asked to please schedule an appointment by calling the tribal clinic at (518) 358-3141.

The COVID-19 Vaccine is also available from healthcare providers and pharmacies outside of Akwesasne and can be found by texting your ZIP code to 438829, or calling 1-800-232-0233. Community members who receive vaccinations outside of Akwesasne are asked to please call the Tribe’s Outreach Program at (518) 333-0230 to have it documented with the tribal clinic. Documenting vaccinations locally is an important way to help track and build community immunity.

COVID-19 TESTING:

Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services is conducting COVID-19 PCR Test Collection Clinics from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at their main campus located at 404 State Route. Please use the road located across from McGee Road and follow the signs for testing garage.

Akwesasne residents and employees can also schedule a COVID-19 test by contacting Mountain Medical Urgent Care in Malone at (518) 521-3322 or Mountain Medical Urgent Care in Massena at (315) 705-0700. The PCR Test is free however, requests to receive a Rapid Test is at the individual’s expense.