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Poor air quality complicates Tla’amin Nation’s COVID-19 recovery

Smoky conditions create concerns
Tla'amin Governance House
Tla'amin Governance House. Powell River Peak archive photo

Tla’amin Nation is facing a severe air quality warning today, on September 13, while many members continue to recover at home from COVID-19.

According to a media release from Tla’amin Nation, due to poor air conditions, additional check-ins are now scheduled for those members recovering at home. Food and medication delivery continues, allowing residents to shelter-in-place.

“We are very concerned about air quality and how this will impact our relatives recovering from COVID-19,” stated Tla’amin hegus Clint Williams. “Just as we are starting to feel optimistic that our aggressive measures are paying off, the air quality advisory adds a new challenge.”

More than 20 residents have received lab-confirmed positive COVID-19 test results. Those who have tested positive are recovering at home under the supervision of health-care providers or receiving care in hospital. 

The release stated that contact tracing and a comprehensive testing strategy have enabled the nation to quickly identify and provide support to impacted residents. The public health team reminds members that the quickest way to access their test results is via myehealth.ca.

In order to maintain safety procedures, the nation is no longer able to accept unsolicited donations at the gate.

“This will help our response team keep Tla’amin residents and our neighbours safe; further details about how to donate will be available soon,” the release stated. “Tla’amin hegus and legislators thank you for your cooperation at this difficult time. We will get through this together. Stay home, stay safe and stay kind.”

Tla’amin members with questions or requiring help with essential items can call 604.578.0447.

Tla’amin’s legislature will meet with the electoral officer on September 16 to determine if the nation’s election scheduled for September 19 will be postponed. Further information will be released as soon as possible, according to the media release.