COVID-19 concerns have led to the postponement of the much anticipated Powwow on Walpole Island next weekend.
The event was set for August 21st and 22nd but officials announced on Facebook the decision was made to postpone to a later date.
A number of public health concerns have arisen since the date for the powwow was scheduled:
- Most of the United States and parts of Ontario are experiencing surges of the COVID-19 Delta variant. This variant has shown higher transmission, even among vaccinated individuals.
2. U.S. non-essential travel into Canada is now permitted. The U.S. has less stringent public health measures in place, and transmission of COVID-19 has been on the rise throughout the U.S.
3. There are emerging concerns that the vaccine may become less effective after six months, and that those who were first vaccinated (mostly elders) may be at risk.
4. When the powwow was planned, it was expected that children under 12 would have access to the vaccine by August. However, the vaccine has still not been approved for young children.
5. Several area powwows have experienced COVID-19 outbreaks in recent weeks.
They also urged community members to stay vigilant and maintain proper health and safety protocols.