The Bearspaw First Nation requires all staff, employees, and contractors to show proof of receiving at least their first COVID-19 vaccination shot by Sept. 27.

In its continued effort to be proactive in the battle against the virus, the First Nation gave notice of the decision following a meeting of its chief and council on Sept. 10.

It comes as the number of active cases is rising after hitting zero in mid-August. The Delta Variant has been spreading through Eden Valley and Morley.

"It is in the best interest of all Bearspaw First Nation members, especially elders, children, and those with immune deficiencies to be immunized immediately, if they have not already done so," the motion reads in part.

It was unanimously supported by Chief Darcy Dixon and council.

The decision follows in the footsteps of incentives offered by both the Bearspaw and Chiniki Nations. Both held cash draws.

In its Sept. 13 update, Stoney Health Services reported the number of active cases had risen to 20.

Sadly, there have been 11 deaths since the onset of the pandemic. Over 4,000 vaccines have been administered.

Due to rising COVID-19 cases in the community, and the extreme risk of transmission of the Delta variant, drive-thru COVID-19 testing is being offered at the Wesley Lodge, Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 

Vaccination clinics are being held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Stoney Health Centre.