AKWESASNE -- The Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services have received a limited number of COVID-19 tests, and they will begin identifying people that qualify for tests as soon as Monday, May 4.

At this time, testing will be available for SRMT health are providers, EMTs, or paramedics who are currently providing direct patient care with symptoms; patients seeking care at SRMT clinic and presenting with COVID-19 symptoms; and people who have had contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases.

“We are working in partnerships with others to continue making resources available to help us fight this evolving threat to our community,” said Health Services Director Michael Cook. “Making these tests available to our frontline health workers and first responders will help isolate and minimize the spread of COVID-19 in Akwesasne. I want to thank Indian Health Service for helping prioritize tribal communities for rapid coronavirus testing, as well as Dr. Brittany Wenniseri:iostha Jock for her expertise and assistance in developing this new testing procedure for our community.”

Abbott ID NOW Tests are rapid, portable testing instruments used in urgent care clinics, hospital emergency departments, and physician’s offices. It is a molecular-detection system that provides high-quality results of infectious disease presence in just minutes, allowing for clinical decisions to be made sooner. The testing equipment is being made available under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Authorization in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tribe said.

People must make an appointment to schedule a test by calling Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services at 518-358-3141. The testing procedure is being conducted in accordance with guidance from the U.S. Center for Disease Control and will be provided by appointment only. Parking directions will be provided at the time of the appointment.

“Since testing for the general public is not widely available, it is vitally important for people to continue practicing preventive measures for the health of themselves, families, and community,” SRMT Health Services said. “Preventative measures include: practicing social distancing (maintaining at least 6 feet from others not in your household), eliminating all non-essential trips, wearing a homemade mask for essential trips, practicing frequent handwashing for at least 20 seconds, and sanitizing commonly-used surfaces.”

These testing criteria and procedures are subject to change. Follow the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Facebook page and website at www.srmt-nsn.gov, as well as listen to CKON 97.3fm for more information.

For any COVID-19 related emergency matters, call the tribe’s EOC at 518-320-0019 or the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s EOC at 613-575-5005 or 613-575-2331.

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