COVID-19 in Indigenous communities: What you need to know

New cases of COVID-19 persist in First Nations communities across the country, according to the latest data from Indigenous Services Canada.

The curve is trending downward, with 1,683 active cases of COVID-19 reported in First Nations as of Oct. 25, according to the federal department. The majority of new cases occurred in Saskatchewan and Alberta.

Overall, there have been 46,081 cases in First Nations communities since the pandemic began. Within the last week, 17 First Nations people living on-reserve died from the virus, bringing the total deaths to 474, and total hospitalizations increased to 2,128 from 2,039.

There have been 43,924 recovered cases to date.

Total cases in First Nations communities per region reported as of Oct. 25:

As of Oct. 19, a total of 804,613 vaccine doses have been administered to individuals aged 12 years and older in 687 First Nations and Inuit communities. Of that number, 358,363 were second doses.

WATCH how some Indigenous leaders in Western Canada are working to drive up vaccination rates in their communities:

What are the symptoms of COVID-19? 

If you think you might have COVID-19, please consult your local health department to book an appointment at a screening clinic.