Second dose vaccinations begin this week

06/07/2021

Second dose vaccinations are set to begin this week, and over the next three (3) weeks in Kahnawà:ke. The Kahnawake COVID-19 Task Force (Task Force) wishes to reiterate that while the choice to become vaccinated is a private matter, the Task Force has been clear in its position that being vaccinated offers a greatly reduced risk of contracting or transmitting the virus.

A person is considered to be fully vaccinated seven (7) days after that person receives two doses of the vaccine. Being fully vaccinated almost completely eliminates the risk of severe illness and death if COVID-19 if contracted. The following applies for fully vaccinated persons:

• No longer have to self-isolate (if they don’t have symptoms) if they have a contact with a positive case – Kahnawà:ke Public Health to assess and advise
• No longer have to wear masks when in private places with other individuals who are also fully vaccinated. For further clarity, in these instances, persons who aren’t fully vaccinated are still required to wear a mask
• Fully vaccinate persons can be in closer proximity to loved ones who are also fully vaccinated, with much less risk

Please note: children over 12 will be able to return to school in September with little to no measures in place if 75% of 12 to 17-year-olds are fully vaccinated.

Effective today (Monday, June 7th), Kahnawa’kehró:non who are fully vaccinated are no longer required to quarantine when in Kahnawà:ke after re-entering Canada from the United States (although they are still subject to Canada’s rules when not in Kahnawà:ke). Additionally, Canada is expected to soon waive pre-departure test, seven (7) day test, and quarantine requirements for people who are fully vaccinated, upon re-entering Canada.

COVID-19 still exists and, despite being fully vaccinated, persons may still get COVID-19 and transmit it to others, although the risk of severe illness and death are greatly reduced. Please evaluate every situation and make informed decisions about your actions according to the level of risk you are willing to take.

The Task Force thanks you for your attention.