This week the COVID-19 pandemic continued to spread throughout the world. Here in Northern Manitoba we saw our first confirmed case.
The confirmed case of a woman in Flin Flon is instructive for a number of things.
First of all, I say reported case because with the limited testing that has been done we really don’t know if there are other cases. Given how contagious the COVID-19 virus is it is very likely there are more cases in our region.
We also saw from this case the gaps in testing. The woman whose family has outlined publicly what happened waited six days to receive test results when she showed symptoms. Yes she was in isolation throughout that time, but again, six days before it was confirmed.
There have been real problems with a lack of information. A complete lack of understanding of how it is here in the north. Our communities are well-connected. Many people in Flin Flon knew about what had happened because of the contact tracing. Unfortunately at the same time there was a lot of misinformation and shaming of the individual. As the family indicated, they returned from vacation. They were not given any warning at the border. When the direction was given a couple of days later to go into self isolation she and her partner did. She went for testing.
What is of particular concern now is what is happening to people who have been trying to get testing in Flin Flon. People who contacted health links who were told to go for testing and then refused the testing at the testing site.
Let’s be clear. The lesson from throughout the world is that intensive targeted testing is critical to preventing the spread of the virus.
What has also been clear this past week is that not much is changing on the ground here in Northern Manitoba. Community after community has spoken out and put forth proposals to establish field hospitals in their community. Communities that do not have a hospital currently and want and need to be prepared for the significant impact a pandemic could have. Let’s not forget that during the H1N1 virus pandemic First Nations communities, particularly in our area were as much as five times more susceptible to the virus.
Let’s also not forget that many of the things that people have been told to do if they do get the virus are difficult if not impossible to do in our communities. Self-isolation in houses with significant overcrowding in particular. Even the directions for frequent hand washing in communities without adequate water.
I have been in touch with people from throughout our region on a regular basis. I have been reaching out to people on social media through Facebook live.
I have been raising questions or concerns with the relevant authorities and will continue to speak out.
I have also called for a virtual meeting of Parliament. It is ironic that at a time where people can work remotely they are doing that we cannot figure out a way to get parliament to meet the needs of Canada and Canadians in 2020 by meeting remotely.
Finally if you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me. There have been many challenges this week there will be many more challenges in the weeks ahead.
We have to do everything possible to be there for our family, friends and neighbours and communities. Here in our north we are all in this together.
