Rocky Boy shuts down due to confirmed COVID-19 cases

Rocky Boy's Indian Reservation posted on its Facebook page that it is shutting down for 14 days due to COVID-19, saying the tribe has entered Threat Level 4 as its first confirmed cases have appeared.

"The Chippewa Cree Tribe is still under a 'Stay At Home' order; curfew is from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m .; essential travel only and limited supply runs, we are also asking that households limit the amount of people traveling off the reservation," the post says. "Social gatherings are prohibited at this time."

Rocky Boy Health Center said in a post on its Facebook page that it confirmed today its first two cases of COVID-19, one in a resident of Rocky Boy and another in a person linked to the Rocky Boy community.

“If you have been in contact with this individual, you will be contacted,” the post says, with contact tracing ongoing and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Both the Health Center and tribal government posts urge people to practice safety to reduce the spread of the virus.

The tribal government post also says personal protective equipment — face masks - will be distributed at all health and safety checkpoints.

The Rocky Boy Health Clinic will be conducting COVID-19 testing Friday beginning at 8:30 a.m. and people are encouraged to be tested, the post says.

An earlier post on the tribe's Facebook page said the 2020 Rocky Boy Pow Wow Committee has canceled this year's powwow.

Another post said Northern Winz Casino will remain closed.

The post about the tribe entering Threat Level 4 encouraged people to practice safety to reduce the potential spread of the virus.

"Remember, wear your masks when out in the community and surrounding areas, practice social distancing, wash your hands and stay safe," the post concludes.