05/27/2026
Tataskweyak Cree Nation May 26 th Update
Re: Hepatitis A
Yesterday afternoon , May 26 th , Chief Spence received a call from Nursing station NIC Margo.
She informed me that there was a potential outbreak of Hepatitis A in the Community.
The first case was in April,
1 more confirmed yesterday and potentially 2 more are being investigated. The first student was attending classes in the elementary side, and yesterday High school side was affected.
She then informed me that she would be reaching out to the School, Headstart and Daycare. She mentioned public Health is involved.
She requested a list of all students and children attending Headstart and Daycare.
All Council were informed of the news.
We then set up a call for today, May 26 , involved in call were
Dr. Burnett, NIC-Margo, officials from Public Health , PHNIB personnel and the Council , Taralee Beardy & Juda Keeper.
Situation overview ;
Today’s discussion we learned that the first case originated from Ilford in April.
8 yr old was the first case, 11 year old confirmed and 12 & 17 year old being investigated.
They were are all attending classes.
We were informed that the first student confirmed that class was vaccinated.
The school has been proactive in sanitizing the school and high traffic areas.
Today CSCMEC posted an informational statement on hepatitis A.
Permission slips will be made available for all students and children to be vaccinated.
This includes all staff.
The first focus will be with the school, service providers , than community members.
More information will be forthcoming when All members of TCN can receive the vaccine.
We encourage everyone to take the vaccine when it is offered, to the community.
This will help eliminate the spread of Hepatitis A.
Below is a message from the NIC ;
Public Health is investigating several cases of hepatitis A linked to our community.
At this time, the risk to the general public is considered low. Hepatitis A is a virus that affects the liver and is usually spread through close personal contact or by eating food handled by someone who is infected.
As a precaution, hepatitis A vaccine clinics will first be offered to members of the affected school community. Additional vaccine clinics for the broader community will be announced shortly.
Public Health is working closely with healthcare providers, schools, and community partners to identify anyone who may have been exposed. Individuals who are identified as close contacts will be contacted directly if additional follow-up is recommended.
Symptoms of hepatitis A can include:�• Fever�• Tiredness�• Nausea or vomiting�• Stomach pain�• Dark urine�• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Good handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to help prevent the spread of hepatitis A, especially after using the washroom and before preparing food.
Anyone who develops symptoms should stay home and contact the nursing station for assessment and further advice.
Further information about vaccine clinic dates, times, and locations will be shared as it becomes available.
HEPATITIS A CLEANING AND PREVENTION INFORMATION
Hepatitis A can spread when tiny amounts of stool from an infected person get onto hands, surfaces, food, or drinks.
Good handwashing and cleaning are important ways to help prevent spread.
HANDWASHING�Wash hands well with soap and warm water:�• After using the washroom or changing diapers�• Before eating or preparing food�• After cleaning bathrooms or soiled items
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer may not work as well against hepatitis A. Soap and water is best.
CLEANING SURFACES�Clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched often, especially:�• Toilets�• Sinks�• Faucets�• Door handles�• Light switches�• Counters
HOW TO MAKE A BLEACH SOLUTION�Use regular household bleach.
Mix:�• 1 part bleach with 9 parts water
Example:�• 1 cup bleach mixed with 9 cups water
OR
• 100 mL bleach mixed with 900 mL water
Wear gloves when cleaning if possible.
After cleaning visible dirt, apply the bleach solution to the surface and leave it wet for at least 1 minute before wiping or allowing it to air dry.
Make a fresh bleach solution daily. Keep out of reach of children.
LAUNDRY�Wash clothing, towels, and bedding that may be soiled using hot water and regular laundry detergent.
FOOD SAFETY�People who are sick with hepatitis A symptoms should not prepare food for others until cleared by Public Health or the nursing station.
TCN Chief & Council would also inform you that Classes at CSCMEC for Elementary & Junior high & ELC building will be closed for the remainder of the week.
Provincial exams will continue for High school Students only, please send your child.
This is so sanitation can be done at the school and ELC building which includes the buses.
Vaccines have been ordered and some will arrive this Thursday May 28 th.
We will be reaching out to KTC and KIM for assistance with vaccine shots.
Cleaning supplies have been ordered for homes and work buildings.
Health inspector is involved and will reach out to hotel , VLT’s Chester’s, Northern to provide insight on sanitation.
Public Health nurse that deals specifically with Hepatitis A
will be arriving in the community tomorrow May 26 th.
We will be ordering more water jugs for the homes that do not have running water.
An additional Water and sewer truck will be arriving in community tomorrow, we will be posting a schedule which the drivers will follow.
TCN chief and council will continue to monitor the situation we are facing in the community and more information will be forthcoming.
If you have any further questions you can reach out to Leadership or the Nursing station.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Thank you
TCN Chief and Council
