Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s Chief Public Health Officer, is announcing 22 new cases of COVID-19 in Nunavut, three recoveries in Iqaluit and a newly confirmed case in Kinngait. Currently there are 196 confirmed cases of the virus in Nunavut – 48 in Arviat, one in Baker Lake, two in Chesterfield Inlet, 16 in Igloolik, 53 in Iqaluit, one in Kinngait, 20 in Pangnirtung, one in Pond Inlet, three in Qikiqtarjuaq, 42 in Rankin Inlet and 9 in Sanirajak.
“As we see our case numbers continue to climb, we’re experiencing intense strain on our healthcare system, staff and those working in COVID response. Please remain patient and kind, as there will be continued delays. Everyone is working tirelessly and deserve our thanks and appreciation,” said Dr. Patterson. “The best way to help is to follow all the public health measures and do your part to slow the spread. Please stay home as much as possible and please don’t take any unnecessary chances.”
Strict territory-wide public health measures are in place until at least January 17, and travel restrictions remain in place for Arviat, Igloolik, Iqaluit, Pangnirtung, Rankin Inlet and Sanirajak. Travel to and from those communities is restricted to essential purposes only, as well as residents. Non-essential travel, especially between communities in Nunavut, continues to be highly discouraged.
Premier P.J. Akeeagok and Dr. Patterson will hold a live update at 11 a.m. EDT on Thursday, January 6 about the Government of Nunavut’s on-going response to COVID-19. Tune in on the Legislative Assembly TV channel, at http://video.isilive/nunavut/ or on radio in Iqaluit at 92.5FM.
Anyone who develops COVID-19 symptoms – runny nose, cough, sore throat, fever or difficulty breathing – should call the COVID hotline at 1-888-975-8601 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. EDT or notify their community health centre right away by telephone. There are longer wait times to get through to the hotline, so please remain patient. Please do not go to the health centre in person.
