New incentive offered for COVID-19 vaccinated to boost 'community immunity'
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — Shoshone-Bannock tribal members were recently mailed a letter from Tribal Health and Human Services that promoted “community immunity” with COVID-19 vaccinations. Those who have completed their COVID-19 vaccination series are eligible to receive an incentive for a $50 gift card.
THHS received 638 funding which allows for incentives for all community members in our services areas to receive the one-time vaccination incentive.
To get the incentive, bring a Tribal ID/CIB (Shoshone-Bannock tribal members and other Tribes), and vaccination card to the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel and Casino from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every Thursday and Friday for the month of April, starting April 1.
COVID-19 testing will still be available; however the incentive gift cards will be discontinued for that because of Tribal Cares Act Funding availability, which THHS administered.
COVID-19 Public Information Officer Randy’L Teton said, “It is still important community members continue testing and we will continue to provide weekly screenings throughout April. Identifying cases, and contact tracing helps in reducing community spread.”
Over the last several weeks, on average, they had tested about 200-275 individuals at each of the three locations, however numbers have reduced to less than half at Eagle Lodge on Mondays.
Teton said, “Overall, screenings have been successful in decreasing the spread of COVID in Fort Hall.”
To keep the community safe, and healthy from COVID-19 the community has to continue to be vigilant. In order to do so they have identified three strategies to meet their goals:
1. Identify and isolate cases (testing and contact tracing)
2. Prevent spread through CDC guidelines (social distancing, masking, hand washing/surface cleaning)
3. Vaccinate to prevent COVID-19 and complications.
Teton explained all three strategies are important to keep the community safe.
“It is important for everyone to do their part to help us in these strategies. Please get vaccinated, get tested, and follow CDC guidelines. Doing those simple things protects our elders, community, and you,” she said.
To schedule a vaccine appointment at HIS/THHS call 208-238-5427 or 208-238-5435. Call 208-478-3987 for the SBCHC Clinic.
