NEWS

Viral resilience

Uptick in new Covid-19 cases delays Phase 4 as CSB releases plans for in-class and virtual learning by Ben Powless

While Cree communities conand 10 cases recovered. 763 screen In their medium risk scenario, tinue without any new cases ing tests have also been done, returnall the above restrictions would be of Covid-19, Cree health ing 749 negative results and 14 more in place, with increased distancing authorities are pushing back plans to awaiting results. requirements and modified school move to Phase 4 of deconfinement as Cree health authorities also issued operations. cases rise across Quebec. a change to Phase 5 deconfinement In a scenario where there is a

In a radio address on July 21, Cree plans. Instead of dismantling com high risk of Covid-19 transmission, Board Of Health And Social Services munity checkpoints, they now say no classroom instruction would Of James Bay (CBHSSJB) Vicethat such checkpoints may have to be permitted. Instead, all learning Chairperson Christine Petawabano stay up, as cases may still be out of would take place at home and online, said that Cree leadership would wait another two weeks to evaluate whether it was appropriate to move into Phase 4, which would allow for larger indoor and outdoor gatherings. That news comes as Quebec begins to see a rise again in cases, including in the Abitibi region, with the majority in Montreal. This uptick in cases follows the Quebec govern ment’s move to reopen a number of control across Quebec or Canada as Eeyou Istchee gets ready for things to return to normal. Authorities also underscored that there will forever exist a risk from travel down south, until a vaccine is developed. They urged Cree who travel to communities considered safe to continue to exercise caution and avoid places where transmission with interactive virtual support from teachers. Petawabano also noted that classes may be held in different loca tions than normal, including outside. Summer school classes began on July 13. Cree School Board offices in Montreal and Ottawa remain closed with staff working remotely, however establishments, including bars and could be a problem, such as bars and the head office in Mistissini will reo nightclubs. restaurants. pen for employees only, working in

In Region 2-Saguenay-Lac-StThe Cree School Board also small rotating groups. Jean, 13 cases were detected since announced a number of different Post-secondary students regis July 14th, with the region moved to scenarios for the return to school on tered for the winter term are set one of mandatory self-isolation for Thursday, August 27th. to receive an extra allowance for travellers. The CBHSSJB stated that In their low risk scenario, stu August to support them during the it was concerned about the recent dents would return to classes, pandemic. This will include all stu spike in transmission across Quebec. with some modifications. Those dents studying online.

Eeyou Istchee remains free of include daily health questionnaires, Across Quebec, the provincial active cases, with 670 tests of com increased hygiene measures, dis government has mandated masks be munity members returning 650 negatancing scenarios, and possible class worn in any enclosed spaces. The tive results, with 10 awaiting results size restrictions. Cree leadership stated that they sup ported this position, but would leave local communities to decide whether to implement such a requirement in each community.

Bella Moses Petawabano, CBHSSJB Chairperson noted that Cree Health Board guidelines on masks are to put a mask on with clean hands, ensuring that it is covering the nose and mouth; that masks should be replaced if they become moist; and that masks should be washed after every use in a washing machine.

Christine Petawabano also noted that the Wiichihiituwin charter was repeatedly suffering from a number of “no shows,” which has a negative impact on others who want to use the service. She urged individuals to call Wiichihiituwin if they decide not to take the charter.

Outside of Quebec, Ontario and Alberta have also seen increases in Covid-19 cases, as Canada passes 111,000 cases. Cases continue to be out of control in most of the United States, which has more than 3.8 mil lion cases. The US-Canada border is expected to stay closed to non-es sential travel for the foreseeable future.