A lockdown is in place for the McLeod Lake Indian Band's main reserve where a COVID-19 outbreak has claimed the life of an elder and left three others infected.
In a letter issued on Wednesday, MLIB Chief Harley Chingee said the measures include a mandatory stay-at-home order and closure of the band office.
"Please understand that these measures are only in effect to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to our most vulnerable members in the community," Chingee said.
Chingee offered condolences to the family of elder Sheri Solonas who passed away on Tuesday due to complications from the virus. He also asked members to refrain from gathering together to mourn her death.
"While I recognize that this would be a time for our families to gather, support one another and mourn, there is not a more important time to stay within your immediate family household bubble," Chingee said. "I urge you all to connect via phone and computer to support your loved one while the current outbreak in our community is being contained."
Another elder is in intensive care, a second is being monitored in hospital and a third is isolating at home, he said.
Chingee also said he cannot give permission to members to leave the reserve. Instead, he said members should work with the MLIB's health team to see if a medical appointment can be held virtually. Groceries will be distributed to households on Fridays.
While most members are complying with the orders, Chingee said some are not. Those who refuse to comply risk not being allowed back onto the reserve for the remainder of the lockdown and refused distributions.
"All of us need to comply with the rules," Chingee said.
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