Measures Increased in Kahnawake. 16 Active Cases of COVID-19.

16 active cases of Covid-19 in Kahnawake as of Monday evening. Public Safety and Public Health announcing some increased measures to try and stave off a massive wave of new illness as Quebec reported it’s single highest day of infections at over 4500. Appearing on Kahnawake 911 on Facebook on Monday afternoon, Lisa Westaway, the Executive Director of the Kateri Memorial Hospital Center (KMHC) says because the outbreak in Kahnawake is not as severe, the necessity of a strong reaction is not currently warranted.

“This is why we feel that it’s important that we not go to a complete shutdown of many of our services,” Westaway said. “However, based on all the information we’ve given you on this virus and Omicron (variant) specifically about the fact that it spreads so easily, that it multiplies so easily, that  there is evidence of the virus being aerosolized, we do feel that it’s very important to stay home. So again these decisions are yours to make as individuals with the information we provide you. The best information.”

Commissioner of Public Safety Lloyd Phillips says measures are being somewhat increased.  “We looked at  the situation of bars, restaurants and social clubs in Kahnawake,” Phillips said. “We had previously reduced the capacity which came into effect today (Monday) to 50 percent capacity. We  are further adding on there that distancing between tables must be four meters.”

Following in the footsteps of Quebec, sporting events and activities have been shut down. As well gatherings at public and private halls have been stopped. “Areas that have bars, there will be no sitting at the bars as we have seen at the past. Individuals will have to be sitting at a table and having a drink and a meal to minimize contacts as much as possible,” Phillips said. “The closures will be at 10 pm, effective tomorrow (Tuesday).”