Cowichan Tribes says it has confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the community, and warned of additional safety measures and restrictions if the number of cases grows.
Cowichan Tribes, in Quw’utsun Territory at Duncan, confirmed the cases on Friday. The members who tested positive are self-isolating and are in regular contact with public health officials.
“This is a difficult time for all of us, and the next few weeks will be challenging,” said Chief William Seymour, in a public post by the Cowichan Tribes chief and council.
“But we are a strong Nation, and we will get through this.”
The chief and council and Cowichan Tribes’ pandemic response team are leading the response and working with Island Health, First Nations Health Authority, and public health officials to support contact tracing, monitor cases, and keep members safe, said the chief and council.
If the number of cases grows the chief and council said they may implement additional safety measures and restrictions using its COVID-19 community protection bylaw.
“Let’s work together as a Nation to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect our Sul’wheen and our loved ones,” said Seymour, asking community members to stay home, stay safe and follow public health orders.
Community members in need of assistance to self-isolate or have questions are asked to call Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre at 250-746-6184.
Those with symptoms can also self isolate and call 811. Those in the community in need of a test can call the Cowichan COVID-19 Assessment Centre, 5151 Polkey Rd., or call 1-844-901-8442 between 8:30 am. and 8 p.m.
