AKWESASNE —The Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services reported that, as of October 14th, 52.2% of all eligible individuals in Akwesasne’s southern portion are fully vaccinated and protected against COVID-19. There are now 4,119 individuals safe from developing severe illness due to COVID-19, which can result in death. As a result, those who remain unvaccinated are highly urged to please choose to get vaccinated to protect yourself, your family, and other community members.
The tribal vaccination rate of 52.2% continues to lag behind the neighboring counties of Franklin and St. Lawrence. Franklin County reported 64.7% of eligible residents ages 12 years or more are now fully vaccinated, while St. Lawrence County reported 62.3% of eligible residents who have received their vaccination are now protected against the likelihood of severe illness due to COVID-19. (based on data from CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker as of October15, 2021).
Health Services reports the age group most protected are individuals ages 18 years or more, with a 54.3% vaccination rate. They are followed by 16 and 17-year-olds at 50.4%. Those between the ages of 12 to 15 years have a rate of 27.9%. Children under the age of 12 are not eligible at this time, so individuals who are eligible are asked to please get vaccinated to protect them and others who cannot get the vaccine.
The first Milestone Vaccine Incentive Drawing took place on Wednesday, October 13th and was streamed live on Akwesasne TV’s and the Tribe’s Facebook pages. Five (5) names were drawn to receive $1,000 for being vaccinated. The winners are being verified and consent is being requested to publicly share their names. The next drawing will take place when the vaccination rate reaches 55% -- then at every 5% increment thereafter. Those who received a vaccination from Health Services are eligible for the drawing.
Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services is holding an Open COVID-19 Walk-In Vaccination Clinic every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the former-IGA Building, located at 850 State Route 37 in Akwesasne. Individuals who choose to be vaccinated need to wear a mask, should wear a short-sleeved shirt, and be prepared to wait 15 minutes after receiving their shot
Those who are 18 years or more and get vaccinated will receive a $100 gift certificate from the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort. The gift certificates are being provided to tribal members and employees of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, Akwesasne Mohawk Casino, or tribal enterprises for each dose received. The gift certificates can be redeemed at the casino for cash. Individuals under 18 years will receive a $100 Walmart gift card.
The COVID-19 Vaccine is also available from healthcare providers and pharmacies outside of Akwesasne and can be found by texting your ZIP code to 438829, or calling 1-800-232-0233. Community members who receive vaccinations outside of Akwesasne are asked to please call the Tribe’s Outreach Program at (518) 333-0230 to have it documented with the tribal clinic.
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