Two Kinngait residents are confirmed to have Covid-19 as of Monday, the community's first cases, but they're not linked to the outbreak in Iqaluit, according to the GN.
“We have initiated contact tracing in the community and can report that both individuals are isolating at home and doing well,” said Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s chief public health officer. “To contain any potential spread within the community, it’s crucial that residents of Kinngait do their part and follow the updated public health measures. Please be vigilant in staying home.”
All travel to and from Kinngait, including travel by line, will be restricted as of 12:01 a.m. Tuesday. Cargo and emergency travel will be exempted.
All non-essential services and government offices in the community must close. Indoor gatherings will be limited to a household plus five visitor, for emergency purposes only, and outdoor gatherings are limited to five people. All indoor public gatherings are prohibited.
Schools move to stage four – remote learning – and daycares must close.
Masks are now mandatory in all public places in all Qikiqtaaluk communities as well as Rankin Inlet. All other public health measures in Rankin Inlet remain the same.
Iqaluit has 28 active cases of coronavirus.
“It is critical that anyone who has travelled from Iqaluit after April 7 isolates immediately. As we continue with contact tracing, we cannot take chances or unnecessary risks,” said Premier Joe Savikataaq. “If you are in a public space, you must wear a mask and maintain strong physical distance. Stay home as much as possible and ensure only one member of the household goes to the store or for essential services. We must all do our part to slow the spread of Covid-19. Stay safe.”
Anyone who has reason to believe they have been exposed to Covid-19 is advised to
call the Covid-hotline at 1-888-975-8601 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST, or notify
their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Please do not go to the health centre in person.
The GN will provide an update at a press conference on Tuesday