AKWESASNE — Amid a rise in cases of the COVID-19 Delta Variant, Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services reports that 53.1% of eligible community members under the Tribe’s jurisdiction are not protected from COVID-19.
Just 46.9%; or 3,696 individuals; have received either the Pfizer or Moderna Vaccine — leaving approximately 4,198 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.
The tribal vaccination rate of 46.9% continues to fall behind Franklin county’s rate of 56.2% of eligible residents who are completely vaccinated and 58.8% for St. Lawrence County. The tribal rate is also under the national rate of 57% of individuals ages 12-years or older who have been fully vaccinated. (based on data from CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker as of August 20, 2021).
According to the CDC, the greatest risk of transmission is among unvaccinated people who are much more likely to contract, therefore transmit, the virus. Keep your children safe this school year. Students ages 12 to 17-years old are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. As youth under 12 years of age are not yet eligible, 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 COVID-19 vaccination is safe and easy to obtain. SRMT Health Services is holding an Open Walk-In Vaccine Clinic Wednesday, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the former-IGA Building located at 850 State Route 37 in Akwesasne. The vaccine clinic is open to anyone ages 12 and over, with parent/guardian presence required for minors. Individuals can also receive a COVID-19 vaccination during any normally scheduled medical appointment.
Individuals ages 18 years or older were the largest age group to get vaccinated this week, with 73 people receiving 43 Primes and 30 Booster shots. This was followed by 12 to 15-year olds at 17 vaccinations: 13 Primes and 4 Boosters. Eight (8) 16 and 17-year olds received 6 Primes and 2 Boosters.
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.