AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Health Services reported two (2) new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend in Akwesasne’s southern portion. They are pleased that four (4) community members have been released from isolation, but there remains six (6) total active cases under the Tribe’s jurisdiction. Two (2) family members and friends are still dealing with complications due to COVID-19 and remain under the hospital’s care until released. Please extend them your warmest thoughts and prayers for a safe recovery.
We kindly remind individuals that choosing to get vaccinated is an individual’s choice. It is however, the most important tool available to prevent serious illness that may result in hospitalization, or death. The vaccines have been proven safe and effective by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. As a result, we encourage eligible individuals to please get vaccinated to protect yourself and those you love.
As a reminder, if you suspect exposure to a positive case, you should self-quarantine and get a PCR test no sooner than seven (7) days following the event. Watch for symptoms that include diarrhea, fever/chills, headaches and body aches, cough, nausea and vomiting, sore throat, and/or a loss of taste or smell. If any of these symptoms develop, please call your healthcare provider for guidance. Please do not drive to the clinic or hospital without calling first.
Please assume everyone is positive and wear a mask in all public places, wash your hands often, avoid large gatherings and uncontrolled environments where there are no safety measures, please social distance, stay in your immediate bubble, and remain at home if you are sick.
COVID-19 VACCINE BOOSTERS:
Vaccine booster shots will be available for individuals who completed their initial two-shot series at least six (6) months ago. Similar to the rollout in January 2021; seniors who are 65-years old or more and individuals with immunocompromised medical conditions will be given priority status. Those who are eligible can add their name and be contacted for scheduling an appointment by calling (518) 333-0230.
PFIZER PEDIATRIC APPOINTMENTS:
Health Services will begin receiving doses of the Pfizer Vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11-years old. This is on a first come first serve basis, so parents are encouraged to call ahead and schedule an appointment by calling (518) 333-0230. Smaller doses will be administered using smaller needles to make it easier for pediatricians and nurses to provide shots. Please keep in mind that a parent or guardian must be present for a minor’s vaccination.
COVID-19 TESTING CENTERS:
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 37. Please use the gravel road located across from McGee Road and follow the signs.
Akwesasne residents and employees can also schedule a COVID-19 PCR test by contacting Mountain Medical at the following locations on Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.:
Mountain Medical Urgent Care (Malone)
3372 State Route 11
Tel: (518) 521-3322
Urgent Care Mountain Medical (Massena)
2 Hospital Drive
Tel: (315) 705-0700
Due to the increase in cases across New York State, including the North Country, please allow 3 to 5 days to receive PCR test results. Until results are known, please quarantine at home and do not travel.
COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINICS:
Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services is holding an Open COVID-19 Walk-In Vaccination Clinic this Wednesday, November 3rd from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the former-IGA Building, located at 850 State Route 37 in Akwesasne. Individuals who receive the COVID-19 Vaccine are automatically eligible to receive a monetary prize at vaccine milestones. The next drawing for five (5) $1,000 Milestone Vaccine Incentives will take place when the vaccination rate reaches 55% and at every 5% increment thereafter. As of October 14th, the current vaccination rate is 52.2%.
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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