The people of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN) and the Village of Haines Junction have taken a major step to protect the health and safety of community members and fight COVID-19.

The vaccination rate for residents of Dakwäkäda/Haines Junction and the CAFN traditional territory is currently the highest in the Yukon, with 88 per cent of eligible residents who have received their first dose, and 81 per cent who also have their second dose, the CAFN said Monday.

“The health and safety of our community continues to be our highest priority, and we know that the more people who choose to get the vaccine, the better we protect ourselves and our loved ones, and help bring an end to the pandemic,” said Mayor Thomas Eckervogt.

“Our high vaccination rate shows the strength of our community when we work together.”

“Our goal is to make sure that every person who wants to get the vaccine has access and is able to get it,” said Chief Steve Smith.

“We’re very proud of our community members who have looked at the science, weighed the risks and benefits, and made the informed choice to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

“We will always do what we must do to ensure the safety of our people.”

The CAFN and village council said they encourage all residents and Yukoners to keep up the good work.

“COVID-19 health and safety measures are still our best tools to prevent the spread of the virus, serious illness, and death,” they said in a statement.

“Please practise the Safe 6, wear a mask in public, and get both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can.”