Volume 52 | April 16, 2021
FNHMA Health Bulletin: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Thanks for subscribing to our weekly health and wellness bulletin.

In this edition, we're sharing the information you have come to know and trust from us as well as a big reveal: our brand new Virtual Town Hall commercial!

In this week's edition, learn more about:

  • Weekly Virtual Town Hall Update
  • Total Number of Confirmed Cases of COVID-19 ISC is aware of as of April 15, 2021
  • "APTN And FNHMA Collaborate To Bring Weekly COVID-19 Insights"
  • "2nd Indigenous COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Open In Calgary"
  • "COVID-19 In Indigenous Communities: What You Need To Know This Week"
  • "Enoch Cree Nation Welcomes Edmonton-Area Indigenous Residents To COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic"
  • "Saskatoon Tribal Council Immunization Clinic Vaccinates Indigenous, Non-Indigenous People"
  • "Kanesatake To Help Vaccinate Urban Innu Living In Montreal"
  • ''Matawa Health Co-op Expands Its COVID Vaccine Clinic For Indigenous People"
  • "2 Northern Manitoba First Nations Taking Measures To Combat COVID-19 Outbreaks"

Scroll down for these stories and more.

Weekly Virtual Town Hall Update
Our Virtual Town Halls Are Now On IHToday and APTN!

Check out our brand new commercial below!
Our Town Halls Are Back!

Watch our brand new commercial above!

We're so happy to be back doing what we do best - sharing information you can trust.

Our Town Hall on Wednesday with Dr. Adams, Kellyann and Linda was fantastic. Thank you to our guests once more.

If you missed the show - don't worry! - you can now watch us this Saturday and every Saturday on APTN at 5pm EDT!

We are really excited to continue sharing important information on the pandemic, vaccines and other resources with you.
National and First Nation COVID-19 News
Total Number Of Confirmed Cases Of COVID-19 ISC Is Aware Of As Of April 15, 2021
As of April 15, 2021, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) records indicate that there are 25,923 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on First Nations reserves, in 7 regions/provinces. There are 1,160 hospitalizations, 24,978 recovered cases, and 302 deaths.

For more information on these numbers and for more information on how to keep your family safe, please click here.

Click here to see the full ISC Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Indigenous communities page.
"APTN And FNHMA Collaborate To Bring Weekly COVID-19 Insights"
PRESS RELEASE

APTN and FNHMA collaborate to bring weekly COVID-19 insights, you can watch on Saturdays 5:00 pm on APTN

April 14, 2021, Ottawa, ON – APTN and the First Nations Health Managers Association (FNHMA) have announced an exciting collaboration in bringing up-to-date COVID-19 information and expertise to the public. The FNHMA’s popular weekly virtual town halls, which focus on providing credible, warm and Indigenous-centred COVID-19 information and expert guests, will be rebroadcast live for it’s fourth season on www.ihtoday.ca/townhall every Wednesday starting April 14 at 1 p.m. EDT.

Questions will be taken live during the broadcast on April 14 and can be sent in before or during the broadcast to FNHMA@ihtoday.ca

The exciting news now is that the rebroadcast will air on APTN, every Saturday starting on April 17th on APTN at 5 p.m. ET, APTN w at 5 p.m. MT, APTN n at 5 p.m. CT and APTN hd at 5 p.m. ET.

“We are excited to announce our new relationship with a proven media leader in APTN. Now more than ever, as we hopefully look to close out the third wave, we must remain vigilant,” says Marion Crowe, FNHMA Chief Executive Officer. “Part of that means bringing accurate, reliable knowledge to Canadians about COVID-19 and vaccines. Provinces are implementing varying levels of pandemic response, and the FNHMA, through our virtual town halls, will continue providing up-to-date information at this crucial time.”

FNHMA weekly virtual town halls feature speakers from different organizations who provide credible and reliable information, resources and updates about what their organizations are doing to combat COVID-19 and dispel myths about vaccines. Simulcast feeds of the town halls are available every Wednesday at 1 p.m. EDT on the FNHMA Facebook page, on the APTN News Facebook page and via our many Indigenous media partners’ Facebook pages. FNHMA has produced these town halls with assistance from Indigenous Health Today by NationTalk (www.ihtoday.ca).

For more information, media enquires or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Chris Allicock NationTalk media@nationtalk.ca 416-694-3131"

Click here for the Press Release.
"2nd Indigenous COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Open In Calgary"
"Hundreds more COVID-19 vaccine shots are expected to be given out to Indigenous people living in and around Calgary this week, as part of a second immunization clinic tailored to that population in the city.

Roughly 160 people a day are expected to get their vaccines at the clinic, which opened Wednesday at the Best Western Premier hotel in northeast Calgary.

The clinic is the second of its kind to run in the city. The first, set up last month at the Circle of Wisdom, saw about 20 Indigenous people living in the urban Calgary area each day for the couple of weeks it was open.

The second clinic will run for eight days, and is being made possible by dozens of volunteers, from Siksika First Nation providing outdoor tents for waiting and people to direct traffic, to pharmacists giving their time to administer shots, to students working inside the clinic on things like data entry."

Click here for the full article.
"COVID-19 In Indigenous Communities: What You Need To Know This Week"
"As a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has begun in many parts of Canada, the number of active cases continues on a downward trend in First Nations and Inuit communities.

To date, the rate of active reported cases of the virus in First Nations people living on-reserve is 77 per cent of the rate for the general Canadian population, according to Indigenous Services Canada. As of April 12, the federal department reported 666 active cases in First Nations.

New infections jumped significantly this week in Manitoba and Alberta with 300 and 113 new cases respectively on-reserve. 

Since the pandemic began, there have been a total of 25,688 cases in First Nations communities. A total of 298 people have died from the virus, with 13 of those deaths being reported in the last week. The total number of hospitalizations has risen to 1,151. The number of First Nations people who have recovered from the disease is now at 24,724.

There are zero active cases reported in the Nunavik region of Quebec and in Nunavut."

Click here for the full update.
"Enoch Cree Nation Welcomes Edmonton-Area Indigenous Residents To COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic"
"Enoch Cree Nation on the western edge of Edmonton is inviting all Indigenous area residents who qualify to get their first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to a clinic set up this week inside the River Cree Resort and Casino.

Any First Nations, Metis, and Inuit (FNMI) people meeting the medical criteria can get their first shot at the site operating through to Thursday this week, said the Cree Nation in a Tuesday morning press release.

“Enoch welcomes this opportunity to lead and host the first ever urban First Nations vaccination clinic in partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS), Indigenous Services Canada First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, Treaty Eight First Nations of Alberta, Yellowhead Tribal College, and Enoch’s Miyo Machihowin (Health) Department,” Enoch Chief Billy Morin said in a statement."

For the full story, click here.
"Saskatoon Tribal Council Immunization Clinic Vaccinates Indigenous, Non-Indigenous People"
"COVID-19 doesn’t see colour.

That was just one of the messages from Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) Tribal Chief Mark Arcand on Tuesday. His STC has facilitated a vaccine clinic of its own, located at SaskTel Centre in Saskatoon.

Instead of pucks and ice on the rink surface, the facility has been transformed to meet the needs of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals looking for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Arcand said the partnership spans five organizations, which include Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs, Prince Albert Grand Council, the STC, the Saskatchewan Health Authority and Indigenous Services Canada.

“COVID-19 doesn’t know an age, a race, a colour. It affects everybody. So we have to do our part as a First Nations organization to be part of the solution,” he said.

“We’ve been very inclusive and very respectful of non-Indigenous people and making sure that we all get vaccinated and we’re doing our part.”

The facility opened for the STC on April 6. It is open to the general public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday, but is by appointment only.

The doses offered are Pfizer-BioNTech for the month of April."

For the full story, click here.
"Kanesatake To Help Vaccinate Urban Innu Living In Montreal"
"Quebec has not prioritized urban Indigenous populations in vaccine plan

Access to the COVID-19 vaccine has been a challenge for urban Indigenous populations in Quebec, which is why some First Nations in the province are coming together to vaccinate members living off-reserve.

This weekend, around 150 Innu living in the greater Montreal area will be vaccinated at a clinic in Kanesatake, Que., after an agreement was signed between the Kanien'kehá:ka (Mohawk) community and nine Innu communities in the province. 

"We believe they have every right to it as we do," said Robert Bonspiel, spokesperson for Kanesatake's emergency response unit.

"Just because they're not living in their community in their territory doesn't mean they shouldn't have access to it, so we're happy to be of assistance."

The clinic is open April 16 and 17 to members of Pakua Shipi, Unamen Shipu, Nutashkuan, Ekuanitshit, Uashat mak Mani-utenam, Pessamit, Essipit, Mashteuiatsh and Matimekush Lac-John."

'Matawa Health Co-op Expands Its COVID Vaccine Clinic For Indigenous People"
"The Matawa Health Cooperative is expanding its COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Thunder Bay.

For three days next week, it will be open to anyone in the city's urban Indigenous population 18 years and older.

It will also be available to their families sharing the same household.

In an announcement Wednesday afternoon, MHC said priority will be given to vulnerable individuals.

The clinics will operate in the CLE Heritage Building on Apr. 21, 22 and 23, between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Appointments are required. They may be made by emailing mhc-reception@matawa.on.ca or by calling 807-346-2370, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily."

"2 Northern Manitoba First Nations Taking Measures To Combat COVID-19 Outbreaks"
"The security team staffing the highway checkpoint leading into Chemawawin Cree Nation and Easterville is turning away anyone who doesn't live or work in the community.

"No exceptions," said security supervisor Quentin Mink. "We take the spread of COVID-19 very seriously."

Everyone else gets their temperature taken, identity recorded and COVID survey done before they're permitted entry. 

The area about 400 kilometres north of Winnipeg has been under total lockdown since late March when one case of the virus led to exponential spread throughout the community of about 1,500.

There are 136 cases and 238 contacts identified, as well as three people in hospital, said Chief Clarence Easter. Masks are mandatory everywhere and a stay-at-home order is in place, although he says that's been difficult to enforce."

For the full article, click here.
COVID-19 #StopTheSpread
Tool Kit For Health Care Providers

**COVID-19 Vaccination Information Resources**

It's normal that Canadians may have questions about COVID-19 vaccines. Health care providers are uniquely positioned to answer questions and provide information.

Available for Download Now!

In EN and FR: 👉 http://ow.ly/Jbc550DBNdM
COVID-19 Communications Toolkit - Free Download - UPDATE 2

**The Communications Toolkit has been updated as of March 2, 2021. Check below for the latest version.**

The pandemic has touched many Indigenous communities across the country and people need information to help them manage in this ever-changing environment. With the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines, people have renewed hope but understandably also have questions on how a vaccine will impact them and their families.
 
To help you answer some of these questions, Indigenous Services Canada has prepared a toolkit that contains a variety of communication resources and information for you to share with your community. Each community is unique in the way it shares information with its members. This toolkit can serve as a guide to create messages tailored to your community.
 
This is the first version of the communications toolkit, please look for updated versions in the coming weeks as the situation continues to evolve. 

Download the Communications Toolkit here: English and French
What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine for Canada


Working to bring Canadians a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread and reduce the impact of infectious diseases, whether it's seasonal flu or childhood infections. A safe and effective vaccine(s) for COVID-19 will protect us against the novel coronavirus and will be an important step to safely resume normal life in Canada and around the world. The Government of Canada is working on all possible fronts to secure access to safe and effective vaccines and related supplies for Canadians. Here is what Canadians need to know about a future COVID-19 vaccine.

Download the full PDF about what you need to know about the vaccine here.
FNHMA Pandemic Planning Tool Free Download
Canada's COVID-19 App
COVID-19 App Update Available!

The Canada COVID-19 app has an update available. If you don’t have auto-updates enabled on your device, remember to update your app manually!

Get the app today.

Community Resources
Employment Opportunity - The Ottawa Hospital
The Ottawa Hospital is currently looking to hire an "Indigenous Cancer Program Coordinator" at the General Campus.

The Program Coordinator will support the work of the Champlain Regional Indigenous Cancer Program in the successful implementation of the First Nations, Inuit, Metis and Urban Indigenous (FNIMuI) Cancer Strategy 2019-2023 in the Champlain region.

First Nations, Inuit, and Metis candidates are encouraged to self-identify through the application process.

Submit your online application including a cover letter and resume (single document) by May 3, 2021.

To download the full job posting, click here.
NIB Trust Fund Announces 2021-2022 Call For Applications
Ottawa - April 16, 2021 - The NIB Trust Fund is now accepting applications for funding from individuals for the 2021-2022 year. Individuals may apply for funding in the form of a scholarship, bursary, or award from the NIB Trust Fund through the online application accessible at nibtrust.ca.

The NIB Trust Fund supports a wide range of activities for First Nations and Métis applicants to pursue, including but not limited to:

  • Programs which promote the preservation, reclamation, development or understanding of First Nations or Métis history, cultures, or languages
  • Cultural education (traditional teachings, workshops, ceremony, etc.)
  • Healing programming 
  • Post-Secondary Education
  • Training
  • Certification
  • Professional Development and Job Skill Training
  • Capacity Building Workshops
  • And more!

Deadline to apply: June 4, 2021 at 5:00pm EDT.

To learn more, click here.
Tax Tips! Simplified Tax Forms And New Indigenous-Specific Tax Webpage From The CRA
Established Recently, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) launched a new webpage specifically about taxes and benefits for Indigenous peoples.

On the new webpage, you will find information about getting benefits and credits, getting help to complete your tax return, and COVID-19 related benefit information.
 
Additionally, if you are a First Nations individual, you may be able to file your taxes using a simplified paper tax and benefit return form. While these forms are not available digitally, the CRA has begun distributing simplified forms to First Nations across the country. 

You can see if this option is available to you by contacting your band council office. 

To learn more, click here.
Information Session About COVID-19 Vaccination And Public Health Measures
As Canada ramps up our COVID-19 immunization response with increased access to COVID-19 vaccine supply over the spring, there is a need, more than ever, for reliable information on these vaccines and the vaccination plans.
 
We would like to invite you to an information session about COVID-19 vaccination and public health measures with:

Dr. Howard Njoo, Deputy Chief Public Health Officer, Public Health Agency of Canada.

When: April 16, 2021 at 2 pm - 3 pm. EDT (That's TODAY!)

This session will include a brief presentation and an opportunity to ask questions.
 
This session is organized in an effort to respond to the need of health professionals and key health partners to have credible information on COVID-19 vaccines and continued public health measures. The intention is to help equip you as leaders in your organizations and communities to share reliable information with your networks, in recognizing the important role you all play in your communities.
 
 
If you have questions that can inform the Question and Answer period for the event, we ask that they be submitted by Thursday, April 8th 12:00 PM (EDT) to: 


with the subject line: PHAC info session- health- April 16-question.
Moderna Presents: Important Information For Healthcare Providers About COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna
Moderna Presents: Important Information for Healthcare Providers about COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna

Join Moderna for a webinar to learn about COVID-19 Vaccine Moderna, which has been authorized for use under an interim order in Canada.

There will be a live Q&A with the presenter following the presentation.

Please register at the link below.


COVID-19 Vaccines And Indigenous Peoples
The Government of Canada is working to secure safe and effective vaccines to prevent COVID-19. This is key to stopping the spread of COVID-19 and resuming normal life.

This page has resources COVID-19 vaccines from various sources around the country.

To learn more and access the page, click here.
COVID-19 Vaccine Misinformation And Fraud
It's understandable that some inaccurate information has been circulating to certain communities about the vaccine that includes false and distorted information about potential side effects. 

The spread of misinformation can have real consequences and can distort people's behaviours and decision-making. 
 
It is important that everyone obtain information from trusted sources. That includes federal, provincial and territorial health authorities, community health centres, nursing stations or local healthcare providers. The federal government encourages people to consider the source of information before spreading or sharing articles or facts.

Vaccination is a choice. Vaccines used in Canada must be approved by Health Canada and the COVID-19 vaccine is held to the same safety standards as other vaccines to make sure it is safe and effective.

To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines, click here.
 
For information on COVID-19 Fraud and Scams, click here.
COVID-19 Vaccines: Get The Facts
COVID-19 Vaccines - Get the facts
 
Have a question like:

"Once I receive both doses of the vaccine, can I stop wearing a mask and expand my social circle?"

FACT: Even after being vaccinated, everyone must continue to follow public health measures, including minimizing in-person interactions with people from outside your immediate household, avoiding crowded places, wearing a mask, and washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.

Download Our Social Media Policy Template
Social Media is a powerful force that brings people together; however, it can also be used improperly by employees.

There are potential risks in the health field where confidential client information may be compromised. Especially as we continue to navigate our way through COVID-19, having a policy in place helps alleviate some stress.

We can help. Use our sample Social Media Policy Template to develop the perfect policy for your own organization.

Accessing Additional Funding
Indigenous Services Canada - New Financial Support
Indigenous Services Canada has a list of financial supports for:

  • Indigenous individuals
  • Indigenous students
  • Indigenous organizations and communities
  • Indigenous businesses

First Nations Webinars
A number of Partner and National Indigenous Organizations are and have been producing webinars in order to continue supporting First Nations in a changing landscape.

To view more please follow the links below and be directed to that organization's webinar page.

Supports & Regularly Updated Resources
The following organizations have resources to combat COVID-19. These resources are regularly updated and are available to view at any time.

Please click below to be directed to more information.
Indigenous Health Today houses many different resources and provides recent news updates via email.

Please subscribe to their health brief as a valued FNHMA Partner.

Click the link to subscribe today!


Please note that service hours for InfoPoint have been updated.

InfoPoint will now be available from 9am until 5pm EDT, Monday to Friday.

Previous Health Bulletins
If you missed or would like to see any of our weekly health bulletins, we have included a link to all of our previous volumes.

Click Here to see all previous Health and Wellness Bulletins.

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