Tribal Health Services Reports 55.1% Vaccination Rate
Nov 5, 2021
AKWESASNE —The Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services reported that, as of November 5th, 55.1% of all eligible individuals in Akwesasne’s southern portion are fully vaccinated and protected against COVID-19. There are now 4,350 individuals safe from developing severe illness due to the virus, which is an increase of 231 people since October 14th. Individuals are still encouraged to get vaccinated to keep yourself and those you love safe from the more severe Delta Variant.
In comparison, the tribal vaccine rate of 55.1% continues to lag behind the two (2) neighboring counties of Franklin and St. Lawrence. Franklin County reported 66.4% of eligible residents ages 12 years or more are fully vaccinated, while St. Lawrence County reported 63.3% of eligible residents have completed their initial two-shot series of the vaccine. (based on data from CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker).
Beginning this week, Health Services began administering Boosters, or third shots, to individuals ages 65 year or more, as well as to those with an immunosuppressed medical condition. Administration of the third shots is following the same manner as the initial rollout of vaccinations in January 2021. For individuals who qualify at this time, please schedule an appoint for your Booster shot by calling (518) 333-0230. The availability of the third shot for other age groups will be announced in future notices.
Surpassing the 55% vaccination rate will see Health Services conducting another Milestone Vaccine Incentive Drawing, which provides $1,000 each to five (5) individuals for choosing to get their shot. Congratulations once more to winners of the first draw held on October 13th: Mathias Thompson, Samual Benedict, Michael Benedict III (Wishe), Lesa Terrance, and Richard (Ricky) Benedict.
Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services is holding an Open COVID-19 Walk-In Vaccination Clinic every Wednesday from Noon (12:00 p.m.) to 4:00 p.m. at the former-IGA Building, located at 850 State Route 37 in Akwesasne. Individuals who choose to be vaccinated need to wear a mask, should wear a short-sleeved shirt, and be prepared to wait 15 minutes after receiving their shot
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.
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