Health officials announce first COVID-19 positive in Grand Portage

On Friday afternoon, August 7, the Grand Portage clinic director was informed that there has been a lab confirmed positive test for COVID-19 for a resident of Grand Portage.

The Cook County public health supervisor told the clinic that the patient is a male in his mid-30s who lives within the Grand Portage Reservation.

The patient remains in quarantine, has complied with mandatory contact tracing protocols and has been interviewed by health officials.

This announcement follows the news of a third case in Cook County on Thursday, August 6. That patient is a female in her 20s. See related story here.

In an announcement on the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Facebook page, the Tribal Council wrote, “Currently, our concern is for the health of this patient and the continued safety and health of the community.

“Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Grand Portage Health and Human Services and the Grand Portage Tribal Emergency Response Team have made a unified effort in preparing for the inevitable arrival of the virus in our community.

“Community members are urged to follow existing guidance to keep everyone safe, now more than ever,” said the Tribal Council announcement.

The Tribal Council reminds everyone to practice the following protocols daily and as needed to keep safe:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer
• Practice social distancing (6 feet apart from others)
• Stay at home if you are not feeling well
• Avoid large gatherings
• Wear a face covering in public to protect yourself and others
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and wash hands
• Avoid touching your face and mouth
• Take care of your physical health and mental well-being

If Grand Portage community members—or anyone in Cook County—have any questions about the COVID-19 virus, including symptoms or testing, they are asked to please call the triage nurse at Sawtooth Mountain Clinic at 218-387-2330.

The Tribal Council summed up their announcement with this statement, “With respect, patience, and perseverance we will get through this. Stay safe.”

WTIP Staff August 8, 2020