AKWESASNE — Vaccination rates on tribal land continue to lag behind neighboring counties, including Franklin and St. Lawrence.

Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services reports that as of Oct. 14 52.2% of all eligible individuals in Akwesasne’s southern portion are fully vaccinated and protected against COVID-19.

“There are now 4,119 individuals safe from developing severe illness due to COVID-19, which can result in death,” said Brendan F. White, director of communications for the tribe. “As a result, those who remain unvaccinated are highly urged to please choose to get vaccinated to protect yourself, your family, and other community members.”

Franklin County reported 64.7% of eligible residents ages 12 years or more are now fully vaccinated, while St. Lawrence County reported 62.3% of eligible residents who have received their vaccination. This info was based on data from CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker as of Oct. 15.

Health Services reports the age group most protected are individuals ages 18 years or more, with a 54.3% vaccination rate. They are followed by 16 and 17-year-olds at 50.4%. Those between the ages of 12 to 15 years have a rate of 27.9%. Children under the age of 12 are not eligible at this time, so individuals who are eligible are asked to get vaccinated to protect them and others who cannot get the vaccine.

The first Milestone Vaccine Incentive Drawing took place on Wednesday, October 13th and was streamed live on Akwesasne TV’s and the Tribe’s Facebook pages. Five names were drawn to receive $1,000 for being vaccinated. The winners are being verified and consent is being requested to publicly share their names.

The next drawing will take place when the vaccination rate reaches 55% -- then at every 5% increment thereafter. Those who received a vaccination from Health Services are eligible for the drawing.

Saint Regis Mohawk Health Services is holding an Open COVID-19 Walk-In Vaccination Clinic every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the former-IGA Building, 850 State Route 37. Individuals who choose to be vaccinated need to wear a mask, should wear a short-sleeved shirt, and be prepared to wait 15 minutes after receiving their shot.

The vaccine is also available from healthcare providers and pharmacies outside of Akwesasne and can be found by texting your ZIP code to 438829, or calling 1-800-232-0233. Community members who receive vaccinations outside of Akwesasne are asked to call the Tribe’s Outreach Program at 518-333-0230 to have it documented with the tribal clinic.