AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Emergency Operations Center and Health Services reported a spike in new COVID-19 cases over the Labor Day Weekend, with ten (10) new positive cases. The four-day accumulation of new cases makes 19 total active cases in Akwesasne’s southern portion, which is the largest number reported since April 30th. One (1) community has resolved however, there is no update on the 27 family members and friends that remain in quarantine at home.
According the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; St. Lawrence and Franklin counties lead New York State in highest COVID-19 case rates, which includes the community of Akwesasne. St. Lawrence County ranks second, while Franklin County is third in having “substantial” or high” coronavirus spread. The majority of new positive cases are unvaccinated people; who are experiencing more severe symptoms, hospitalizations, or death.
As a reminder, both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals are required to wear a mask in all public indoor places within the Tribe’s jurisdiction, including at local businesses and workplaces. Along with getting vaccinated, masks are the most effective way to prevent further spread of the virus.
To keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19, please take the following protective measures:
- Please get vaccinated as soon as possible,
- Please wear a mask in all public places,
- Please practice social distancing,
- Please wash your hands often; and
- Please stay home if you are sick.
COVID-19 VACCINATIONS:
Individuals who are unvaccinated are highly encouraged to attend the Open Walk-In Vaccine Clinic being held every Wednesday, 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.
Those who are 18 years or more and choose to get vaccinated will receive a $100 gift certificate from the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort. 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 September 2nd, the vaccination rate is 47.8%.
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.
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