The Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority is now in control of case management and contact tracing of COVID-19.
The responsibility has been handed over by Indigenous Services Canada.
Officials say the 31 member communities can expect coordinated, culturally appropriate services in a timely manner during the pandemic.
They add the Authority will be able to respond quickly to minimize the spread of the virus and ensure the protection of its service population.
It’s seen as an important step in moving towards the organizations vision of a public health system that is First Nations governed and managed.
SLFNHA Board Chair John Cutfeet says “this is a recognition of the years of hard work and dedication of the SLFNHA team in building up a public health system to prevent infectious diseases.”
Cutfeet notes “This comes at the most critical time as SLFNHA works with its partners to respond during the COVID-19 pandemic in a way that best meets the needs of the communities.”
Contact tracing is used to identify, assist, and monitor people who have been in close contact with someone who has been infected with a virus, including COVID-19, as these individuals are at a higher risk of becoming infected.
It can help limit further spread and plays a vital role in protecting communities.
