Coronavirus Prep Is Not an Option for First Nations Without Clean Water – VICE
Inadequate housing and water advisories make it nearly impossible for Indigenous residents to self-isolate and wash their hands regularly amid COVID-19 fears.
As a new public health crisis unfolds across Canada, Indigenous communities—particularly those in remote, isolated regions—are facing some of the highest risks, Indigenous leaders say.
The World Health Organization officially dubbed the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic, with more than 114 affected countries, Canada included. The country has reported over 100 confirmed cases and one death, and the numbers are expected to climb. To mitigate virus spread, public health authorities have repeatedly told people to wash their hands frequently, drink plenty of fluids, and maintain social distancing, while people who have COVID-19 symptoms are expected to self-isolate.
Indigenous leaders say that communities currently struggling with water advisories—or no running water at all—and inadequate housing can’t take the preventative measures necessary to stop COVID-19 spread. Plus, many remote communities don’t have a hospital or permanent healthcare staff nearby, which makes it difficult to report symptoms as soon as they arise.
