GINOOGAMING FIRST NATION – A second person has tested positive for COVID-19 in Ginoogaming First Nation.
The community, which borders the town of Longlac about 300 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, received a first positive result on Jan. 13.
That infection was a result of close contact with a previously identified case, said Ginoogaming health director Sheri Taylor.
A second positive case was detected Sunday through follow-up testing. Health workers had completed 42 tests in the community of about 200 residents as of Sunday, and were conducting more.
Anyone tested must continue to self-isolate and monitor for symptoms for 14 days, the band council stated, even if they receive a negative result before then.
The First Nation was being supported by Dilico Health, Matawa Health Cooperative, and Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Taylor said.
While contact tracing and testing were underway, the council urged members to stay home except for essential trips for groceries or health needs.
“If community members have to go out for these essentials, masks covering the nose and mouth are required and hand washing or hand sanitizing must be done frequently,” it stated.
The Community Store will be open to community members for curbside pickup only, from 2 to 6 p.m. daily.
The council will close all community offices with the exception of the health centre, which will keep key staff on hand for essential purposes.
“We will get through this together, by staying home and staying safe during these difficult times in our community,” the council said.
