Since arriving Saturday September 12, 2020; the Rapid Response Team (RRT) performed 21 rapid point of care tests and 7 routine swabs to all the individuals that Fisher River Health Services have identified as close contacts. We are pleased to announce that the 21 rapid point of care tests performed have all returned NEGATIVE. The 7 routine swabs performed, along with the 21 rapid point of care tests will be sent to Cadham Labs for confirmation tomorrow morning.
All individuals will continue self-isolating and at this time the RRT sees no risk to the public. We would also like to acknowledge that the work of the RRT has been supported by community resources and this is an integrated response. Also, Fisher River Cree Nation appreciates that the RRT is deployed from the Manitoba First Nation Pandemic Response and Coordination Team (MFN PRCT) of which our regional health and political organizations are part of.
Details on public testing will be made available tomorrow; however, if you feel the need to be tested before than, please contact Fisher River Health Services at 204.645.2689, Percy E. Moore Hospital at 204.372.8444 or Health Links – Info Santé is available for questions or medical concerns at 204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.
Fisher River Health Services also want to detail the events of how the situation arose for public clarity and to ease the minds of our members. The confirmed individual began to develop one symptom on the evening of September 8, 2020, upon developing the symptom the individual remained home on September 9, 2020, where they began to develop two more symptoms. On September 10, 2020 the individual was notified that they were in close contact with an individual in the Winnipeg health region who was a confirmed positive and that they should be tested which returned positive. The individual was isolated right from the evening of September 8, 2020 and all close contacts were notified immediately.
Leadership also wants to remind members refrain from posting concerns or reporting individuals on Social Media, as it can lead to panic and stress. Fisher River Health Services work very close with individuals to ensure the safety of our community. Please refer to the Fisher River Cree Nation website, social media pages and mobile app for official information regarding COVID-19. Fisher River Health Services have been preparing for such a situation from the beginning and all procedures and protocols are being followed to ensure the safety of the community.
Please continue to follow the proper safety protocols and procedures such as:
• wearing a face mask in the public,
• maintain Social distancing.
• clean commonly touched surfaces,
• frequently wash hands for 20 seconds,
• avoid contact with sick individuals, and
• stay home if feeling sick.
The RRT will remain in community until public health and community leadership agree that the team is no longer needed.
Thank you for your patience during this time and we will try to keep the community informed as much and quickly as possible.
Chief David Crate & Leadership
Fisher River Health Services
