AKWESASNE — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is reporting no new active cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, holding the number of total active cases at 15 under the tribe’s jurisdiction.

The surge in cases continues to increase around Akwesasne, so tribal officials are urging people to exercise caution during the Thanksgiving holiday.

With progress being made on several COVID-19 vaccines, the Tribe’s Health Services launched a community survey to help determine individual’s willingness to be vaccinated. Take the survey at www.surveymonkey.com/r/DNRH57B

Akwesasne residents and non-member employees of local businesses and schools may schedule an appointment to receive a free COVID-19 test by contacting Mountain Medical Services at 518-521-3322 in Malone or 315-705-0700 in Massena. Individuals must call ahead to schedule an appointment. Do not drive to test site without an appointment.

Prior to the Halloween weekend, the EOC reported 15 positive cases in the period of seven months. Since Halloween, a significant community spread of the virus continues to take place, with 55 additional cases reported in less than a month. With Thanksgiving just two days away, individuals are strongly urged to not make this holiday another community spreader event.

It is highly recommended that people limit the Thanksgiving celebration to only the people in the same household.

Those who plan to enjoy the holiday meal with members of other households, here are some ideas being recommended to make it safe for everyone.

• Host a virtual Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends using Zoom, Skype, or other social meeting platform;

• Arrange a potluck-style Thanksgiving dinner and safely share dishes by leaving them on the porch for everyone to enjoy at their own household;

• Or, postpone your Thanksgiving dinner until it is safe to resume in-person gatherings

For more ideas and safety recommendations, visit www.cdc.gov.

For a non-medical emergency matter, call the Tribe’s Emergency Operations Center at 518-320-0019.