The Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority’s public health officials announced a COVID-19 outbreak in the community of Black Lake First Nation on Jan. 17.
The outbreak was connected to an increasing number of confirmed cases linked to both a mass gathering and travel out of the community.
Officials are notifying the public that individuals who tested COVID-19 positive attended a wake/funeral event in Black on New Year’s and Jan. 1 and 2, 2021when the individuals were likely infectious.
A contract tracing investigation is currently underway.
Public health officials are advising individuals who were at these events on the dates specified to immediately self-isolate if they have had or currently have any symptoms of COVID-19. The also advise to call HealthLine 811 or a community health clinic to arrange for assessment and testing.
“All other individuals who are not experiencing symptoms should self-monitor for 14 days from the date of last exposure, it is important to note that individuals may develop symptoms from two to 14 days following exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19,” the release explained.
Symptoms of COVID-19 can vary from person to person but some common symptoms include a new or worsening cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, temperature equal to or over 39 C, feeling feverish, chills, fatigue or weakness, muscle or body aches, now loss of smell or taste, headache, gastrointestinal symptoms and feeling very unwell.
