Siksika health authorities on ‘red’ alert with outbreak of COVID

By Medicine Hat News on November 6, 2020.

The Siksika Nation near Gleichen is on high alert after 12 new cases of COVID-19 were reported there on Thursday morning.

That brings total active cases to 22 in the community of 3,500 people, leading to new drive-thru testing and calls to self-isolate.

Statement from the tribal council and local health officials outlines that 600 residents are considered in “vulnerable populations,” either elderly or with underlying health conditions.

Without physical distancing and other measures, it says as many as 500 could contract the disease with a high probability of becoming seriously ill.

Indigenous communities and reserves report statistics differently that Alberta Health Services. They operate under federal government health jurisdiction.

Siksika Health Services moved to a “red” alert level, meaning only essential medical services would be provided by appointment.

On Thursday, Alberta Justice announced that matters set for Siksika Provincial Court will instead be heard remotely in Drumheller.

Youth sports have been cancelled and most public buildings are closed to the general public.