SUDBURY -- In a Dec. 12 public service announcement, Wiikwemkoong First Nation on Manitoulin Island said it has suspended in-class learning for its schools until Jan. 7 after an individual in its community tested positive for COVID-19.

“Our number one priority has always been to protect the community, and due to the confirmed positive case, and Ogimaa and Coucil is closing all Wiikwemkoong schools, and supporting virtual learning only, until January 7, 2021. Further information pertaining to online will become available as soon as possible, read the statement.”

The cancellation also extends to all in-person community programming.

Public Health Sudbury and Districts have identified all high-risk or close contacts and have contacted them directly.  Should you not receive a call from public health, you are not considered a close contact.

A “low-risk exposure” is defined as one “not required to self-isolate unless instructed to by a community health nurse: to self-monitor.”

Leader Ogimaa Duke Pelletier addressed his community’s first positive case in a Facebook Livestream that evening.
 

CTV News has not yet confirmed if the positive case is linked to any of the schools directly.

“We are reminding our citizens to continue to follow all health precautions and guidelines that have been set forth since the beginning of the pandemic,” concluded the announcement.

“It is important that we continue to support one another, bit most importantly, be honest about where you have gone, who you have been in contact with, and if you are experiencing any symptoms.  Each person’s responsibility and honesty will help prevent further spread of the virus into Wiikwemkoong.”

If there is any uncertainty that you may have been in contact with a positive case, or if you or a family member are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms please call: Naandwechige-Gamig Wiikwemikoong Health Centre (705) 859-3164 ext.221 or ext.226.  Staff will be available Sunday December 12 8:00am to 4:00pm. 

Asymptomatic testing will be available for individuals who have no symptoms and would like to get tested.  Please contact WHC to book an appointment.