COVID-19 Message

Currently the AFNEA Wellness Initiative is operating under restrictions due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic, this includes both the Fly-in Services and the Attawapiskat First Nation Education Authority office. 

Covid Protocol for Clients Visiting Staff

All services are by appointment only.

Most appointments will be done by telephone or virtual means.

If you are booked for an appointment for a face-to-face visit with one of the Staff:

  • You must wear a face mask, if you do not have one then one will be provided
  • Our staff will do our part to protect you by wearing appropriate protective equipment and by performing extra cleaning before and after appointments.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or further questions please call the Public Health Centre.

Counselling protocol for clinicians visiting fly-in communities during COVID-19

  • According to the Public Health Ontario and College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario COVID-19 guidelines, it is recommended that therapists:
    • Wear a new mask during each counselling session
    • Sit a minimum of 2 metres away from clients in the counselling room.
    • Sanitize furniture, door handles, and any surfaces touched by the client before and after each session
    • Increase ventilation in counselling room, opening windows where possible
    • Reschedule appointments with client’s who report to be feeling unwell
    • Further protocols are outlined in Ontario’s Public Health guidelines attached to this document.
    • Engage in daily self-monitoring of own health condition, and remain in accommodation if any COVID-19 symptoms develop during stay.
    • Public Health Ontario COVID – 19 guidelines http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/2019_MHAS_Community_guidance.pdf
    • CRPO COVID-19 guidelines https://www.crpo.ca/in-person-plan/
  • If testing is available in your area, get tested and self-isolate after the test is completed which may take 4 days to receive results. Self-isolate from other members of your household or have entire house hold self-isolating until leaving for the airport.
  • When travelling to the airport do not take public transit. Take a personal vehicle or a taxi, wearing a face covering the entire time.
  • Flight Guidelines
    • Self-isolate for fourteen (14) full days prior to the date of travel if testing is unavailable in your area;
    • Undertake routine self-screening prior to travel;
    • Travel directly from place of residence to the air terminal of departure and avoid public places;
    • Practice heightened diligence in maintaining physical distancing of two (2.0) metres in air terminals as well as during boarding and deplaning;
    • Wear a medical or non-medical mask or face covering during travel; and,
    • Respect aircraft seating assignments to promote physical distancing onboard the aircraft
  • Local accommodations
    • Ensure that local accommodations allow for an isolated stay within the community
  • Length of stay in community
    • Time within the community may be prolonged due to desire to have less frequent visits into the community.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Dalton Associates will provide medical or non-medical masks and hand sanitizer for you to take into the community
  • Trip Cancellation
    • If you are knowingly exposed to someone who has COVID-19 or you are experiencing symptoms of COIVD-19 after you were tested, then you would cancel your trip and reschedule.