Special Message for Indian Country:
Recommendations to Protect Tribal Communities from the New Omicron Variant During the Holidays
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To our partners in Tribal health:
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Here is what we currently know:
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How easily can the Omicron variant spread? Early information indicates that the Omicron variant can most likely spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is currently not known whether the Omicron variant will spread more easily than the Delta variant. The CDC suspects that anyone infected with the Omicron variant can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or do not have symptoms.
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COVID-19 vaccines continue to be the best way to protect Tribal communities. It is recommended that everyone eligible for a vaccination receive a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they can. The vaccine helps to protect elders, young children, and those who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical illness. Getting vaccinated is an Act of Love for your community, family, and yourself.
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Does the Omicron variant cause more severe illness? There currently is not enough data available to know if Omicron infections, reinfections, and breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated Tribal citizens cause more severe illness or death than other variants.
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- It is recommended that unvaccinated and even fully vaccinated Tribal citizens continue to practice prevention strategies. These include Acts of Love, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands or using hand sanitizer, practicing physical distancing, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
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Do COVID-19 vaccines protect against the Omicron variant? Current vaccines are still expected to offer protection against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths due to the Omicron variant. However, breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur.
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- COVID-19 vaccines remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. The recent rise in Omicron cases highlights the importance of vaccinations and boosters for eligible Tribal citizens.
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Are current COVID-19 treatments effective against the Omicron variant? Scientists are working to determine how well existing treatments for COVID-19 work against Omicron infections. Some treatments are likely to remain effective.
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With the end of the year quickly approaching, families and friends are celebrating holiday traditions. As you plan to gather with family, friends, and others in your Tribal community, it is important to gather as safely as possible whether it be a small gathering, such as a ceremony, or larger like a community feast. The CDC has provided some useful information that everyone can use to make gatherings and travel safer during this time of the year. As the Delta and Omicron variants continue to circulate in the U.S., and around the world, it is recommended that people continue to take precautions such as wearing masks and washing their hands, as well as getting their COVID-19 vaccine or booster.
For more information on how to fight COVID-19 in your Tribal community, please read these resources:
For more information on the characteristics of the Omicron and Delta variants view the CDC recommendations, click here. If your Tribal community would like additional support with fighting COVID-19, contact Courtney Wheeler, Program Manager at cwheeler@nihb.org.
May you and your nation find the blessing of health this holiday season.
Miigwech - Thank you,
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Stacy A. Bohlen, Sault Ste. Marie Chippewa
Chief Executive Officer
National Indian Health Board
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National Indian Health Board Mission Statement
Established by the Tribes to advocate as the united voice of federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes, NIHB seeks to reinforce Tribal sovereignty, strengthen Tribal health systems, secure resources, and build capacity to achieve the highest level of health and well-being for our People.
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For all of the latest updates and resources on Coronavirus (COVID-19) response,
For all media inquiries, please contact
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