STONEY NAKODA – Stoney Nakoda has confirmed its first positive COVID-19 cases.
After no recorded cases for more than a month since the global pandemic hit the province, officials announced in an April 23 press release that Alberta Health Services has confirmed three COVID-19 cases in Eden Valley.
“Although this news may feel disheartening, the fact remains that our Nations have done an amazing job at limiting the spread of COVID-19 through our communities,” Bearspaw Chief Darcy Dixon said in a statement.
“We have demonstrated a level of preparedness and we will continue to respond to the needs of our communities.”
The Stoney Nakoda First Nation consists of three bands, Bearspaw, Chiniki and Wesley, and three reserve locations, Bighorn, Morley and Eden Valley. It has a population of approximately 4,000-5,000 and shares borders with the Municipal District of Bighorn, Canmore, Kananaskis Country, Rocky View County and Cochrane.
While numbers appear to be low in neighbouring regions – ID No. 9 Banff and Municipal District of Banff, which includes Lake Louise, Banff, Canmore and Exshaw has four active cases, 16 recovered, and the Rocky View County region has 11 active cases and 22 recovered – the Nation has recently been making an effort to reduce visitor access to ensure safety for residents.
Earlier this week, team members of the Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) ordered "No Trespassing" signs to be installed throughout the reserve.
Officials are asking visitors to not visit the reserve and stay at home, while also noting they would be increasing patrols for non-Nation members.
“These are private lands and I think people forget that,” Stoney Tribal Administration CEO Ryan Robb said in a phone interview earlier this week.
“I don’t believe anyone is trying to be nefarious, but we need to protect ourselves as well.”
It is currently unknown where transmission occurred.
“Stoney Health officials, supported by Alberta Health Services, are working to determine the exact source of infection,” Dixon said.
The three individuals who have tested positive are currently in isolation and Dixon said the Nation is working to support them and their family.
“Our Nation is made of strong and resilient people,” Dixon said.
“We must still work together in adhering to the suggestions and cautions set out by our own emergency management team and government officials.
"We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation across our Nation and remain focused on the safety and wellness of it all.”
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