COVID-19 Update - January 2022

Happy New Year Everyone! Brrrrr

As you are aware, the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is now clearly before us in a 5th wave for the province of Alberta. KFN has done an exceptional job managing the pandemic and ensuring that we are rapidly responding and keeping the members and community as safe as we possibly can - and now is no exception. We thank all of the staff that have been working diligently now and throughout the past many months!

The KFN Health Centre was able to order a small supply of 'at home rapid test kits' from AHS on your behalf. We are distributing 1 box (with 5 rapid testing swabs) in it to each household next week. We have more swab kits ordered but they are not in yet. If you wish to receive your test kit box before the weekend, please pop by the Health Centre, ring the doorbell and we will be happy to give you your test kit box.

PLEASE NOTE:

You are receiving this box as a preventative measure, it doesn’t mean that you are a close contact (the information sheet attached is from Alberta Health Services and can be used as a guide and for additional information).

Please only use the test kits if you or your family members are symptomatic (experiencing any cold like symptoms), OR are informally told by someone that you are a close contact. The omicron variant, especially for those that are fully vaccinated, can show symptoms that are very much like a cold - so please test as anybody may have symptoms of any kind.

PROCEDURE:

Perform a rapid test on self/others if symptoms present.
Use OPTION B - Nasal Swab – watch how to do this at the link below https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWPa39AuFkY
IF YOU get a positive result (1 line at the C, 1 line at the T) please isolate immediately and quarantine your household members.
Notify the Health Centre during next available work hours (in the morning if you swab at night)
The Health Centre will guide you in the next steps and support further rapid testing/regular swabs as necessary.
Prepare a list of close contacts and notify the close contacts, letting them know.
The Nation will support you and your family as best as we can while you isolate and quarantine.

The good news, if you are fully vaccinated, the isolation/quarantine period is ONLY 5 days. If you are unvaccinated, the period remains at 10 days.

We are always more than happy to support you in any way we can. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call the Health Centre and speak to Margaret, RN RN@kapaweno.ca - Or call the Health Centre 780-751-2284.