Hutterite colonies in Manitoba implement lockdowns after COVID-19 cases are confirmed

Two Manitoba Hutterite colonies have entered a voluntary lockdown following confirmed cases of COVID-19 within their communities. The Hutterian Safety Council confirmed the positive cases as of July 12 and expects more to emerge. Both communities swiftly implemented strict quarantine measures, restricting all visitation and allowing only essential travel for medical purposes.

Members of Hutterite colonies typically gather for meals in a communal dining room, a practice that has now been suspended to mitigate the spread of the virus. The Hutterian Safety Council emphasized that identifying specific individuals or groups could lead to unnecessary stigmatization, and public notifications will only occur if a case poses a risk to the broader community.

Both communities have heightened their safety protocols, including the suspension of communal events and the deployment of sanitization teams to disinfect common areas. Testing has been expanded to include individuals with third-party contact, such as non-Hutterite workers at colony businesses.

Hutterites are Anabaptist Christians who live in communes, sharing all material possessions as community property rather than individual assets. Mark Waldner of the Hutterian Safety Council noted that while the communal lifestyle may be vulnerable to viruses, it is also adaptable. He highlighted the community’s commitment to caring for the sick and preventing further spread.

The safety council expressed appreciation for the rapid response of Manitoba Hutterite colonies to potential contact with the affected communities. Some families with third-party contact have taken proactive steps, including self-isolation and immediate testing. A letter was sent to all colonies in Manitoba, urging cooperation with health inspectors and testing for anyone experiencing COVID symptoms.

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