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COVID-19 Department of Health Services update
COVID-19 GN Update - December 29, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
We are seeing COVID-19 cases continue to rise in the territory and we know that some cases are a direct result of visiting in homes. I cannot stress enough the importance of following the public health measures. I know this is difficult during the holidays, but right now social gatherings are not allowed. Whether you are vaccinated or not, no one should be attending home or public gatherings. At this time, we don’t know if the variant in Nunavut is Omicron, but if it is, we know that it spreads much faster than other variants of COVID-19. Since December 21, we have gone from no cases of COVID-19 in the territory to 74 cases in eight different communities. This is a concerning rise in cases and it is putting extreme pressure on our health system, including our ability to manage contact tracing and surveillance testing.
Adding to the concern are the numbers of holiday travellers who will be returning home in the next week. Due to the high transmission rate of Omicron, there is an increased risk that we will see additional cases of COVID-19 introduced due to travellers returning from the south. That is why it is vital that people travelling home, who are not triple vaccinated, isolate for 14 days upon their arrival. This is the best way to protect our communities from outbreaks. It is also important that anyone who develops symptoms, even if they are mild, immediately isolate and call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601. If you are sick, stay home. Don’t take the risk that it is not COVID-19. This is for everyone’s health. Please be patient when calling the hotline, wait times can be as long as an hour at this time.
In an effort to assist in identifying cases early, we will begin handing out take home COVID-19 self-tests to travellers returning to Nunavut and will announce the start date as soon as it is confirmed. Individuals will be asked to test themselves on or after days 6 or 7 and then again on days 12 or 14. Or, if you become ill, test right away. Anyone who receives a positive test result needs to call the hotline immediately. I must emphasize that these tests are not a replacement for isolation. A negative test result does not mean you can leave isolation early. There is a chance the virus is not strong enough to be detected yet but can still be spread to other people. The self-tests will help identify and contain the virus faster if they are used as an additional layer of protection. Rapid tests are not a substitute for other methods of infection control.
It is important that everyone understands that every layer of protection is important. Isolating when asked and when you feel ill, wearing masks, keeping strict physical distance, getting vaccinated and boosted, testing and staying home, all combine to create a shield to protect ourselves and our communities from COVID-19. Every time we miss one of these layers, we increase the chance of spreading this virus across the territory. Please follow all the measures, always.
As I mentioned, the rise in cases is putting a strain on our health system, which is already stretched thin over the holidays. We have already seen other provinces and territories cut services and access to health care because of COVID-19. We need to stop this virus from spreading to avoid having to limit Nunavummiut’s access to health care.
Please, follow the public health measures. If you have been asked to isolate, do so. The risks are too high right now and we can only contain these outbreaks with the help and co-operation of all Nunavummiut.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to:
https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: December 29, 2021
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons vaccinated with at least one dose in Nunavut | Total persons vaccinated with two doses in Nunavut |
| 24,179 | 746 | 70 | 672 | 4 | 30,484 | 24,746 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: December 29, 2021
| Community |
COVID-19 transmission |
Time period |
Public case count yesterday (TOTAL) |
Public case count today (TOTAL) | Change from yesterday (cases) | Cumulative Recovered | Total Active Cases |
| Baker Lake | Ongoing |
Since 12/29/2021 |
0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Igloolik | Ongoing | Since 12/29/2021 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
|
Arviat |
Ongoing | Since 12/29/2021 | 0 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 6 |
| Sanirajak | Ongoing |
Since 12/29/2021 |
0 | 8 | 8 | 1 | 8 |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | Ongoing |
Since 12/28/2021 |
1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing |
Since 12/23/2021 |
10 | 22 | 12 | 0 | 22 |
| Pangnirtung | Ongoing |
Since 12/23/2021 |
3 | 7 | 4 | 0 | 7 |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 11/04/2021 | 22 | 27 | 5 | 2 | 25 |
| TOTAL | 37 | 73 | 37 | 2 | 70 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: December 21, 2021
(No update this week due to holiday closure)
Details/Limitations:
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of December 21, 2021. The percentage of vaccine administered is vaccine administered divided by the Nunavut population estimate for 18 and older.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
Multiple communities represent individuals who received doses in two separate communities, or in communities that are not their place of residence.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source:
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Dose numbers are from the Department of Health’s Meditech system.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date per community: December 21, 2021
| Community |
Tests done |
Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Baker Lake (Since 29 December) | 5 | 1 | 4 |
| Igloolik (Since 29 December) | 9 | 1 | 8 |
| Arviat (Since 29 December) | 43 | 6 | 37 |
| Sanirajak (Since 29 December) | 42 | 8 | 34 |
| Qikiqtarjuaq (Since 28 December) | 5 | 1 | 4 |
| Pangnirtung (Since 20 December) | 61 | 7 | 54 |
| Iqaluit (Since 23 December) | 367 | 25 | 342 |
| Rankin Inlet (Since 23 December) | 165 | 21 | 144 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of December 28 |
| Medical | 56 |
| Public | 0 |
| EMTI | 0 |
| Construction | 0 |
| Total | 56 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| Dec. 29, 2021 | 7 |
| Dec. 30, 2021 | 2 |
| Dec. 31, 2021 | 0 |
| Jan. 1, 2021 | 0 |
| Jan. 1, 2021 | 0 |
| Total | 9 |
Ongoing services:
Health centres open with full services:
- Grise Fiord
- Kimmirut
- Qikiqtarjuaq
- Chesterfield Inlet
- Coral Harbour
- Rankin Inlet
- Whale Cove
Adjusted services:
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, public are asked to call the health centre before attending with flu-like symptoms.
Health centres on emergency services only:
- Igloolik
- Clyde River
- Kinngait
- Pond Inlet
- Pangnirtung
- Resolute Bay
- Sanirajak
- Arviat
- Sanikiluaq
- Gjoa Haven
- Kugaaruk
- Kugluktuk
- Taloyoak
Health Centres with reduced services (reduced services vary depending on staff available):
- Cambridge Bay
- Najuaat
- Baker Lake
- Arctic Bay
COVID-19 GN Update - December 21, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Good morning,
I want to begin by recognizing all the health staff who have been working tirelessly over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Your efforts have been vital to the success Nunavut has seen in the battle against this virus. You have all put in long hours and many have not had an opportunity for much time off. Some of you will continue working over the holidays and I want you all to know your sacrifice and dedication to the care of Nunavummiut is incredible. Matna, Qujannamiik. I know I, and all Nunavummiut, are grateful for all the work you have done and will continue to do.
My message for Nunavummiut at this time is that unfortunately, our health care system is stretched extra thin across Nunavut in the short term. Our staffing resources are limited, and although we have been working hard to recruit and retain the health professionals needed across the territory, service reductions will be felt in many communities over the holidays. This includes some reduced access to vaccinations such as the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine. Our challenges are related to a national trend in health staffing, where the pandemic has negatively impacted the workforce in many ways.
I would like to ask Nunavummiut to recognize the effort and sacrifice our health staff have made, and the stress that health staff are under at the moment with the threat of the Omicron variant.
I am asking Nunavummiut to do their part to stay safe from COVID-19 over the holidays. It’s true, Omicron is a new threat. But we all know how to stay safe – keep gatherings small, avoid unnecessary travel, stay home if sick, wear a mask, get vaccinated, wash your hands often. Please do your part to keep your family, your community, and our territory safe.
It’s Christmas, people should be able to have fun and celebrate. I believe it’s possible to stay safe and celebrate the season; if we all stay vigilant and remember the lessons of the past year.
I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and happy holidays.
Thank you.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
In light of quickly changing information about the Omicron variant, we have had to make some difficult decisions. We have immediately rescinded the recent order to allow communities larger gatherings over the holidays. This decision was not made easily or lightly, but this is necessary due to the increased risk Omicron poses.
Evidence shows that Omicron can spread very quickly, even in those who have had 2 doses, and we need to change our response to match this increased threat. We strongly recommend against all non-essential travel at this time. Those who do choose to travel and return to Nunavut with their proof of vaccination are asked to isolate at home for 14 days upon returning to territory. This includes avoiding all gatherings. Everyone should limit their visits to congregate settings with at-risk individuals, such as Elders’ facilities and long-term care homes. If you are planning to gather, please do so safely and keep your social bubbles small.
For those communities planning to hold events such as community games in arenas and community halls, they must fall within the current gathering limits, and cannot exceed 50% capacity or 100 people maximum, whichever is lower. This is critical to slow the potential spread of the virus.
We also recommend against inter-community gatherings and travel. If you travel to other communities for events or to visit, you will increase the risk of spreading Omicron within Nunavut. There is a strong possibility that we will have to cease travel in and out of a community, should we identity a positive case of COVID-19. Anyone who travels to another community should be prepared to stay until travel restrictions are lifted. This is necessary to ensure quick containment of potential Omicron infections.
I cannot stress enough the need for people to follow the public health measures and wear a mask. Evidence shows medical masks are effective in helping reduce the risk of contracting and spreading Omicron. If you cannot get a medical mask, three-layer masks do show some success in limiting transmission.
Symptoms with Omicron can be different from other COVID-19 infections. It is very difficult to distinguish Omicron from the common cold. For this reason, at the onset of any symptoms, cough, sneezing, sore throat, running nose, please isolate and contact the COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-975-8601 to get tested.
There are simply too many unknowns, and too many risks that may jeopardize Nunavummiut’s health. We do know that people who have received their booster shot are between 75% and 80% less likely to experience severe infection or hospitalization due to the Omicron variant. We are strongly urging everyone to get vaccinated. If you have had two doses, get the booster.
Protecting Nunavut from COVID-19 is everyone’s responsibility, and we must keep working hard. It’s been a long two years. I know you’re exhausted, but it’s not yet time to let up on our efforts. We have to remember that our health and safety is based on the layers of protections we have put in place. The public health measures, wearing masks, isolating when you are asked to and the vaccine all combine to create an effective shield against COVID-19. There must be done together, because each individual layer is not enough.
I thank all Nunavummiut for their patience and co-operation. Happy holidays and Merry Christmas. Be safe and stay healthy.
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to:
https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 GN Update - June 30, 2021
Minister of Health’s update on behalf of Premier Savikataaq:
Good morning. There remain no cases of COVID-19 in Nunavut. There have been 262 recoveries since this outbreak began.
So far, 21,255 people in Nunavut have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 16,284 have had both doses.
It’s important for all Nunavummiut to remember that this outbreak is not over. As we gradually ease restrictions, it’s critical that everyone stays vigilant and follows the public health measures. Everyone has a role to play in keeping our communities healthy.
Now that summer is here, we don’t have any further televised updates scheduled. As always, information can be found online, on radio and on social media. We will continue to provide regular updates on those platforms. If anything changes, we will keep everyone up to date.
As Premier Savikataaq always says - Mask up. Wash your hands often. Keep strict physical distance. Keep your bubbles small. Get vaccinated if you haven’t already. The COVID-19 vaccines are truly the best defense we have against this virus.
Please be responsible and take good care. Do the right thing for yourself, your family and everyone around you. Stay safe.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning.
After more than a week without an active case of COVID-19 in Iqaluit, it is safe to ease restrictions in Iqaluit.
Effective July 2:
- In-territory travel restrictions in and out of Iqaluit will be lifted.
- Isolation for those leaving Iqaluit to another Nunavut community will no longer be required.
- Indoor and outdoor gathering limits will also be increased.
- Full details on the new public health measures can be found on the Government of Nunavut’s website at gov.nu.ca.
While the case count is zero, the outbreak is not over, and I encourage everyone to follow the public health measures. There has also been a sharp decline in the number of people being swabbed in the city. Fewer cases and increasing vaccination numbers has contributed to people feeling that testing and screening for COVID is not necessary. I encourage people to continue to get swabbed when contacted by Iqaluit Public Health or when there has been a chance of exposure to COVID-19. Identifying the virus early is the best way to contain it before there is widespread transmission.
We would like to continue screening individuals who are in groups that are more likely to have been exposed to COVID-19, or are more likely to spread it to larger numbers of people. This includes the following:
1) Rotational workers who are regularly in the south.
2) Staff or residents of congregate living settings.
3) Individuals who work with the general public such as cashiers.
The Pfizer vaccine has now arrived in all communities, and by the end of next week every Nunavummiut who is 12 or older will have had the chance to receive their first dose. Anyone who missed initial Pfizer clinics can call their local health centre for an appointment.
Experience in several countries has shown that widespread vaccination dramatically reduces the harm from COVID-19 infections. By late July almost 3 quarters of Nunavummiut will have had the opportunity to receive 2 doses of vaccine, and we will be able to further ease public health measures. I ask everyone to continue to follow the current public health measures, as this protects all of us.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination.
COVID-19 case status: June 30
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths |
| 18,149 | 657 | 0 | 653 | 4 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: June 30
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 253 | 253 | 0 | 0 | 253 | 0 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 645 | 645 | 0 | 1 | 644 | 0 |
COVID-19 vaccination status:
For complete information on the vaccination status in Nunavut, go to https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
Testing stats to date: June 24
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 253 | 5809 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 206 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 148 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 645 | 9,939 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of June 28 |
| Medical | 197 |
| Public | 149 |
| EMTI | 33 |
| Construction | 11 |
| Total | 390 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| June 30, 2021 | 44 |
| July 1, 2021 | 41 |
| July 2, 2021 | 42 |
| July 3, 2021 | 21 |
| July 4, 2021 | 12 |
| Total | 139 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of June 30, there were 19,311 requests, 9,195 of which were critical worker requests, 892 of which were vaccinated travellers.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 15,454 | 80.0% |
| Denied | 317 | 1.6% |
| Pending | 613 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2,927 | 15.2% |
| Total | 19,311 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - June 17, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
The situation in Iqaluit continues to improve. We have had no additional cases stem from the exposure notices at the end of last week. There have also been no active cases identified following the positives confirmed in two elementary school students this week. This is encouraging and I urge people to be patient a little longer with the public health measures. Following the measures will help end the outbreak and put us in a position to enjoy our summer.
On Tuesday, vaccines for youth aged 12 to 17 began rolling out across the territory. Vaccines arrived in Arctic Bay, Clyde River, Igloolik, Naujaat, Pangnirtung, Pond Inlet, Qikiqtarjuaq, Sanirajak, Resolute Bay and Kugaaruk. Grise Fiord’s delivery yesterday was delayed by weather and should be arriving today if the plane can land. Vaccines should be delivered to the remaining communities for first doses by June 21.
Here in Iqaluit, youth can go to the mass vaccination clinic that began yesterday and continues until tomorrow, from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the curling rink.
The vaccine’s arrival, availability and most importantly, efficiency, mark a significant step toward further reducing restrictions territory-wide. I urge everyone who is eligible, to get the vaccine. Call your health centre for an appointment. If you are 18 and over it's not too late for you to get your shot. There are vaccines available.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
Upcoming Community Vaccine Clinics
COVID-19 Vaccinations Clinics for 12 to 17 year olds:
| Arctic Bay (Mass Clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 17 - 18 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
867-439-8873 |
| 2 | July 14 - 16 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
867-439-8873 |
| Arviat (Mass clinic) |
|
|||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Every Saturday starting June 19 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | 867-857-3100 |
| 2 | Every Saturday starting July 10 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | 867-857-3100 |
| Baker Lake (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 24 to 26 | Community Arena | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-793-2816 |
| 2 | July 15 to 17 | Community Arena | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-793-2816 |
| Cambridge Bay (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 28 to 30 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867 983-4500 |
| 2 | July 21 - 23 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867 983-4500 |
| Chesterfield Inlet | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 21 | Health Centre | 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. | 867-898-9968 |
| Clyde River (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 15 to 17 | Quluaq School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-924-6377 |
| 2 | July 6 to 8 | Quluaq School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-924-6377 |
| Coral Harbour (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 22 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-925-9916 |
| 2 | July 13 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-925-9916 |
| Gjoa Haven (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 21 to 22 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-360-7741 |
| 2 | July 15 to 16 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-360-7741 |
| Grise Fiord | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 22 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | 867-980-9923 |
| Igloolik (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 16 to 18 | Community Hall | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-934-2100 |
| 2 | July 7,8 &10 | Community Hall | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-934-2100 |
| Iqaluit (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 16 to 19 | Curling Rink (TBD) | 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Walk-in |
| 2 | July 14 to 17 | Curling Rink (TBD) | 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Walk-in |
| Kimmirut | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 18 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
867-939-2217 |
| Kinngait (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 18, 19 and 21 | Community Hall | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-897-8820 |
| 2 | July 12 to 14 | Community Hall | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-897-8820 |
| Kugaaruk (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 18 to 19 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-769-6441 |
| 2 | July 12 to 13 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-769-6441 |
| Kugluktuk (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | July 5 and 6 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-982-4531 |
| 2 | July 27 and 28 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-982-4531 |
| Naujaat (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 16 and 17 | Health Centre | 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-462-9916 |
| 2 | July 7 and 8 | Health Centre | 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-462-9916 |
| Pangnirtung (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 15 to 17 | Community Hall/Hamlet Building | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-473-8977 |
| 2 | July 6 to 8 | Community Hall/Hamlet Building | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-473-8977 |
| Pond Inlet (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 15 to 17 | Nasivvik High School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-899-7500 |
| 2 | July 6 to 8 | Nasivvik High School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-899-7500 |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 15 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 |
867-927-8916 |
| Rankin Inlet (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 22 | Community Recreation Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-645-8070 |
| 2 | July 13 | Community Recreation Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-645-8070 |
| Resolute Bay | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 17 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 |
867-252-3844 |
| Sanikiluaq | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 19 | New Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-266-8965 |
| 2 | July 10 | New Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-266-8965 |
| Sanirajak | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 16 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 |
867-928-8827 |
| Taloyoak (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 24 to 25 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-561-5111 |
| 2 | July 18 to 19 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-561-5111 |
| Whale Cove (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 19 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-896-9916 |
| 2 | July 10 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-896-9916 |
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination.
COVID-19 case status: June 17
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths |
| 17,444 | 657 | 8 | 645 | 4 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: June 17
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 253 | 253 | 0 | 0 | 245 | 8 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 645 | 645 | 0 | 1 | 636 | 8 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: June 14
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 31, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 18,025 | 72% | 15,169 | 62% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 10,564 | 79% | 8,772 | 66% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
391 |
74% | 323 | 61% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 503 | 73% | 450 | 65% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 81 | 84% | 39 | 41% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 543 | 50% | 440 | 40% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,806 | 96% | 4,873 | 81% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 199 | 75% | 166 | 63% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 534 | 58% | 443 | 48% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 689 | 68% | 542 | 54% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 662 | 64% | 552 | 54% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 250 | 59% | 206 | 49% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 197 | 145% | 133 | 98% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 358 | 62% | 287 | 50% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 351 | 64% | 318 | 58% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,641 | 66% | 3,985 | 57% |
| Arviat | 2,918 | 1,696 | 1,273 | 75% | 1,068 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 882 | 60% | 722 | 49% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 208 | 72% | 164 | 57% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 283 | 51% | 243 | 44% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 371 | 57% | 305 | 47% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,450 | 69% | 1,350 | 65% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 174 | 65% | 133 | 50% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,820 | 63% | 2,412 | 54% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 1,050 | 78% | 946 | 70% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 434 | 52% | 368 | 44% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 320 | 49% | 227 | 35% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 586 | 59% | 500 | 50% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 430 | 64% | 371 | 55% |
| Multiple Communities | 229 | 225 |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of May 31, 2021.
The percentage of vaccine administered is vaccine administered divided by the Nunavut population estimate for 18 and older.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
Multiple communities represent individuals who received doses in two separate communities, or in communities that are not their place of residence.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Dose numbers are from the Department of Health’s Meditech system.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: June 17
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 253 | 5328 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 206 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 148 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 645 | 9,458 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of June 17 |
| Medical | 194 |
| Public | 153 |
| EMTI | 61 |
| Construction | 45 |
| Total | 543 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| June 17, 2021 | 70 |
| June 18, 2021 | 64 |
| June 19, 2021 | 9 |
| June 20, 2021 | 21 |
| June 21, 2021 | 25 |
| Total | 189 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of June 17, there were 18,131 requests, 8,946 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 14,351 | 79.2% |
| Denied | 317 | 1.7% |
| Pending | 536 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area | 2,927 | 16.1% |
| Total | 18,131 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - June 14, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
In Iqaluit, Public health continues to follow-up on the cases of COVID-19 that resulted in two exposure notices last week, as well as the new cases announced on Friday.
After extensive testing of contacts from staff and clients of the boarding home we have had no additional positive cases of the virus and there is no evidence of transmission at the boarding home. As a result, medical travellers can start going home as early as today.
We are also not aware of any transmission due to the emergency room exposure notice. We are contact tracing and asking people to get tested if they were there. Testing can be arranged by calling the COVID hotline, going to the cadet hall walk up clinic or the mobile testing unit around the city.
Regarding schools in Iqaluit, we are expecting test results from swabs taken from classmates and contacts of Cohort B students at Aqsarniit Illiniarvik. If any of these tests come back positive today, we will reassess the school opening in a manner that reduces risk and that allows students to continue their education.
The Department of Health does regular surveillance testing at the schools to help ensure we can track and contain the virus quickly.
This week, youth vaccines will start rolling out across the territory for youth ages 12 to 17. Youth who go to a clinic without a parent will be assessed by the nurse to ensure they are making an informed choice. If the nurse feels parental consent is required, the youth will be asked to come back with a parent. Appointments can be made by calling the health centres. Information on the clinics is also available on the GN website and posted on community social media pages.
Beginning today, individuals who are fully vaccinated no longer need to isolate after travel. This decision was not made lightly. It was taken based on the current evidence and is part of a gradual approach to easing measures that ensures the risks of introduction and spread of the virus are reduced so that we do not inadvertently create a situation where we have multiple outbreaks across the territory.
Our under 18 population is currently unvaccinated. As youth 12-17 get their vaccine and as more adults complete vaccination, the risk of getting and transmitting the virus will drop significantly. In addition, current public health measures including mandatory masks territory-wide will help to reduce risk.
Finally, I would like to encourage everyone to get vaccinated and I urge families to talk to youth about the vaccine so they can make an informed choice. Please make an appointment to get your vaccine, for the health of your family, friends and your community. The higher the uptake of the vaccine, the lower the risk and the better our chances to further ease restrictions and put an end to the threat of COVID-19.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
Vaccine Clinic Schedule
| Arctic Bay (Mass Clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 17 - 18 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
867-439-8873 |
| 2 | July 14 - 16 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
867-439-8873 |
| Arviat (Mass clinic) |
|
|||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Every Saturday starting June 19 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | 867-857-3100 |
| 2 | Every Saturday starting July 10 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | 867-857-3100 |
| Baker Lake (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 24 to 26 | Community Arena | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-793-2816 |
| 2 | July 15 to 17 | Community Arena | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-793-2816 |
| Cambridge Bay (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 28 to 30 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867 983-4500 |
| 2 | July 21 - 23 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867 983-4500 |
| Chesterfield Inlet | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 21 | Health Centre | 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. | 867-898-9968 |
| Clyde River (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 15 to 17 | Quluaq School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-924-6377 |
| 2 | July 6 to 8 | Quluaq School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-924-6377 |
| Coral Harbour (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 22 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-925-9916 |
| 2 | July 13 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-925-9916 |
| Gjoa Haven (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 21 to 22 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-360-7741 |
| 2 | July 15 to 16 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-360-7741 |
| Grise Fiord | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 17 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | 867-980-9923 |
| Igloolik (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 16 to 18 | Community Hall | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-934-2100 |
| 2 | July 7,8 &10 | Community Hall | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-934-2100 |
| Iqaluit (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 16 to 19 | Curling Rink (TBD) | 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Walk-in |
| 2 | July 14 to 17 | Curling Rink (TBD) | 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. | Walk-in |
| Kimmirut | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 18 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
867-939-2217 |
| Kinngait (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 18, 19 and 21 | Small Community Hall (sewing centre) | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-897-8820 |
| 2 | July 12 to 14 | Small Community Hall (sewing centre) | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-897-8820 |
| Kugaaruk (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 18 to 19 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-769-6441 |
| 2 | July 12 to 13 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-769-6441 |
| Kugluktuk (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | July 5 and 6 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-982-4531 |
| 2 | July 27 and 28 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-982-4531 |
| Naujaat (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 16 and 17 | Health Centre | 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-462-9916 |
| 2 | July 7 and 8 | Health Centre | 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-462-9916 |
| Pangnirtung (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 15 to 17 | Community Hall/Hamlet Building | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-473-8977 |
| 2 | July 6 to 8 | Community Hall/Hamlet Building | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-473-8977 |
| Pond Inlet (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 15 to 17 | Nasivvik High School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-899-7500 |
| 2 | July 6 to 8 | Nasivvik High School | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-899-7500 |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 15 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 |
867-927-8916 |
| Rankin Inlet (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 22 | Community Recreation Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-645-8070 |
| 2 | July 13 | Community Recreation Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-645-8070 |
| Resolute Bay | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 17 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 |
867-252-3844 |
| Sanikiluaq | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 19 | New Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-266-8965 |
| 2 | July 10 | New Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-266-8965 |
| Sanirajak | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | Appointments start June 16 | Health Centre | Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 |
867-928-8827 |
| Taloyoak (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 24 to 25 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-561-5111 |
| 2 | July 18 to 19 | Health Centre | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. | 867-561-5111 |
| Whale Cove (Mass clinic) | ||||
| Dose # | Date | Location | Time | Number |
| 1 | June 19 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-896-9916 |
| 2 | July 10 | Health Centre | Noon to 9 p.m. | 867-896-9916 |
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination.
COVID-19 case status: June 14
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 17,063 | 657 | 9 | 644 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: June 14
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 253 | 253 | 0 | 0 | 244 | 9 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 645 | 645 | 0 | 1 | 635 | 9 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: June 14
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 31, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 18,025 | 72% | 15,169 | 62% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 10,564 | 79% | 8,772 | 66% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
391 |
74% | 323 | 61% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 503 | 73% | 450 | 65% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 81 | 84% | 39 | 41% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 543 | 50% | 440 | 40% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,806 | 96% | 4,873 | 81% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 199 | 75% | 166 | 63% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 534 | 58% | 443 | 48% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 689 | 68% | 542 | 54% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 662 | 64% | 552 | 54% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 250 | 59% | 206 | 49% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 197 | 145% | 133 | 98% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 358 | 62% | 287 | 50% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 351 | 64% | 318 | 58% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,641 | 66% | 3,985 | 57% |
| Arviat | 2,918 | 1,696 | 1,273 | 75% | 1,068 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 882 | 60% | 722 | 49% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 208 | 72% | 164 | 57% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 283 | 51% | 243 | 44% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 371 | 57% | 305 | 47% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,450 | 69% | 1,350 | 65% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 174 | 65% | 133 | 50% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,820 | 63% | 2,412 | 54% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 1,050 | 78% | 946 | 70% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 434 | 52% | 368 | 44% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 320 | 49% | 227 | 35% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 586 | 59% | 500 | 50% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 430 | 64% | 371 | 55% |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of June 14, 2021.
The percentage of vaccine administered is vaccine administered divided by the Nunavut population estimate for 18 and older.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be, it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Dose numbers are from the Department of Health’s Meditech system.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: June 14
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 253 | 5024 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 200 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 147 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 645 | 9,147 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of June 14 |
| Medical | 306 |
| Public | 156 |
| EMTI | 34 |
| Construction | 50 |
| Total | 546 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| June 12, 2021 | 36 |
| June 13, 2021 | 31 |
| June 14, 2021 | 75 |
| June 15, 2021 | 72 |
| June 16, 2021 | 47 |
| Total | 261 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of June 14, there were 17,772 requests, 8,836 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 13,958 | 78.5% |
| Denied | 317 | 1.8% |
| Pending | 570 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2,927 | 16.5% |
| Total | 17,772 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - June 7, 2021
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: June 7
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 16,467 | 649 | 1 | 644 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: June 7
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 245 | 245 | 0 | 0 | 244 | 1 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 637 | 637 | 0 | 1 | 635 | 1 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: June 7
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 31, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 17,247 | 69% | 14,949 | 60% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 10,009 | 75% | 8,495 | 64% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
352 |
66% | 335 | 63% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 487 | 71% | 427 | 62% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 72 | 75% | 42 | 47% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 542 | 50% | 422 | 39% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,478 | 91% | 4,615 | 76% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 186 | 70% | 170 | 64% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 527 | 57% | 433 | 47% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 654 | 65% | 568 | 56% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 617 | 60% | 545 | 53% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 239 | 57% | 199 | 47% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 186 | 137% | 127 | 93% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 328 | 57% | 295 | 51% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 341 | 63% | 314 | 58% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,512 | 64% | 4,011 | 55% |
| Arviat | 2,918 | 1,696 | 1,259 | 74% | 1,075 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 845 | 57% | 723 | 49% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 177 | 62% | 159 | 55% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 272 | 49% | 237 | 43% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 333 | 51% | 303 | 47% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,451 | 69% | 1,377 | 66% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 175 | 66% | 137 | 52% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,726 | 60% | 2,443 | 54% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 1,009 | 75% | 921 | 68% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 432 | 52% | 382 | 46% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 287 | 44% | 270 | 42% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 572 | 57% | 491 | 49% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 426 | 64% | 379 | 57% |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of May 31, 2021.
The percentage of vaccine administered is vaccine administered divided by the Nunavut population estimate for 18 and older.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Dose numbers are from the Department of Health’s Meditech system.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: June 3
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 245 | 4528 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 186 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 133 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 637 | 8,623 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of June 4 |
| Medical | 341 |
| Public | 181 |
| EMTI | 31 |
| Construction | 44 |
| Total | 597 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| June 5, 2021 | 4 |
| June 6, 2021 | 29 |
| June 7, 2021 | 55 |
| June 8, 2021 | 40 |
| June 9, 2021 | 64 |
| Total | 192 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of June 7, there were 17,318 requests, 8,619 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 13,530 | 78.0% |
| Denied | 317 | 1.8% |
| Pending | 544 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2,927 | 16.9% |
| Total | 17,318 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 21, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Good morning everyone. I know some of our messages are starting to sound tired and repetitive, but here I go again.
It’s the weekend, it’s sunny, and we’re almost a month and a half into this lockdown in Iqaluit. We’re tired and we want to go back to being able to do everything we could before.
What we’re doing is working – our numbers today are proof of that. But we need to keep going. COVID-19 is still here, and it can spread easily, we all know this.
Please stay focused and safe this weekend, so we can keep those new and active numbers low.
We saw Rankin Inlet, Whale Cove, Sanikiluaq and Arviat pull through with hard work and following the public health measures. Now it’s Iqaluit’s turn.
Please everyone, stay on the right track and don’t take chances. Like Premier said – follow all measures and make safe, responsible choices this weekend.
Thank you for what you’re doing, and for your sacrifices and hard work. Let’s all keep it up.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning.
It has been more than a month since the outbreak in Iqaluit began. The current situation shows that the public health measures in the city, travel restrictions to leave the city, and isolation for those who leave Iqaluit have been effective in preventing the spread of the virus to other communities.
For those reasons, it is safe to ease restrictions in the Baffin Region, except for Iqaluit and Kinngait. Effective Monday, public health measures in the remaining Baffin Communities will be the same as they are in Rankin Inlet. Please see the website for details.
Beginning Tuesday, schools except for those in Iqaluit, will be allowed to open. Qikiqtani schools, except in Sanikiluaq, will implement Stage 2 of the Department of Education’s action plan. Sanikiluaq will go to Stage 1. Schools in Rankin will continue to be Stage 2. All remaining Kivalliq and Kitikmeot communities are at Stage 1. All Qikiqtani schools moving to Stage 2 will be given the flexibility needed to organize this transition.
I want to reinforce the importance of surveillance testing in controlling an outbreak. We use surveillance testing in areas where the risk of exposure to COVID-19 is high. Due to the incubation time of the virus and when people become infectious, surveillance testing may mean that some people are tested more than once. This focused and repeat testing allows us to identify infection early and prevent further spread of the virus. It is one of our best tools in containing an outbreak, which is why we thank all of those who have participated in this program.
For those who wonder if you are screened for COVID-19 infection through the surveillance program, you will not be expected to isolate unless the test is positive. For those who are contacted at home, please participate, as the more people participate, the more effective this surveillance program will be.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 21
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 14,981 | 637 | 45 | 588 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
* There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 21
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 232 | 233 | 0 | 0 | 189 | 44 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 1 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 624 | 625 | 0 | 1 | 579 | 45 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 17
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 10, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 16,720 | 67% | 13,305 | 53% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 9,595 | 72% | 7,065 | 53% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
347 |
65% | 293 | 55% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 482 | 70% | 415 | 60% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 68 | 71% | 41 | 43% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 523 | 48% | 384 | 35% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,189 | 86% | 3,602 | 60% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 178 | 67% | 161 | 61% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 518 | 56% | 349 | 38% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 612 | 61% | 471 | 47% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 605 | 59% | 476 | 46% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 236 | 56% | 182 | 43% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 174 | 128% | 113 | 83% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 328 | 57% | 295 | 51% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 335 | 61% | 283 | 52% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,460 | 64% | 3,859 | 55% |
| Arviat | 2,918 | 1,696 | 1,247 | 74% | 1060 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 834 | 57% | 713 | 48% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 177 | 62% | 159 | 55% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 269 | 49% | 221 | 40% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 325 | 50% | 291 | 45% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,438 | 69% | 1,279 | 61% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 170 | 64% | 136 | 51% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,665 | 59% | 2,381 | 53% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 992 | 73% | 894 | 66% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 410 | 49% | 369 | 44% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 273 | 42% | 256 | 39% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 572 | 57% | 491 | 49% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 418 | 62% | 371 | 55% |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of May 17, 2021.
The percentage of vaccine administered is vaccine administered divided by the Nunavut population estimate for 18 and older.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Dose numbers are from the Department of Health’s Meditech system.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: May 20
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 232 | 3201 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 164 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 94 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 624 | 7235 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 20 |
| Medical | 370 |
| Public | 173 |
| EMTI | 42 |
| Construction | 34 |
| Total | 619 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 21, 2021 | 82 |
| May 22, 2021 | 12 |
| May 23, 2021 | 23 |
| May 24, 2021 | 68 |
| May 25, 2021 | 47 |
| Total | 232 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 21, there were 16,680 requests, 8,253 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,919 | 77.5% |
| Denied | 311 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 523 | 3.1% |
| Common Travel Area | 2,927 | 17.5% |
| Total | 16,680 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 19, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning.
Due to a potential exposure to COVID-19 at the Iqaluit Soup Kitchen, the facility is closed today to allow time for staff to be tested*. Depending on results, the kitchen might reopen tomorrow.
Here in Iqaluit, we will be widening our surveillance testing to include residential buildings that have had more than 1 unit with confirmed COVID-19 cases. Invitations to go for testing will be sent to the people living in those buildings. Tests are voluntary, but If you receive a notice to get a test, I urge you to cooperate. This will help identify cases and reduce the risk of further spread of the virus. We will not be publicly releasing which buildings are being offered this service.
Thank you.
* It has been confirmed that the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre is still providing services with the help of the City of Iqaluit and is now open.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 19
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 14,725 | 634 | 63 | 567 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
* There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 19
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 226 | 230 | 0 | 0 | 168 | 62 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 1 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 618 | 622 | 0 | 1 | 558 | 63 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 17
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 10, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 16,720 | 67% | 13,305 | 53% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 9,595 | 72% | 7,065 | 53% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
347 |
65% | 293 | 55% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 482 | 70% | 415 | 60% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 68 | 71% | 41 | 43% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 523 | 48% | 384 | 35% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,189 | 86% | 3,602 | 60% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 178 | 67% | 161 | 61% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 518 | 56% | 349 | 38% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 612 | 61% | 471 | 47% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 605 | 59% | 476 | 46% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 236 | 56% | 182 | 43% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 174 | 128% | 113 | 83% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 328 | 57% | 295 | 51% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 335 | 61% | 283 | 52% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,460 | 64% | 3,859 | 55% |
| Arviat | 2,918 | 1,696 | 1,247 | 74% | 1060 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 834 | 57% | 713 | 48% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 177 | 62% | 159 | 55% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 269 | 49% | 221 | 40% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 325 | 50% | 291 | 45% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,438 | 69% | 1,279 | 61% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 170 | 64% | 136 | 51% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,665 | 59% | 2,381 | 53% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 992 | 73% | 894 | 66% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 410 | 49% | 369 | 44% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 273 | 42% | 256 | 39% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 572 | 57% | 491 | 49% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 418 | 62% | 371 | 55% |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of May 10, 2021.
Percentage of vaccine administered is of the 18 and older population.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be, it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: May 17
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 220 | 2,924 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 160 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 91 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,889 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 612 | 6,951 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 18 |
| Medical | 387 |
| Public | 191 |
| EMTI | 50 |
| Construction | 34 |
| Total | 662 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 19, 2021 | 64 |
| May 20, 2021 | 95 |
| May 21, 2021 | 54 |
| May 22, 2021 | 82 |
| May 23, 2021 | 21 |
| Total | 316 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 19, there were 16,584 requests, 8,208 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,784 | 77.1% |
| Denied | 311 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 562 | 3.4% |
| Common Travel Area | 2,927 | 17.6% |
| Total | 16,584 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 17, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
On Saturday we announced a new positive case in Kinngait. This new case was found through surveillance testing and was a result of household transmission. All cases in the community have been limited to the same home and all household members are isolating. We did not increase restrictions in the community because the risk of the virus spreading in the community is low at this time.
I also wish to correct a previous announcement on hospital admissions due to COVID-19. There have been 3 individuals admitted to hospitals in Ottawa, 2 remain in hospital and 1 has been released.
This weekend in Iqaluit, we saw recoveries outpace new positive cases. While this is encouraging, it's important to remember that there will be fluctuations in the number of new cases identified. I would like to reiterate that the virus continues to spread in Iqaluit. If we want to contain this, it is essential that we continue to follow the current measures. That is the only way to ensure we stop transmission, flatten the curve and end the outbreak.
I want to also reassure people that medical travel to Iqaluit and back to other communities is low risk. The boarding home and the hospital are taking the appropriate precautions to keep the risk low. As an additional precaution, medical travellers are also required to isolate when they return home to other communities. Delaying necessary medical travel can cause harm.
Finally, we have submitted a request for enough doses of the Pfizer vaccine to vaccinate all teenagers in Nunavut and expect confirmation this week. Once we receive confirmation of the number of doses, we will be in a position to plan and implement roll-out for a portion of our under 18 population.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 17
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 14,493 | 624 | 65 | 555 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 17
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 220 | 220 | 0 | 0 | 156 | 64 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 1 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 612 | 612 | 0 | 1 | 546 | 65 |
Testing stats to date: May 17
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 220 | 2924 |
| Kinngait | 7 | 160 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 91 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 612 | 6,951 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 14 |
| Medical | 412 |
| Public | 205 |
| EMTI | 37 |
| Construction | 41 |
| Total | 695 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 15, 2021 | 7 |
| May 16, 2021 | 44 |
| May 17, 2021 | 54 |
| May 18, 2021 | 93 |
| May 19, 2021 | 89 |
| Total | 287 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 17, there were 16,446 requests, 8,146 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,682 | 77.1% |
| Denied | 311 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 526 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 17.8% |
| Total | 16,446 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 14, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
As we wrap up National Nursing Week, I want to take an opportunity to give my thanks as Minister of Health to all our hardworking nurses. On behalf of all Nunavummiut, thank you for everything, not just in this pandemic, but every day.
We’re heading into our fifth weekend of this lockdown in the capital, and I’m again reminding everyone, in all communities, but especially here in Iqaluit, to please respect all the public health measures in place. All of them.
This means no gatherings, no parties, no excuses to hang out with people outside your household. Don’t be outside without wearing your masks. If your kids are playing out, please ensure they have a mask on. Don’t share cigarettes, drinks, utensils or food.
It’s up to all of us. Please don’t take chances and please think of one another now more than ever.
Let’s be strong, and let’s all be vigilant and careful. We all know what to do, so let’s all stick to the public health measures.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Unsafe gatherings continue to spread COVID-19. Whether it’s parties, children playing outside with friends from other households or visiting in homes, we are seeing continued exposure to COVID-19, continued spread of the virus and more people having to isolate.
Through contact tracing, we identified a gathering of multiple households that resulted in additional cases confirmed in children and three households having to be isolated. As of this morning, we have 264 people in isolation. The more people who must isolate due to exposure to COVID-19, the greater the risk that essential services will be impacted. Isolation also put additional stress and burden on families and the community. Health staff are working hard to help stop the spread of COVID-19, but this will not be successful without everyone’s cooperation.
I also ask for cooperation with surveillance testing. We have had many people refuse swabs because they are afraid of being isolated, or just feel it is unnecessary. Surveillance testing doesn’t mean you will be isolated. Isolation would only be necessary if you test positive for the virus. This is what makes agreeing to surveillance testing so important. If you are asymptomatic and positive for COVID-19 you may be spreading the virus. If you have COVID and do not isolate, you are putting people other people at risk.
I know no one wants to isolate, but it is the best way to contain the spread of COVID-19.
As long as people continue to gather in unsafe ways, the virus will continue to spread.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 14
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 14,110 | 618 | 78 | 536 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 14
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 203 | 215 | 12 | 0 | 137 | 78 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 594 | 606 | 12 | 1 | 527 | 78 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 10
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 10, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 16,426 | 66% | 12,879 | 52% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 9,332 | 70% | 6,687 | 50% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
339 |
64% | 293 | 55% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 474 | 69% | 385 | 56% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 68 | 71% | 41 | 43% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 481 | 44% | 376 | 34% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,016 | 83% | 3,343 | 55% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 178 | 67% | 161 | 61% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 505 | 55% | 316 | 34% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 612 | 61% | 471 | 47% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 602 | 58% | 461 | 45% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 224 | 53% | 163 | 39% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 174 | 128% | 113 | 83% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 328 | 57% | 295 | 51% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 331 | 61% | 261 | 49% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,454 | 64% | 3,845 | 55% |
| Arviat | 29,918 | 1,696 | 1,247 | 74% | 1061 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 828 | 56% | 710 | 48% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 177 | 62% | 159 | 55% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 269 | 49% | 221 | 40% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 325 | 50% | 280 | 43% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,438 | 69% | 1279 | 61% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 170 | 64% | 136 | 51% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,640 | 59% | 2,347 | 52% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 976 | 72% | 866 | 64% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 404 | 48% | 368 | 44% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 273 | 42% | 256 | 39% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 570 | 57% | 486 | 49% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 417 | 62% | 371 | 55% |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of May 10, 2021.
Percentage of vaccine administered is of the 18 and older population.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be, it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: May 12
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 191 | 2,462 |
| Kinngait | 6 | 147 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 75 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 582 | 6,460 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 13 |
| Medical | 383 |
| Public | 219 |
| EMTI | 47 |
| Construction | 28 |
| Total | 677 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 14, 2021 | 58 |
| May 15, 2021 | 7 |
| May 16, 2021 | 47 |
| May 17, 2021 | 55 |
| May 18, 2021 | 89 |
| Total | 256 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 14, there were 16,342 requests, 8,101 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,585 | 77.0% |
| Denied | 311 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 519 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 17.9% |
| Total | 16,342 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 12, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning.
As of this morning, 4 Iqalummiut have been medevaced south. 2 remain in hospital, with 1 in ICU, 2 are recovering in Ottawa and should be able to come home soon. We continue to see spread of the virus in Iqaluit, including some through outdoor contact. If you are getting together with others from outside your household wear a mask and do it outdoors.
If you have attended a party in the last 3 weeks you should be tested for COVID-19. Please contact the hotline at 1-888-975-8601. If you have attended a party, but cannot call or get through, please go to the Cadet Hall, any weekday afternoon, between 2 and 5 in the afternoon. We will test for COVID-19 and help you limit the spread.
I would like to discuss the vaccines used to protect ourselves from COVID-19. These vaccines are very effective against COVID-19 infection. People who get vaccinated are much less likely to become infected, and when they do get infected, they do not get as sick as they would have without the vaccine. In addition to that, there is increasing evidence that people who are vaccinated do not spread the virus as much as people who are not vaccinated.
In short, vaccines are the best protection for ourselves, our family and our communities.
A common question, around the world, is whether or not the COVID-19 vaccines can affect pregnancy. To date, more than 90,000 people have received a vaccine during pregnancy, and both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are safe during pregnancy. They do not cause miscarriages, or birth defects, and they do not make it harder to conceive a child. We do know that the risks of COVID-19 are higher during pregnancy, and since the vaccines are our best protection, I encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated.
Last week, it was announced that the Pfizer vaccine is now approved for use for anyone 12 and older. As a result, we will be arranging to acquire some of this vaccine but are unable to say when this will happen. When the Pfizer vaccine does arrive, we will administer it first in communities experiencing an outbreak or at higher risk of introduction. This is similar to how we approached the first round of vaccinations, and Iqaluit will likely be the first community to have Pfizer vaccine offered to children who are 12 and over. Like the Moderna vaccine this will be voluntary.
Please remember that there are a number of things that all of us can and should do to limit the spread of this virus:
- Maintain distancing and separation.
- Wear a mask when out in public.
- Don’t share utensils or cigarettes.
- If you are sick stay home and call the hotline.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 12
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 13,770 | 594 | 69 | 521 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 12
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 183 | 191 | 8 | 0 | 122 | 69 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 574 | 582 | 8 | 1 | 512 | 69 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 10
| Nunavut Total Population Estimates by Community, as of July 1 2020 | Vaccine uptake Meditech numbers as of May 10, 2021 | |||||
| Total | 18 and over | Done 1 dose | % | Done 2 dose | % | |
| Nunavut | 39,353 | 24,878 | 16,426 | 66% | 12,879 | 52% |
| Qikiqtaaluk Region | 20,822 | 13,359 | 9,332 | 70% | 6,687 | 50% |
|
Arctic Bay |
946 | 530 |
339 |
64% | 293 | 55% |
| Clyde River | 1,192 | 688 | 474 | 69% | 385 | 56% |
| Grise Fiord | 140 | 96 | 68 | 71% | 41 | 43% |
| Igloolik | 1,987 | 1,094 | 481 | 44% | 376 | 34% |
| Iqaluit | 8,284 | 6,049 | 5,016 | 83% | 3,343 | 55% |
| Kimmirut | 427 | 265 | 178 | 67% | 161 | 61% |
| Kinngait | 1,547 | 923 | 505 | 55% | 316 | 34% |
| Pangnirtung | 1,631 | 1,008 | 612 | 61% | 471 | 47% |
| Pond Inlet | 1,794 | 1,031 | 602 | 58% | 461 | 45% |
| Qikiqtarjuaq | 651 | 421 | 224 | 53% | 163 | 39% |
| Resolute Bay | 218 | 136 | 174 | 128% | 113 | 83% |
| Sanikiluaq | 1,014 | 573 | 328 | 57% | 295 | 51% |
| Sanirajak | 1,000 | 545 | 331 | 61% | 261 | 49% |
| Kivalliq Region | 11,388 | 7,011 | 4,454 | 64% | 3,845 | 55% |
| Arviat | 29,918 | 1,696 | 1,247 | 74% | 1061 | 63% |
| Baker Lake | 2,265 | 1,471 | 828 | 56% | 710 | 48% |
| Chesterfield Inlet | 453 | 287 | 177 | 62% | 159 | 55% |
| Coral Harbour | 973 | 554 | 269 | 49% | 221 | 40% |
| Naujaat | 1,270 | 648 | 325 | 50% | 280 | 43% |
| Rankin Inlet | 3,026 | 2,089 | 1,438 | 69% | 1279 | 61% |
| Whale Cove | 483 | 266 | 170 | 64% | 136 | 51% |
| Kitikmeot Region | 7,143 | 4,508 | 2,640 | 59% | 2,347 | 52% |
| Cambridge Bay | 1,902 | 1,352 | 976 | 72% | 866 | 64% |
| Gjoa Haven | 1,398 | 836 | 404 | 48% | 368 | 44% |
| Kugaaruk | 1,180 | 650 | 273 | 42% | 256 | 39% |
| Kugluktuk | 1,517 | 1,000 | 570 | 57% | 486 | 49% |
| Taloyoak | 1,143 | 670 | 417 | 62% | 371 | 55% |
This information shows the number of doses given in a community as of May 10, 2021.
Territorial totals for doses are an accurate summary. The community level data is under review to ensure appropriate attribution. Community totals will be adjusted as needed. This may lead to minor fluctuations in the percentages by community.
Doses are typically attributed to the community in which they are administered.
Total doses given will include residents and non-residents, including rotational workers.
An individual may have received dose 1 and/or dose 2 outside of their community of residence.
This does not account for people who may have been vaccinated partially or fully out of territory.
A high percentage in one community does not equal herd immunity. There is no established or defined percentage of what herd immunity is for COVID-19. Whatever herd immunity may be, it cannot achieved with current vaccine approvals (e.g. no vaccine available for children under twelve).
Source: Statistics Canada, Demography Division, Special tabulations. Prepared by: Nunavut Bureau of Statistics, January 27, 2021.
Eligible adults in community are defined as the number of individuals 18 and older as per the 2020 population estimates.
The community population estimates are "non-official" since they are not based on components of population growth (births, deaths and migration). They should be used with caution.
Testing stats to date: May 12
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 191 | 2,462 |
| Kinngait | 6 | 147 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 75 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 582 | 6,460 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 11 |
| Medical | 391 |
| Public | 211 |
| EMTI | 43 |
| Construction | 21 |
| Total | 665 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 11, 2021 | 82 |
| May 12, 2021 | 65 |
| May 13, 2021 | 43 |
| May 14, 2021 | 51 |
| May 15, 2021 | 3 |
| Total | 244 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 12, there were 16,271 requests, 8,077 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,506 | 76.9% |
| Denied | 311 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 527 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.0% |
| Total | 16,271 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 10, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Over the weekend we made the difficult decision to close the Iqaluit Elders' Home after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, the majority of staff are isolating, which makes it impossible to provide safe, quality care to residents.
Four residents were sent to Embassy West in Ottawa, while two were sent elsewhere in the territory, one of these returned home with family and the other to another elders' facility in Nunavut. Both of these individuals will isolate for 2 weeks. For the person who returned home, their family also must isolate.
Once staffing permits, most residents will be able to return. While the centre is closed, elders who need care will be supported in other facilities either here in the territory or down south, depending on need.
On Saturday we announced that the last individual in Kinngait with active infection has recovered. With this in mind, it is safe to ease restrictions, including lifting the current travel ban in and out of the community, effective Wednesday, May 12. Anyone returning to Kinngait from Iqaluit must continue to isolate for 14 days, along with their households.
Other measures in the community include:
- Masks remain mandatory.
- Indoor private gatherings stay at five people, plus household members.
- Indoor gatherings for public community spaces, including arenas, may allow 50 people or 50 per cent of the facility's capacity, whichever is less.
- Places of worship may allow 25 people or 50% of the capacity.
- Outdoor gatherings up to 50 people with physical distancing are permitted.
- Solo workouts with masks are allowed anywhere fitness sessions are held.
- The health centre may permit a maximum of two visitors from immediate family, per patient. Masks are mandatory for visitors and children aged two to four are encouraged to wear masks.
- Schools move into stage three of the Department of Education plan and daycares may open.
As I continue to urge people to follow public health measures, I would like to remind people to be mindful of habits that present a risk for acquiring COVID-19. Sharing things like cigarettes increases the risk of catching and spreading COVID-19. Being outside, gathering in groups, not being six-feet apart, not wearing masks, are activities that put the entire group at risk from COVID-19.
We must all take the time and think about our actions right now, so we can protect ourselves and those around us.
Thank you.
* Correction regarding Kinngait measures:
- Masks remain mandatory.
- Indoor private gatherings stay at five people, plus household members.
- Indoor gatherings for public community spaces, including arenas, may allow 25 people or 25 per cent of the facility's capacity, whichever is less.
- Places of worship may allow 25 people or 50% of the capacity.
- Outdoor gatherings up to 25 people with physical distancing are permitted.
- Solo workouts with masks are allowed anywhere fitness sessions are held.
- The health centre may permit one visitor from immediate family, per patient. Masks are mandatory for visitors and children aged two to four are encouraged to wear masks.
- Schools move into stage three of the Department of Education plan and daycares may open.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 10
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 13,494 | 572 | 70 | 498 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 10
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 162 | 169 | 7 | 0 | 99 | 70 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 553 | 560 | 7 | 1 | 489 | 70 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 10
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 16,419 | 12,878 | 29,297 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: May 10
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 149 | 1900 |
| Kinngait | 6 | 139 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 46 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 540 | 5,861 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 7 |
| Medical | 412 |
| Public | 224 |
| EMTI | 27 |
| Construction | 31 |
| Total | 694 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 8, 2021 | 2 |
| May 9, 2021 | 25 |
| May 10, 2021 | 80 |
| May 11, 2021 | 79 |
| May 12, 2021 | 66 |
| Total | 252 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 10, there were 16,167 requests, 8,039 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,438 | 77.0% |
| Denied | 311 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 491 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.1% |
| Total | 16,167 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 6, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
On Tuesday, we announced that after screening the boarding home staff and clients for COVID-19 that medical travellers had been cleared to return home. Yesterday, we received questions and concerns about whether it is safe to stay at the boarding home.
It is safe. There have been no COVID-19 cases confirmed in clients from the boarding home. The staff who tested positive and those who are high-risk contacts are in isolation and will not return to work until they have recovered from COVID-19 and been cleared by Public Health to leave isolation.
The boarding home also has processes in place to reduce the risk of COVID-19 including:
- Enhanced cleaning.
- Encouraging guests to isolate in their rooms.
- There are no visitors allowed and current public health measures prohibit visiting around the city.
- Clients are asked to only leave for their appointments or to pick up prescriptions.
- Food and beverages are being delivered to the rooms.
- Nobody is allowed to gather inside.
- Only clients are allowed on the property, and social distancing is required while outside.
- Masks and social distancing are mandatory.
- Staff that are working were not exposed and have tested negative.
If you are a medical traveller who has been cleared for travel from Iqaluit, you are still required to isolate for 14 days. Members of your household must also isolate. This extra layer of safety ensures that the risk of COVID-19 spreading to other communities is as low as possible.
Yesterday, the two cases in Rankin Inlet recovered, were cleared from isolation and were able to return home. As of yesterday, there were 23 cases of COVID-19 at the Baffinland Iron Mine. Staff from the Baffinland Mine will be transferred to the south, to complete their isolation there.
There are currently 10 active cases of COVID-19 at the Baffin Correctional Centre, all individuals are stable and isolating on site. Three individuals have been medevac’d to Ottawa and are under treatment there. No other Nunavummiut have been admitted to hospital due to this outbreak.
I have been very clear in previous statements that it is very important that people follow public health measures.
Visiting and social gatherings are the main causes of spread in Iqaluit right now. These activities put people at risk and will extend the outbreak if they don’t stop.
Gatherings of individuals from different households can expose everyone at the gathering, and everyone they live with to COVID-19. We are asking anyone that has attended a house party in the last three weeks to contact the hotline and request swabbing.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 6
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 13,010 | 552 | 86 | 462 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 6
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 137 | 149 | 12 | 0 | 65 | 84 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 2 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 528 | 540 | 12 | 1 | 453 | 86 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 6
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 16,271 | 12,692 | 28,963 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: May 6
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 149 | 1900 |
| Kinngait | 6 | 139 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 46 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 540 | 5,861 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 5 |
| Medical | 361 |
| Public | 250 |
| EMTI | 41 |
| Construction | 31 |
| Total | 683 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 6, 2021 | 77 |
| May 7, 2021 | 55 |
| May 8, 2021 | 10 |
| May 9, 2021 | 15 |
| May 10, 2021 | 53 |
| Total | 210 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 5, there were 15,985 requests, 7,943 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,230 | 76.5% |
| Denied | 308 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 520 | 3.3% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.3% |
| Total | 15,985 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - May 4, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning.
As announced yesterday there have been cases of COVID-19 infection in the Northwest Territories announced over the last 4 days, and the NWT government has produced a list of events and locations where individuals may have been exposed to COVID-19. To minimize the risk of introducing COVID-19 to more communities in Nunavut we have done the following:
- Anyone who travelled from the NWT to Nunavut on or after April 28 must isolate for 14 days after they left.
- Anyone currently in NWT will need to isolate for 14 days prior to travelling, unless they qualify for an exemption to out of territory isolation.
- Please remember that with the changes in the rules on exemptions and in territory isolation, it is mandatory for the entire household to isolate.
In Iqaluit we continue to track an outbreak of the B.1.1.7 variant. This infection has been spreading through a variety of ways, but with simple basic measures it can be controlled:
- Unless it is part of essential work, do not have visitors into your home, or visit other homes.
- Wear a mask when you are around others who are not part of your household.
- Avoid gatherings.
- As much as possible, maintain distancing of 6 feet.
- Get vaccinated.
I would also like to clarify a comment I made on how far behind the virus we were. These comments were interpreted as meaning that there is a 4 day back log in contact tracing or testing, and neither of these are true. Swabs are analysed either the day they are collected or the next day, with notification of positive results and contact tracing happening within 12 hours. Contact tracing works, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the public health staff who are doing this work, and the individuals who have co-operated with them. Working in partnership we can and will get this under control.
As of Monday, there were a total of eight cases of COVID-19 at the Baffin Correctional Centre. The boarding home cases are confined to staff members. Following the testing of staff and clients, medical travellers were cleared to travel home. As per the current orders, they and their households must isolate for 14 days from the day they returned home.
Further, I want to clarify the new isolation requirements. They apply to households with anyone who has travelled from the south on an exemption, has left Iqaluit since April 7 or who left Yellowknife after April 28 without isolating at the GN isolation hub. The isolation period is 14 days from the day the traveller arrived home. Isolation periods can be extended if there is exposure to COVID-19 during the isolation period and or a positive COVID test.
Over the weekend, we also confirmed an outbreak of COVID-19 at Mary River Mine. The mine has 12 active cases on-site at the moment. All individuals and high-risk contacts are isolating and doing well. All travel to and from the mine has been suspended this week to assess the risk. We are monitoring the situation and if the need arises, are prepared to send support resources. Currently, we are supporting the mine’s outbreak response virtually. There is little risk to Nunavummiut from this outbreak, as there are no Nunavut employees on site and Baffinland’s COVID-19 protocols ensure operations restrict contact with Nunavut communities.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: May 4
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 12,667 | 535 | 85 | 443 | 4 | 8656 | 437 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: May 4
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 125 | 132 | 7 | 0 | 49 | 83 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 2 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 516 | 523 | 7 | 1 | 437 | 85 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: May 4
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 16,144 | 12,568 | 28,712 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: May 4
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 125 | 1408 |
| Kinngait | 6 | 131 |
| Rankin Inlet | 2 | 42 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 339 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 516 | 5,375 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of May 3 |
| Medical | 320 |
| Public | 240 |
| EMTI | 62 |
| Construction | 32 |
| Total | 654 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| May 4, 2021 | 85 |
| May 5, 2021 | 62 |
| May 6, 2021 | 68 |
| May 7, 2021 | 56 |
| May 8, 2021 | 7 |
| Total | 278 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 3, there were 15,840 requests, 7,879 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 12,110 | 76.5% |
| Denied | 308 | 1.9% |
| Pending | 495 | 3.1% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.5% |
| Total | 15,840 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 30, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Good morning. I won’t take too long today, but I do hope people will take what I’m about to say very seriously.
As we catch up to the spread of COVID in Iqaluit, I need everybody to do their part to ensure they aren’t adding to this outbreak.
Stay home. Don’t go visiting. Don’t have visitors over. Don’t socialize outside your household. You should not, under any circumstance, go to or host a party. Do not travel unless it is absolutely necessary. If you need to go out to get groceries, go alone. Any other errands, go alone. Do not leave your house without a mask. And wear it in all public spaces.
The B.1.1.7 COVID variant is more transmissible than the original strain. Please do not take chances with the health of those around you. Get you vaccine, follow the current measures and don’t take chances. It’s that easy. We’re all in this together, and we can only get out of this together too.
This is about public health. Again, stay home and get vaccinated. It’s pretty much that simple. If everyone doesn’t do their part, we could be in this same situation for months, and lose our summer.
Please keep in mind that we cannot vaccinate our children, and we need to protect them. Think about that and act responsibly. Have a safe and responsible weekend.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good Morning.
Earlier this week, we announced that the B.1.1.7 variant has been detected and appears to be the only strain of COVID-19 in Nunavut. As this variant of concern spreads more easily, to limit transmission, we are announcing the following changes to the rules for those granted exemptions. Everyone living in a household of someone who is isolating, including exempted critical workers, anyone who has travelled out of Iqaluit to their home community or those under an isolation order for exposure to COVID-19, will be required to isolate. If you are an essential worker you will be required to follow the same rules as an exempted worker. This means you are only permitted to go to work and then home; wear a mask at all times outside where you are staying; if you cannot find someone to deliver groceries, you can shop once per week during the 14-day period of isolation. If you are not an essential worker, you are required to stay isolated at home. These orders will come into effect Monday, May 3rd.
Through contact tracing, a positive case of COVID-19 has been identified in a staff member at Iqaluit’s Tammaativvik Boarding Home. All residents who were at the boarding home during the exposure period are being notified and tested for the virus. All in-territory medical travel flights departing from Iqaluit were cancelled yesterday to allow us to trace and test all high-risk contacts.
On Tuesday, an inmate was transferred to the Baffin Correctional. As per Correction protocols, the inmate was isolated from the general population and tested. That test came back positive. Additionally, yesterday, three more unrelated cases of COVID-19 infection were identified in inmates. All positive cases are isolating at the Baffin Correctional Centre. The correctional facility took immediate action to have all residents swabbed for COVID-19 and separated into a cohorting system to ensure physical distancing is maintained and to limit transmission.
Also, yesterday, an Iqaluit resident was medivac’d to a southern hospital after developing complications due to COVID-19 infection. The person has been hospitalized and is in stable condition. Out of respect for the individual and their family, we will not be releasing additional information at this time.
The past few days have demonstrated how quickly the situation can change. Our public health teams are working around the clock to track and contain the virus. It is extremely important that everyone follows the public health measures. Wear a mask. Do not gather. Do not visit other homes. If you are sick, stay home. If you have symptoms or are a contact of someone who is COVID-19 positive, call the hotline.
These measures will help contain the virus and keep everyone safe.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 30
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 12,079 | 501 | 67 | 430 | 4 | 8,405 | 504 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 30
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Time period | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | Since 14/04/2021 | 87 | 98 | 11 | 0 | 37 | 61 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | Since 19/04/2021 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | Since 24/04/2021 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Arviat | over |
11/2020 – 04/2021 |
339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over |
11/2020 – 02/2021 |
23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over |
11/2020 – 12/2020 |
2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 478 | 489 | 11 | 1 | 421 | 67 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 30
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 15,856 | 12,395 | 28,251 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 29
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 87 | 1013 |
| Kinngait | 6 | 117 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 21 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 478 | 4,966 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 29 |
| Medical | 336 |
| Public | 244 |
| EMTI | 58 |
| Construction | 46 |
| Total | 684 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 30, 2021 | 44 |
| May 1, 2021 | 3 |
| May 2, 2021 | 59 |
| May 3, 2021 | 89 |
| May 4, 2021 | 82 |
| Total | 277 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of April 30, there were 15,747 requests, 7,846 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,966 | 76.0% |
| Denied | 308 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 546 | 3.5% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.5% |
| Total | 15,747 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 28, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
As you all know, we have dedicated staff working around the clock during this COVID-19 outbreak. They all deserve our thanks and gratitude. What they do not need is verbal abuse or anger.
It has come to my attention that this has been happening to the nurses on the other end of the COVID hotline, and that is unacceptable. These people are working tirelessly for you, for our communities and for the well-being of our territory.
I know many people are worried and scared right now. This is completely normal. And the wait times to get through on the hotline are longer than usual as we deal with this outbreak in Iqaluit.
I’m asking that you show our staff patience, compassion and understanding. They deserve that, at the very least. Your fears and frustrations are not an excuse to mistreat or harass them.
We know this is an imperfect system, and we are working to find solutions and efficiencies. But in the meantime, I’m asking everyone to show care, gratitude and understanding to everyone. They are working hard for you, and that is a selfless job.
Thank you to all staff who continue to dedicate their time and energy to keeping us safe. We appreciate you.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good Morning.
Today we are announcing 6 new cases and 5 recoveries in Iqaluit. In both Kinngait and Rankin Inlet there are 2 cases of active COVID-19 infection. The territorial total is 50 people with active COVID-19.
Earlier this week, we announced that the B.1.1.7 variant has been detected and appears to be the only strain of COVID-19 in Nunavut. Although this variant spreads more easily than the original strain, other jurisdictions have been able to control the spread of this strain with public health measures and vaccination, and these measures will work for Nunavut as well.
Currently, there are increased measures in communities where there is a higher chance of COVID-19 arriving. These are designed so that if COVID-19 arrives it is less likely to spread as fast as it would in other times. Nevertheless, there are many things individuals can do to protect themselves and their community. Limiting the size of group gatherings, wearing masks, especially indoors, and eliminating non-essential travel, protects not only each individual who follows the recommendations, but the community as well.
Experience has shown that contact tracing works to stop transmission. It takes a lot of hard work by a dedicated team of health care professionals. But those professionals depend on the co-operation of everyone who has COVID-19 or has been exposed to COVID-19. It also depends on people being tested, sometimes repeatedly. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who have participated in this important work, including community members who have been exposed, and provided vital information and agreed to being tested.
Lastly, I would like to remind everyone that the time needed for isolation after infection or exposure can vary a lot, depending on the circumstances. For those who have been infected with COVID-19, you will need to isolate for at least 10 days, and only leave isolation when cleared by a public health nurse.
If you’ve been told to isolate because you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 you will need to isolate for at least 14 days. A negative test is reassuring but does not mean that isolation ends early. When isolating you should not go to work or shopping, and if someone in a house is isolating, you should not be having any visitors inside the house.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID-19 Hotline: To determine if you need a COVID-19 test or are a part of the testing notice from the Chartroom, call the COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-975-8601. The nurses will take your information and you will be called when an appointment time is set.
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to:https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 28
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 11,747 | 478 | 50 | 424 | 4 | 8,405 | 504 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 28
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | 71 | 77 | 6 | 0 | 31 | 46 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Arviat | over | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 460 | 466 | 6 | 1 | 415 | 47 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 28
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 15,528 | 12,285 | 27,813 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 28
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 63 | 773 |
| Kinngait | 4 | 99 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 21 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 452 | 4708 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 27 |
| Medical | 330 |
| Public | 243 |
| EMTI | 72 |
| Construction | 46 |
| Total | 691 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 28, 2021 | 57 |
| April 29, 2021 | 89 |
| April 30, 2021 | 38 |
| May 1, 2021 | 3 |
| May 2, 2021 | 50 |
| Total | 237 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of April 28, there were 15,609 requests, 7,794 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,868 | 76.0% |
| Denied | 308 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 506 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.8% |
| Total | 15,609 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 26, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
I think it’s important to start today with a clarification. The individuals who tested positive on Friday night in Rankin Inlet were not even identified as contacts until after their flight had departed Iqaluit.
There is no truth in the rumours that these people left Iqaluit waiting for their COVID test results. It is because of our fast and effective contact tracing system, and our dedicated public health teams that this case was isolated, tested and confirmed so quickly. Thanks again to everyone involved.
So, while I know people in communities are scared, please remember that procedures and public health measures are in place to protect all of us. And this means you need to follow them too.
This week is National Immunization Week, and there’s no time like the present to make an appointment to get your vaccine. If you want to do something to help the fight against COVID-19 in Nunavut, get vaccinated and follow all the public health measures. When we all do our part, we all win in the end.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
A lot has happened since our last update on Friday.
On Friday, we issued an exposure notice for the Canadian North Flight 239 from Iqaluit to Rankin, Yellowknife and Edmonton. I know many communities are worried about the other passengers who travelled on to other communities and I would like to remind everyone that there has not been a confirmed case of transmission on a domestic flight in Canada. Please remember, anyone leaving Iqaluit or Kinngait must isolate at their destination, as this reduces the risk of transmission in the community.
Over the weekend, we issued a testing notice for anyone who was at the Chartroom Lounge on April 14. Anyone who was there on that day, whether they were customers or staff, should call the COVID hotline to schedule testing. We took this step because our contract tracing and testing has identified a higher risk of exposure from that location on that day. It accounts for approximately 20% of current Iqaluit COVID-19 cases.
This weekend we also confirmed the B.1.1.7 variant in some cases in the city and the strain is circulating in Iqaluit. This variant may spread more easily than the original strain of the virus. That increased rate of transmission makes it even more important that people follow the public health measures. Fortunately, our current restrictions are enough to control the spread of the variant if people take the restrictions seriously.
Current research shows that the Moderna vaccine is effective against this variant, so I urge people to continue making appointments and getting their vaccine, it is our best defence against COVID-19.
I want to clarify the travel restrictions in Iqaluit. While we have taken steps to ensure that supply lines and critical travel are not interrupted and made it possible for people to get to their home communities, all intra-territorial non-essential travel in and out of Iqaluit is prohibited with a few exceptions. If you are not a medical traveller, an essential worker or returning to the community you live in, you should not be travelling and could be fined under the orders if you do.
Most of those who are permitted to travel out of Iqaluit under the exemptions categories I mentioned must isolate upon arrival at their final destination. Failure to isolate can also result in fines. Critical workers must isolate as outlined in their work agreements. That means wearing a mask at all times outside where they are staying. They are only permitted to go to work and then home. If they cannot find someone to get groceries for them, they can shop once per week for the 14-day period of isolation.
If you have symptoms, call the COVID hotline for testing. This is vital. People should not be going out or going to work if they are sick. Symptoms are not always severe. They can be a as minor as a sore throat, runny nose, loss of appetite, muscle aches, feeling tired or an upset stomach. More severe symptoms can include loss of taste and smell and fever. If you feel ill, call the health centre or the COVID hotline.
Transmission can also occur before symptoms appear, so if you don't identify and get tested, there is a chance more people could become ill. We all must work together on this. If you're sick, it's not you fault. If you passed it on it's not your fault. The virus is invisible and there is no way of knowing you were exposed to it until you develop symptoms and that can be as long as 14 days from exposure. This is not about blame, it's about protecting our loved ones.
Finally, a reminder that masks are mandatory in Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit and that includes while in cabs. Cabs cannot be shared by people from multiple households.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 26
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 11,484 | 464 | 47 | 413 | 4 | 8,405 | 504 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 26
| Community |
Active COVID-19 transmission |
Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | Ongoing | 54 | 63 | 9 | 0 | 21 | 42 |
| Kinngait | Ongoing | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| Rankin Inlet | Ongoing | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Arviat | over | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | over | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | over | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | over | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 443 | 452 | 9 | 1 | 404 | 47 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 26
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 15,163 | 12,181 | 27,344 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 26
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 63 | 773 |
| Kinngait | 4 | 99 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 21 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 452 | 4708 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 25 |
| Medical | 329 |
| Public | 274 |
| EMTI | 38 |
| Construction | 38 |
| Total | 679 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 24, 2021 | 1 |
| April 25, 2021 | 36 |
| April 26, 2021 | 50 |
| April 27, 2021 | 39 |
| April 28, 2021 | 41 |
| Total | 167 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of April 26, there were 15,451 requests, 7,689 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,749 | 76.0% |
| Denied | 307 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 471 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 18.9% |
| Total | 15,451 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 23, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Today, I’d like to speak very briefly about the importance of the COVID vaccine.
As we continue to offer the Moderna vaccine in communities across the territory, I think it’s important to remind everyone that the vaccine is safe, effective, quick and our very best defense in the fight against the virus.
If you have questions about the vaccine, call your health centre, or visit the Government of Nunavut or Government of Canada websites. All the facts and answers are easily available.
But please, don’t assume that theories on the internet or something you heard from a friend of a friends through social media is accurate. Take the time to research and understand the benefits. Because science is real and this vaccine works.
Being worried or scared is normal, and there are potential, short-term side effects. But they are minimal and pass quickly.
The pros outweigh the cons and this pandemic is too serious not to do what we can.
Nunavummiut, make an appointment if you haven’t already. The vaccines are here and available. Now we need you to do your part.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Today, we have 7 new cases of COVID-19 in Iqaluit and 2 new cases in Kinngait, there are also 8 individuals in Iqaluit who have recovered.
Given the current situation, I am supportive of the decision of the organizers of the Nunavut Quest dogsled race to cancel the event scheduled for April 26.
I realize that this is an event with cultural significance and one the communities involved were looking forward to. However, given the current risk, the organizers have made a decision that reduces the risk of introducing COVID-19 to multiple communities.
I know the pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of many annual and traditional events and activities. This is not easy on any of us, but with the help of all Nunavummiut, through following the public health measures and getting vaccinated, we will get through this.
Following two exposure notices in bars, we have also decided to alter public health measures as they pertain to licensed establishments across the territory. As of Monday, when licensed establishments, such as bars and clubs, and restaurants are open, they will be restricted to 50% capacity. In Kinngait and Iqaluit, these facilities are limited to take out service.
Finally, this afternoon, residents of Iqaluit might notice Iqaluit Public Health doing COVID-19 swabs at the Cadet Hall. This is surveillance testing that has been setup to aid Iqaluit Public Health in its effort to test those who have been advised to be tested and have an appointment. It will allow us to do more swabs, get results faster and expand our reach into lower risk contacts.
Do not go to this location for swabbing if you do not have an appointment. If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601. Those under isolation will continue to have a nurse go to them for swabbing. This is not a public testing site.
Also, if you see people you know in the line, do not assume they have COVID. Testing is an important tool to track the virus and only works if people cooperate and stigma and shame hurt those efforts.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 23
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 10,959 | 441 | 37 | 400 | 4 | 7,493 | 254 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 23
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | 35 | 41 | 7 | 0 | 9 | 33 |
| Kinngait | 2 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 420 | 429 | 9 | 1 | 391 | 37 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 23
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 14,915 | 11,940 | 26,855 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 23
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 42 | 449 |
| Kinngait | 4 | 31 |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 429 | 4316 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 23 |
| Medical | 70 |
| Public | 21 |
| EMTI | 49 |
| Construction | 2 |
| Total | 143 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 23, 2021 | 73 |
| April 24, 2021 | 10 |
| April 25, 2021 | 38 |
| April 26, 2021 | 43 |
| April 27, 2021 | 57 |
| Total | 221 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of April 22, there were 15,368 requests, 7,648 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,613 | 75.6% |
| Denied | 307 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 521 | 3.4% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 19.0% |
| Total | 15,368 | 100% |
Iqaluit Mental Health and Addiction
Due to COVID-19 restrictions in Iqaluit, Iqaluit Mental Health and Addictions (Youth Wellness Team and Greenstone) are shifting their services to telephone or virtual sessions and can be accessed by calling 975-5900. Appointments are usually made for the same day and are first-come first-serve.
Akausisarvik Day Programming will be put on hold until further notice.
Akausisarvik Outpatient services will be limited to medication support and by appointment only, following COVID protocols.
QGH mental health nurses will continue to work following COVID protocols.
COVID-19 GN Update - April 21, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning.
Today we have confirmed one more COVID-19 infection in Iqaluit, and one recovery. Contact tracing continues around the cases in both the city and Kinngait. High-risk contacts have been isolated.
I urge people not to panic or spread rumours. We will announce cases as they are confirmed. There is no need to speculate where COVID is. Rumours only do unnecessary harm to people's mental health and the efforts to control the spread of COVID-19.
There continues to be a lot of questions about testing. If you have concerns about exposure or symptoms call the hotline for advice. For clarity on symptoms, they include sore throat, runny nose, new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, muscle aches, loss of taste and smell, tiredness, fever, or upset stomach.
Vaccines continue to be offered in all communities. Call the health centre in your community or Iqaluit Public Health to make an appointment. If you are on isolation because of circumstances around the current outbreak and are worried about missing your opportunity, don’t worry, there will be vaccines available. As soon as you are off isolation, call and make an appointment.
Yesterday, Arviat's outbreak was officially over, and I congratulate the community on getting to this point.
If in the upcoming days there are no changes to the current risk in Arviat, we will be in a position to announce eased restrictions there on April 26.
Next Monday, Arviat’s restriction will align with the rest of the Kivalliq. That will mean:
- All businesses can open.
- Schools can open.
- Outdoor gatherings will be restricted to 100 people.
- Indoor gatherings will be restricted to a household plus 15 people.
- Individuals must continue to maintain a distance of 2 metres from others in public other than members of their immediate household.
- Indoor gatherings outside of dwellings will be restricted to 15.
- Gatherings in spaces such as community halls and conference spaces will be restricted to 100 or 75% capacity.
- Recreation facilities can open with group sessions limited to 25.
Masks are strongly recommended.
I also want to point to Arviat and the other communities where outbreaks have occurred to demonstrate how following the public health measures works.
If we continue with the model of partnership between public health's work to track, trace and isolate the virus and the public cooperating with the restrictions, we will get through this.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 21
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 10,681 | 429 | 33 | 392 | 4 | 7,493 | 254 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 21
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | 31 | 32 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 31 |
| Kinngait | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 416 | 417 | 1 | 1 | 383 | 33 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 21
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 14,559 | 11,605 | 26,164 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 21
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 32 | 235 |
| Kinngait | 2 | N/A |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 417 | 4071 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 20 |
| Medical | 315 |
| Public | 220 |
| EMTI | 67 |
| Construction | 32 |
| Total | 634 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 21, 2021 | 65 |
| April 22, 2021 | 87 |
| April 23, 2021 | 40 |
| April 24, 2021 | 3 |
| April 25, 2021 | 30 |
| Total | 225 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of April 21, there were 15,205 requests, 7,552 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,523 | 75.8% |
| Denied | 306 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 449 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 19.3% |
| Total | 15,205 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 20, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Good morning. Today, I’d like to take the opportunity to recognize that this this week is Medical Laboratory Professionals Week.
On behalf of the Government of Nunavut, I want to say a huge thank you to our lab staff, who have always worked tirelessly, but have been working around the clock since the start of the pandemic over a year ago. Their work and dedication has been one of the most important steps in our COVID-19 response. Thank you!
I also want to re-iterate some of the things the Premier said. It’s critical that all of us – every single one of us – pay attention and stay strict with the public health measures. We need to do this for our communities, even though it’s hard.
If you are struggling, feeling alone, disconnected or anxious, please reach out to friends, family, the Nunavut Kamatsiaqtut Help Line at 1-800-265-3333 or Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Kataujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council at 1-866-804-2782 or www.inuusiq.com.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good afternoon
Yesterday we confirmed two cases of COVID-19 in Kinngait. While we knew that the two individuals left Iqaluit before the first case in Iqaluit was diagnosed, our initial contact tracing was not able to determine a direct link between these cases and confirmed cases in Iqaluit. This morning we were able to establish a direct link with the outbreak in Iqaluit, however this demonstrates that there is increased risk of introducing COVID-19 infections to other communities in the Baffin region.
As of today, in Kinngait, all non-essential services and government offices must close. Indoor gatherings are limited to a household plus five, for emergency purposes only, and outdoor gatherings are limited to five people. All indoor public gatherings are prohibited. Schools move to Stage 4, and daycares must close.
Beginning tomorrow, all travel in and out of Kinngait, including by land is restricted. Anyone wishing to travel to or from Kinngait, must have clearance from my office. Email CPHOtravelrequests@gov.nu.ca, permission to travel will be limited to essential reasons only.
In the remainder of the Baffin communities, indoor gatherings are restricted to a household plus a maximum of five, from one other household. Indoor gatherings in halls, conference spaces, government offices, Inuit organizations and hamlets are limited to 25 people or 50 per cent of the rated capacity, whichever is less. Outdoor gatherings are limited to 25 people. Schools will move to Stage 3, and daycares may remain open.
The new cases in Kinngait cause concern that there is a greater risk of transmission in Iqaluit. I strongly urge everyone to follow the public health measures, wear a mask in public and stay home as much as possible.
We also have an additional 3 cases today in Iqaluit. All of these new cases are linked to previous cases in Iqaluit.
If you are sick or believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601 to determine if you should be tested. Please do not call the health centres or the hospital unless directed to do so.
Currently, because of travel patterns from Iqaluit, we do not believe there is a need to alter measures in the Kivalliq or Kitikmeot regions. However, out of an abundance of caution, masks are now mandatory in Rankin Inlet.
We are monitoring the situation closely, and we will alter measures in other communities if it becomes necessary.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 20
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 10,549 | 428 | 33 | 391 | 4 | 7,493 | 254 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 20
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | 28 | 31 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 31 |
| Kinngait | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 411 | 416 | 5 | 1 | 382 | 33 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 20
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 14,393 | 11,282 | 25,675 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 20
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 31 | 235 |
| Kinngait | 2 | N/A |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 416 | 4071 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 19 |
| Medical | 632 |
| Public | 220 |
| EMTI | 68 |
| Construction | 78 |
| Total | 728 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 16, 2021 | 33 |
| April 17, 2021 | 4 |
| April 18, 2021 | 53 |
| April 19, 2021 | 26 |
| April 20, 2021 | 63 |
| Total | 179 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of April 19, there were 15,139 requests, 7,510 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,440 | 75.6% |
| Denied | 306 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 466 | 3.1% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 19.3% |
| Total | 15,139 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 16, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Good morning.
A lot has changed in the last 24 hours and we are starting to see a lot of rumors and misinformation on social media sites and the rumour mill.
I want to remind everyone that our government and our territory has been working on this for a year now and we have built solid foundations and practices around COVID-19. We have learned from other outbreaks and trends around the world.
So please, I ask that you listen to what our government is telling you and not the rumors and the false information.
This outbreak has drawn a lot of attention on critical workers, and there are people who are angry and guessing about the identities of individuals. This is unfair, and often untrue.
We have gone over a year with the critical worker exemptions in place, without a case of COVID-19.
Our territory relies on critical and rotational staff for everything from food supply and health care to critical maintenance.
Without this program we would lose vital services and put Nunavummiut at risk.
If it is determined that there was a gap in this system that led to the outbreak in Iqaluit, we will address it.
In the meantime, I want to remind everybody, including the critical workers, that it is important to follow the public health measures. Just don’t put people at risk.
Please, do not treat people differently because of their jobs or circumstances.
We are all in this together and no one wants to be sick or see others sick.
Ensure you are listening to the Government of Nunavut about COVID-19. There will always be rumors and panic. We are here to give you the best, most accurate information.
As always, Nunavummiut, we will get through this. Stay safe.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Today we have confirmed 12 more cases of COVID-19 in Iqaluit. Individuals are isolating and doing well.
It is important that Iqalummiut are aware that while this is a serious situation it is one that we can gain control of, contain and in time, end.
Through contact tracing, it has been determined that there may have been exposure to COVID-19 starting on Thursday, April 8, at Iqaluit’s Storehouse Bar and Grill.
Anyone who was at the Storehouse Bar and Grill on or after April 8, is being asked to self-monitor for the next 14 days.
Anyone who develops symptoms must begin isolating for 14 days and contact the COVID hotline at 888-975-8601 to schedule testing.
Additionally, anyone who has left Iqaluit since April 7 to another Nunavut community is now being asked to isolate for 14 days from the day they left the city. If you have already returned to Iqaluit, you do not have to isolate. If you are on medical travel and have returned to Iqaluit, you do not have to isolate. The isolation measure is meant to prevent introduction of COVID-19 to communities outside of Iqaluit.
If you know you have been in close contact with a positive person, tell Public Health and isolate. By cooperating and doing your part you stop the spread. Quick contact tracing isolates the virus and stops outbreaks.
Limit your contacts. Choose your bubble and stay within it. This will decrease the risks of getting and transmitting the virus any further.
Finally, this virus doesn’t discriminate between one person or another. It has now been close to 14 months since the beginning of this pandemic, and I would like to remind Nunavummiut that individuals who have tested positive so far come from different backgrounds, have different jobs and circumstances.
Putting blame on others doesn’t stop outbreaks. Following public health measures, testing, tracing and isolating stops outbreaks.
Thank you.
* Correction regarding community transmission statement:
Right now we have links between every single case, all of the people that have been diagnosed with COVID-19, they were identified as having been involved in this chain of transmission somewhere, so no, it does not meet the criteria for calling it community transmission.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For information on upcoming vaccine clinics go to: https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: April 16
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 10,163 | 408 | 13 | 391 | 4 | 7,335 | 148 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 16
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | 1 | 13 | +12 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 384 | 396 | 12 | 1 | 382 | 13 |
COVID-19 vaccination status: April 16
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 14,035 | 10,434 | 24,096 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible but might be lower than actual count.
Testing stats to date: April 16
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 13 | N/A |
| Arviat | 339 | 2,883 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 396 | 3,836 |
Testing stats to date per community: April 16
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 15 |
| Medical | 300 |
| Public | 166 |
| EMTI | 68 |
| Construction | 26 |
| Total | 560 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 16, 2021 | 33 |
| April 17, 2021 | 4 |
| April 18, 2021 | 53 |
| April 19, 2021 | 26 |
| April 20, 2021 | 63 |
| Total | 17 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of May 16, there were 15,027 requests, 7,457 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11,321 | 75.3% |
| Denied | 304 | 2.0% |
| Pending | 475 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 19.5% |
| Total | 15,027 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - April 15, 2021
Minister of Health Update:
Good morning.
I know the news of COVID in Iqaluit has people in the city and in the communities concerned.
I want to reassure everyone that we are working hard to identify and contain the virus.
We have planned for this; we are ready for this and we will do everything we can to keep everyone safe.
Please don’t panic.
There is no reason to rush to the store and begin hoarding supplies. We have enough for everyone and our supply chains are not affected.
Hoarding only hurts others.
Please, let’s be kind to each other, help each other and cooperate with public health.
Follow the orders, wear a mask and wash your hands frequently.
Together we will come through this.
Be safe and be well.
Thank you.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Last night at around 8 p.m. we confirmed a positive case of COVID-19 in Iqaluit. The individual is an exempted critical worker who has been in the territory for about 16 days and became symptomatic two days ago. The person was tested yesterday at Iqaluit Public Health. Based on the timeframe, it is likely the individual contracted COVID in Iqaluit and we have a team from Iqaluit Public Health contact tracing to identify any other positive cases of the infection.
Effective 7 a.m. this morning, Iqaluit has been placed under our strictest level of public health measures. All non-essential businesses and government offices must close. Indoor gatherings are restricted to one household plus five people for emergencies only. Outdoor gatherings are limited to five people. All indoor public gatherings are prohibited. All schools in Iqaluit will be closed for the remainder of this week. Masks are mandatory.
Qikiqtani General Hospital is reduced to emergency services only and clinics will be virtual with optional in person visits at the clinician’s discretion. If you have a non-emergency medical need, please call first. More information on service changes is available on the GN website.
Because Iqaluit is a travel hub, travel restrictions would be harmful. To reduce the risks, we have increased restrictions across the Baffin Region and in Rankin Inlet. This means, businesses may remain open but must implement strict social distancing. Indoor gatherings are restricted to a household plus 15 people. Outdoor gatherings are restricted to 100 people. Indoor public gatherings are restricted to 50 people or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less. All schools will move to Stage 2 of the Education plan.
If you left Iqaluit on or after April 13 to another Nunavut community, you must isolate for 14 days in your community.
Vaccine clinics in Iqaluit and in the communities are continuing as scheduled. If you have an appointment already scheduled, please do not call to confirm. Attend your appointment as scheduled, be on time, go alone and wear a mask.
I urge everyone to follow the public health orders. Following the orders, will help us contain and eliminate this outbreak as quickly as possible. I also urge anyone who believes to have been in close contact with the positive individual to immediately isolate and self-monitor for symptoms. If you are identified as a contact by Public Health, please cooperate with the contact tracing protocols.
If you have COVID-19 related questions or believe you might have been exposed or have symptoms, please call the hotline at 867-975-8601 to speak to a nurse. Please reserve calls to health centres and the hospital for emergencies or other medical needs.
Remember, no one wants to get COVID or spread COVID, it is not a time for blame or anger. The best things we can do is follow the orders, wash our hands, stay physically distanced and stay home if you are sick.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: April 15
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 10,090 | 396 | 1 | 391 | 4 | 7,335 | 148 |
* Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 community case statistics: April 15
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Iqaluit | 0 | 1 | +1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 338 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 383 | 384 | 0 | 1 | 382 | 1 |
Testing stats to date per community: April 15
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Iqaluit | 1 | N/A |
| Arviat | 339 | 2716 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 384 | 3669 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of April 14 |
| Medical | 238 |
| Public | 184 |
| EMTI | 74 |
| Construction | 22 |
| Total | 518 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| April 15, 2021 | 92 |
| April 16, 2021 | 42 |
| April 17, 2021 | 2 |
| April 18, 2021 | 54 |
| April 19, 2021 | 33 |
| Total | 223 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of March 18, there were 13636 requests, 6735 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 11008 | 74.8% |
| Denied | 304 | 2.1% |
| Pending | 470 | 3.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 19.9% |
| Total | 14709 | 100% |
Ongoing services:
Iqaluit:
- Vaccine clinics in Iqaluit are continuing as scheduled. If you have an appointment already scheduled, please do not call to confirm. Attend your appointment as scheduled, be on time, go alone and wear a mask.
- Emergency services will remain accessible 24 hours a day.
Baffin (excluding Iqaluit) and Rankin Inlet:
- Dental services will continue as scheduled.
- Vaccine clinics will continue as scheduled.
- Emergency services will remain accessible 24 hours a day.
- Specialty clinics are cancelled.
- Well Child and prenatal/midwifery programs to continue as normal with booked appointments.
- Emergency services will remain accessible 24/7.
- Mental Health and Addictions services to continue. Any group activities will be limited to 20 participants maximum (or 50% capacity of the facility to a maximum of 20).
Adjusted services:
Iqaluit:
- No visitors to the hospital except in special circumstances to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- Visitation to Elder’s Facilities is restricted except in special circumstances to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- Lab services reduced to emergency blood services only.
- Clinics will be virtual with optional in person visits at the clinician’s discretion.
- All requests for COVID screening in asymptomatic individuals will be referred to Public Health. If you believe you need to be screened for COVID-19 call the hotline at 1-867-975-8601.
- Urgent surgery clients will be swabbed before going to the OR.
- Full COVID protocols will be in effect at the hospital;
- If possible, non-emergencies should call before coming to the hospital to be assessed by phone.
- If you have flu-like symptoms and it is not an emergency call the COVID Hotline at 867-975-8601.
- All admitted patients will be swabbed before admission.
- Masks are mandatory.
- Rehab and physio will be available for inpatient only and all outpatient appointments will be postponed.
- Iqaluit mental health clinic will be staffed but offices are not open to the public. Booked counselling appointments will be conducted by phone.
- QGH mental health nurses will continue to work following COVID protocols.
- Mental health services are also available by phone through Ilisaqsivik (Inuit Counsellors). Call 1-888-331-4433 or 867-924-6565.
- Akaususarvik will continue to serve outpatients, COVID protocols in place.
In Iqaluit, essential businesses such as grocery stores can continue to operate. It is essential that people follow the public health measures. This means social distancing of 2 metres or six feet must be adhered to at all times. When size is limited at the business, this could mean reduced capacity. Please be patient and wait your turn. It also means that shopping should be done individually. Avoid shopping in groups. If possible, children should stay home, and one member of a family does the shopping. Masks are mandatory in all public places.
Baffin (excluding Iqaluit) and Rankin Inlet:
- Lab services to be reduced to emergency/urgent specimens only; routine non-urgent/emergent lab to be suspended.
- Chronic disease and routine appointments to be postponed except for those with complex needs.
- All individuals to call the health centre before presenting and all individuals to wear a mask when coming to the health centre.
- Home and Community care services: Home making program will be suspended and only essential home care visits to be conducted. This includes essential nursing and HCCW visits. HCCWs will be conducting wellness checks on home care clients.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Iqaluit:
- Specialty clinics are cancelled.
- Non-urgent medical travel is postponed.
- Routine diagnostic training will be postponed.
- Non-urgent surgery will be postponed.
- All non-emergency dental services are cancelled.
- Upcoming QGH Pediatric and Orthopedic Clinics are cancelled.
- Youth Wellness Team drop-in counselling sessions, afterschool programs, outreach are cancelled.
Baffin (excluding Iqaluit) and Rankin Inlet:
- Non-urgent medical travel is postponed for Iqaluit and Ottawa appointments.
- Lab services will be reduced and all non-urgent blood work postponed.
- All community visits by Iqaluit physicians will be postponed.
COVID-19 GN Update - March 26, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Effective Monday March 29, travel in and out of Arviat will no longer require approval from the CPHO travel team. However, people still under isolation for exposure to COVID-19 are not allowed to travel until their isolation period is complete. It is very important that if you are still required to isolate you do for the full period. This will reduce the risk of further transmission of COVID-19. The community and health teams have worked hard to bring Arviat back to no active cases and if we are diligent, we can reduce the risk of additional cases. Anyone under isolation who breaks isolation, including travel out of the community, is subject to a fine under the Public Health Orders.
This week we surpassed the 50% mark of adults across the territory receiving their first dose of the vaccine. This is great news, but one dose is not enough. As second dose clinics roll out across the territory, I encourage those who received their first dose to get the second shot.
Those who missed their first dose can still call the health centre to make an appointment for the vaccine. It is not too late, and vaccine is available. Out of all the measures that keep us safe, the vaccine is the most effective, and our best protection against COVID-19.
As many know, the Kivalliq Inuit Association will be holding its election in Arviat next month. We will ensure that public health measures do not prevent these kinds of important activities from going forward. To assist elections during the pandemic, we have developed guidelines that will help organizers safely plan and hold elections.
I want to wrap up today on a lighter note. As many know, spring celebrations are right around the corner. To help with these celebrations, we have issued an order that designates the Honorary Toonik and Ollie the Musk Ox as providers of critical services; specifically, the delivery of springtime celebrations, fun and games. This order exempts these important figures from travel restrictions. They will also be allowed to enter dwellings to ensure children are behaving. They do have to practise social distancing.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For the latest information on vaccine clinics in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: March 26
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 9785 | 395 | 0 | 391 | 4 | 7122 | 281 | 19669 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 vaccination status: March 26
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 12884 | 6785 | 19669 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible, but might be lower than actual count.
COVID-19 community case statistics: March 26
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 0 | 1 | 336 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 383 | 383 | 0 | 1 | 380 | 0 |
*Cases acquired out of territory are not reflected in the community case breakdown.
Testing stats to date per community: March 26
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 339 | 2716 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 383 | 3669 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of March 25 |
| Medical | 341 |
| Public | 199 |
| EMTI | 39 |
| Construction | 16 |
| Total | 595 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| March 26, 2021 | 43 |
| March 27, 2021 | 6 |
| March 28, 2021 | 37 |
| March 29, 2021 | 88 |
| March 30, 2021 | 80 |
| Total | 254 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of March 18, there were 13636 requests, 6735 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 10039 | 73.6% |
| Denied | 301 | 2.2% |
| Pending | 369 | 2.7% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 21.5% |
| Total | 13636 | 100% |
*Latest data is unavailable.
COVID-19 GN Update - March 19, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Last week was the official one-year mark since Nunavut and the world began dealing with this pandemic. In that time, a lot has happened and I want to mention a few highlights.
Through effective public health measures, including isolation out of territory, we were able to delay the entry of COVID-19 into the territory. Those first eight months, were invaluable to our planning efforts, which paid off in several areas including:
- Fast and efficient contact tracing and virus containment.
- Improved testing capacity and speed.
- Efficient rapid response and outbreak management.
- A vaccine campaign that by April will have given 75% per cent of Nunavummiut who are 18 and older, an opportunity to receive their shot.
We all knew that preventing COVID-19 from ever entering the territory was not possible but limiting the number of communities that have had to deal with cases is a success.
As of this week, Nunavut received its latest shipment of vaccine allocation in phase one of the federal government’s roll out plan. Since December, 37,5000 doses of the vaccine, enough for 75% of the population have been delivered. As of this morning, 1,1584 Nunavummiut have received their first dose of the vaccine.
I must commend the hard work our teams have done rolling the vaccine out across the territory. By April, every community will have had at least their first dose clinics. For those communities that have completed their second dose clinics, there will be an ongoing opportunity for everyone to get vaccinated. Simply call the health centre.
Those who want the vaccine after the mass vaccine clinics are done will be put on a waitlist and called for an appointment. Due to the vaccine being packaged in 10-dose vials that are only good for 6 hours once punctured, appointments will be scheduled for 10 people at a time to avoid waste. Considering there is a global shortage of the vaccine, we have ethical responsibilities to ensure Nunavummiut are vaccinated as quickly as possible while minimising how much vaccine is wasted.
With the vaccine rollout well underway, many have inquired about what the effect will be on public health measures and when we can begin to see restrictions eased.
The vaccine is very effective and reduces the risk of severe infection and complications from COVID-19. Once all adults in Nunavut have had the opportunity to receive the vaccination, we can once again assess the risk. As in the past, the easing of restrictions will be done gradually to ensure it does not cause a significant risk to health.
Choosing to get the vaccine means that individually, and in time, collectively, we will no longer live with the fear, the harms and restrictions brought by the COVID-19 virus.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
For the latest information on vaccine clinics in Nunavut, go to:https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-vaccination
COVID-19 case status: March 19
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 9548 | 395 | 2 | 389 | 4 | 6997 | 382 | 17997 |
*Confirmed cases include those meeting the national case definitions. Persons followed includes individuals with specific symptoms and exposures as well as others who are self-monitoring or self-isolated. Not all of these individuals have symptoms or require testing.
*There may be a delay reporting attribution and statistics from cases acquired in Southern Canada. 12 cases that were detected out of territory have been attributed to Nunavut. This includes 3 deaths. Not all NU residents with COVID-19 detected out of territory will be attributed to Nunavut.
COVID-19 vaccination status: March 19
| First doses administered | Second doses administered | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 11584 | 6413 | 17997 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible, but might be lower than actual count.
COVID-19 community case statistics: March 19
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 339 | 339 | 2 | 1 | 336 | 2 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 383 | 383 | 2 | 1 | 380 | 2 |
*Cases acquired out of territory are not reflected in the community case breakdown.
Testing stats to date per community: Jan. 25
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 339 | 2657 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 352 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 383 | 3610 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of March 18 |
| Medical | 297 |
| Public | 210 |
| EMTI | 48 |
| Construction | 22 |
| Total | 577 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| March 19, 2021 | 46 |
| March 20, 2021 | 0 |
| March 21, 2021 | 15 |
| March 22, 2021 | 72 |
| March 23, 2021 | 73 |
| Total | 226 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of March 18 there were 13636 requests, 6735 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 100398 | 73.6% |
| Denied | 301 | 2.2% |
| Pending | 369 | 2.7% |
| Common Travel Area | 2927 | 21.5% |
| Total | 13636 | 100% |
*Latest data is unavailable.
COVID-19 GN Update - January 25, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
I want to start off by stressing the importance of following public health measures. Keeping gatherings small, avoiding visiting multiple households, and limiting the number of households your visitors are from, reduces the risk that this virus will spread if someone catches it.
Current information suggests that the new cases of COVID-19 in Arviat are all linked to gatherings in homes. We have found no evidence of the infection coming from an outside location.
With multiple households now involved, we have had no choice but to increase public health restrictions. This means:
- Air and land travel to and from Arviat is restricted. Anyone leaving or entering the community needs authorization from the CPHO.
- All non-essential workplaces, including non-essential government offices, are closed until further notice.
- There shall be no outdoor public gathering and nor public gatherings indoors.
- Visitors to homes are restricted to five people plus the occupants for emergencies only.
- Schools are closed.
We are also asking anyone who has travelled from Arviat since January 19 to self-monitor for symptoms for the next 14 days. We also ask these people to contact the health centre in the community they are in to help with contact tracing and monitoring.
Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms is asked to contact Nunavut’s COVID-19 hotline immediately for instructions. The number is 1-888-975-8601.
For the time being, restrictions in other communities will remain the same. However, we will be actively monitoring the situation and if we identify increased risk outside of Arviat we will consider changing restrictions in other communities. At this time, there have been no high-risk contacts identified who are outside of Arviat.
To help reduce the risk to other communities, medical travel from Arviat to Iqaluit and Rankin is suspended for the time being. Appointments that can be done virtually will be and those patients that require an appointment will be sent to Winnipeg. Medical travellers returning to Arviat from Southern Canada will be given the option to remain in isolation while the outbreak is being managed.
I urge everyone in Arviat to follow the restrictions even if you were recently vaccinated. It has been too soon since the vaccine was delivered in Arviat for those who received it to have developed the protection. It takes about two weeks before the first dose provides about 80% protection from developing serious infection. The second dose increases that percentage to 94%. We also do not yet know if the vaccine stops transmission.
Anyone 18 or over who missed the first vaccine clinic in Arviat can call the health centre to make an appointment.
I want to assure everyone that health staff are working hard to help contain this latest outbreak and I urge people to cooperate with contact tracing and isolation efforts. Rapid Response team members are assisting the eight nurses in the community both virtually and on the ground.
To conclude I want to announce three more vaccine clinics coming up in Naujaat, Kinngait, and Sanikiluaq.
Sanikiluaq will be held Feb. 8 and 9 at Paatsaali High School.
Naujaat will hold its clinic at Tusarvik School on February 15 and 16.
Kingait will hold its clinic at the Community Hall from February 22 to 24.
All clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Call your health centre to make an appointment.
Additional clinic dates will be announced this week.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
Arviat Health centre
Health centre will continue to operate, but clients are asked to call before attending to ensure proper screening and physical distancing. Hours of operation are subject to change to meet operational staffing requirements.
Upcoming Community Vaccine Clinics
Elders’ Facility clinics in communities will be focused clinics with health staff going on site to administer the vaccine. Health staff will reach out to the Elder’s facilities directly for the vaccination times and dates.
Iqaluit Public Health Clinic 1
- Location: Iqaluit Public Health, building 1091.
- Priority group 1: Elders 65+ and shelter residents,
Priority group 2: frontline healthcare providers and first responders, medevac flight crews, residents and staff of group homes, the Akausisarvik Mental Health Treatment Centre, and residents and staff at correctional facilities. - Date (1st dose): Jan. 25-29.
- Time: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Iqaluit Hospital Clinic 2
- Location: QGH clinic side.
- Priority group 1: Elders 65+ and shelter residents
Priority group 2: frontline healthcare providers and first responders, medevac flight crews, residents and staff of group homes, the Akausisarvik Mental Health Treatment Centre, and residents and staff at correctional facilities. - Date (1st dose): Jan. 30.
- Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Baker Lake
- Location: Jonah Amitnaaq School.
- Priority populations 45+ age group.
- Date (1st Dose): January 25-27.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-793-2816.
Kugaaruk
- Location: Arviligruaq Ilinniarvik school.l
- Date (1st dose): February 4-5.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call: 867-769-6441.
Sanikiluaq
- Location: Paatsaali High School.
- Date (1st dose): February 8-9.
- Time: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call: 867-226-8965.
Naujaat
- Location: Tusarvik School.
- Date (1st dose): February 15-16.
- Time: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call: 867-462-9916.
Kingait
- Location: Community Hall.
- Date (1st dose): February 22-24.
- Time: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call: 867-897-8820.
Igloolik
- Location: Iglulik High School.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 1-2.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: walk-in clinic.
Iqaluit Elder’s Home
- Location: Elders Home.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 3.
Gjoa Haven
- Location: Qiqirtaq High School
- Date (2nd Dose): February 8-9.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-360-7441.
Whale Cove
- Location: Inuglak School.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 15-16.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-896-9916.
Rankin Inlet
- Location: Singiituq Complex Community Hall.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 15-18.
- Time: 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-645-8070.
Chesterfield Inlet
- Location: Victor Sammurtok School.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 19-20.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-898-9968.
Iqaluit Public Health Clinic 1
- Location: Iqaluit Public Health, building 1091.
- Priority populations 65+ age group and shelter residents.
- Date (2nd dose): Pending.
- Time: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Iqaluit Hospital Clinic 2
- Location: QGH clinic side.
- Priority populations 65+ age group and shelter residents.
- Date (2nd dose): Pending.
- Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment.
- Call 867-975-4810.
COVID-19 case status: Jan. 25
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 7382 | 282 | 17 | 264 | 1 | 6306 | 362 | 4458 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible, but might be lower than actual count.
COVID-19 community case statistics: Jan. 25
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 236 | 238 | 2 | 1 | 220 | 17 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 280 | 282 | 2 | 1 | 264 | 17 |
Testing stats to date per community: Jan. 25
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 238 | 1538 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 304 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 282 | 2443 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Jan. 24 |
| Medical | 295 |
| Public | 335 |
| EMTI | 25 |
| Construction | 115 |
| Total | 770 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| Jan 23 2021 | 18 |
| Jan 24 2021 | 26 |
| Jan 25 2021 | 148 |
| Jan 26 2021 | 34 |
| Jan 27 2021 | 114 |
| Total | 340 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Jan. 13 there were 11010 requests, 5274 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 7481 | 67.9% |
| Denied | 297 | 2.7% |
| Pending | 328 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area | 2904 | 26.4% |
| Total | 11010 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - January 14, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
I would like to clarify the upcoming delivery schedule of the Moderna vaccine as new information has been confirmed. Deliveries of vaccine doses are expected today in Iqaluit and tomorrow in Rankin Inlet of 3000 doses each. Another 6000 doses are expected the week of February 1. That is in addition to the 6000 doses received in December. That means that by early February, Nunavut will have received 18,000 of the 37,500 doses of vaccine allocated to Nunavut.
We can now confirm additional clinic dates for Rankin Inlet, Whale Cove, Chesterfield Inlet and Baker Lake.
Rankin Inlet’s clinic will be held from January 18 to January 21 at the community hall.
Whale Cove will hold its clinic on January 19 and 20 at Inuglak School.
Chesterfield Inlet will hold its clinics on January 22 and January 23 at Victor Sammurtok School.
Baker Lake will be holding priority population clinics from January 25 to January 27 at Jonah Amitnaaq School. Priority populations include elders aged 65 and over and healthcare staff. Depending on available vaccine, the eligible populations for clinics in Baker Lake might be expanded.
Most clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to 8p.m. and appointments can be made by contacting your health centre. This information is also found on the GN’s website at www.gov.nu.ca.
We have decided to focus the next round of clinics on the Kivalliq Region for a number of reasons. The Kivalliq region is more reliant on travel south for medical travel than the other two regions. This means that the risks of exposure to COVID-19 for Kivallirmiut or introducing COVID-19 into the region are higher. The Kivalliq Region has also had active COVID-19 outbreaks.
Since this is our last scheduled press conference for the time being, future clinic dates will be announced by Public Service Announcement, through social media, local radio and on the government’s website.
In closing, I would like to take a moment to let the communities of Gjoa Haven and Igloolik know that their second dose clinics will be February 1 and 2 in Igloolik and February 8 and 9 in Gjoa Haven. Again, I want to reassure everyone that the vaccine is safe and I encourage Igloolik and Gjoa Haven residents to take advantage of the second clinics to get vaccinated.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
Upcoming Community Vaccine Clinics
Elders’ Facility clinics in communities will be focused clinics with health staff going on site to administer the vaccine. Health staff will reach out to the Elder’s facilities directly for the vaccination times and dates.
Rankin Inlet
- Location: Singiituq Complex Community Hall.
- Date (1st Dose): January 18-21.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 15-18.
- Time: 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-645-8070.
Iqaluit Public Health Clinic 1
- Location: Iqaluit Public Health, building 1091.
- Priority populations 65+ age group and shelter residents.
- Date (1st Dose): January 18-22.
- Date (2nd dose): Pending.
- Time: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Iqaluit Hospital Clinic 2
- Location: QGH clinic side.
- Priority populations 65+ age group and shelter residents.
- Date (1st Dose): January 23.
- Date (2nd dose): Pending.
- Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Whale Cove
- Location: Inuglak School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 19-20.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 15-16.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-896-9916.
Chesterfield Inlet
- Location: Victor Sammurtok School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 22-23.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 19-20.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-898-9968.
Baker Lake
- Location: Jonah Amitnaaq School.
- Priority populations 65+ age group.
- Date (1st Dose): January 25-27.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-793-2816.
Igloolik
- Location: Iglulik High School.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 1-2.
- Time: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: walk-in clinic.
Iqaluit Elder’s Home
- Location: Elders Home.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 3.
Gjoa Haven
- Location: Qiqirtaq High School
- Date (2nd Dose): February 8-9.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-360-7441.
COVID-19 case status: Jan. 14
| Total Tests | Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed | Total vaccine doses administered |
| 6477 | 266 | 0 | 265 | 1 | 5999 | 328 | 521 |
*Total vaccine administered is updated as regularly as possible, but might be lower than actual count.
COVID-19 community case statistics: Jan. 14
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 222 | 222 | 0 | 1 | 221 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 266 | 0 | 1 | 265 | 0 |
Testing stats to date per community: Jan. 14
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 222 | 1378 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 294 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 2273 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Jan. 13 |
| Medical | 290 |
| Public | 507 |
| EMTI | 20 |
| Construction | 112 |
| Total | 929 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| Jan 14 2021 | 83 |
| Jan 15 2021 | 24 |
| Jan 16 2021 | 6 |
| Jan 17 2021 | 10 |
| Jan 18 2021 | 154 |
| Total | 281 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Jan. 13 there were 11010 requests, 5274 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 7481 | 67.9% |
| Denied | 297 | 2.7% |
| Pending | 328 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area | 2904 | 26.4% |
| Total | 10939 | 100% |
*Latest data is unavailable.
COVID-19 GN Update - January 12, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Yesterday, the first of our community vaccination clinics began in Igloolik and Gjoa Haven and another will start in Arviat and Cambridge Bay on Thursday. I commend the hard work health staff have done to organize and execute these clinics.
I want to recognize all Nunavummiut who have taken the opportunity to receive their vaccination. It is our best protection against COVID-19. Since announcing the vaccine’s arrival in Nunavut, we heard concerns from some communities regarding the safety of the vaccine. In response, we held community call in shows to give those who were hesitant a chance to ask questions. I want to thank all those who took the time to ask questions and learn about the vaccine so they are comfortable rolling up their sleeve.
I will tell everyone watching today the same thing I told Nunavummiut who called into those shows, the vaccine is safe and has been extensively tested. I can tell you between the vaccinations in those communities and at the long-term care centre in Iqaluit, we have not seen any serious adverse reactions.
Now that we know that a vaccine shipment of 6000 doses will arrive the week of February 15, we have moved ahead with additional clinic planning. On January 18 we will begin vaccinating priority groups in Iqaluit. Starting with elders 65 and over as well as anyone living in a shelter. We will be doing this by appointment. People in the priority grouping can call Iqaluit Public Health 867-975-4810 for an appointment. Clinics will be held at Iqaluit Public Health, building 1091, on Monday, January 18 to Friday, January 22 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Qikiqtani General Hospital clinics side Saturday, January 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
I know other communities are eager to know when they will be scheduled for vaccination clinics and we plan to release additional clinic dates in the coming days.
It has been more than two weeks since the last active case was reported in Whale Cove and Arviat. Public health restrictions in both communities have been eased. We are not yet at a point that we can declare the outbreak over, but we do believe it is safe to resume some activities. This includes an increase in gathering sizes and a return to a combination of remote and in-school learning. Daycares can also open with enhanced cleaning protocols. I know some have expressed concerns at re-opening the schools at this point. This is understandable, however evidence shows that schools can open according to the safety protocols in place. Reducing the unintended consequences that COVID-19 restrictions can have, especially on young Nunavummiut and their learning is as important as following the public health measures that aim to reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
Upcoming Community Vaccine Clinics
Elders’ Facility clinics in communities will be focused clinics with health staff going on site to administer the vaccine. Health staff will reach out to the Elder’s facilities directly for the vaccination times and dates.
Igloolik mass clinic
- Location: Igloolik High School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 11 and 12.
- Date (2nd Dose) February 8–9.
- Time: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: walk-in clinic.
Gjoa Haven mass clinic
- Location: Qiqirtaq High School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 11 and 12.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 8–9.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-360-7441.
Arviat
- Location: Community Hall.
- Date (1st Dose): January 14 to 18 (excluding Sunday).
- Date (2nd dose): Feb 11-15.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-857-3100.
Cambridge Bay mass clinic
- Location: Cambridge Bay Community Hall.
- Date (1st Dose): January 14 to 16 (inclusive).
- Date (2nd Dose): February 11-13.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-983-4500.
Iqaluit Public Health Clinic 1
- Location: Iqaluit Public Health, building 1091.
- Date (1st Dose): January 18 to 22.
- Date (2nd dose): Pending.
- Time: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment. By appointment, Elders 65+ and shelter residents only.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Iqaluit Hospital Clinic 2
- Location: QGH clinic side.
- Date (1st Dose): Jan. 23.
- Date (2nd dose): Pending.
- Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Clinic type: by appointment. By appointment, Elders 65+ and shelter residents only.
- Call 867-975-4810.
Iqaluit Elder’s Home
- Location: Elders Home.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 3.
COVID-19 case status: Jan. 12
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 266 | 0 | 265 | 1 | 5925 | 361 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Jan. 12
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 222 | 222 | 0 | 1 | 221 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 266 | 0 | 1 | 265 | 0 |
Testing stats to date per community: Jan. 12
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 222 | 1329 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 294 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 2224 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Jan. 11 |
| Medical | 151 |
| Public | 92 |
| EMTI | 7 |
| Construction | 17 |
| 620 | 267 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| Jan 12 2021 | 21 |
| Jan 13 2021 | 60 |
| Jan 14 2021 | 60 |
| Jan 15 2021 | 22 |
| Jan 16 2021 | 4 |
| Total | 167 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of January 6, there were 10757 requests, 7231 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 7231 | 67.2% |
| Denied | 294 | 2.7% |
| Pending | 335 | 3.1% |
| Common Travel Area | 2896 | 26.9% |
| Total | 10756 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - January 7, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Yesterday Nunavut administered its first vaccinations. Public Health nurses vaccinated 21 of the 28 residents and staff from the Elders’ Home. Another eight doses were administered to Iqaluit Public Health staff. Iqaluit Public Health reported that the vaccinations went well and there were no reported problems.
This is great news. This means the Elders’ facility in Iqaluit is one step closer to protection from COVID-19 and one step closer to their family and friends being able to visit without restriction or worry.
We are very excited to be extending opportunity to receive the vaccine to all adults in Igloolik, Gjoa Haven, Arviat and Cambridge Bay, beginning next week.
Additional clinics will be scheduled once the date and the number of doses for the next shipment are confirmed. This will allow us to provide Nunavummiut with set dates and locations for the next clinics and to adjust our strategy if for some reason we do not receive the amount of vaccines expected.
That is why we are focusing on getting as many people vaccinated with the doses we have, starting in communities with higher risks populations, such as elders’ facilities, communities where there is a greater risk of introducing and spreading COVID-19 both locally and in adjacent communities. Each clinic will give all adults and health care providers in those communities an opportunity to receive their vaccination.
We will keep Nunavummiut informed regarding the progress of our vaccine delivery, the schedules for each clinic and the number of vaccines that have been administered. I would also like to reassure Nunavummiut that the Moderna vaccine is safe. I know that there are a lot of rumours that create confusion, but the only firm reason not to take this vaccine is if you have an allergy to one of the ingredients. If you have had TB, or cancer, the vaccine is still safe and appropriate.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
Upcoming Community Vaccine Clinics
Elders’ Facility clinics in communities will be focused clinics with health staff going on site to administer the vaccine. Health staff will reach out to the Elder’s facilities directly for the vaccination times and dates.
Arviat (change of location)
- Location: Community Hall.
- Date (1st Dose): January 14 to 18 (excluding Sunday).
- Date (2nd dose) Feb 11-15.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Appointment system: Yes.
- Call 867-857-3100
Iqaluit Elder’s Home
- Location: Elders Home.
- Date (1st Dose): January 6.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 3.
Igloolik mass clinic
- Location: Igloolik High School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 11 and 12.
- Date (2nd Dose) February 8–9.
- Time: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: walk-in clinic.
- Call 867-934-2100.
Gjoa Haven mass clinic
- Location: Qiqirtaq High School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 11 and 12.
- Date (2nd Dose) February 8–9.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-360-7441.
Cambridge Bay mass clinic
- Location: site to be determined
- Date (1st Dose): January 14 to 16 (inclusive).
- Date (2nd Dose): February 11-13.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-983-4500.
COVID-19 case status: Jan. 7
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 266 | 0 | 265 | 1 | 5847 | 388 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Jan. 7
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 222 | 222 | 0 | 1 | 221 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 266 | 0 | 1 | 265 | 0 |
Testing stats to date per community: Jan. 7
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 222 | 1274 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 289 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 399 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 2164 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Jan. 04 |
| Medical | 167 |
| Public | 377 |
| EMTI | 13 |
| Construction | 63 |
| 620 | 481 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| Jan 07 2021 | 52 |
| Jan 08 2021 | 11 |
| Jan 09 2021 | 7 |
| Jan 10 2021 | 4 |
| Jan 11 2021 | 0 |
| Total | 74 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Jan.7 there were 10757 requests, 7231 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 7231 | 67.2% |
| Denied | 294 | 2.7% |
| Pending | 335 | 3.1% |
| Common Travel Area | 2896 | 26.9% |
| Total | 10756 | 100% |
Nunavummiut’s health is our shared responsibility! Remember: wash your hands and surfaces, practice social distancing, listen to the advice of health officials, and stay home if you’re sick.
COVID-19 GN Update - January 5, 2021
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Last week, Nunavut received its first vaccine shipments. On December 30, 3000 doses of the Moderna vaccine were shipped to Iqaluit and another 3000 to Rankin Inlet. This is a major milestone along Nunavut's Path and one that we are excited about. Immunization is voluntary, but I do encourage as many eligible Nunavummiut as possible take the vaccine. It is currently the best protection Nunavummiut can have against COVID-19.
The Moderna vaccine requires two doses be administered between 28 and 30 days apart. The initial 6000 doses of the vaccine will allow us to begin immunization of 3,000 Nunavummiut. This will ensure that the necessary doses are available if the second shipment of vaccine expected later this month, is delayed.
Our roll-out strategy combines focused vaccinations and community-wide clinics. Focused vaccinations will have nurses go into Elders facilities to provide the immunizations, while community clinics will be held as either walk-in clinics or by appointment depending on the community. Front line staff working in Elders facilities will also receive the vaccine. Nurses from the health centre with assistance from a team of contract nurses will administer the vaccinations.
Immunizations will begin this week at the Elders' facility in Iqaluit, on January 6.
The week of January 11, appointment-based community-wide immunization clinics and focused vaccinations in Elders facilities will start in Gjoa Haven, Igloolik, Arviat and Cambridge Bay. Gjoa Haven and Igloolik are scheduled for January 11 and 12. Arviat is scheduled for January 14 to 18 excluding Sunday. Cambridge Bay will be January 14 to 16 inclusively. Residents in those communities are asked to call their respective health centre to book an appointment.
Arviat's timing is because the nurses who conduct the clinics there may have to isolate for 14 days after they leave due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
Community-wide clinics will for the most part be held at facilities such as school gymnasiums and community halls, with protocols to ensure physical distancing, proper use of masks and other PPE and enhanced cleaning protocols. Health staff have engaged with community partners in Gjoa Haven, Igloolik, Arviat and Cambridge Bay to ensure the protocols are implemented.
Additional clinics will be held based on the number of doses we will receive from future federal government shipments and on the number of remaining doses from previous clinics. Nunavut should receive enough vaccines between now and the end of march to vaccinate 75% of the adult population, approximately 19,000 people.
I know there have been concerns raised about the vaccine, but I assure everyone it is safe. mRNA vaccines, such as Moderna, have been under development for more than 20 years. The clinical trials for Moderna alone had 30,000 participants from a broad range of population types, including Elders and those with underlying health conditions. It cannot give you COVID-19 and the side-affects are what you would expect from any other vaccine. If you are unsure if you should take the vaccine, please reach out to the health centre for guidance.
The vaccine is 94% effective at preventing COVID-19 or preventing serious infection due to COVID-19.
Currently, the Moderna vaccine is not approved for anyone under the age of 18 but clinical trials are underway. We will keep Nunavummiut informed of any new vaccine developments in the coming weeks and months. For more information regarding vaccines and upcoming clinics, go to the Government of Nunavut website and visit the health department’s COVID-19 vaccination page. For general vaccine information, Nunavummiut can also contact the COVID-19 hotline and select the option to speak to a nurse.
I would also like to speak to the progress the territory has made in the past weeks to stop the spread of COVID-19. As of December 30, the outbreak in Rankin Inlet is over and restrictions in that community have eased. While the outbreaks in both Whale Cove and Arviat are still active, we currently have no active cases. I encourage Nunavummiut to continue following the public health orders to help us keep the numbers trending in the right direction.
Finally, I want to recognize all the people in the Government of Nunavut who spent the time over the Holiday Closure working to ensure the safe delivery and storage of the vaccine, organizing clinics, managing the ongoing outbreaks and making sure everyone stayed informed. Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
Upcoming Community Vaccine Clinics
Elders’ Facility clinics in communities will be focused clinics with health staff going on site to administer the vaccine. Health staff will reach out to the Elder’s facilities directly for the vaccination times and dates.
Iqaluit Elder’s Home
- Location: Elders Home.
- Date (1st Dose): January 6.
- Date (2nd Dose): February 3.
Igloolik mass clinic
- Location: Igloolik High School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 11 and 12.
- Date (2nd Dose) February 8–9.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-934-2100.
Gjoa Haven mass clinic
- Location: Qiqirtaq High School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 11 and 12.
- Date (2nd Dose) February 8–9.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-360-7441.
Arviat mass clinic
- Location: Qitiqliq School.
- Date (1st Dose): January 14 to 18 (excluding Sunday).
- Date (2nd dose) February 11-15.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-850-3100.
Cambridge Bay mass clinic
- Location: site to be determined
- Date (1st Dose): January 14 to 16 (inclusive).
- Date (2nd Dose): February 11-13.
- Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Clinic Type: by appointment.
- Call 867-983-4500.
COVID-19 case status: Jan. 5
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Deaths | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 266 | 0 | 265 | 1 | 5738 | 431 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Jan. 5
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Deaths | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 222 | 222 | 0 | 1 | 221 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 266 | 0 | 1 | 265 | 0 |
Testing stats to date per community: Jan. 5
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 222 | 1450 |
| Whale Cove | 23 | 266 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 390 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 202 |
| TOTAL | 266 | 2308 |
Isolation population:
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Jan. 04 |
| Medical | 157 |
| Public | 281 |
| EMTI | 9 |
| Total | 481 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| Jan 05 2021 | 12 |
| Jan 06 2021 | 39 |
| Jan 07 2021 | 54 |
| Jan 08 2021 | 10 |
| Jan 09 2021 | 3 |
| Total | 118 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Jan.5 there were 10623 requests, 5075 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 7138 | 67.0% |
| Denied | 294 | 2.8% |
| Pending | 294 | 2.8% |
| Common Travel Area | 2896 | 30% |
| Total | 10622 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - December 18, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Today, I am happy to announce that the outbreak in Sanikiluaq is officially over. This is good news, and both the community, and the health staff deserve recognition for getting to this point.
That being said, I urge everyone in Sanikiluaq and across the territory to continue to be diligent about following the public health measures. This will be especially important as we head into the Christmas season when gatherings become more common.
After assessing the outbreak situation in Arviat and considering that there are still people in isolation in Rankin Inlet and Whale Cove, I have decided that it is not yet time to loosen the Public Health restrictions. Current measures in all communities will remain the same until further notice.
As we move into the holidays, we are eagerly awaiting the first shipment of vaccine to come to Nunavut. It is expected that Canada will approve the Moderna vaccine for use in the coming days and the federal government has indicated we should expect to receive doses soon after that.
We don’t yet know when shipments of vaccine will come or how much of the vaccine those shipments will include, however, we have several rollout scenarios planned, and they will be deployed depending on when and how much vaccine we receive.
I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that the vaccine is safe. It has undergone all necessary trials, has been tested on 30,000 people and will provide Nunavummiut who take it protection from the virus.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Government-wide Holiday Closures
All Government of Nunavut (GN) offices will be closed from December 24 to January 3 with the exception of designated facilities that must stay open.
GN services will be provided according to the public health measures in place and could change suddenly.
Health
- Qikiqtani General Hospital will remain open with full services except outpatient rehabilitation.
- Home Care routine services will be closed on the statutory holidays, but will be available for emergencies.
- Please note some home care services in the Kivalliq are suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
- Outpatient primary care clinics will be closed on December 25, 28 and January 1, but open all other days.
- Community health centres will be open, however, urgent and emergency services are available for care provision through on-call services with the following core services maintained:
- Emergent/urgent care, sick clinic, and booked appointments for at-risk clients will continue to be provided.
- Well-child and prenatal clinics will function at full capacity.
- Routine chronic disease and well-woman/well-man clinics will be suspended during this period to allow for increased acute care services.
- Mental health nurses and consultants will work at full capacity.
- Public Health Nurses, regional communicable disease coordinators, TB coordinators, midwives, community health representatives and support staff will work at full capacity.
- Laboratory and diagnostic imaging services remain open and operational. Collection of specimens and diagnostic images will be accessible 24/7 for all emergency and routine issues. COVID-19 swabs will remain an urgent priority and all transport measures will remain in place over the closures. Routine collection of lab work will be suspended during this period.
- medical travel services will continue as normal.
- Cambridge Bay mental health facility:
- Mental Health Nurses and consultants will function at full capacity
- Mental Health and Addictions paraprofessional staff will be off but available to be called in at the discretion of the mental health nurse.
- Akausisarvik Mental Health Facility in Iqaluit will function at full capacity.
- Boarding homes will operate as normal:
- Churchill – Iglualuk Boarding Home.
- Edmonton – Larga House.
- Iqaluit – Tammattaavik Boarding Home.
- Ottawa – Larga House Baffin.
- Winnipeg – Kivalliq Inuit Centre.
- Yellowknife – Larga Kitikmeot Boarding Home.
Family Services
- Family Services Offices will have on call services available.
- Income Assistance Offices will have on call services available.
- Career Development Division will have on call services available.
Community and Government Services
- The following Community and Government Services divisions are available on an emergency basis:
- Safety Services Division (Office of the Fire Marshal, chief electrical inspector, chief building inspector and chief boiler inspector).
- Facilities Management Division.
- Emergency Management Office.
Economic Development and Transportation
- Nunavut airports will be open.
Education
- Financial Assistance for Nunavut Students (FANS) office is on call for travel emergencies at 867-857-6950.
Finance
- The Nunavut Liquor and Cannabis Commission (NULC) will continue to sell low alcohol content products (beer, wine, cider, coolers) through the Iqaluit NULC store during the holiday closures, with reduced hours.
- The NULC store will be closed from December 24 to the 28, reopening on the 29 and 30 from 1 to 6 p.m. and December 31 from 12 to 4 p.m. The store will be closed on January 1, 2021 and will resume normal business hours on January 2, 2021.
- Liquor import permits and community orders will not be processed from December 24 to January 3. Customers who are planning to import liquor during this time are encouraged to purchase a permit by December 23 from one of the following locations:
Iqaluit NULC store
In person:
Monday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4:30 p.m. ET.
Tuesday to Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. ET.
By phone call 867-975-6869.
Rankin Inlet
By phone call 867-645-8575 or 855-844-5488 Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 5 p.m. CT.
Cambridge Bay
By phone call 867-983-4048 on Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. MT.
Kugluktuk
By phone call 867-982-6509 or email water@kugluktuk.ca.
Please note that the Kugluktuk office will only process permits from within the community.
Human Resources
- The Employee and Family Assistance Program will be available over the holiday season. Employees and their families can call the toll-free number 1-800-663-1142 for personal counselling in all of Nunavut’s official languages or visit https://homewoodhealth.com.
- During the GN holiday closure, staffhousingrequests@gov.nu.ca will be monitored for emergencies only.
Justice
- Legal Registries will remain open.
- All correctional facilities will remain open:
- Baffin Correctional Centre and Makigiarvik Correction Centre.
- Rankin Inlet Healing Facility.
- Kugluktuk Ilavut Centre.
- Uttaqivik Community Residential Centre.
- Nunavut Women’s Correctional Centre.
- Isumaqsunngittukkuvik Youth Facility.
- Community Justice Offices will be closed but Emergency Protection Orders are available by calling 1-844-534-1038 or by calling the local RCMP detachment for assistance.
- The Office of Public Guardian and Trustee will be closed but can be reached at 867-222-1805 for emergencies only.
- Community Corrections Officers will be available on call. The on-call schedule is as follows:
| December 23 to 26 | 867-222-5271 |
| December 26 to 29 | 867-222-0390 |
| December 29 to 31 | 867-975-1616 |
| December 31 to January 2 | 867-222-5271 |
| January 2 to 4 | 867-899-1380 |
Environment:
- Emergency spill response is available 24 hours a day at 867-920-8130.
- Emergency wildlife response is available 24 hours a day at 867-222-0167.
Qulliq Energy Corporation
- Qulliq Energy Corporation offices will be open during the GN’s holiday closure days (December 24, 29, 30 and 31), but closed during the statutory holidays (December 25, 28 and January 1).
Nunavut Housing Corporation
- Emergency contact number for Iqaluit staff housing: 867-877-4118. Do not send text messages.
Nunavut Arctic College:
The following NAC buildings will remain open until December 24:
- Kivalliq Hall Offices – Rankin Inlet*
- *Single unit student residences in Kivalliq Hall will close on December 18.
- Sanatuliqsarvik, Trades Training Centre – Rankin Inlet.
- Nunatta Main Campus – Iqalui.t
- Kitikmeot Campus – Cambridge Bay.
The following NAC Buildings will remain open (for students) during the closure:
- Family Housing Units - Cambridge Bay.
- Family Housing Units - Rankin Inlet.
- Family Housing Units and Student Residence (Old Nova Building) – Iqaluit.
More contact information can be found at: www.gov.nu.ca.
All GN offices will reopen on Monday, January 4, 2020 for regular business. Happy Holidays!
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Dec. 18
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 259 | 34 | 225 | 5478 | 631 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Dec. 18
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 217 | 217 | 0 | 183 | 34 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 21 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 259 | 259 | 0 | 225 | 34 |
Testing stats to date per community: Dec. 18
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 217 | 992 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 175 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 277 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 201 |
| TOTAL | 259 | 1645 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Dec. 17 |
| Medical | 282 |
| Public | 136 |
| emti | 8 |
| Total | 426 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 18-Dec | 31 |
| 19-Dec | 8 |
| 20-Dec | 14 |
| 21-Dec | 86 |
| 22-Dec | 34 |
| Total | 173 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Dec.17 there were 10214 requests, 4808 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6839 | 67.0% |
| Denied | 286 | 2.8% |
| Pending | 224 | 2.2% |
| Common Travel Area | 2865 | 28% |
| Total | 10214 | 100% |
Nunavummiut’s health is our shared responsibility! Remember: wash your hands and surfaces, practice social distancing, listen to the advice of health officials, and stay home if you’re sick.
COVID-19 GN Update - December 14, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. Last week we announced that Nunavut will be receiving the Moderna vaccine in the first quarter of 2021. The vaccine is currently in the process of receiving approval from Health Canada. The territory will receive enough doses to vaccinate 75% of its adult population.
As we prepare for its arrival, I want to take this opportunity to talk a bit about the vaccine’s development, the timeline for its arrival in the territory and our preparations to ensure that once in territory, it is administered safely and timely, to all Nunavummiut.
People have asked me if the vaccine is safe. It is. I say that because of the rigorous work that has gone into its development. mRNA vaccines in general have been under development for more than twenty years. The clinical trials for Moderna alone had 30,000 participants from a broad range of population types.
Canada also has a very thorough vaccine approval process that will ensure the vaccine’s safety.
Usually, we wait months in-between development steps for more funding or resources, which slows down the process. The type of global cooperation we have witnessed, the massive efforts deployed to bring in the financial, human and technological resources needed, allowed many steps of the vaccine production to happen at the same time, while ensuring its safety, every step of the way.
Our planning for the vaccine’s distribution is underway and work has already been done to prepare for the vaccine’s arrival. Supplies such as syringes, needles, alcohol swabs and other items required for administering the vaccine are already in territory.
Two, medical-grade freezers supplied by the Public Health Agency of Canada arrived over the weekend and will help increase our storage capacity in both Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet.
While we know that in the first three months of 2021 we will be receiving enough to vaccinate 75% of the adult population, we do not know how the deliveries will be scheduled. With that in mind we are developing plans based on a variety of scenarios. For example, if we receive a small number of doses at the beginning of January and we don't know how many doses will come in February or when, we will be taking a very focused approach, by first vaccinating those at highest risk of complications from COVID-19.
In a situation where we have limited supply at first, elders' centres, long-term care residents, and the staff working with them, will receive the vaccine first. On the other hand, if we receive enough vaccines in January, we might look at mass immunization clinics, with the aim of vaccinating as many adults as possible.
Regardless of the strategy, by the end of March we will have received enough vaccines for 75% of adults in Nunavut. The key for us, like Nunavut's Path, is to be flexible and plan for a variety of circumstances.
Throughout this process, it is important to remember that Nunavut’s realities require a tailored approach and extensive experience with delivering and administering vaccines in a Northern context.
Our health staff has this experience and understands the challenges we face. This is not the first time we had to work quickly and safely in unique conditions. Every year, vaccination campaigns across the territory come with their number of logistical challenges. During the H1N1 pandemic, our teams were capable to plan and deploy timely vaccination campaigns across the territory. This vaccination campaign is no exception.
Finally, I would like to ask Nunavummiut to be patient and most importantly to use trusted sources of information when learning about the vaccine and any other new public health initiative. I understand that some of this information is new, but not so long ago so was COVID-19, and yet collectively, by using science-based facts and information from trusted sources, we have come a long way in understanding the virus and taking the necessary precautions to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Dec. 14
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 256 | 49 | 207 | 5377 | 642 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Dec. 14
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 205 | 214 | 9 | 165 | 49 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 21 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 247 | 256 | 9 | 207 | 49 |
Testing stats to date per community: Dec. 14
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 214 | 899 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 144 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 251 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 189 |
| TOTAL | 256 | 1483 |
Isolation population: 205
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Dec. 13 |
| Medical | 184 |
| Public | 321 |
| emti | 8 |
| Total | 513 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 12-Dec | 4 |
| 13-Dec | 0 |
| 14-Dec | 65 |
| 15-Dec | 18 |
| 16-Dec | 71 |
| Total | 161 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Dec.11 there were 10043 requests, 4719 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6472 | 67.1% |
| Denied | 285 | 2.6% |
| Pending | 323 | 2.3% |
| Common Travel Area | 2784 | 27.7% |
| Total | 10043 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - December 11, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. This week, the federal government announced approval of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. As previously mentioned, the Pfizer vaccine’s storage and transport requirements such as the vaccine’s cold chain storage requirement of -80° Celsius, and it’s sensitivity to transport, do not make it an appropriate choice for Nunavut.
Nunavut is waiting for the final approval of the Moderna vaccine. Once approved, the delivery of the vaccine can begin. We expect that in the first 3 months of 2021 Nunavut will receive enough doses to vaccinate 75% of adults living in the territory. The delivery of the vaccine will take into account the unique realities of our territory while ensuring that highest-risk individuals, such as clients and caregivers in long-term care and elders’ centres, for example, are given priority when it comes to vaccine distribution. The details of delivery will depend on the timing of deliveries. Highest priority will be placed on those who are 65 and over, residents of care facilities, the staff who serve those facilities and front-line health care providers. These priorities are consistent with national recommendations on who should be considered highest priority for vaccination. After the high priority groups have received the vaccine, we will make it available to all Nunavummiut who are 18 and older, but to be clear, the exact timing of this will depend on the rate and timing of delivery to Nunavut.
On Monday, I talked about the rapid testing program that began at the Winnipeg isolation hubs on Wednesday. Today, I will share another initiative that is underway to help reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 while reducing the stress that can be caused by current isolation requirements.
The Expedited Medical Travel Isolation (EMTI) program will allow medical travellers attending certain low-risk medical appointments in Southern Canada, to isolate immediately upon their arrival and return home within seven days of leaving Nunavut.
The program requires the medical traveller to:
- Stay at a Government of Nunavut Isolation site before and after their appointments.
- Use Government of Nunavut provided transportation for all medical appointments and for travel to and from the airport.
- Not visit locations other than the isolation site, scheduled appointments, and the airport.
- Wear appropriate PPE during travel and appointment visits.
- Follow all isolation requirements for the duration of their stay.
- Adhere to all return travel requirements in place at the isolation sites.
- Participants who do not follow these rules will be removed from the program and will have to complete a full 14 days of isolation before returning home.
This is not an opt-in program. The Department of Health staff and the office of the Office of the CPHO, assess the eligibility of appointments based on treatment and procedure types. Travellers whose appointments are approved for this program will be notified by their health centre.
Currently, up to 10 people a week have travelled on this program since it began in November. With case counts rising in the south, it is an effective way to help reduce the chance medical travellers will be exposed to COVID-19.
Finally, I want to say ‘ma’na’ to the communities of Arviat, Whale Cove and Rankin Inlet. The past month has not been easy for the people of these communities and the Kivalliq region as a whole. While there is still work to be done to break transmission in Arviat, I thank everyone who has cooperated with public health measures. It is those efforts that will help us get through this.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Dec. 11
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 229 | 56 | 147 | 5339 | 648 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Dec. 11
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 187 | 203 | 16 | 147 | 56 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 21 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 229 | 245 | 16 | 189 | 56 |
Testing stats to date per community: Dec. 11
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 203 | 812 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 144 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 251 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 189 |
| TOTAL | 245 | 1396 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Dec. 10 |
| Medical | 320 |
| Public | 258 |
| EMTI | 3 |
| Total | 581 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 11-Dec | 1 |
| 12-Dec | 9 |
| 13-Dec | 70 |
| 14-Dec | 18 |
| 15-Dec | 67 |
| Total | 165 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Dec.10, there were 10043 requests, 4719 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6742 | 67.1% |
| Denied | 285 | 2.8% |
| Pending | 232 | 2.3% |
| Common Travel Area | 2784 | 27.7% |
| Total | 10043 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - December 7, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
This week, through an aid agreement between the Federal Government and the Red Cross, we will be starting rapid testing in the Winnipeg isolation hubs to add an extra layer of protection to the isolation process.
In Winnipeg, the Red Cross will be using the Panbio rapid testing device that can deliver results in as little as 15 minutes. Guests will be tested upon entry into the hub, on day five, and just before departure, on day 12.
Panbio is an antigen test, which looks for virus proteins to identify the virus. A positive test on the Panbio will result in a second swab being sent to a laboratory for confirmatory testing. Anyone who tests positive on the Panbio device will be isolated in their rooms. If the laboratory test confirms the positive result, the guest will remain in isolation for at least 10 days from when the test was collected. Testing will not shorten isolation.
Currently, the testing will be voluntary. Anyone who does not wish to take the test will follow the regular 14-day isolation period. I strongly encourage people to participate as it will help reduce the risk of bringing COVID-19 to the territory and provide additional protection for our families and community.
It is extremely important to follow the rules at the isolation hubs. If isolation is done properly, meaning the rules are followed, the 14-day isolation is an effective tool to reduce the risk of transmission. Testing will increase that effectiveness, but as mentioned before, nothing is perfect.
Wearing a mask, physical distancing, washing your hands and staying in your room as much as possible are emphasized at the hubs for this reason.
Testing in the isolation hub coincides with the rapid spread of COVID-19 in the rest of Canada. As active case counts in the rest of the country continue to rise, it is important that we add additional measures to reduce the risk to Nunavummiut.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Dec. 7
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 219 | 51 | 168 | 5190 | 688 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Dec. 7
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 174 | 177 | 3 | 128 | 49 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 19 | 2 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 216 | 219 | 3 | 168 | 51 |
Testing stats to date per community: Dec. 7
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 177 | 729 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 137 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 237 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 189 |
| TOTAL | 219 | 1292 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Dec. 6 |
| Medical | 184 |
| Public | 213 |
| Total | 397 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 05-Dec | 1 |
| 06-Dec | 9 |
| 07-Dec | 70 |
| 08-Dec | 18 |
| 09-Dec | 67 |
| Total | 165 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Dec. 4, there were 9798 requests, 4584 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6475 | 66.1% |
| Denied | 281 | 2.9% |
| Pending | 324 | 3.3% |
| Common Travel Area | 2718 | 27.7% |
| Total | 9798 | 100% |
Adjusted services:
Kivalliq Specialist Clinics
| Doctors | Community | Closure | Update |
|
Dr. Goulet Internal Medicine |
Rankin/What Cove | Postponed until January 24th | |
|
Dr. James Obstetrics & Gynecology |
Coral Harbour | Dec. 7-10 | Postponed until January (dates pending) |
| Dr. Hildes-Ripstein | Dec. 7-10 | Will provide follow up by phone. Dr. Leroux will assist with physical exams when required | |
| Dr. Newman | Coral Harbour | Dec. 14-17 | Proceeding as planned |
| Dr. Hill | Baker Lake | Dec. 6-10 |
Will be provided virtually |
| Dr. Thorington | Naujaat | Dec. 7-16 | Postponed, but will follow up with nurses to review cases |
COVID-19 GN Update - December 4, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. Over the past week, we have seen more people recovering from COVID-19. Currently, all the active cases we identified in Rankin Inlet and Sanikiluaq have recovered. This is good news. It means we are moving in the right direction and we can be optimistic. This does not mean that can relax on the public health measures and it does not mean the outbreaks are over.
In Sanikiluaq, we have cleared everyone from isolation. If there are no new cases in Sanikiluaq, the outbreak will be over in about 2 weeks. In Rankin Inlet, there are people who will be in isolation for at least another 10 days. It will take nearly a month, assuming there are no new cases of COVID-19, to declare the outbreak in Rankin Inlet over. Whale Cove has 7 active cases, with no new cases for several days.
In Arviat, there has been progress, but there continues to be evidence of community transmission. I know it has been difficult for Arviammiut and we thank everyone for their cooperation. It is very important that we continue to follow the public health measures so we can stop the spread of the virus in the community. I urge people to stay isolated if you have been told by public health to isolate. It is important to stay in isolation until public health staff tell you it is safe to leave.
Again, I know isolation can be stressful, and there is support available. The Pulaarvik Kablu Friendship Centre has Inuit traditional counsellors available to Kivalliq residents from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday by calling 1-844-654-3580. You can also contact the Kamatsiaqtut Help Line at 1-867-979-3333 or Toll-free at 1-800-265-3333.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Dec. 4
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 206 | 51 | 155 | 5122 | 752 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Dec. 4
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 156 | 164 | 8 | 120 | 44 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 14 | 7 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 198 | 206 | 8 | 155 | 51 |
Testing stats to date per community: Dec. 4
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 164 | 678 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 125 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 226 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 184 |
| TOTAL | 206 | 1213 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Dec. 3 |
| Medical | 294 |
| Public | 208 |
| Total | 502 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 04-Dec | 46 |
| 05-Dec | 1 |
| 06-Dec | 4 |
| 07-Dec | 71 |
| 08-Dec | 22 |
| Total | 144 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Dec. 3 there were 9798 requests, 4584 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6475 | 66.1% |
| Denied | 281 | 2.9% |
| Pending | 324 | 3.3% |
| Common Travel Area | 2718 | 27.7% |
| Total | 9798 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - December 2, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. First, I want to take a moment and address the measures still in effect in Arviat. For the time being, the public health restrictions in the community remain the same as in the past two weeks, in order to stop community transmission. Masks are mandatory in all public spaces. Outdoor gatherings should not be more than 5 people. There should not be any visiting in other people’s homes or cabins. Travel out of Arviat is still restricted.
I know that it is a difficult time as the strict measures continue, but please understand it is not meant to punish the people of Arviat, this is the best way to break community transmission and the fastest way to eventually loosen the restrictions.
I want to add, that after review of the latest public health information available, masks in both Whale Cove and Rankin Inlet will continue to be mandatory. Moving forward, all communities with active COVID-19 masks will be mandatory.
Today, I also want to address questions around the length of isolation in homes where there is household transmission.
The isolation period for people who test positive for COVID-19 is 10 days from the moment they receive a positive test or from the moment they develop symptoms- whichever comes first. After the 10 days, the person is no longer considered infectious and is cleared by public health.
High-risk contacts – including people who live in the same house as the positive person - have a high risk of exposure and must isolate immediately after a household member has tested positive in order to prevent community transmission. They must also remain in isolation for an additional 14 days after the last person who tested positive in their household has stopped being infectious.
This is because exposure to the virus can happen anytime between the moment a household member tests positive and the following 10 days of their isolation period.
It's also important to note, that the risk of household transmission can be reduced by maintaining physical distancing as much as possible, regular cleaning of surfaces that are touched often, like door-knobs and counter tops, using separate bathrooms if possible, not sharing drinking glasses and utensils, wearing a mask, and washing your hands often.
Finally, I want to thank all Nunavummiut for their continued cooperation. The only way we can stop the spread of the virus is by working together.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Dec. 2
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 193 | 80 | 113 | 4964 | 724 |
COVID-19 community case statistics: Dec. 2
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 140 | 151 | 11 | 86 | 65 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 14 | 7 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 11 | 8 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 182 | 193 | 11 | 113 | 80 |
Testing stats to date per community: Dec. 2
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 151 | 588 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 125 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 219 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 184 |
| TOTAL | 193 | 1116 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Dec. 1 |
| Medical | 107 |
| Public | 163 |
| Total | 270 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 02-Dec | 92 |
| 03-Dec | 39 |
| 04-Dec | 18 |
| 05-Dec | 1 |
| 06-Dec | 6 |
| Total | 156 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Dec. 1 there were 9693 requests, 4511 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6459 | 66.6% |
| Denied | 281 | 2.9% |
| Pending | 247 | 2.6% |
| Common Travel Area | 2706 | 27.8% |
| Total | 9693 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - November 30, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. First, I would like to thank Nunavummiut for their patience and co-operation over the past two weeks as we work to contain the spread of COVID-19.
This Wednesday, December 2, the restrictions we put in place following the outbreak, are set to be reviewed. In line with our commitments under Nunavut's Path, my office has assessed the current situation and has determined that until we can be absolutely certain there is no longer community transmission of COVID-19 in Arviat, current restrictions will remain in effect for that community. This includes, limited outdoor gatherings and indoor gatherings, essential services only, and restricted travel in and out of Arviat for the next two weeks.
In Whale Cove and Rankin Inlet, where we do not have any indication of community transmission, restrictions will be eased. Starting Wednesday, December 2, the following measures will apply:
- Travel restrictions will be lifted, though we continue to strongly advise against non-essential travel at this time and remind Nunavummiut that travel into Arviat is still restricted.
- Outdoor gatherings are restricted to 50 people with physical distancing.
- Gatherings in homes are restricted to a household plus 10 people.
- Masks are strongly recommended.
- Indoor gatherings for community halls, conference spaces and within government and Inuit organization facilities is restricted to 50 or 50% capacity.
- Recreation centres and gyms open to solo workouts only.
- Libraries open but no tours or groups gatherings.
- Galleries open but no tours or groups gatherings.
- Places of worship open to 50% capacity, but no singing.
- All public playgrounds, municipal parks, territorial parks, and territorial parks reserves may open, but buildings must be closed.
- Arenas remain closed.
- Businesses and government offices can open. Physical distancing must be maintained.
- Personal service providers, except for hairdressers and barbers, can open. Physical distancing must be maintained PPE used upon request.
- Food service and licensed establishments may open for takeout and delivery service only.
- There must be 2m distance between all people in line and no more than 10 people in line at any given time.
- All bars remain closed.
- In both communities, schools will move to stage 3 in the Department of Educations plan.
- Daycares can open with enhanced cleaning protocols and as per the daycare guidelines at https://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/child_care_facility_re-opening....
- Taxis can operate with one fare per trip and masks mandatory.
For the remaining Kivalliq communities and the Baffin and Kitikmeot regions, where there are no active cases of COVID-19, restrictions will also be eased. Starting Wednesday December 2:
- Travel restrictions will be lifted, though we continue to strongly advise against non-essential travel at this time and remind Nunavummiut that travel into Arviat is still restricted.
- Elementary schools open; middle and high schools combine classroom and remote learning.
- Daycares can open with enhanced cleaning protocols and as per the daycare guidelines at https://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/child_care_facility_re-opening....
- Nunavut Arctic College, open at reduced capacity and masks are mandatory.
- Outdoor gatherings are restricted to 50 people with physical distancing.
- Gatherings in homes are restricted to a household plus 15 people.
- Masks are strongly recommended.
- Indoor gatherings for community halls, conference spaces and within government and Inuit organization facilities is restricted to 50 or 50% capacity.
- Public swimming pools, recreation centres and gyms open to solo workouts and lane swim. Hot tubs and saunas may also open, groups up to 10 people.
- Theatres open to 50 people or 50% capacity.
- Libraries, galleries and museums may open with group sizes no more than 10.
- Places of worship open to 50% capacity, singing is allowed.
- All public playgrounds, municipal parks, territorial parks, and territorial park reserves may open.
- Arenas may open at reduced capacity of 50% capacity or 50 people. Total number of spectators cannot exceed fifty (50) people.
- Businesses and government offices can open. Physical distancing must be maintained.
- All personal service providers can open. Physical distancing must be maintained and PPE used upon request.
- Food service and licensed establishments may open seated service at 50% of normal capacity. There must be 2m distance between tables and no more than 6 people seated or around each table.
- Taxis can operate with multiple fares if the first passenger consents and everyone wears masks.
Keep in mind, a new outbreak of COVID-19 could impact any or all of these restrictions at any time.
Please continue to practise social distancing, washing your hands, staying home when sick and calling the hotline if you develop symptoms. Everyone has a role to play in helping reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Nov. 30
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 181 | 108 | 73 | 4896 | 712 |
COVID-19 community case stats: Nov. 30
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered Cases | Total active cases |
| Arviat | 135 | 139 | 4 | 53 | 86 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 21 | 0 | 7 | 14 |
| Rankin | 19 | 19 | 0 | 11 | 8 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 177 | 181 | 4 | 73 | 108 |
Testing stats to date per community: Nov. 30
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 139 | 555 |
| Whale Cove | 21 | 100 |
| Rankin | 19 | 208 |
| Sani | 2 | 168 |
| TOTAL | 181 | 1031 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 29 |
| Medical | 362 |
| Public | 223 |
| Total | 585 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 28-Nov | 2 |
| 29-Nov | 10 |
| 30-Nov | 90 |
| 01-Dec | 30 |
| 02-Dec | 67 |
| Total | 199 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Nov. 27 there were 9556 requests, 4481 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6367 | 66.6% |
| Denied | 281 | 2.9% |
| Pending | 247 | 2.6% |
| Common Travel Area | 2661 | 27.8% |
| Total | 9556 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - November 27, 2020
Minister of Health Update:
As we head into another weekend of our lock down, I would like to say Thank you to Nunavummiut. I asked you two weeks ago when we announced the lock down that the only way we will beat this virus is if we are vigilant with our social distancing, We must listen to the CPHO orders on isolation and we must protect our families, our neighbours and most importantly our elders.
We have seen how this virus impacts our communities. We have seen how quickly things can change, and we need to remain focussed in our fight to slow and limit the spread. I know this is hard, but I remind you all to please not visit or socialize outside your household. This is so important.
Please be strict with maintaining physical distance, washing your hands, coughing into your elbow, cleaning surfaces regularly and wearing a mask outside your home.
We are strong, resourceful and capable. Let’s all keep working together to help our communities stay healthy and well. Take care of one another safely, and from a distance.
We also need to recognize our health care providers, not only those on the ground in the communities but those that are working remotely by phone, they are putting in many hours to ensure you are well, So please be kind in your discussions with them and thank them when you can.
Again, in closing, I just want to thank all Nunavummiut for their hard work in working together. We can beat this. Thank you.
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. Yesterday, the Minister of Health extended the Public Health Emergency to December 10. Extending the Public Health Emergency every two weeks, provides the Chief Public Health Officer with the authority to take additional measures, such as issuing public health orders, to respond to situations like the ongoing pandemic.
Renewing the Public Health Emergency every two weeks does not mean that current restrictions will remain in effect until December 10, but it does allow us to issue and adjust orders to respond to the circumstances by easing or tightening restrictions as described in Nunavut’s Path.
What defines the next steps on Nunavut’s Path - the decisions to maintain, lift or reinstate public health restrictions – is the status of COVID-19 in territory, our testing capacity, and the status of COVID-19 in southern jurisdictions. Our current plan is to complete two full weeks with the current measures in place. When that period is finished, we will adjust measures for most communities, based on the level of COVID-19 in each community.
Over the past few days, our public health teams have determined that more people have recovered from COVID-19. When individuals have recovered, they are not a risk to spread the virus and they are informed by public health that they no longer have to isolate. However, they are still required to follow the public health restrictions.
We have heard that people are worried about catching COVID-19 if they go to the health centres. All our health centres are working hard to minimize the risk of COVID-19. They are ensuring enhanced cleaning is taking place, staff are wearing masks and other personal protective equipment when appropriate, and all patients are required to wear masks.
At this time, access to the health centres is only for necessary treatment that can’t be done over the phone. If you have been asked to go to the health centre, it is because the nurse or physician’s assessment has indicated you require medical attention. It is safe to go to the health centre, please don’t delay necessary medical attention.
Earlier this week, I indicated additional personnel would be coming North to assist with our outbreak response. I am happy to announce that thanks to the Red Cross, we will have four additional resources with expertise in infection prevention and control, arriving to support our team in Arviat. They will provide valuable help with assessments, training and protocol review that will enhance our current practices. The members of the team will work while respecting our current public health restrictions. They will also follow our exempted worker protocols by wearing masks in all public and workplace settings and isolating while not at work.
Here in Iqaluit, the Public Health Agency of Canada has provided a liaison officer for the next two weeks, which will help streamline requests for support from the federal government and provide additional assistance with logistics. Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Nov. 27
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day | Recovered cases |
| Arviat | 115 | 119 | 4 | 2 |
| Whale Cove | 19 | 19 | 0 | 2 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 | 2 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| TOTAL | 155 | 159 | 4 | 8 |
Testing stats to date: Nov. 27
| Community | Tests positive | Tests negative |
| Arviat | 119 | 471 |
| Whale Cove | 19 | 80 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 188 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 168 |
| TOTAL | 159 | 907 |
COVID-19 case status: Nov. 27
| Total Confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 159 | 151 | 8 | 4744 | 765 |
COVID-19 GN Update - November 25, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning,
Today I would like to talk a bit more about testing. Testing is not a magical solution and it is not effective by itself. Contact tracing, isolating, observing physical distancing, and following public health restrictions work together to contain and stop the spread of COVID-19.
When someone is exposed to COVID-19, the virus begins what is known as the incubation period, meaning it is growing in your body. In the first few days of this growing stage, the virus is very hard to detect. During these first days after exposure to the virus, the majority of tests will be false negatives.
Without knowing when every individual we test was exposed to the virus, we would have to do test everyone multiple times over multiple days. Doing this, will deplete precious resources and testing material, with very little success. False negatives are one of the reasons why mass testing is not the most productive strategy in our efforts to identify and track an outbreak.
On the day after exposure to COVID, testing is almost always negative. Although test reliability improves steadily as the days pass, testing does not replace isolation. Again, we would need to know the exact timeline of exposure of the people we test, to ensure that we are testing them as of day 7 or later.
Testing is not perfect and that is why combining testing with contact tracing and isolation is the most effective way to contain an outbreak and stop transmission of the virus.
Contact tracers are trained to be able to determine who the best candidates for testing are and when testing will be the most effective. I want to emphasize that although the term contact tracer might be new to many in the public, it isn’t a new practice in the health system. We have used contact tracing methods for decades to help respond to infections ranging from tuberculosis to sexually transmitted diseases.
Our health teams are skilled and working very hard to help break transmission of the virus.
In closing, I want to take a moment and thank all essential workers who are ensuring services in our communities continue, particularly in communities affected by COVID-19. I also want to re-assure you by saying that if you take the necessary precautions – wear a mask, observe physical distancing when possible, then you are doing what is needed to reduce the risk to yourself, your families and your communities.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case Statistics: Nov. 25
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day |
| Arviat | 107 | 115 | 8 |
| Whale Cove | 16 | 19 | 3 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 19 | 0 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 144 | 155 | 11 |
Testing stats to date: Nov. 25
| Community | Tests positive | Tests negative |
| Arviat | 115 | 386 |
| Whale Cove | 19 | 58 |
| Rankin Inlet | 19 | 164 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 168 |
| TOTAL | 155 | 776 |
COVID-19 case status: Nov. 25
| Total Confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 155 | 153 | 2 | 4712 | 813 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 24 |
| Medical | 359 |
| Public | 131 |
| Total | 490 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from health Isolation Sites |
| Nov 25 2020 | 69 |
| Nov 26 2020 | 50 |
| Nov 27 2020 | 25 |
| Nov 28 2020 | 2 |
| Nov 29 2020 | 2 |
| Total | 148 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of November 24, there were 9333 requests, 4359 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6219 | 66.6% |
| Denied | 281 | 3.0% |
| Pending | 232 | 2.5% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2601 | 27.9% |
| Total | 9333 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - November 23, 2020
Minister of Health update:
Good morning. I know the increase in the number of COVID-19 cases we have seen over the last week has many worried.
As Dr. Patterson has told us, this is not unexpected, and it shows our health teams are working hard to find everyone who has the virus.
It shows that the contract tracing is working and yes it will take a while to get everyone that needs to be tested, tested. I also want to remind people that it is important to get accurate information. Don’t listen to rumours and social media comments. Rumours just spread fear.
We are communicating with the public every day and are meeting with hamlet leadership on a regular basis to make sure you have accurate and up to date information.
But we need your help. I know it's hard to stay home, however we must all do our part in containing the spread of the virus. You have heard Doctor Patterson state that you can pass the virus on before you even know you have it. Before you have a positive test. That is why it is so very important that you follow the rules even if you do not think you are sick.
I also want to ask people who are in isolation in the south that while we recognize how difficult isolation can be, your actions make a difference. If you are not following the rules, you are putting people at risk.
Isolation in the south is not a vacation. There are rules. Breaking the rules puts your communities and your loved ones at risk. So please, always practise social distancing, wash your hands, don't go visiting, don't share cigarettes or drinks.
We are all used to doing many of these things all the time, but we have to stop and carefully think about our actions. We need to break these habits if we want everyone to stay healthy.
We all must work together to prevent COVID-19 from spreading. We must act to protect ourselves, our families and our communities. Our actions now affect everyone's health, all the time.
Chief Public Health Officer update:
Good morning. Today I want to talk about the way this virus spreads and the importance of isolation.
I know isolating can be difficult especially for those who do not have symptoms, but it is one of our best defences against COVID-19. For those people who do not have symptoms but are a high-risk contact, meaning you have had significant exposure to COVID-19, isolation is absolutely necessary.
People can still spread the virus when they don't have symptoms, this is asymptomatic transmission, and it is one of the reasons that COVID-19 can spread so quickly. Some people with COVID-19 can spread the virus at least two days before the first symptoms develop. Others can spread the virus for up to 10 days without developing any symptoms.
Imagine the number of people you see in one day, then multiply that number by two days or ten days. If you are transmitting the virus during that time, you could pass it on to others who could spread it to others. By the time people know they are sick, they could have infected many more, who will continue to spread the virus.
To stop the spread of the virus we need to isolate it. Moving people who are positive or people who are high risk contacts from one house to another, will only spread the virus further.
Isolation must be taken seriously and the rules around isolation are there to protect your community. If you are isolating because you have COVID-19 or you are a high-risk contact, you must:
- Stay inside your home.
- If you need groceries have someone who is not under isolation bring them to your door and leave them outside for you.
- Do not go to other houses.
- Do not allow visitors.
- Keep your distance as much as possible inside the house.
- Wear a mask.
- Do not share food or utensils.
- Disinfect high touch surfaces such as the bathroom area, kitchen area and common living area.
I realize isolation is not easy and it can cause a lot of stress, but if everyone follows the rules it will help us contain the virus faster and that will allow us to once again loosen the restrictions.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
COVID-19 case status: Nov. 23
| Total confirmed cases | Total active cases | Total recovered cases | Total persons followed | Current persons followed |
| 134 | 132 | 2 | 4644 | 933 |
COVID-19 case per community status: Nov. 23
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day |
| Arviat | 98 | 98 | 0 |
| Whale Cove | 15 | 16 | 1 |
| Rankin Inlet | 15 | 18 | 3 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 130 | 134 | 4 |
Testing stats to date: Nov. 23
| Community |
Community Tests positive |
Tests negative |
| Arviat | 98 | 353 |
| Whale Cove | 16 | 47 |
| Rankin Inlet | 18 | 150 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 168 |
| Total | 134 | 718 |
Isolation population:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 23 |
| Medical | 346 |
| Public | 161 |
| Total | 507 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from health Isolation Sites |
| 21-Nov | 5 |
| 22-Nov | 10 |
| 23-Nov | 64 |
| 24-Nov | 17 |
| 25-Nov | 70 |
| Total | 166 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of November 22, there were 9218 requests, 4311 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6137 | 66.6% |
| Denied | 281 | 3.0% |
| Pending | 249 | 2.7% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2551 | 27.7% |
| Total | 9218 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - November 20, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update:
Good morning. Today I would like to explain a bit about what it means when we say someone has been identified as having had contact with COVID-19.
The goal of contact tracing is to break transmission as soon as possible. When someone is diagnosed with COVID-19 we want to find out who they spent time with while they were infectious. These people are considered contacts, and may be incubating (or growing) the virus. Symptoms may appear up to 14 days after the last contact with an infected individual.
For people who have been exposed to COVID-19, it is critical that they isolate themselves during these 14 days, regardless of test results. It is very common to be spreading the virus without realizing it, which may make others sick. So, if you have been told that you have had high risk contact with COVID-19, you must isolate at home. This is the best way to avoid spreading the virus.
Part of the job of a contact tracer is to assess the chance that COVID-19 has spread between two people. We know that transmission is most likely when people are close together for longer periods. The general rule of thumb is that transmission is more likely when 2 people are within 6 feet of each other for more than 10 minutes, which is why it is important to avoid gatherings and limit social interactions to those you live with.
During the incubation period the virus may be growing inside us, but the tests may not find it. Isolating yourself when asked will help break transmission, protecting your friends, family, and community.
Even if you have not been in contact with COVID-19, there is a lot that everyone can do to break transmission of COVID-19:
- Stay home if you are sick
- Keep your social bubble small, by limiting social activities to small groups of the same people
- Wash your hands
- Wear a mask
- Watch your distance
On Wednesday, I mention the hard work our Rapid Response and Public teams are doing to respond to the outbreak. Today, I want to extend my appreciation to our lab staff. They are putting in extraordinary hours, working through the night and into the early hours of the morning to get test results done. Their work is instrumental in our efforts to contain the virus.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
For all the latest information and resources about COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
For the latest information on current public health restrictions, go to:
https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/nunavuts-path
NU COVID-19 Statistics Nov. 20
| Community | Confirmed COVID-19 cases yesterday | Confirmed COVID-19 cases today | Change in case count +/- from previous day |
| Arviat | 57 | 58 | 1 |
| Whale Cove | 8 | 11 | 3 |
| Rankin | 7 | 13 | 6 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 74 | 84 | 10 |
Testing stats to date:
| Community | Tests Positive | Tests Negative |
| Arviat | 58 | 137 |
| Whale Cove | 11 | 21 |
| Rankin | 13 | 110 |
| Sani | 2 | 119 |
| TOTAL | 84 | 387 |
Isolation:
| Total (All Health Isolation Location) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov.19 |
| Medical | 326 |
| Public | 167 |
| Total | 493 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from health Isolation Sites |
| 20-Nov | 32 |
| 21-Nov | 7 |
| 22-Nov | 12 |
| 23-Nov | 57 |
| 24-Nov | 13 |
| Total | 121 |
Critical Worker Requests:
As of Nov..19 there were 9064 requests, 4214 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 6059 | 66.8% |
| Denied | 281 | 3.2% |
| Pending | 212 | 3.1% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2512 | 2.3% |
| Total | 9064 | 100% |
COVID-19 GN Update - November 18, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
As of today, Nunavut has a total of 70 cases of COVID-19. Eight new cases have been confirmed in Arviat, bringing the community total to 54. There were two new cases in Rankin Inlet bringing the community total to six.
Our Rapid Response Teams, who I must commend for their hard work and dedication to their task, are working to test, trace and contain the virus in all communities impacted.
To date, there have been 114 negative tests in Arviat, 60 negative tests in Rankin Inlet. 103 in Sanikiluaq and five negatives in Whale Cove. Contact tracing and testing is ongoing.
While the increase in cases is concerning, given the nature of this virus and how quickly it spreads from person to person, an increase in cases is to be expected. Being able to quickly identify new cases also demonstrates the effort our public health and rapid response teams are putting in and the effectiveness of contact tracing. Keep in mind that it will take at least two weeks from today before we know if our public health measures and isolation protocols have been effective.
How effective we are in containing the current outbreak is in large part dependent on the cooperation of all Nunavummiut. Today, I am asking everyone to do their part in helping to contain the virus. We have repeated many times the need to follow the public health measures, but I want people to understand in simple terms what that means.
It means don’t go visiting. Right now, the best thing to do is stay home and keep your social contacts limited to the people who live in your home.
If you have symptoms, report them immediately. Don’t go to the health centre, call the hotline and, again, stay home unless directed otherwise by health staff.
We recommend wearing a mask everywhere, but you must wear a mask if you live in a community with active cases of COVID-19.
Also, please cooperate with the people who are contact tracing. Accurate information is the best way to track the virus.
Today, new orders came into effect territory wide. These orders are designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in communities with active cases and protect the other communities from the virus.
The orders make masks mandatory in any community where there are active cases of COVID-19.
We have restricted outdoor gatherings to five people and physical distancing must be maintained in all public spaces. Indoor gatherings are restricted to five people plus those living in the home, but we strongly recommend there be no visiting in homes.
Under the orders all non-essential work must stop. We have received a lot of questions asking what that means. In essence, if you closed back in March, you should be closed again.
Businesses and cab drivers are wondering about masks in communities that are not affected by COVID-19. While masks are not mandatory in other communities, they are recommended, and businesses have the authority to require makes for their patrons and staff.
Last week, I stated that daycares in Nunavut could stay open for essential workers. To clarify, this is not an order. If operators feel safer closing, that is up to them, but my hope is some will stay open to help our critical staff without childcare do their jobs.
Finally, please be kind to each other, the spread of the virus wasn’t done intentionally and blaming individuals or communities will not help us resolve this situation any faster.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Adjusted services (territory wide)
- Mental health Clients are given the option to speak to a counsellor on the phone
- When it is an emergency the clients can go to the health centre/QGH to be seen by a counsellor or Mental Health nurse
- Clients continue to be assessed by a psychiatrist via telehealth
- Clients are contacted at home if the counsellors or mental health nurses have not had contact with them recently
- In the community: Outreach workers and clinicians connect with clients via radio and radio scripts
- Outreach workers create packages to be delivered to client homes with activities inside for relaxation etc.
- Clients can continue to utilize services in the south for treatment or residential care with support, if the facility is accepting clients.
NU COVID-19 Statistics Nov. 18
| Community |
Confirmed COVID-19 Cases (yesterday) |
Confirmed COVID-19 Cases (today) | Change in case count (+/-) from previous day |
| Arviat | 46 | 54 | 8 |
| Whale Cove | 8 | 8 | 0 |
| Rankin Inlet | 4 | 6 | 2 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| TOTAL | 60 | 70 | 10 |
Testing stats to date: Nov. 18
| Community | Test positive | Tests negative |
| Arviat | 54 | 114 |
| Whale Cove | 8 | 5 |
| Rankin Inlet | 6 | 60 |
| Sanikiluaq | 2 | 103 |
| Total | 70 | 282 |
Isolation:
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 18 |
| Medical | 370 |
| Public | 196 |
| Total | 566 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from health Isolation Sites |
| 18-Nov | 102 |
| 19-Nov | 58 |
| 20-Nov | 33 |
| 21-Nov | 5 |
| 22-Nov | 4 |
| Total | 202 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Nov.17 there were 8905 requests, 4151 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5981 | 67.2% |
| Denied | 281 | 3.2% |
| Pending | 203 | 2.3% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2440 | 27.4% |
| Total | 8905 | 100% |
Common Travel Area
The NWT/Nunavut Common Travel Area has been suspended until further notice.
As of November 17, 2020, all Nunavut travellers to the NWT must follow the self-isolation measures set by the GNWT. For more information, travellers can contact Protect NWT at 8-1-1 or 1-833-378-8297.
As per the Chief Public Health Officer of Nunavut direction, all Nunavummiut who travelled from Nunavut to the NWT, before the suspension of the common travel area, can return to Nunavut without completing a 14 days isolation period:
- Nunavummiut already in the NWT who wish to return to Nunavut earlier than their scheduled return date, must complete an new Common Area Traveller’s Declaration form and send it to cphotravelrequests@gov.nu.ca. They also must wear masks in public spaces and observe physical distancing for the duration of their return trip.
- Nunavummiut who enter the NWT on exemption to live, work, study or for compassionate reasons and wish to return to Nunavut must also complete a Common Area Traveller’s Declaration form and send it to cphotravelrequests@gov.nu.ca.
- Nunavummiut already in the NWT, who wish to remain in the NWT for their entire scheduled trip, will be subject to the GNWT’s public health measures. For more information contact Protect NWT at 8-1-1 or 1-833-378-8297.
Department of Health Update - November 16, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good afternoon. Overnight we confirmed six new cases of COVID-19 in Arviat and two in Rankin Inlet for a total of 26 cases in Nunavut.
Our public health and rapid response teams working around the clock to trace and test in efforts to track and contain the virus.
Through our investigation, we have a growing concern of COVID-19 spreading to additional communities which is why we are initiating a territory-wide lockdown with restrictions like what we saw in March and April.
We are taking these steps for at least the next two weeks to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
Effective Wednesday territory-wide:
- All gatherings are restricted to five people and there shall be no gatherings in homes.
- All for profit and not-for profit business must close, with the exception of Grocery stores; Fuel and motor vehicle service stations; the Canada Post corporation; and Financial Institutions.
- Restaurants may open for take-out services only.
- All schools, including Nunavut Arctic College, federal, territorial, and municipal government offices must close to all but essential workers.
- Schools will be providing remote learning options.
- Personal services like hair stylists, masseuses and the like must close.
- All sporting events and activities are suspended.
- Fitness centres, gymnasiums and pools are closed.
- Libraries, museums and galleries are closed.
To protect our elders, all visitation to elders centres and long-term care centres is on hold for at least two weeks unless approved by the doctor on call. We also ask that elders closely monitor themselves for any signs of the virus and call their health centre immediately if they feel unwell. If community members are checking on elders, please maintain strict physical distancing, do not go inside their homes.
Health centres are closed except for emergencies. The Qikiqtani General Hospital is no longer accepting walk-ins. Please call ahead and you will be assessed over the phone. Do not attend the hospital unless asked. Anyone who visits a health centre or the hospital must wear a mask.
If you have questions relating to COVID-19 or want to know if you should be tested, please call the COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-975-8601. Calling the hotline will allow our health staff to focus on managing the outbreak. Calls to the health centres should be for emergencies only.
Minister of Health update
We always knew that COVID-19 would one day come to Nunavut. Now that it is here, it is up to all of us to help stop the spread.
We have professionals that are doing the contact tracing and contacting people to follow up. Now is not the time for everyone in Nunavut be an investigator. Do not worry about who, what or how it got here. We need to worry about how we stop the spread. And that starts with you.
This outbreak has demonstrated how important it is to follow the public health measures and reminds us that there are multiple measures in place for a reason.
If we want to keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe, we can’t pick and choose which measures to follow. We need to follow them all, as outlined by our good doctor.
The outbreak has people questioning if isolation works. For eight months it worked. For eight months it helped keep this virus out.
Isolation only works if people follow the rules while isolating. As Dr. Patterson has said, it’s not perfect, which is why we must follow all the rules.
Now that we are in lock down again, I urge everybody to follow the rules.
- Don’t visit.
- Stay six feet apart.
- If you are under isolation, stay in isolation.
- If you are sick stay home and call the COVID hotline.
- Do not share things. We are a very social society and I know it is hard, but even sharing a guitar, harmonica, cigarette, whatever, could spread the virus.
The next two weeks I know is going to be hard for people, but please listen to the public health orders.
We all have a chance to prevent further spread of this virus by working together to stay apart. We can do it.
Christmas is fast approaching and putting the hard work in now to stop the spread of this virus is the only way we will be able to hopefully lessen the restrictions before then. And that is up to each and every one of us.
Working together, we can help everyone in Nunavut have the chance to spend Christmas with our families over a traditional meal.
That can’t happen if we don’t listen to the advice and orders of Dr. Patterson.
Stay calm and stay safe.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
|
Total (All Health Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 16 |
| Medical | 520 |
| Public | 283 |
| Total | 803 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure Date | # of Travellers from health Isolation Sites |
|
Nov 13 |
44 |
| Nov 14 | 0 |
| Nov 15 | 20 |
| Nov 16 | 113 |
| Total | 177 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Nov.14 there were 8815 requests, 4121 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
5945 | 67.4% |
|
Denied |
280 | 3.2% |
| Pending | 172 | 2.0% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2418 | 27.4 |
| Total | 8815 | 100% |
Closed/Cancelled/Suspended services (Kivalliq Region):
- All speciality clinics are cancelled until further notice.
- Dental services are cancelled except for emergency only.
- Telehealth appointments are cancelled until further notice.
- Non-essential medical travel to Iqaluit is postponed. Appointments will be rescheduled at a later date.
- Home care visits are suspended at this time.
Adjusted services (Rankin Inlet):
- All prenatal appointments will be by appointment only, through the birthing centre.
Adjusted services (Iqaluit)
- All clinics will be virtual. Patients should phone the clinics to be screened and not come to the hospital unless it is an emergency.
- Antenatal clinics will continue as is.
- The Emergency Department will remain open for emergencies only.
- There will be no routine lab or diagnostic imaging service.
- There will be no specialist clinics.
- No visitation in the ward excluding one visitor for palliative, minors, and two visitors per OBS patient.
- Anyone going to the clinic is required to wear a non-medical mask. If they do not have a mask they will be provided a mask upon arrival and are required to wear it.
- Main Appointments number is: 975 8600, ext 5425.
- Alternative extensions include: 5430, 5431 and 5433.
Adjusted services (territory wide)
- Dental services are emergency only.
- Emergency dental care is available in Cambridge Bay, Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit.
- All health services are emergency only.
- Patients should call the health centre to be screened and not go to the health centre unless it is an emergency.
- Anyone going to the health centre is required to wear a non-medical mask.
Department of Health Update - November 13, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. Last night we were informed that an individual from Arviat has tested positive for COVID-19. This person returned to Arviat after spending 2 weeks in one of the isolation hubs in Winnipeg. 7 days after returning home, they became ill unrelated to COVID-19, and presented to the health center. Over the course of 2-3 days their symptoms worsened, and they were medevaced to Winnipeg. The person was tested for COVID-19 with a positive result coming back on Nov. 12. This individual is out of hospital and doing well. Contact tracing has begun to identify and a Rapid Response Team is on standby to assist if needed.
The individual who tested positive for COVID-19 in Rankin Inlet has a similar history. They were in Winnipeg, completed isolation in late October, and developed symptoms approximately 1 week after returning to Nunavut. This individual is stable and remains at home. Contact tracing continues but, to date, no other individuals in Rankin Inlet have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
While the common travel history is concerning, we are not yet able to say with certainty where these individuals were exposed to COVID-19. For that reason and considering there are now two cases in the region, I have decided to tighten restrictions and increase Public Health measures across the Kivalliq.
Effective immediately, all for profit and not-for profit business in all Kivalliq communities must close, with the exception of Grocery stores; Fuel and motor vehicle service stations; the Canada Post corporation; Financial Institutions. Restaurants open for take-out service may remain open under strict rules including, all customers must remain 2 metres apart at all times and no more than 10 people are permitted to line up for service at one time. All personal service providers, such as hairstylists, masseuses, must also close. Masks are now mandatory for everyone while outside their homes.
In addition, all schools, including Nunavut Arctic College, federal, territorial, and municipal government offices must close to all but essential work. All gatherings are restricted to five people and there shall be no gatherings in homes.
Effective Sunday, all travel within and out of the Kivalliq Region will be restricted to emergency medical travel, critical entry for medical response, flight emergencies, and cargo. Travellers from outside the Kivalliq transiting through to or through the region will still be allowed. Anyone travelling to the Kivalliq for longer than 24 hours, will be subject to the travel restrictions. Hunters may also leave their communities but may not travel to any other community or populated area.
Anyone who has a critical need to travel out of the Kivalliq after Sunday, must apply to CPHOtravelrequests@gov.nu.ca and be granted a travel authorization letter.
I strongly advise everyone to follow the public health measures in place, they are our best defence in the effort to prevent and stop transmission of the virus.
Thank you
Department of Health Services
Unless it is an emergency, we are asking that people in the Kivalliq region and in Sanikiluaq to call the health centre first and get direction. Anyone with questions about COVID-19 are asked to call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601.
There are four confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in Nunavut. The total number of persons followed to date is 4017. There are 735 persons currently being followed.
Closed/Cancelled/Suspended services (Kivalliq Region, Sanikiluaq):
• All speciality clinics are cancelled until further notice.
• Dental services are cancelled except for emergency only.
• Telehealth appointments are cancelled until further notice.
• Non-essential medical travel to Iqaluit is postponed. Appointments will be rescheduled at a later date.
• Home care visits are suspended at this time.
Adjusted services (Rankin Inlet):
• All prenatal appointments will be by appointment only, through the birthing centre.
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 13 |
| Medical | 520 |
| Public | 283 |
| Total | 803 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Nov. 13 | 44 |
| Nov. 14 | 0 |
| Nov. 15 | 20 |
| Nov. 16 | 113 |
| Total | 177 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Nov. 13, there were 8774 requests, 4116 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5867 | 66.9% |
| Denied | 280 | 3.2% |
| Pending | 231 | 2.6% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2396 | 27.3% |
| Total | 8774 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - November 12, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. Yesterday, we announced a COVID-19 positive test in Rankin Inlet. The individual presented to the health centre with mild symptoms late last week. The person is doing well and is isolated.
Based on the timing of the symptoms, we believe that the person became infectious around Nov. 5. Contact tracing is underway. As of today, the number of contacts is too few to report, but we know the number will grow in coming days. All high-risk contacts will be isolated at home. Low-risk contacts will be asked to monitor for symptoms.
We also announced several public health measures meant to limit the potential spread in the community. This information is available online at www.gov.nu.ca.
We are also asking anyone who has travelled from Rankin Inlet since Nov. 5 to self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days after leaving the community. We advise non-essential travel is not recommended at this time.
In Sanikiluaq, the two confirmed cases are doing well and remain in isolation. The 11 contacts identified on Monday have been swabbed and test results came back negative.
An additional 27 tests have been done and all results are negative. Contact tracing and isolation continues with the end goal to prevent community transmission. Testing will continue as deemed appropriate.
Today, I would also like to announce new measures on Nunavut’s Path. Out of an abundance of caution and until the situation in Rankin Inlet is stable, we will be re-instating certain restrictions in the rest of the Kivalliq region as well as Iqaluit:
- Schools in the Kivalliq outside Rankin Inlet and schools in Iqaluit are advised to remain open and follow the Department of Education’s opening plan for Nunavut schools.
- All food service establishments in the Kivalliq Region outside Rankin Inlet and in Iqaluit may remain open for on-premises dining, delivery, and take-out service.
- Seating capacity may be no greater than 50 people or fifty percent (50%) of the regular seating.
- There must be at least two meters (2 m) separation between tables and between persons in line for take-out or counter service.
- There shall be no more than six (6) people seated at or congregating near a table.
- Food service establishments may continue to establish their own hours for on-premises, take-out and delivery services.
- Licensed Premises in Baker Lake may open remain open for regular business hours, subject to any applicable licensing conditions. Physical distancing should be observed at all times.
- All organized public gatherings shall be restricted to:
- 50 people for outdoor gatherings.
- Five people in private dwellings in addition to household members.
- Other facilities used for community events or meetings, including places of worships, are to be limited to 50 people or 50% of the rated capacity for the facility as established by the Office of the Fire Marshal.
- Non-essential travel is not recommended.
- Anyone who develops flu-like symptoms is asked to contact the health centre or COVID-19 hotline immediately.
- All government offices are to remain open.
- All government services to continue as normal.
If Nunavummiut have questions around testing or any other public health measures, I ask that they direct them to the COVID-19 hotline.
Thank you.
Minister of Health update
Just a few words before we sign off today. As the new Minister of Health, let me tell you, this has been quite a first week. But I want to let everyone know how prepared we are for this, and that despite how challenging things seem, there is no need to panic.
As the MLA for a community affected by COVID-19, I’m saying the same thing, and I know our towns can do this.
I just want to re-iterate some things that Premier and Dr. Patterson have said.
Let’s please stop guessing about who, what, where, when and how this happened, and focus more on what we need to do to stop the spread.
Let’s use common sense and follow the public health measures. Limit visiting, wear a mask, keep washing your hands and coughing into your elbow, and stay clam.
Let’s support our health care workers. They are working around the clock on the front lines and behind the scenes to ensure we are cared for. They deserve our support and thanks, not disrespect.
Do not travel if it isn’t necessary – now is not the time.
Finally, act like your Elder parent or immune-compromised friend’s health depends on it. Because everyone’s actions matter.
Let’s focus on community instead of ourselves. Stay home and stay safe, Sanikiluaq and Rankin Inlet.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Unless it is an emergency, we are asking that people in Rankin Inlet and in Sanikiluaq to call the health centre first and get direction. Anyone with questions about COVID-19 are asked to call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601.
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 12 |
| Medical | 520 |
| Public | 283 |
| Total | 803 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Nov. 12 | 50 |
| Nov. 13 | 40 |
| Nov. 14 | 0 |
| Nov. 15 | 20 |
| Nov. 16 | 96 |
| Total | 206 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Nov. 11, there were 8678 requests, 4062 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5833 | 67.2% |
| Denied | 280 | 3.2% |
| Pending | 187 | 2.2% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2378 | 27.4% |
| Total | 8678 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - November 11, 2020
Unless it is an emergency, we are asking that people in Rankin Inlet call the health centre first and get direction. Anyone with questions about COVID-19 are asked to call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601.
Adjusted services:
- All prenatal appointments will be by appointment only, through the birthing centre.
Closed/Cancelled/Suspended services:
- All speciality clinics are cancelled until further notice.
- Dental services are cancelled except for emergency only.
- Telehealth appointments are cancelled until further notice.
- Non-essential medical travel to Iqaluit is postponed. Appointments will be rescheduled at a later date.
- Home care visits are suspended at this time.
Department of Health Update - November 9, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. Over the weekend we confirmed a second positive case of COVID-19 in Sanikiluaq. The testing was done in Iqaluit, where our lab is now validated for confirmatory testing. The new positive is living in the same household with the first positive case and there is no evidence of community transmission. The second individual is asymptomatic and doing well.
On Friday, we decided to deploy our Rapid Response Team to assist the staff on the ground in Sanikiluaq. One nurse and one logistician were dispatched to help with contact tracing. A third nurse was flown to the community today. The RRT is also being assisted remotely by virtual public health nurses who are contacting people by phone.
Contact tracing is ongoing and samples are being sent daily to Iqaluit for testing. To date, all high-risk contacts identified are in the community.
I realize that there is a lot of anxiety and uncertainty right now but the best thing we can do is work together. If public health nurses are calling, please answer the phone. Your information will be kept confidential. If you have symptoms, it is important you contact your health centre immediately. Cooperating with the health care workers will help us prevent the spread of the virus.
On Sunday, we were advised by Manitoba Public Health that a Nunavut resident at the medical travel isolation site in Winnipeg tested positive for COVID-19. It is unlikely the case in Winnipeg is related to the case in Sanikiluaq.
The individual is doing well and has been following the isolation procedures. Information points to the individual being exposed to the virus before entering isolation and we believe there is little risk of transmission to other hotel guests.
The individual is isolated and not allowed to leave their room at this time.
Finally, we have received reports of health care staff who have faced criticism and verbal abuse in some communities since the case of COVID-19 was announced. These men and women are coming from the south to provide essential services and play an important part in providing care across the territory. There are strict guidelines in place to ensure they follow public health measures.
We understand there is worry about people who do not isolate before coming to Nunavut, but there are situations that the harm of not bringing people up quickly could be significant. We do everything we can to ensure the risk of anyone entering the territory as a critical worker is low.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Unless it is an emergency, we are asking that people in Sanikiluaq call the health centre first and get direction. Anyone with questions about COVID-19 are asked to call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601.
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 7 |
| Medical | 417 |
| Public | 245 |
| Total | 662 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Nov. 7 | 0 |
| Nov. 8 | 19 |
| Nov. 9 | 78 |
| Nov. 10 | 46 |
| Nov. 11 | 59 |
| Total | 202 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Nov. 9, there were 8480 requests, 3985 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5646 | 66.6% |
| Denied | 279 | 3.3% |
| Pending | 258 | 3.0% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2297 | 27.1% |
| Total | 8480 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - November 2, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good afternoon,
Today we received confirmatory results of a positive case of COVID-19 in Sanikiluaq.
The individual and their family are isolated. We have initiated contact tracing in the community and our rapid response team is on standby to help manage the situation should it become necessary
Effective as of noon today, all travel to and from the Belcher Islands, including the Hamlet of Sanikiluaq by any means is prohibited.
There are exceptions for emergency medical travel, critical entry for medical response, flight emergencies, and cargo. Hunters may also leave the community but may not travel to any other community or populated area outside the Belcher Islands.
It is also advised that hunters leaving the community closely monitor for symptoms and return home if any develop.
In addition, all for profit and not-for profit business in Sanikiluaq must close, with the exception of Grocery stores; Fuel and motor vehicle service stations; the Canada Post corporation; Financial Institutions. Restaurants open for take-out service may remain open under strict rules including, all customers must remain 2 metres apart at all times and no more than 10 people are permitted to line up for service at one time.
In addition, all schools, including Nunavut Arctic College, federal, territorial, and municipal government offices must close to all but essential work.
All gatherings are restricted to five people and there shall be no gatherings in homes.
Currently, the common travel areas between the NWT and Churchill, Manitoba are still open for travel from all other communities.
I want to reassure Nunavummiut that we are responding quickly to this case and to remind them that now is a time for support, kindness and understanding.
Thank you.
Unless it is an emergency, we are asking that people in Sanikiluaq call the health centre first and get direction. Anyone with questions about COVID-19 are asked to call the hotline at 1-888-975-8601.
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in Isolation as of Nov. 5 |
| Medical | 431 |
| Public | 243 |
| Total | 674 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Nov. 6 | 46 |
| Nov. 7 | 0 |
| Nov. 8 | 32 |
| Nov. 9 | 80 |
| Nov. 10 | 41 |
| Total | 199 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Nov. 5, there were 7943 requests, 3933 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5595 | 66.9% |
| Denied | 279 | 3.3% |
| Pending | 208 | 2.5% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 2283 | 27.3% |
| Total | 7943 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - November 2, 2020
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in isolation as of Nov 2 |
| Medical | 378 |
| Public | 238 |
| Total | 661 |
Traveller repatriation summary
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Oct. 31 | 0 |
| Nov. 1 | 22 |
| Nov. 2 | 102 |
| Nov. 3 | 59 |
| Nov. 4 | 57 |
| Total | 240 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Oct. 27, there were 7728 requests, 3838 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5473 | 67.2% |
| Denied | 278 | 3.4% |
| Pending | 202 | 2.6% |
| Common Travel Area approved | 2189 | 26.9% |
| Total | 7728 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - October 26, 2020
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in isolation as of Oct 26 |
| Medical | 471 |
| Public | 328 |
| Total | 799 |
Traveller repatriation summary
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Oct. 24 | 0 |
| Oct. 25 | 17 |
| Oct. 26 | 86 |
| Oct. 27 | 39 |
| Oct. 28 | 86 |
| Total | 228 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Oct. 26, there were 7835 requests, 3694 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 5274 | 67.3% |
| Denied | 275 | 3.5% |
| Pending | 207 | 2.6 |
| Common Travel Area approved | 2079 | 26.5% |
| Total | 7835 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - October 19, 2020
The Department of Health would like to remind all Nunavummiut that travel out of Nunavut is not recommended. The second wave of COVID-19 in Canada is making the situation unpredictable.
Travellers to southern Canada are reminded that as the holiday season approaches travel is not advised. Entry into the isolation sites in Edmonton, Winnipeg and Ottawa could be delayed if there are no rooms available. Priority will also be given to medical travellers.
While the Common Travel Areas between the NWT and Nunavut, and Churchill, Man., and Nunavut continue to be in effect, this could change at any time.
If transmission of COVID-19 is confirmed in any of the Common Travel Area jurisdictions. In this event, travel could be restricted without notice and travel to Nunavut might be delayed. Travellers could also be subject to 14 days of isolation before being allowed entry to Nunavut.
Travellers in the Common Travel Areas are also reminded that a letter from the office of the Chief Public Health Officer authorizing travel is required to return to Nunavut. Travellers without a letter will not be allowed to board an aircraft. Please allow sufficient time (two to three days) between requesting the letter and the date of travel to Nunavut to avoid travel delays.
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in isolation as of Oct 17 |
| Medical | 436 |
| Public | 291 |
| Total | 727 |
Traveller repatriation summary
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Oct. 17 | 1 |
| Oct. 18 | 26 |
| Oct. 19 | 83 |
| Oct. 20 | 55 |
| Oct. 21 | 81 |
| Total | 246 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Oct. 17, there were 7459 requests, 3513 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 4999 | 67.2% |
| Denied | 273 | 3.7% |
| Pending | 258 | 3.5% |
| Common Travel Area approved | 1929 | 25.9% |
| Total | 7459 | 100% |
Department of Health Update - October 8, 2020
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in isolation as of Oct 8 |
| Medical | 540 |
| Public | 320 |
| Total | 860 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Oct 8 | 65 |
| Oct 9 | 48 |
| Oct 10 | 0 |
| Oct 11 | 69 |
| Oct 12 | 112 |
| Total | 307 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Oct. 8, there were 6898 requests, 3303 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 4774 | 69.2% |
| Denied | 264 | 3.9% |
| Pending | 131 | 1.9% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 1727 | 25.0% |
| Total | 6898 | 100% |
Department of Health Services Update - October 5, 2020
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in isolation as of Oct 2 |
| Medical | 366 |
| Public | 398 |
| Total | 764 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Oct 1 | 64 |
| Oct 2 | 47 |
| Oct 3 | 0 |
| Oct 4 | 28 |
| Oct 5 | 127 |
| Total | 266 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Oct. 5, there were 6615 requests, 3174 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 4666 | 69.8% |
| Denied | 264 | 4.0% |
| Pending | 110 | 1.6% |
| Common Travel Area Approved | 1642 | 24.6% |
| Total | 6682 | 100% |
Department of Health Services Update - October 2, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. On September 28, the Department of Health activated its Rapid Response Team to contain an outbreak of COVID-19 at TMAC Resources’ Hope Bay mine.
TMAC Resources contacted my office on September 26 about an employee developing symptoms consistent with COVID-19. The individual and identified contacts were swabbed and the samples sent to Rankin Inlet for testing.
Seven of the samples yielded positive results, and all were sent to a southern lab for confirmatory testing. Two of those tests have since been confirmed.
As the test results indicated transmission of COVID-19 at the mine site, we initiated our rapid response plan to assist in containing the virus.
All non-critical travel to and from the mine was also halted.
The Rapid Response Team has been conducting additional contact tracing and taking samples.
As of last night, five more swabs were flown to Rankin Inlet for testing on the GeneXpert or BioFire devices, one has tested positive and will be sent for confirmatory testing. The results of one test are still pending. Another eight swabs will be delivered to Rankin Inlet tomorrow.
To accurately detect the virus, high risk contacts from the initial batch of tests have been re swabbed to ensure testing is being done at appropriate times during the incubation period.
All those who tested positive and high-risk, non-critical staff contacts have been isolated.
Critical staff contacts who are required to continue working for the safety of the other workers, are doing so until they can be replaced. Those staff are following strict measures to keep isolated from those around them, including wearing masks. Workers who develop symptoms will be required to isolate immediately.
As of Yesterday, the two individuals who were symptomatic have had their symptoms resolve.
The Rapid Response Team is currently continuing contact tracing and containment operations and are expected to be on site until the middle of next week.
While the transmission of COVID-19 at the mine is concerning, the risk to Nunavummiut from this outbreak remains low. Hope Bay does not currently have Nunavummiut working on site and there is no contact from the mine to any Nunavut communities.
Once the Rapid Response Team concludes its work, my office will review the incident and information gathered by the Rapid Response Team. From there, we will determine if there are enhanced measures needed to reduce the risk of another outbreak.
Thank you.
Isolation Volumes
| Total (all health isolation locations) | |
| Traveler type | Guests in isolation as of Oct 2 |
| Medical | 366 |
| Public | 398 |
| Total | 764 |
Traveller repatriation summary
| Departure Date | # of travellers from health isolation sites |
| Oct 1 | 64 |
| Oct 2 | 47 |
| Oct 3 | 0 |
| Oct 4 | 28 |
| Oct 5 | 127 |
| Total | 266 |
Critical worker requests
As of Oct. 1, there were 6615 requests, 3174 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 4627 | 69.9% |
| Denied | 264 | 4.0% |
| Pending | 117 | 1.8% |
| Common Travel Area Pending | 1607 | 24.3% |
| Total | 6615 | 100% |
Department of Health Services Update - September 19, 2020
Isolation Volumes
| Total (All Health Isolation Locations) | |
| Traveler Type | Guests in isolation as of Sept 21 |
| Medical | 336 |
| Public | 382 |
| Total | 786 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
| Departure date | # of travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
| 19-Sep | 0 |
| 20-Sep | 21 |
| 21-Sep | 87 |
| 22-Sep | 35 |
| 23-Sep | 68 |
| Total | 211 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Sept. 19, there were 5875 requests, 2831 of which were critical worker requests.
| Request status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 4137 | 70.4% |
| Denied | 259 | 4.4% |
| Pending | 125 | 2.1% |
| Common Travel Area | 1352 | 23.0% |
| Total | 5875 | 100% |
Mental health services
• Overall Mental Health and Addictions services are seeing people face to face throughout Nunavut.
• Due to the numbers in Iqaluit and to maintain physical distancing, clients are given the option for phone or face to face.
• Clients sent out of territory for services remains limited based on the receiving facilities’ protocols.
• Psychiatry clinics are not yet face to face, but available through video or phone. This is dependent on the contracted hospitals’ protocols.
Department of Health Services, September 14, 2020
Isolation Volumes
|
Total (All Health Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of Sept. 11 |
|
Medical |
405 |
|
Public |
341 |
|
Total |
746 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Health Isolation Sites |
|
12-Sep |
0 |
|
13-Sep |
59 |
|
14-Sep |
93 |
|
15-Sep |
41 |
|
16-Sep |
47 |
|
Total |
240 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Sept. 11, there were 5301 requests, 2630 of which were critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
3820 |
72.1% |
|
Denied |
248 |
4.7% |
|
Pending |
66 |
1.5% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
1167 |
22.0% |
|
Total |
5301 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, September 8, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning,
This past weekend marked the end of the14-day period for the 23 people identified as contacts of a positive case of COVID 19 at the Ottawa Residence Inn. With the two-week period concluded, there is no longer a concern that those individuals contracted the virus.
These past weeks we have continued to improve our capacity for in-territory testing. The Biofire device in Iqaluit is now operating alongside the GeneXpert machine. Aside from the need to have increased testing capacity in-territory, we also need to improve the turn around time for test results. This week, the Department of Health is starting a pilot project using charter aircraft to transport COVID-19 samples from Baffin communities to Iqaluit. The goal is to have a system in place that will reduce the test results turn around time to five days or less. Once the system is in place and working, we will begin the same process in Rankin Inlet.
Increased in-territory testing capacity combined with shorter turnaround times for tests results, will give us more flexibility with our public health measures and improve our response in case of an outbreak. However, testing is not enough.
As most people know, the Public Health strategy for minimizing the risks of COVID-19 entering and spreading in the territory relies on several measures. Testing is just one component. Physical distancing, good hygiene like washing our hands, staying home when sick and in the isolation hubs, work in tandem with testing and should not be underestimated.
We should also keep in mind that our public health measures are effective only because Nunavummiut, individually and collectively, follow them. We have been effective so far in reducing the risks because each and everyone of us made the conscious choice to adopt and include these measures in our daily lives. Every time we choose to ignore these measures, the risk increases.
While the risk can never be zero, we know that these measures are working. Nunavut remains COVID-free. We have seen decreases in respiratory illnesses this year across the territory. It is therefore vital that, individually and collectively, we continue to make the choice to follow public health measures and remain active participants in protecting our families and communities.
Thank you
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Public Health Emergency
The Public Health Emergency was extended on Sept. 3 to and is in effect until Sept. 17.
Isolation Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of Sept. 7 |
|
Medical |
345 |
|
Public |
335 |
|
Total |
680 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
07-Sep |
54 |
|
08-Sep |
66 |
|
09-Sep |
65 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Sept. 7, there are 5244 requests, 2604 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
3782 |
72.1% |
|
Denied |
246 |
4.7% |
|
Pending |
79 |
1.5% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
1137 |
21.7% |
|
Total |
5244 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, August 17, 2020
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
Common Travel areas (NWT/Churchill)
Nunavummiut travelling between the NWT and Nunavut or Churchill and Nunavut no longer have to isolate under certain conditions. However, those travelling out of Nunavut into a common travel area must obtain a letter of exemption from the Chief Public Health Officer to return to the territory. Airlines will not allow anyone to board an aircraft without a letter of authorization from the CPHO. To obtain the letter, contact CPHOtravelrequests@gov.nu.ca prior to travelling. Common travel area rules are as follows:
- Travel must originate from Nunavut to the NWT/Churchill, or from the NWT/Churchill to Nunavut.
- Travellers have not been outside the Common Travel Areas for two weeks prior to their travel to NWT, Churchill or Nunavut.
- Travellers remain in the Common Travel Area for the duration of their stay.
Passengers travelling on scheduled flights between the Kitikmeot Region and any other part of Nunavut containing a stopover or change of aircraft in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, are exempt from the requirement to produce the proof of authorization.
Email for Travellers Returning to Nunavut
All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
An email address is available to address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. If you have questions, feedback or concerns regarding isolation, contact isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as Aug. 16 |
|
Medical Travel |
250 |
|
Public |
470 |
|
Total |
720 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
Aug. 15 |
7 |
|
Aug. 16 |
22 |
|
Aug. 17 |
110 |
|
Aug. 18 |
32 |
|
Aug. 19 |
67 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Aug.15, there are 4120 requests, 2219 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
3122 |
75.8% |
|
Denied |
228 |
5.5% |
|
Pending |
48 |
1.2% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
722 |
17.5% |
|
Total |
4120 |
100% |
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, August 10, 2020
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as Aug. 8 |
|
Medical Travel |
146 |
|
Public |
470 |
|
Total |
616 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
Aug. 8 |
9 |
|
Aug. 9 |
15 |
|
Aug. 10 |
90 |
|
Aug. 11 |
26 |
|
Aug. 12 |
52 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of Aug. 8, there are 3718 requests, 2087 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
2900 |
78% |
|
Denied |
226 |
6.1% |
|
Pending |
51 |
1.4% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
541 |
14.6% |
|
Total |
3718 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, August 4, 2020
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as Aug. 2 |
|
Medical Travel |
105 |
|
Public |
483 |
|
Total |
588 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
Aug. 4 |
37 |
|
Aug. 5 |
42 |
|
Aug. 6 |
83 |
|
Aug. 7 |
22 |
|
Aug. 8 |
5 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of July 30, there are 3290 requests, 1948 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
2647 |
80.5% |
|
Denied |
216 |
6.6% |
|
Pending |
52 |
1.6% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
375 |
11.4% |
|
Total |
3290 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, July 27, 2020
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of July 24 |
|
Medical Travel |
1621 |
|
Public |
1151 |
|
Total |
2832 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
July 25 |
1 |
|
July 26 |
15 |
|
July 27 |
58 |
|
July 28 |
19 |
|
July 29 |
48 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of July 26, there are 3000 requests, 1850 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
2461 |
83% |
|
Denied |
213 |
7.1% |
|
Pending |
11 |
.4% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
315 |
10.5% |
|
Total |
3000 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Beginning June 29, Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes will accept visitors on a limited basis. Each resident or inpatient may have no more than two visitors at once, and visitors shall be restricted to immediate family members only (which includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, July 20, 2020
Minister of Health update:
I want to take an opportunity to address the rumours and misinformation currently going around about our isolation hubs.
The Government of Nunavut is managing several hubs, and dealing with a large number of requests from both medical and non-essential travellers. In an attempt to help clear up some of the delays to get into the hubs, Iqaluit is being looked at as one of several options to help relieve the wait time for medical travellers in Winnipeg.
This has not been finalized and we are actively looking at the possibility of creating a second hub in Winnipeg, specifically for medical travellers. Our commitment is to ensure our medical travellers are well cared for and we are prioritizing their stays above non-essential travellers.
We understand the concerns raised on social media over the weekend. However, nothing has been confirmed about an Iqaluit or additional Winnipeg hub. We recognize the fear and uncertainty that comes with COVID-19. However, we need to balance that fear with facts, the best possible care for Nunavummiut and our commitment to public health and safety.
When there is an official course of action on this, we will announce it with all the relevant information. As we work to relieve this backlog, we thank those waiting for a spot in the isolation hubs for their patience and understanding. We are working around the clock to keep our territory and Nunavummiut safe. Thanks to all the staff who have worked so hard to keep everyone well during COVID-19.
Department of Health Services
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of July 17 |
|
Medical Travel |
240 |
|
Public |
262 |
|
Total |
502 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
July 18 |
7 |
|
July 19 |
28 |
|
July 20 |
65 |
|
July 21 |
28 |
|
July 22 |
38 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of July 18, there are 2730 requests, 1757 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
2266 |
83% |
|
Denied |
204 |
7.5% |
|
Pending |
43 |
1.6% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
217 |
7.9% |
|
Total |
2730 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Beginning June 29, Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes will accept visitors on a limited basis. Each resident or inpatient may have no more than two visitors at once, and visitors shall be restricted to immediate family members only (which includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, July 13, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update
As Nunavut continues its path forward, I am pleased to announce the further easing of restrictions in the territory.
On July 20, all licensed establishments in the territory will be allowed to open with regular hours.
Nunavut will also be extending its common travel area to include Churchill, Manitoba. This bubble is exclusive to the community of Churchill and does not extend to other regions of Manitoba.
The common travel area applies to air, land and water travel and exempts travellers from isolation requirements in either Nunavut or Churchill under certain conditions:
- Travel must originate from Nunavut to Churchill or from Churchill to Nunavut.
- Travellers must have not been outside either Churchill or Nunavut for 2 weeks prior to travelling.
- Travellers must remain in either Nunavut or Churchill for the duration of their stay.
Prior to travelling outside of Nunavut, travellers must contact the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer for Nunavut and provide:
- Contact information, such as an address and phone number, at the person’s regular place of residence; and
- A written declaration that can be obtained by emailing CPHOtravelrequests@gov.nu.ca or by going to the Department of Health’s website.
When travelling by air, travellers are required to obtain a letter from the CPHO authorizing travel or they will not be permitted to board their flight. Those who leave the common travel area outside of Churchill will need to isolate for 14 days at a government isolation facility, prior to returning to Nunavut.
I would like to also take this opportunity to thank all Nunavummiut for their patience as we work together to protect our territory and families from COVID-19.
Thank you
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravel requests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of July 12 |
|
Medical Travel |
254 |
|
Public |
245 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
499 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
July 11 |
5 |
|
July 12 |
7 |
|
July 13 |
53 |
|
July 14 |
18 |
|
July 15 |
88 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of July 11, there are 2,467 requests, 1,622 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
2086 |
84.6% |
|
Denied |
198 |
8.0% |
|
Pending |
26 |
1.1% |
|
Bubble Approved |
157 |
6.4% |
|
Total |
2467 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
- Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services.
Adjusted services:
- Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
- MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
- Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
- Beginning June 29, Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes will accept visitors on a limited basis. Each resident or inpatient may have no more than two visitors at once, and visitors shall be restricted to immediate family members only (which includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
- All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, July 6, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update
Good morning. We are still waiting on confirmatory results for the presumptive case detected in the Mary River Mine, with the expectation that they will be ready sometime this week. The Department of Health continues to monitor the situation at the Mary River Mine site closely, and we will provide support as needed.
I want to take this opportunity and remind Nunavummiut that:
Testing is only one component of the Public Health response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Testing is important, but it is not a replacement for social distancing or hand-washing.
Testing is important, but it is absolutely not a replacement for 14 days of isolation.
The Government of Nunavut follows testing guidelines and best practices that have been endorsed by the World Health Organization and Health Canada. We rely on diagnostic devices that have undergone rigorous validation and accreditation processes to provide dependable testing to Nunavummiut.
Even under ideal conditions, and with validated equipment, testing is not always a reliable method of identifying cases of COVID-19 and halting transmission. There is strong evidence that false negatives can occur throughout the incubation period.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the overarching goal of our public health response is to identify, contain and break transmission.
The Government of Nunavut will continue to look at emerging evidence and best practices set out by public health authorities, both nationally and globally, to shape our response to COVID-19, and will alter public health measures as and when appropriate.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of July 3 |
|
Medical Travel |
224 |
|
Public |
229 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
453 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
July 4 |
3 |
|
July 5 |
15 |
|
July 6 |
76 |
|
July 7 |
29 |
|
July 8 |
30 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of July 4, there are 2215 requests, 1508 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1874 |
84.6% |
|
Denied |
197 |
8.9% |
|
Pending |
37 |
1.7% |
|
Bubble Approved |
107 |
4,8% |
|
Total |
1291 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Beginning June 29, Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes will accept visitors on a limited basis. Each resident or inpatient may have no more than two visitors at once, and visitors shall be restricted to immediate family members only (which includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, June 29, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer Update
Good morning. Today marks the third bi-weekly announcement for Nunavut’s Path for moving forward during COVID-19. There are still no cases of COVID-19 detected in the territory, so once again we are in a position to alter public health measures.
I’m pleased to announce the following changes under the new Order Respecting Social Distancing and Gatherings, which goes into effect today:
- The limit for outdoor gatherings has now been increased to 50 people.
- The limit for indoor gatherings has been increased to 10 people. In private dwellings, this means 10 people in addition to those who reside there.
- The limit for gatherings at places of worship, conference facilities, community halls, rental meeting spaces, and gatherings organized by the Government of Canada, Government of Nunavut, municipal corporation, or Regional Inuit Organizations has been set at 50 people or 50% of capacity for the facility, whichever is less.
- In all facilities and gatherings, it is still expected that social distancing is maintained.
As we take another step forward on Nunavut’s Path, and we return to some of the activities, programs, or venues that we’ve missed, we need to remain diligent in our collective commitment to practice social distancing and good hand hygiene.
If you make the choice to participate in a large gathering, or attend an indoor event, or even meet up with friends for dinner, please also choose to be responsible, and choose to take actions that will keep yourself, your community, and your territory, safe. Wash your hands. Keep six feet away from others. Avoid touching your face. Sanitize high-touch areas often. Consider wearing a mask when social distancing is difficult. If you don’t feel well, stay home.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 28 |
|
Medical Travel |
257 |
|
Public |
183 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
440 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 27 |
7 |
|
June 28 |
16 |
|
June 29 |
63 |
|
June 30 |
28 |
|
July 1 |
47 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 26, there are 1919 requests, 1373 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1666 |
86.8% |
|
Denied |
195 |
10.2% |
|
Pending |
3 |
0.2% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
55 |
2.9% |
|
Total |
1919 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Beginning June 29, Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes will accept visitors on a limited basis. Each resident or inpatient may have no more than two visitors at once, and visitors shall be restricted to immediate family members only (which includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, June 25, 2020
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravelrequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 24 |
|
Medical Travel |
286 |
|
Public |
177 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
463 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 25 |
31 |
|
June 26 |
20 |
|
June 27 |
7 |
|
June 28 |
13 |
|
June 29 |
67 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 24, there are 1,821 requests, 1,333 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1584 |
86.9% |
|
Denied |
194 |
10.7% |
|
Pending |
2 |
0.1% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
41 |
2.2% |
|
Total |
1821 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, June 22, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning.
As of today, Nunavut is resuming regular medical travel to Churchill, Manitoba. As Churchill has not had a confirmed case of COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic, we have determined that the risk of resuming medical travel operations is minimal, and it is greatly outweighed by the benefits of ensuring that Nunavummiut have access to the out-of-territory care they need.
Medical travellers and their escorts who travel to Churchill for treatment and do not leave the community for the duration of their stay, will be able to return directly to Nunavut without needing to isolate at a GN designated isolation facility. If the situation changes, we will re-assess and be ready to initiate contact tracing and containment measures immediately.
We have also had some inquiries from cab companies regarding their operations. Under the new Order Regarding Social Distancing and Gatherings, cab companies can collect fares from multiple households at once, under specific conditions.
- Whenever there are multiple passengers in the cab, everyone must wear a mask.
- Cab drivers must provide masks for riders who do not have them.
- Most importantly, cab drivers must obtain consent from all passengers before picking up multiple fares. This means that any passenger who is picked up, and all subsequent fares on that ride, must indicate that they are okay with riding in a shared cab with others.
- All passengers can still request that they do not share their ride with others, and, for now, cab companies must comply with this request.
We want to thank all cab companies who have so readily complied with recommendations to limit passenger travel and enhance sanitation procedures in order to keep Nunavummiut safe and healthy.
Finally, as restaurants, bars, and other indoor locations are permitted to open, I want to continue to emphasize to Nunavummiut the necessity of social distancing, good hand hygiene, and staying home when we are sick. We need to remember, even as we return to the activities we enjoy, that this pandemic is far from over, and small actions from everyone today add up to major impacts tomorrow.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOTravelRequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 21 |
|
Medical Travel |
260 |
|
Public |
174 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
434 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 22 |
50 |
|
June 23 |
26 |
|
June 24 |
25 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 21, there are 1,726 requests, 1,282 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1511 |
87.5% |
|
Denied |
191 |
11.1% |
|
Pending |
4 |
0.2% |
|
Common Travel Area Approved |
20 |
1.2% |
|
Total |
1726 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, June 18, 2020
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravel requests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 17 |
|
Medical Travel |
240 |
|
Public |
197 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
437 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 18 |
56 |
|
June 19 |
9 |
|
June 20 |
12 |
|
June 21 |
3 |
|
June 22 |
50 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 17, there are 1,667 requests, 1,238 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1470 |
88.2% |
|
Denied |
188 |
11.3% |
|
Pending |
9 |
0.5% |
|
Total |
1667 |
100% |
Travel through the Common Travel Area
As of June 17, there are 15 approved requests for travel into Nunavut from the Northwest Territories.
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH have resumed regular services
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
The inpatient ward at QGH is allowing limited visitors to the inpatient ward following a questionnaire.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, June 15, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning,
Last Friday, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) announced that it will allow Nunavummiut to enter the Northwest Territories (NWT) without undergoing a 14-day isolation period. I am pleased to say that after consultation with my counterpart in the GNWT, as of today, residents of the NWT can travel to Nunavut without isolating prior to arrival.
The establishment of the common travel area by air or by land between the two territories does however come with strict conditions and expectations:
- Travel must originate from Nunavut to the NWT or from the NWT to Nunavut.
- Travellers have not been outside their respective territory for two weeks prior to their travel to the NWT or Nunavut.
- Travellers remain in either territory for the duration of their stay.
Travellers from the NWT who wish to enter Nunavut, must write to: cphotravelrequests@gov.nu.ca and complete and sign the Nunavut and NWT Traveller’s Declaration form. Failure to do so will affect entry in Nunavut. Failure to answer truthfully will be subject to fines. This also applies for Nunavummiut who wish to return home after their stay in the NWT.
My office will issue a letter of approval. Travellers will be required to present the approval letter prior to boarding any airplane entering Nunavut.
Isolation before entering Nunavut is still required if
- You are a Nunavut resident who is returning home from travel in southern Canada via Yellowknife. In this case, you will need to complete a 14-day isolation period in the GN isolation hub in Yellowknife.
- You are an NWT resident who has travelled outside your territory less than two weeks before your scheduled arrival in Nunavut. In this case, you will need to complete the NWT isolation requirements before applying for travel to Nunavut.
I want to re-assure Nunavummiut that should the current situation change in either territory, we will re-assess the common travel area and take all necessary measures to protect the health and safety of Nunavummiut.
Further Information can be found in Travel and Isolation section of the Department of Health website at https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/travel-and-isolation.
Today also marks the second of our bi-weekly announcements regarding the status of current health measures.
Beginning June 22:
- Personal service providers will also be permitted to open for one-on-one sessions. This includes hairdressers and nail salons. Again, these facilities will be responsible for ensuring that PPE is available for both clients and service providers when requested.
- Bars and restaurants will be allowed to re-open and operate at half capacity. Last call for alcohol service will be at 9 p.m.. Facility operators need to ensure that patrons are respecting social distancing. Liquor Inspectors have the authority to enforce orders regarding social distancing, and they will be monitoring to ensure adherence to these conditions.
- Theatres and churches are also permitted to re-open on June 22.
On June 29:
- Youth centres and day camps will be able to resume operations.
- Long-term care facilities will begin accepting visitors in a limited capacity; they can only allow one to two visitors per resident at a time, and these visitors can only be immediate family.
Guidelines for re-opening will be available on the health website in the coming days.
Though we can reasonably forecast what the next two weeks may bring, we must remain aware of the possible need to change or re-introduce public health measures. While we are in a position to ease restrictions, we remain vulnerable to the impacts of this global pandemic.
Every week, new information becomes available. Every week, the situation can change. What doesn’t change is that social distancing, washing your hands and staying home when you are sick are the three main actions each and everyone of us can take to keep our families and our communities safe.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Calling Ahead at Health Centres
Unless you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call your health centre first before going in. Describe your symptoms, and health care providers can conduct a telephone assessment and may schedule in-person appointments for appropriate care.
Wearing Masks at Health Centres
If you are presenting at a health centre with respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose, please wear a mask. If you do not have a mask, please tell whoever receives you at the health centre of your symptoms, and they can provide you with one.
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in Southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOTravelRequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 14 |
|
Medical Travel |
201 |
|
Public |
206 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
407 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 13 |
7 |
|
June 14 |
6 |
|
June 15 |
46 |
|
June 16 |
49 |
|
June 17 |
35 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 13, there are 1,574 requests, 1,181 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1379 |
87.6% |
|
Denied |
186 |
11.8% |
|
Pending |
9 |
0.6% |
|
Total |
1574 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
Beginning June 8, there will be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Beginning June 15, normal dental services are permitted to resume, though this service may not be available in all communities immediately. For communities where normal service resumption is delayed, emergency services are still available.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, June 11, 2020
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravel requests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 10 |
|
Medical Travel |
174 |
|
Public |
226 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
400 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 11 |
30 |
|
June 12 |
21 |
|
June 13 |
7 |
|
June 14 |
6 |
|
June 15 |
47 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 10, there are 1,520 requests, 1143 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1335 |
87.8% |
|
Denied |
183 |
10.7% |
|
Pending |
2 |
.1% |
|
Total |
1520 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, June 8, 2020
Minister of Health update
As Dr Patterson has already indicated, Nunavut’s strict border measures are likely among the last of the public health measures that will be lifted or altered. Right now, travel into Nunavut represents the single biggest risk for introducing COVID-19. The travel ban, and the 14-day isolation requirements for returning Nunavummiut, are meant to mitigate this risk and keep our territory safe.
Knowing that, I’d like to take this opportunity to share information on the new process being implemented for reserving stays in GN southern isolation facilities. Moving forward, all Nunavummiut who must travel outside of the territory should contact the email address NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca and submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form as soon as they know their plans for travel. From there, the travel team will work to identify room availability and reserve your stay in one of the designated isolation facilities.
This new streamlined process is meant to help Nunavummiut plan for their 14-day quarantine period farther in advance and ensures that our travel team can anticipate and accommodate travellers in the coming months. More information, including intake days requirements, can also be found on the Department of Health’s website.
Remember, non-essential travel outside of the territory is still not recommended.
All individuals who are applying for critical worker exemption will continue to use the email address CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca.
Finally, the Department of Health has made temporary amendments to the Medical Travel Policy to help keep our medical travellers and escorts safe from COVID-19. Specific provisions have been added to ensure that medical travellers and escorts abide by rules of social distancing, hand-washing hygiene, and other behaviours that help to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The amendments also more clearly outline the requirements for both medical travellers and escorts to complete 14 days of self-isolation at a designated isolation facility prior to returning to Nunavut.
As we continue to look at ways of easing public health measures and returning the activities we enjoy, we must remain diligent and aware that the threat of COVID-19 has not yet passed.
Please continue to maintain physical distancing and handwashing practices, and limit any non-essential travel out of the territory. Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
New Email for Travellers
A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to NUisolationreservations@nunavutcare.ca as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facilities. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.
Individuals applying for critical worker exemption will continue to contact the email CPHOtravelrequests@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 7 |
|
Medical Travel |
168 |
|
Public |
189 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
357 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 6 |
7 |
|
June 7 |
8 |
|
June 8 |
28 |
|
June 9 |
24 |
|
June 10 |
18 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 7, there are 1,433 requests, 1,085 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1223 |
85.3% |
|
Denied |
157 |
11.0% |
|
Pending |
53 |
3.7% |
|
Total |
1433 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, June 4, 2020
Critical worker exemption notice for residents leaving or re-entering Nunavut
Currently travel out of Nunavut is not recommended and subject to 14-day isolation before travellers are allowed to return to territory. All Nunavummiut, regardless of employer, are subject to 14-day isolation. Only critical workers can apply for isolation exemption. Approval of exemption is at the sole discretion of the Chief Public Health Officer’s office and cannot be granted by any Nunavut employer.
If you believe you are a critical worker, apply to the CPHO by submitting the Critical Worker exemption form to CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca. If you are not approved by the CPHO for critical exemption, you must self-isolate for 14 days in a GN isolation site.
For more information on the travel ban, critical worker status or current public health measures, go to https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Isolation sites concern inbox
A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the isolation sites in southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll-free line, patient relations and the CPHOTravelRequests inbox. The new email address is isolationrelations@gov.nu.ca.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of June 3 |
|
Medical Travel |
208 |
|
Public |
154 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
362 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
June 4 |
33 |
|
June 5 |
13 |
|
June 6 |
2 |
|
June 7 |
12 |
|
June 8 |
28 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of June 2, there are 1,352 requests, 1025 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1161 |
85.9% |
|
Denied |
153 |
11.3% |
|
Pending |
38 |
2.8% |
|
Total |
1352 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, June 1, 2020
Minister of Health update:
I’d like to invite all Nunavummiut to join me in celebrating World No Tobacco Day, which occurred this past Sunday, May 31. This annual event highlights the health risks associated with tobacco use, and advocates for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.
Right now, we are all working hard to commit to our public health measures that protect us from the threat of COVID-19. We are social distancing, staying home as much as possible, and washing our hands as much as we can. These actions are keeping ourselves, our communities, and our territory safe. Quitting tobacco use is one more step we can take to guard ourselves against the impact of this pandemic. We know that COVID-19 is mainly a respiratory virus, and early evidence suggests that smoking can make symptoms worse. Smokers are also likely to be more vulnerable to COVID-19, as smoking increases the likelihood of transmission from one’s face and lips. Please remember: do not share cigarettes, joints, or pipes. Do not pick up discarded cigarette or cannabis butts. Wash your hands often, and refrain from touching your face.
The best thing that we can do for our health is to quit smoking. By making the decision to quit smoking, we can help to protect ourselves from COVID-19 today, and dramatically improve our health for the coming weeks, months, and years. Support is available for anyone who wants to explore options to help them quit. Message a counsellor on the Tobacco Has No Place Here Facebook page or call 1-866-368-7848 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is private and free. Counsellors can help you in Inuktitut, English, Inuinnaqtun and French.
Nicotine replacement therapy, or NRT, is also available at no cost through the Non-Insured Health Benefits program at your local health centre or pharmacy. Call ahead, and ask your health care provider for information and options for NRT.
Thank you.
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. Today marks the start of Nunavut’s Path forward. Day cares, territorial parks, and playgrounds are permitted to re-open, and the size limit for outdoor gatherings has been increased to 25. Today will also be the first of our bi-weekly assessments concerning the modification of public health measures.
As we look at altering public health measures, I want to take a moment and emphasize to all Nunavummiut the continued importance of social distancing. While we are in a position today to alter measures, we are not in a position to take social distancing for granted.
We’ve noticed through the contact tracing of persons under investigation that people’s contact bubbles are becoming noticeably larger. Larger contact bubbles will make it significantly more challenging to identify and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.
COVID-19 continues to pose a risk to Nunavummiut, and we are not immune to this pandemic. We’ve made it this far thanks to our collective efforts, but those efforts absolutely have to continue.
With that said, I’m pleased to announce the following modifications to public health measures that will be occurring over the next two weeks.
Effective immediately, in-territory travel advisories are lifted. Travel outside of Nunavut is still not recommended. Individuals who are travelling outside of the territory need to be aware not only of the isolation procedures to return, but also of the measures that other jurisdictions may have in place to limit or discourage travel.
On June 8, workplaces and retail outlets are permitted to re-open, provided that they have safety measures in place. Galleries, museums, and libraries may also be opened for individual viewing and browsing, though group sessions are still prohibited. There will also be an increased availability of in-person health assessments at health centres across the territory.
On June 15, dental clinics, physiotherapy clinics, massage therapy, and chiropractic treatments are permitted to resume. Gyms and pools will also be permitted to re-open for solo workouts and lap swimming only.
Please note, that all these measures are subject to alteration should conditions change.
Thank you.
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 29 |
|
Medical Travel |
158 |
|
Public |
116 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
274 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 30 |
0 |
|
May 31 |
9 |
|
June 1 |
35 |
|
June 2 |
6 |
|
June 3 |
16 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 31, there are 1,291 requests, 987 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1100 |
85.7% |
|
Denied |
146 |
11.4% |
|
Pending |
45 |
3.0% |
|
Total |
1291 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided until further notice.
Specialty clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, May 28, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. I’d like to take this opportunity to clarify the conditions required in order for us to consider altering the current border measures in place. I have previously indicated that the border restrictions currently in place will likely be among the final public health measures that are lifted.
This is because right now travel into Nunavut from outside of the territory represents the highest risk. If we want to continue Nunavut’s Path, and remove additional public health measures inside the territory, then we need to maintain our strict travel measures. This is our best chance to both return to the activities we enjoy and the programs we depend on, while still protecting the health and safety of Nunavummiut.
With that said, fulfillment of any of the following conditions may influence decisions to alter our border measures.
- Development of a vaccine for COVID-19. We’ve already discussed this, and though it is unlikely that a vaccine will be developed and readily available in the near future, it is still a factor that would greatly influence all of our public health measures;
- Development or discovery of an effective treatment for COVID-19;
- Indication that COVID-19 is under control in our neighboring jurisdictions. This means that beyond just decreasing case numbers, we would need to see evidence that community transmission in neighboring jurisdictions is minimal and contained;
- And finally, achievement of sustainable and on-going diagnostic capacity in every community in Nunavut.
Unfortunately, many of these factors are outside of our control, but we will continue to monitor the evolving global situation. As always, our decisions surrounding the border measures will be guided by evidence and will be designed to protect and preserve the health and safety of Nunavummiut throughout this global pandemic.
I would like to remind Nunavummiut that as of Monday, June 1, playgrounds, territorial parks, and daycares are permitted to open, and the size of outdoor gatherings may increase to 25. On June 1, we will also begin our bi-weekly announcements on the assessment and potential easing of additional public health measures. The reason we have chosen two weeks as our interval of choice is straightforward. All evidence suggests that 14 days is the maximum incubation time for COVID-19. So, this 14-day window will give us an opportunity to assess the situation around us and make informed decisions based on the latest information available.
Please remember that if a threat is detected, we may need to react immediately. We will provide as much warning as possible, but we may need to introduce additional public health measures right away.
Finally, the Department is issuing a Public Health Advisory to the community of Sanikiluaq due to the detection of pertussis, also known as whooping cough. Whooping cough is a disease of the throat or lungs that is spread easily from person to person. Anyone can get whooping cough, but the most severe cases are in young children. For that reason, the daycare in Sanikiluaq must remain closed for the time being.
Thank you.
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 27 |
|
Medical Travel |
149 |
|
Public |
96 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
245 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 28 |
24 |
|
May 29 |
6 |
|
May 30 |
0 |
|
May 31 |
9 |
|
June 1 |
35 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 24, there are 1,192 requests, 913 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
1018 |
85.9% |
|
Denied |
135 |
11.3% |
|
Pending |
39 |
3.3% |
|
Total |
1192 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, May 25, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good morning. These past two months have not been easy, and all Nunavummiut have had to make sacrifices.
However, thanks to our combined efforts, we are protecting our families, our communities, and our territory from this pandemic, and I hope that all Nunavummiut can feel a sense of pride knowing that their actions are making a deep and measurable impact on keeping Nunavut healthy and safe.
It is time for us to move forward. This does not mean that this pandemic is over. This does not mean that the threat has passed. This means that we can cautiously begin our return to the activities we enjoy, knowing that at any time we may need to change our behaviour to protect ourselves from emerging threats.
In the coming weeks, we will work with our stakeholders to re-introduce our businesses, our activities, and our programs in a way that is safe, sustainable, and poses the least risk to the health and safety of Nunavummiut. Know that as we begin to loosen restrictions internally, it is imperative that our strict border measures remain to minimize the risk of introducing COVID-19 into the territory.
With that being said, I’m pleased to announce that as of June 1:
- Daycares will be permitted to open up for regular business.
- The size limit for outdoor gatherings will increase to 25 people.
- Territorial parks will be allowed to reopen for outdoor activities only, if local circumstances permit. All park buildings will remain closed.
- Municipal playgrounds will be allowed to re-open, again, if local circumstances permit.
These particular conditions have been selected because they are deemed low risk. Moving forward, our plan is to re-assess our condition every two weeks. If the state of COVID in Nunavut is favorable, we will continue to lift public health measures, beginning with lower risk activities and programs. If our condition is stable, we may remain at the status quo until we are confident that lifting additional restrictions would not pose an undue risk to Nunavummiut. Finally, if the threat of COVID-19 increases, or eased public health measures are posing a potential public health threat to the territory, we may need to introduce or re-introduce certain conditions.
I share in everyone’s desire to return to normal. We all want to know when we can confidently and safely travel within our own territory, or to our neighbouring jurisdictions. However, trying to forecast specific dates and timelines for when we can lift all of our public health measures would be inaccurate, and frankly, it would be insincere.
The COVID-19 pandemic is evolving rapidly, and every single week yields new information that shapes our strategy and our public health measures. Predictions and decisions made on the basis of today’s understanding of the virus may be obsolete in a short time. For this reason, we have opted for an approach that is flexible, cautious, and adaptive to the evolving situation around us.
Again, I want to thank all Nunavummiut for their continued patience and understanding. No one is left unaffected by this pandemic, but our collective accountability has kept Nunavut safe so far. This accountability and responsibility needs to continue, and, as we loosen restrictions, we must continue to practice social distancing, stay away from others when we are sick and wash our hands often.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 24 |
|
Medical Travel |
141 |
|
Public |
89 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
230 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 23 |
14 |
|
May 24 |
6 |
|
May 25 |
31 |
|
May 26 |
19 |
|
May 27 |
15 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 24, there are 1131 requests, 878 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
963 |
84.6% |
|
Denied |
127 |
11.2% |
|
Pending |
41 |
4.3% |
|
Total |
1131 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, May 21, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
Good afternoon. I am pleased to announce several items today. The first is that Rankin Inlet now has the ability to provide testing if a positive case is confirmed in-territory. I’d like to commend the medical and laboratory staff, especially Matt Stacey and Dr. Jasmine Pawa, who have been working tirelessly to become acquainted with the GeneXpert machine, and to ensure that it can be managed safely, efficiently, and accurately. Getting this machine up and running is a significant step forward for Nunavut, as this now fulfills our criteria of obtaining reliable and effective in-territory diagnostic capacity. When coupled with the fact that we still have no confirmed cases of COVID-19 inside the territory, we have now met two of our three conditions. While the situation in southern Canada will continue to play a role in our approach moving forward, we are now in a better position to consider reducing some restrictions in the territory.
I have one other piece of news I would like to share. Moving forward, Kitikmeot medical travellers receiving treatment in Yellowknife are no longer required to undergo the 14-day isolation period, and instead will be permitted to return home immediately. This decision has been made through consultation with the Northwest Territories and is contingent on there being no active cases of COVID-19 in the NWT. Please note that this is for medical travellers only, and this is only when their treatment is provided in Yellowknife. Any medical traveller who needs to leave the Northwest Territories to receive treatment in other cities in Canada will still be required to complete their 14-day isolation period. For all medical travellers to whom this new rule applies who are currently in quarantine, we are working to get you home as soon as possible.
As always, our main goal is the safety, health and well being of Nunavummiut. I would like to thank you all for your patience, understanding and support as we continue to care for our families and our communities.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 21 |
|
Medical Travel |
190 |
|
Public |
86 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
276 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 21 |
39 |
|
May 22 |
13 |
|
May 23 |
14 |
|
May 24 |
6 |
|
May 25 |
31 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 21, there are 1080 requests, 838 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
916 |
84.8% |
|
Denied |
122 |
11.3% |
|
Pending |
48 |
3.9% |
|
Total |
1080 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, May 19, 2020
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 19 |
19 |
|
May 20 |
27 |
|
May 21 |
39 |
|
May 22 |
12 |
|
May 23 |
14 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 18, there are 1,039 requests, 870 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
870 |
84.3% |
|
Denied |
121 |
11.9% |
|
Pending |
48 |
3.9% |
|
Total |
1039 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided in until further notice.
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families is cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, May 14, 2020
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 13 |
|
Medical Travel |
177 |
|
Public |
95 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
272 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 14 |
23 |
|
May 15 |
9 |
|
May 16 |
12 |
|
May 17 |
16 |
|
May 18 |
54 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 12, there are 986 requests, 759 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
831 |
84.3% |
|
Denied |
117 |
11.9% |
|
Pending |
38 |
3.9% |
|
Total |
986 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, May 11, 2020
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 10 |
|
Medical Travel |
143 |
|
Public |
112 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Total |
255 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 9 |
25 |
|
May 10 |
4 |
|
May 11 |
67 |
|
May 12 |
19 |
|
May 13 |
6 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 10, there are 948 requests, 728 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
796 |
84% |
|
Denied |
114 |
12% |
|
Pending |
38 |
4% |
|
Total |
948 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided in until further notice.
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, May 8, 2020
Minister of Health update:
It was announced at the start of this year by the World Health Organization that all of 2020 was to be recognized as the Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. This was an opportunity to celebrate the vital role of nurses and midwives in the delivery of health care services across the world.
Several months later, in the midst of this global pandemic, we are not just talking about their essential role in keeping us healthy, we are experiencing it firsthand. Nurses and midwives continue to deliver vital health care services in our territory, in our country, and throughout the world.
May 11 to 17 is recognized as National Nursing Week. As our nurses work tirelessly to ensure that Nunavummiut have access to the care they need, I think it’s important that we all take this opportunity to show them our immense gratitude for their service and their contribution to this territory. Nunavut has more than 300 nurses who are essential to the development and delivery of programs that keep Nunavummiut healthy. In these uncertain times, as the world battles COVID-19, our nurses are on the front line, providing care to those who need it most. This pandemic has demonstrated our nurses’ willingness to put their own health and safety at risk to protect and care for those around them.
This National Nursing Week, and indeed this entire Year of The Nurse and Midwife, give us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on these essential health staff. However, our gratitude for your service is not restricted to a single week, or a single year. I would like all Nunavummiut to join me in showing our ongoing appreciation for your continued dedication to this territory.
Thank you.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 7 |
|
Medical Travel |
210 |
|
Public |
141 |
|
Total |
351 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 8 |
15 |
|
May 9 |
21 |
|
May 10 |
4 |
|
May 11 |
66 |
|
May 12 |
19 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 7, there are 922 requests, 708 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
773 |
83.8% |
|
Denied |
109 |
11.8% |
|
Pending |
40 |
4.3% |
|
Total |
922 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided in until further notice.
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, May 6, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update:
Since it was confirmed that the detected COVID case in Nunavut was a false positive, the territory has witnessed great displays of solidarity, support, and pride. The additional restrictions in Pond Inlet have been lifted, and I hope that the community feels a measure of relief knowing that they are still COVID-free.
This is good news. As a territory, we have done well so far.
However, we cannot allow our celebration to lapse into complacency. It is more important than ever that we maintain these rules that we’ve all become familiar with. The threat of COVID-19 is still very real and we need to stay the course.
- Practise social distancing.
- Avoid contact with individuals who are not a member of your household.
- Limit trips for errands.
- Purchase only the supplies that your household needs.
- And, of course, wash your hands.
There is no combination of measures that can absolutely guarantee the prevention of COVID-19. Even as we celebrate for Pond Inlet, all Nunavummiut need to remain vigilant and cautious. Follow the rules, and encourage your friends, family, and neighbours to do the same.
I want to thank all Nunavummiut for their continued patience, understanding, and cooperation. We can only get through this together.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Travel outside the territory as of May 7, 2020:
The Government of Nunavut’s decision to charge $2,100 per individual and $1,050 for each additional family member during the mandatory 14-day isolation stays for residents returning to the territory has been reversed.
The Government of Nunavut will continue to cover these costs as long as mandatory isolation for residents returning to the territory is in place.
Please keep in mind that travel outside of Nunavut during the COVID-19 pandemic is not advised.
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 5 |
|
Medical Travel |
177 |
|
Public |
137 |
|
Total |
314 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 5 |
22 |
|
May 6 |
15 |
|
May 7 |
24 |
|
May 8 |
12 |
|
May 9 |
21 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 5, there are 872 requests, 667 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
727 |
83.4% |
|
Denied |
107 |
12.3% |
|
Pending |
38 |
4.4% |
|
Total |
872 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, May 4, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
At this time, I would like to inform Nunavummiut that the test result showing COVID-19 has turned out to be a false positive result. This means that although the first test result showed COVID-19 infection, further investigation and testing have not shown any other evidence of COVID-19 infection in Pond Inlet.
As I have previously mentioned, no lab test is perfect. There is always a chance of false positive or false negative results. When interpreting results and deciding on an appropriate course of action, we consider many pieces of information, of which test results are just one piece. We always aim to err on the side of caution.
Diagnostic tests are part of an entire system of measures to intervene on COVID-19 infection. In these circumstances the test gave an incorrect result, but the rest of the system (public health nurses, contact tracing, surveillance) have not identified any other cases of COVID-19 infection.
The information available so far includes:
- The individual involved has not been outside of Pond Inlet for some time.
- We have not identified an exposure to COVID-19.
- We have not found any other cases of COVID-19 in Pond Inlet.
- We have not noticed any increase in significant respiratory infections.
For all of the reasons above we believe that the individual in Pond Inlet does not, and never did have COVID-19. As a result, our rapid response team will stop operating in Pond Inlet and the members of the team will begin preparing for future deployments. All territorial orders under the Public Health Emergency remain in effect.
However, the additional measures specific to Pond Inlet as a result of the positive COVID-19 case are now lifted. Effective immediately, travel between Pond Inlet and other Nunavut communities may resume, and the community-specific restrictions on businesses and services in Pond Inlet are also rescinded.
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 3 |
|
Medical Travel |
187 |
|
Public |
125 |
|
Total |
312 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 3 |
14 |
|
May 4 |
58 |
|
May 5 |
11 |
|
May 6 |
17 |
|
May 7 |
23 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of May 3, there are 840 requests, 643 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
698 |
83.1% |
|
Denied |
100 |
11.9% |
|
Pending |
42 |
5.0% |
|
Total |
840 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided in until further notice.
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, May 1, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
I’d like to give an update on the current status in Pond Inlet:
- The patient is isolated, and still doing well.
- The Rapid Response Team is in the community, and they are implementing containment and contact tracing.
- As the team completes additional testing, there is the possibility that more positive cases may be confirmed in the community. This does not necessarily mean that there is community transmission and should not be cause for alarm. What this does mean is that the Rapid Response Team is doing their job, which is finding the virus and stopping it from spreading.
- Containment is key, and right now it is our top priority.
- As this process takes place, the Government of Nunavut will continue to support the community of Pond Inlet.
I also want to take a moment and thank the municipality of Pond Inlet and its residents for allowing me to answer their questions earlier today on the community radio.
Moving forward, I would like to remind all Nunavummiut, using the strongest possible terms, that every single social interaction carries a degree of risk. Despite all of the Government of Nunavut’s preventative measures, and the new containment measures now in place within Pond Inlet, it is impossible to reasonably predict where or when COVID-19 may be detected next.
I urge all Nunavummiut to exercise a high degree of caution, and to seriously consider these risks before participating in a gathering of any kind. If you deem it necessary to participate in gatherings, then please keep track of the people with whom you interact, as this information may be necessary in case contact tracing needs to be conducted in your community.
Health staff cannot get us through this alone. How well we do, and where we go from here, depends on the actions of every single Nunavummiut. Right now, the best way of slowing the spread of COVID-19 continues to be through social distancing and effective hygiene.
If everyone follows these rules together, we can put ourselves in the best position to make it through this uncertain time. It’s more important than ever that we be careful, responsible, kind, and supportive.
I’d like to thank Nunavummiut for their continued cooperation and understanding.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Travel outside the territory as of May 7, 2020
- Starting May 7, 2020, Nunavummiut who chose to travel outside Nunavut while the CPHO’s travel ban is still in effect will have to cover the costs of their 14-day isolation period in one of the Government of Nunavut’s isolation sites.
- The fee for a single individual in a room is $2,100 for the 14-day period, and each additional family member in the room will pay $1,050.
- Updates will be provided as they become available.
Department of Health Services
COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool
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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health
Travelers
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of May 1 |
|
Medical Travel |
187 |
|
Public |
125 |
|
Total |
312 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
May 1 |
19 |
|
May 2 |
7 |
|
May 3 |
14 |
|
May 4 |
56 |
|
May 5 |
14 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of April 30, there are 821 requests, 626 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
675 |
82.1% |
|
Denied |
100 |
12.2% |
|
Pending |
47 |
5.7% |
|
Total |
821 |
100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
No visitors allowed at Qikiqtani General Hospital, except for one visitor for maternity or palliative patients and escorts for minors.
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged; this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
MHA has moved to telephone check-in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided in until further notice.
Specialty clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, April 30, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
As you have seen and heard, today we have announced that a case of COVID-19 has been detected within Pond Inlet. Since the onset of the pandemic, we knew that no combination of preventative measures can absolutely guarantee the prevention of COVID-19. We anticipated that sooner or later the virus would be detected in the territory. Just as we have poured extensive effort into our prevention plan, so too have we developed a comprehensive response plan to minimize, to the greatest possible extent, the impact that COVID-19 has on Nunavut.
We have been in contact with hamlet authorities and have initiated our Rapid Response Plan. A Rapid Response Team has already been deployed to Pond Inlet and is scheduled to arrive early this afternoon. That team will immediately initiate containment measures, begin contact tracing, and monitor the health and well-being of persons on home isolation orders. The Pond Inlet Health Centre is well-staffed and prepared, and health centre operations will continue.
All passenger travel in and out of Pond Inlet has ceased. This includes any movement in or out of the community by land travel. This travel ban is a necessary containment measure to minimize the risk of COVID-19 spreading to multiple communities at once.
Until we have determined the potential spread of the virus within the community, all non-essential offices and services will be closed. There is to be no social gatherings within dwellings, and all residents of Pond Inlet are asked to continue to maintain social distancing and good hygiene.
For residents of Pond Inlet, we recognize that this news may be frightening. However, the Government of Nunavut would like to assure everyone that although travel is restricted, you are not cut off from help and support. Critical services will be maintained, and plans are in place to ensure that access to services such as heat, power, water, sewer, and communications will not be interrupted. Our primary focus now is to detect and contain the virus to prevent further transmission within the community and to other communities.
Anyone who has reason to believe that they have been exposed to the virus is advised to call the COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-975-8601 between 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. or call your community health centre. Please, do not go to the health centre in person unless you are instructed to by a health official.
To all Nunavummiut, know that the preventative measures that we have all been taking are more important now than ever. Everyone needs to practise social distancing, stay home whenever possible, and avoid contact with those who are not a member of your household. Together, our efforts can slow the spread of COVID-19.
Finally, I remind everyone of the importance of kindness. Now is not the time for blame, or shame. It is the time for compassion, empathy, and support of your fellow Nunavummiut.
The Government of Nunavut thanks all Nunavummiut for their efforts to date. We will continue to exhaust all efforts to contain the virus, and minimize its impact on Pond Inlet, and on all the territory. Only together can we all protect our territory from the threat of COVID-19.
Department of Health Services
Residents of Pond Inlet must call their health centre first. All regular appointments at the Pond Inlet Health Centre have been cancelled. Only emergency services are available.
COVID-19 Hotline and self-assessment tool
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., or call their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.
Nunavummiut can also use the self-assessment tool available at www.gov.nu.ca
COMMUNITY TRAVEL AND GATHERINGS RESTRICTION ORDER
POND INLET
All travel to and from Pond Inlet is banned except:
- People with a letter from the CPHO
- Medevac patients
- Flight crews
- Nunavut Inuit exercising their hunting rights as set out in Article 5 may leave and return to Pond Inlet but not travel to any other community
- People travelling on a flight which must land in Pond Inlet due to weather or emergency
Medevac crews must restrict movements to the airport and the health centre and must wear personal protective equipment.
All businesses operating in Pond Inlet must close except for:
- Grocery stores
- Fuel and motor vehicle stations
- Post office
- Restaurants open for take out service
All social gatherings shall be restricted to five persons or fewer.
No social gatherings in dwellings.
The order can be consulted at:
https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
Department of Health Services, April 29, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
As many of you may know, some jurisdictions in Canada have started or will soon begin a gradual lifting of the restrictions they have implemented to flatten the COVID curve. Today I’d like to speak in more detail about what needs to happen before we can do the same. There are three conditions that need to be met before we can consider relaxing existing restrictions in the territory. They are as follows:
- We need to achieve in-territory diagnostic capacity. This means that we need to be able to implement a rapid, accurate, and comprehensive COVID-19 testing program here in Nunavut;
- There needs to be significant indication that rates of COVID-19 are decreasing in the southern jurisdictions to which Nunavummiut most often travel; and
- There needs to remain no active cases of COVID-19 within Nunavut.
The nature of these conditions means that it is difficult to assign a specific timeline to re-opening, but fulfillment of these conditions is necessary to minimize risk to public health and safety. We need to know that Nunavummiut travelling outside of the territory can do so safely, and we need to be able to respond rapidly to any confirmed cases of COVID-19 within Nunavut.
I know that people are eager to go back to work, visit loved ones, and engage in social activities. However, if we lift these restrictions too early, we will increase the risk to Nunavummiut. If we aren’t careful about how we transition back from these restrictions, then we could effectively undo all the hard work and sacrifices that we’ve made over the past seven weeks.
It is as important as ever that we stay the course: maintain social distancing, stay home whenever possible, and wash your hands often. These measures continue to be the best defence against COVID-19, and the best way to protect our families, our communities, and our territory.
Department of Health Services
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of April 28 |
|
Medical Travel |
206 |
|
Public |
136 |
|
Total |
342 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
April 29 |
38 |
|
April 30 |
15 |
|
May 1 |
19 |
|
May 2 |
6 |
|
May 3 |
14 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of April 28, there are 786 requests, 597 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
646 |
82.2% |
|
Denied |
99 |
12.6% |
|
Pending |
41 |
5.2% |
|
Total |
786 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, April 27, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
The new Order Respecting Social Distancing and Gatherings, which came into effect on April 24, replaces the mass gathering order issued on March 23, 2020.
The new order adds clarity around gatherings and social distancing and provides easy to understand scenarios that will help Nunavummiut more easily follow the order. It will also help businesses understand how to adjust their operations to ensure public safety and continued operation. Finally, the changes will also assist law enforcement and peace officers to more easily interpret the intent of the order in the unlikely event there is a need for enforcement.
I’d like to outline some of the new definitions and information provided in the new order.
Food service establishments and licensed premises remain closed. Restaurants can still provide options for take-out or delivery, as long as they abide by the rules of social distancing while doing so.
All businesses deemed as Personal Service Providers must also remain closed. These include hair dressing, barbering, massage therapy, and other similar establishments. Additionally, dentists, veterinarians, and psychologists must remain closed, except for emergencies. Public playgrounds, municipal parks, and day-use areas of territorial parks also remain closed.
Though still subject to closures and limitations, the following businesses are permitted to remain open: any business large enough to maintain a two-metre social distance within the workplace, or businesses that limit customers to no more than five at a time. The five-at-a-time rule does not apply to businesses that are large enough to maintain social distancing throughout the entire premise, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and similar facilities.
The order provides a definition to gatherings. All organized public gatherings of more than five people remain prohibited. This includes concerts, community events, sporting events, and ceremonies such as marriages, funerals, or memorial services.
Finally, all social gatherings, including social gatherings in private dwellings, shall be restricted to five persons or fewer. This includes play groups, club meetings, and meals with individuals who do not reside together.
This new order does not mean that restrictions are being loosened, or that the Government of Nunavut has re-assessed the territory’s position or tolerance for risk. Instead, the definitions under this new order have been aligned with definitions being applied in other jurisdictions. This makes restrictive measures clearer and more consistent in their application and enforcement.
It is strongly recommended that Nunavummiut limit contact with anyone who is not a member of their immediate household. Any social gathering carries a degree of risk, especially when we are looking at individuals from multiple different households mingling together. Nunavummiut must still exercise caution at all times, practise social distancing to the greatest extent possible, and wash hands and all shared surfaces thoroughly and often.
The previous order met the intended purpose of providing necessary tools to help protect public health. However, The Government of Nunavut recognized the need to provide clearer language and definitions.
For this reason, the Department of Justice worked with the Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) to prepare a new Order to ensure the language is clear and understandable while remaining true to its intent.
Department of Health Services
NEW HOURS: COVID Hotline
Need to talk to someone if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have recently travelled to or from an affected area? Do you have questions about travel to Nunavut or the isolation sites? Please call 975-8601 or 1-888-975-8601 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.to speak with someone. Please remember this line is for those who need it – and should not be used for general inquiries.
If you have questions or need help in an emergency, call your local health centre.
Dental Services
Emergency dental services only will be provided in Nunavut communities until further notice.
If you live in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, or Cambridge Bay and are experiencing severe dental pain or infection, you can contact the dental clinics listed below to report your problem.
- Iqaluit: Regional Dental Coordinator at QGH @ 867-975-8600 ext 6206
- Rankin Inlet Dental Clinic @ 867-645-2776
- Cambridge Bay Dental Clinic @ 867-983-4171
If your call is not answered, please follow the instructions provided in the message.
Please do not visit a dental clinic unless you have been given a pre arranged appointment time. People showing up at these clinics without a pre arranged appointment time will not be seen.
We ask that you arrive to your appointment on time, as we may be unable to accommodate late arrivals.
For those not living in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet or Cambridge Bay and who are experiencing severe dental pain or infection, please call your local health centre.
Travellers
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of April 26 |
|
Medical Travel |
221 |
|
Public |
118 |
|
Total |
339 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
April 24 |
3 |
|
April 25 |
0 |
|
April 26 |
14 |
|
April 27 |
72 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of April 26, there are 743 requests, 560 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
613 |
82.5% |
|
Denied |
90 |
12.1% |
|
Pending |
40 |
5.4% |
|
Total |
743 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, April 24, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
I’d like to announce that today the Government of Nunavut is rolling out a free online self-assessment tool for COVID-19. This resource is user-friendly, available in all four official languages, and can be accessed through the Government of Nunavut webpage at https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus.
The purpose of this self-assessment tool is to provide Nunavummiut with real-time information and recommendations based on self-reported symptoms or recent travel history. The tool will help Nunavummiut determine whether they should self-isolate, and when they should contact a health care service provider for additional follow-up or testing.
This tool is meant to supplement the existing resources that are already available, and it is not a replacement for social distancing and good hygiene, such as washing regularly. Mass gatherings are still banned, and everyone is still required to follow the rules.
Nunavummiut who don’t have access to online resources but believe that they are displaying COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, are encouraged to call the COVID Hotline at 1-888-975-8601. You can also ask someone with internet access to complete the self-assessment on your behalf by sharing with them your travel history and any symptoms that you may be experiencing.
Department of Health Services
Dental Services
Emergency dental services only will be provided in Nunavut communities until further notice.
If you live in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, or Cambridge Bay and are experiencing severe dental pain or infection, you can contact the dental clinics listed below to report your problem.
- Iqaluit: Regional Dental Coordinator at QGH @ 867-975-8600 ext 6206
- Rankin Inlet Dental Clinic @ 867-645-2776
- Cambridge Bay Dental Clinic @ 867-983-4171
If your call is not answered, please follow the instructions provided in the message.
Please do not visit a dental clinic unless you have been given a pre arranged appointment time. People showing up at these clinics without a pre arranged appointment time will not be seen.
We ask that you arrive to your appointment on time, as we may be unable to accommodate late arrivals.
For those not living in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet or Cambridge Bay and who are experiencing severe dental pain or infection, please call your local health centre.
Face covering requirements for air travellers
The Government of Canada is directly that all travellers (with limited exceptions) must have a removable non-medical mask or face covering large enough to cover their mouth and nose during their travel through Canadian airports and in-flight. This directive is in effect as of Monday, April 20, 2020 at 12:00 ET.
Customers who do not have mandatory face covering will not be allowed to travel. Please note that these coverings do not need to be medical masks. Any face covering including a scarf or similar item is acceptable.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of April 23 |
|
Medical Travel |
218 |
|
Public |
117 |
|
Total |
335 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
April 24 |
3 |
|
April 25 |
0 |
|
April 26 |
14 |
|
April 27 |
72 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of April 23, there are 691 requests, 514 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
568 |
82.2% |
|
Denied |
87 |
12.6% |
|
Pending |
36 |
5.2% |
|
Total |
691 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, April 22, 2020
Face covering requirements for air travellers
The Government of Canada is directing that all travellers (with limited exceptions) must have a removable non-medical mask or face covering large enough to cover their mouth and nose during their travel through Canadian airports and in-flight. This directive is in effect as of Monday, April 20, 2020 at 12:00 ET.
Customers who do not have mandatory face coverings will not be allowed to travel. Please note that these coverings do not need to be medical masks. Any face covering including a scarf or similar item is acceptable.
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of April 22 |
|
Medical Travel |
202 |
|
Public |
116 |
|
Total |
318 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Location |
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
Ottawa |
April 22 |
8 |
|
Winnipeg |
April 22 |
14 |
|
Yellowknife |
April 23 |
9 |
|
Edmonton |
April 23 |
1 |
|
Yellowknife |
April 24 |
1 |
|
Edmonton |
April 24 |
2 |
Critical Worker Requests
As of April 21, there are 653 requests, 498 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
543 |
83.4% |
|
Denied |
68 |
10.4% |
|
Pending |
42 |
6.1% |
|
Total |
653 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, April 20, 2020
Department of Health Services
Face covering requirements for air travellers
The Government of Canada is directly that all travellers (with limited exceptions) must have a removable non-medical mask or face covering large enough to cover their mouth and nose during their travel through Canadian airports and in-flight. This directive is in effect as of Monday, April 20, 2020 at 12:00 ET.
Customers who do not have mandatory face covering will not be allowed to travel. Please note that these coverings do not need to be medical masks. Any face covering including a scarf or similar item is acceptable.
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of April 20 |
|
Medical Travel |
198 |
|
Public |
138 |
|
Students |
1 |
|
Total |
337 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
|
Location |
Departure Date |
# of Travellers from Isolation Sites |
|
Ottawa |
April 20 |
3 |
|
Winnipeg |
April 21 |
10 |
|
Yellowknife |
April 21 |
4 |
|
Edmonton |
April 21 |
4 |
|
Ottawa |
April 22 |
8 |
|
Winnipeg |
April 22 |
14 |
|
Yellowknife |
April 23 |
9 |
|
Edmonton |
April 23 |
1 |
|
Yellowknife |
April 24 |
1 |
|
Edmonton |
April 24 |
2 |
Critical workers travel applications
As of April 19, there are 616 requests, 472 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
514 |
83.4% |
|
Denied |
64 |
10.4% |
|
Pending |
38 |
6.1% |
|
Total |
616 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, April 17, 2020
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
COVID Hotline
Need to talk to someone if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have recently travelled to or from an affected area? Do you have questions about travel to Nunavut or the isolation sites? Please call 975-8601 or 1-888-975-8601 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. to speak with someone. Please remember this line is for those who need it – and should not be used for general inquiries.
If you have questions or need help in an emergency, call your local health centre.
Volumes
|
Total (All Isolation Locations) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests in Isolation as of April 17 |
|
Medical Travel |
212 |
|
Public |
144 |
|
Students |
1 |
|
Total |
357 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
April 17
|
Winnipeg (Scheduled flight) |
|
|
Medical travellers |
2 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Public |
0 |
|
Total |
2 |
|
Yellowknife (Scheduled flight) |
|
|
Medical travellers |
6 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Public |
8 |
|
Total |
14 |
April 18
|
Yellowknife (Scheduled flight) |
|
|
Medical travellers |
1 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Public |
3 |
|
Total |
4 |
|
Edmonton (Scheduled Flight) |
|
|
Medical travellers |
2 |
|
Students |
0 |
|
Public |
4 |
|
Total |
6 |
Travelers requests
As of April 16, there are 595 requests, 459 of which are critical worker requests.
|
Request Status |
# |
% |
|
Approved (includes critical and non-critical) |
498 |
83.7% |
|
Denied |
61 |
10.3% |
|
Pending |
36 |
6.0% |
|
Total |
595 |
100% |
Department of Health Services, April 15, 2020
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
COVID Hotline
Need to talk to someone if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have recently travelled to or from an affected area? Do you have questions about travel to Nunavut or the isolation sites? Please call 975-8601 or 1-888-975-8601 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. to speak with someone. Please remember this line is for those who need it – and should not be used for general inquiries.
If you have questions or need help in an emergency, call your local health centre.
Volumes
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 14 |
|
Medical |
192 |
| Public | 108 |
| Students | 1 |
| Total | 301 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
April 15
|
Medical travellers |
7 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 3 |
| Total | 10 |
|
Medical travellers |
4 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 1 |
| Total | 5 |
Travelers requests
As of April 14, there are 557 requests, 431 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 461 | 82.8% |
| Denied | 57 | 10.2% |
| Pending | 39 | 7.0% |
| Total | 557 | 100% |
Department of Health Services, April 14, 2020
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Volumes
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 13 |
|
Medical |
191 |
| Public | 101 |
| Students | 1 |
| Total | 293 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
April 14
|
Medical travellers |
23 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 1 |
| Total | 24 |
|
Medical travellers |
11 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 2 |
| Total | 13 |
|
Medical travellers |
2 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 1 |
| Total | 3 |
Travel requests
As of April 13, there are 527 requests, 425 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 425 | 80.7% |
| Denied | 56 | 10.6% |
| Pending | 46 | 8.7% |
| Total | 527 | 100% |
Department of Health Services, April 9, 2020
Chief Public Health Officer update
It has now been over two weeks since the travel ban into Nunavut was put into place.
This means that many Nunavummiut currently in the south are coming to the end of their mandatory 14-day isolation periods. It is time for many of these residents to return home.
The mandatory rules we put in place in our isolation sites are very strict. I think it is important to remind everyone that for 14 days, residents are:
- Confined in their hotel rooms most of the day.
- Have no physical contact with other residents undergoing isolation and no physical contact with the general population.
- Are allowed only monitored outings on hotel grounds.
- Must have daily health check-ins with on-site nurses.
- Are held responsible if they break isolation.
There are no exceptions.
These measures are a first step and they ensure Nunavummiut who want to come home, as well as their families and communities, remain healthy and safe.
The second step is bringing residents home. I want to take a moment and outline this process:
- 48 hours before anticipated departure, travellers are informed on the clearance and travel process.
- The day before departure, the nurses on-site review each traveller’s daily check-in logs to make sure they complied with the isolation rules. The nurses conduct a final in-person assessment to ensure travellers are healthy and show no symptoms of COVID-19.
- The assessments and results are sent to my office – and a decision to clear a traveller for the scheduled return home is made and a letter approving travel is issued. Residents need both the letter and a proof of residency to return to the territory.
- The day of departure, residents approved for travel are transported from the hotel to the airport via a private shuttle, sanitized thoroughly before use.
- The Government of Nunavut worked with airlines to minimize, to the greatest possible extent, the risk of anyone being exposed to COVID-19 during their travel back to the territory.
- Airports have enhanced cleaning, sanitation and passenger procedures throughout the check-in and security process that ensure physical distancing. As an additional precaution, residents will also undergo an airline health check prior to boarding.
- Until they arrive at their final destination in Nunavut, residents remain bound by the isolation agreement they signed the day they accepted to enter the isolation sites.
- Residents will travel to Nunavut on both chartered and scheduled flights:
- Residents travelling on chartered flights are shuttled directly to their airplane for boarding and take-off. Once in Nunavut, they will be chartered to their final in-territory destination.
- Residents travelling on scheduled flights are dropped off at the airport, where they are met and guided by airline employees to check-in, through security, to the boarding area and finally on the plane. They do not come in contact with other travellers during this process and remain bound by their isolation agreement.
I want to thank our returning residents for going through these drastic measures to protect their communities and Nunavut.
As we welcome back friends, family members, and loved ones, it is more important than ever to follow the rules: All social gatherings are still banned, and all Nunavummiut, including those just returning to their home communities, are expected to do their part to keep Nunavut safe. Practice strict social distancing, stay home when possible, avoid contact with individuals outside of your household, and monitor your health.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Volumes
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 8 |
|
Medical |
252 |
| Public | 128 |
| Students | 58 |
| Total | 438 |
Traveller repatriation summary:
APRIL 10
|
Medical travellers |
14 |
| Students | 35 |
| Public | 0 |
| Total | 49 |
April 11
|
Medical travellers |
4 |
| Students | 27 |
| Public | 1 |
| Total | 32 |
|
Medical travellers |
41 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 4 |
| Total | 45 |
|
Medical travellers |
4 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 1 |
| Total | 5 |
April 12
|
Medical travellers |
22 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 40 |
| Total | 62 |
|
Medical travellers |
33 |
| Students | 0 |
| Public | 12 |
| Total | 45 |
Travel requests
As of April 8, there are 463 requests, 351 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 347 | 75.0% |
| Denied | 51 | 11.0% |
| Pending | 65 | 14.0% |
| Total | 463 | 100% |
Department of Health Services, April 8, 2020
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The information package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Volumes
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 7 |
|
Medical |
246 |
| Public | 125 |
| Students | 60 |
| Total | 431 |
Travel requests
As of April 7, there are 446 requests, 339 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 331 | 74.2% |
| Denied | 49 | 11.0% |
| Pending | 66 | 14.8% |
| Total | 425 | 100% |
Department of Health Services, April 7, 2020
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The welcome package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Volumes Isolation
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 6 |
|
Medical |
228 |
| Public | 121 |
| Students | 60 |
| Total | 409 |
Requests for travel
As of April 5, there are 408 requests, 313 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 317 | 74.6% |
| Denied | 47 | 11.0% |
| Pending | 61 | 14.4% |
| Total | 425 | 100% |
Department of Health Services, April 6, 2020
Public Health Officer statement:
Use of COVID-19 diagnostic equipment in Nunavut
As many are aware, Agnico Eagle Mine has brought COVID-19 diagnostic equipment to Rankin Inlet. This equipment will be used to test mine staff for COVID-19.
At this time there is no evidence that screening in this fashion is a substitute for 14 days of isolation. This is why Nunavut, and every other Canadian jurisdiction, is using 14 days of isolation after exposure or travel. As a result, I have informed management of Agnico Eagle Mines that these tests do not change the current requirement for mine staff to stay out of the town of Rankin Inlet.
The Department of Health is committed to improving and protecting the health of all Nunavummiut. For COVID-19 this means having testing equipment that meets Canadian standards and can be deployed to every community in Nunavut. The equipment used by AEM does not meet these criteria. If the Department of Health were to commit to using devices like this, we would not improve access to COVID testing for all Nunavummiut.
The Department of Health continues to work on acquiring diagnostic capability that can be rapidly deployed and will provide quick access to results for all Nunavummiut.
The combination of machines we continue to pursue will not only allow testing in all communities but will also improve our ability to rapidly diagnose a number of other infectious diseases that threaten Nunavummiut on a regular basis.
Testing for COVID-19 at the wrong time can produce incorrect results and create a false sense of reassurance.
As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:
Department of Health Services
The Public Health Emergency has been extended until April 16.
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The welcome package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 4 |
|
Medical |
235 |
| Public | 113 |
| Students | 60 |
| Total | 408 |
Requests for travel
As of April 5, there are 408 requests, 313 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 305 | 74.8% |
| Denied | 44 | 10.7% |
| Pending | 59 | 14.5% |
| Total | 408 | 100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, which means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
Mental Health and Addictions has moved to telephone check-in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick-up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case-by-case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
Only emergency dental services will be provided until further notice.
Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families is cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
No visitors will be allowed at long-term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, April 3, 2020
The Public Health Emergency has been extended until April 16, 2020.
Only emergency dental services will be provided in all Nunavut communities until further notice.
If you live in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, or Cambridge Bay and are experiencing a severe dental pain or infection, you can contact the dental clinics listed below to report your problem. If your call is not answered, please follow the instructions provided in the message.
- Iqaluit: Regional Dental Coordinator at QGH @ 867-975-8600 ext 6206
- Rankin Inlet Dental Clinic @ 867-645-2776
- Cambridge Bay Dental Clinic @ 867-983-4171
Please do not visit the dental clinic if you have not been given a pre-arranged appointment time. People showing up at these clinics without a pre-arranged appointment time will not be seen.
We ask that you arrive to your appointment on time, as we may be unable to accommodate late arrivals.
For those not living in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet or Cambridge Bay who are experiencing severe dental pain or infection, please call your local health centre.
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut.
The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The welcome package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 2 |
|
Medical |
215 |
| Public | 96 |
| Students | 60 |
| Total | 371 |
Volumes
As of April 2 (a.m.) there are 385 travel requests, 288 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 267 | 69.4% |
| Denied | 35 | 9.1% |
| Pending | 83 | 21.5% |
| Total | 385 | 100% |
Department of Health Services, April 2, 2020
The Public Health Emergency has been extended until April 16, 2020.
Only emergency dental services will be provided in all Nunavut communities until further notice.
If you live in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet, or Cambridge Bay and are experiencing a severe dental pain or infection, you can contact the dental clinics listed below to report your problem. If your call is not answered, please follow the instructions provided in the message.
- Iqaluit: Regional Dental Coordinator at QGH @ 867-975-8600 ext 6206
- Rankin Inlet Dental Clinic @ 867-645-2776
- Cambridge Bay Dental Clinic @ 867-983-4171
Please do not visit the dental clinic if you have not been given a pre-arranged appointment time. People showing up at these clinics without a pre-arranged appointment time will not be seen.
We ask that you arrive to your appointment on time, as we may be unable to accommodate late arrivals.
For those not living in Iqaluit, Rankin Inlet or Cambridge Bay who are experiencing severe dental pain or infection, please call your local health centre.
Isolation Sites
Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily. These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut.
The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products. Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
The welcome package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
|
TOTAL (ALL ISOLATION LOCATIONS) |
|
|
Traveler Type |
Guests In Isolation as of April 1 |
|
Medical |
199 |
| Public | 86 |
| Students | 60 |
| Total | 345 |
Total number of people in isolation as of March 31: 315 – 178 are medical travellers, 78 are resident travellers and 59 are students.Volumes
As of April 2 (a.m.) there are 360 travel requests, 286 of which are critical worker requests.
| Request Status | # | % |
| Approved (includes critical and non-critical) | 247 | 68.6% |
| Denied | 34 | 9.4% |
| Pending | 79 | 21.0% |
| Total | 360 | 100% |
Ongoing services:
Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
- Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- Mental Health and Addictions (MHA) has moved to telephone check-in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick-up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre. Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case-by-case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
- All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families is cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
- No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
Department of Health Services, April 1, 2020
No visitors will be allowed at long term care facilities in Nunavut – Continuing Care Centres (CCCs) and Elders’ Homes.
All travellers are required to isolate at designated facilities outside of Nunavut for a period of 14 days, except for critical employees who are asymptomatic.
Individuals who are going to isolate are reminded not to show up the hotel until they have received confirmation from Health staff on their bookings.
Those returning to Nunavut require approval from the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer and are asked to email CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca.
If you are required to isolate, Health staff will be in touch with you. Toll free number for anyone that has recently travelled or has COVID-19 symptoms 1-888-975-8601 is being answered from 7:30-7:30.
The CPHO orders and the travel/critical worker protocol are posted: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
Isolation
- Those in isolation have access to cable, internet, three meals a day, fresh linens and cleaning supplies. Garbage is picked up daily.
- These costs are covered by the Government of Nunavut. The GN will pay for diapers, baby formula and feminine products.
- Guests are responsible to order these products through the provided delivery services, but they will not be charged for the items.
- The welcome package has been updated to include information on grocery orders and take-out. Both can be delivered to the hotel. These deliveries and related costs are not covered by the GN.
Department of Health Services, March 31, 2020
Current numbers of Nunavut residents in isolation locations southern Canada
315 people are currently in isolation locations in southern Canada. 178 are Nunavummiut on medical travel, 78 are Nunavummiut returning to the territory and 59 are Nunavut students.
- If you are investigation for COVID-19 and experiencing symptoms, you could be fined if you leave your home. Ask your neighbours/family/friends to leave groceries at your doorstep.
- Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services continues. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily.
- Nunavummiut must call first before going to Qikiqtani General Hospital, Iqaluit Public Health or any Nunavut Health Centre. Find phone numbers for all health facilities at https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/health-centres
- As of today, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in the territory.
- Only residents and critical workers are allowed into Nunavut.
- No mass gatherings are permitted.
- Physicians will continue community visits.
- Visitation in all health facilities is limited to reduce the risk of transmission of illness.
- Mental health supports are available.
Department of Health Services, March 30, 2020
All individuals identified as persons under investigation for COVID-19 (PUIs), are subject to a mandatory isolation order and will be fined should the mandatory isolation be broken. Fines can go up to $50,000 or up to six months in jail.
The CPHO travel orders and the travel/critical worker protocol can be found on: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
All travellers will be required to isolate at designated facilities outside of Nunavut for a period of 14 days, except for critical employees who are asymptomatic.
Those returning to Nunavut will require approval from the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer and are asked to email CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca.
Nunavummiut returning to Nunavut by way of land travel to Sanikiluaq, Arviat, and the Kitikmeot region are required to self-isolate at home for 14 days once they return to the territory.
Toll-free number for anyone who has recently travelled or has COVID-19 symptoms: 1-888-975-8601 is being answered from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Individuals who are self-isolating are required to stay at home, avoid contact with other people, and monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after returning.
Department of Health Services, March 27, 2020
The CPHO travel orders and the travel/critical worker protocol have now been posted to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
All travellers will be required to isolate at designated facilities outside of Nunavut for a period of 14 days, except for critical employees who are asymptomatic.
Those returning to Nunavut will require approval from the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer and are asked to email CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca.
Nunavummiut returning to Nunavut by way of land travel to Sanikiluaq, Arviat, and the Kitikmeot region, are required to self-isolate at home for 14 days once they return to the territory.
Toll free number for anyone that has recently travelled or has COVID-19 symptoms:
1-888-975-8601 is being answered from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Individuals who are self-isolating are required to stay at home, avoid contact with other people, and monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after returning.
Department of Health Services, March 26, 2020
The CPHO travel orders and the travel/critical worker protocol have now been posted to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
All travellers will be required to isolate at designated facilities outside of Nunavut for a period of 14 days, except for critical employees who are asymptomatic.
Those returning to Nunavut will require approval from the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer and are asked to email CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca.
Toll free number for anyone that has recently travelled or has COVID-19 symptoms: 1-888-975-8601 is being answered from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Ongoing services:
- Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week.
- All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily.
- Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
- Appointments at health facilities are being triaged, this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- Mental Health and Addictions has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
- Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
- All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families is cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, March 25, 2020
Ongoing services:
- Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week.
- All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily.
- Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
- Appointments at health facilities are being triaged; this means the appointment may be over the phone or in person.
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- MHA has moved to telephone check-in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
- Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case-by-case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- All non-emergent Obstetrics comprehensive ultrasounds (all regions) are temporarily postponed. All pending appointments are being assessed by Chief of Obstetrics.
- The Wednesday evening clinics at QGH have been suspended until further notice
Department of Health Services, March 24, 2020
Effective March 25, 2020, all travellers will be required to self-isolate at designated facilities outside of Nunavut for a period of 14 days, except for critical employees who are asymptomatic. Those returning to Nunavut will require approval from the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer.
Information on Residents and Critical Workers Travel
Nunavummiut who want to return to Nunavut during the travel ban must enter a mandatory 14-day isolation period at one of four locations in southern Canada. Please contact CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca for direction.
Critical employees who must return to work in Nunavut during the travel ban must apply for an exemption approved by the Chief Public Health Officer. For information on the process, please contact CPHOTravelRequests@gov.nu.ca for direction.
Need to talk to someone if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have recently travelled to or from an affected area? Please call 975-8601 or 1-888-975-8601 from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.to speak with someone. Please remember this line is for those who need it – and should not be used for general inquiries!
The information on the toll free number, the CPHO orders and the travel/critical worker protocol has now been posted to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/health/information/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
Nunavummiut must call first before going to Qikiqtani General Hospital, Iqaluit Public Health or any Nunavut Health Centre. Find phone numbers for all health facilities at https://gov.nu.ca/health/information/health-centres
Ongoing services:
- Mental Health and Addictions has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
- Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
- Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week.
- All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily.
- Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services.
- All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
- Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- The Wednesday evening clinics at QGH have been suspended until further notice
- Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
- Qikiqtani General Hospital cafeteria is closed to the public.
- All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled.
- All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services, March 23, 2020
Ongoing services:
- Access to health care services will remain available in all communities seven days a week. All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily. Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit, public health, the emergency room and inpatient unit will remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments. Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- MHA has moved to telephone check-in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick-up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
- Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case-by-case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- Speciality clinics have been cancelled. Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
- All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled. All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled
Department of Health Services Update - March 20, 2020
MHA has moved to telephone check-in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
Ongoing services:
- Access to health care services will remain available in all communities 7 days a week.
- All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily.
- Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services are and will continue to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- All clients are asked to call before presenting at a health facility.
- In Iqaluit: public health, the emergency room and the inpatient unit will all remain open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth or by phone.
Adjusted services:
- Medical travel services have been reduced to urgent medical travel only. Clients will be advised of these changes and involved in discussions.
- In Iqaluit, outpatient clinics and rehab are triaging all appointments and conducting appointments.
- Lab and Diagnostic Imaging services at QGH are on reduced services. All upcoming appointments are being triaged.
- MHA has moved to telephone check in and support for some clients. Scheduled appointments for medication pick up and administration remain the same. If you are in crisis, present to the health centre.
- Home visits to administer medications will be treated on a case by case basis.
Closed /Cancelled/Suspended services:
- Speciality clinics have been cancelled.
- Work is underway to determine which clients can be seen by phone/virtual care.
- All non-essential travel for mental health clients and families are cancelled.
- All non-essential travel for families visiting clients in care is cancelled.
Department of Health Services update - March 19, 2020
A Public Health Emergency has been declared.
- All Health essential services to continue.
- All Health staff are essential and will be re-deployed as necessary.
Health is instituting a screening process for all medical travel clients before receiving clearance to travel home.
Community members are asked to avoid attending health centres and the hospital whenever possible to avoid risk of transmission of viral illness.
Ongoing services:
- Immediate access to urgent and emergent health care services continues territory-wide.
- Emergency dental treatment remains available in Cambridge Bay, Rankin Inlet, and Iqaluit. Travel, if approved, will be to the nearest appropriate facility from the client’s place of residence.
- Mental Health Services remain available and unchanged in communities.
- Mental Health Nurse services at Qikiqtani General Hospital remain available and unchanged.
- The Mental Health Program will be hosting community radio shows across the territory where possible
- The Youth Wellness team is offering phone-based counselling support:
- Current clients and others who need support may call 867-979-7661.
- For new referrals, please contact Susan Mazur at 867-975-5999.
- Physicians will continue community visits. If this is not possible, the visits will be conducted by telehealth. Visiting physicians will undergo screening.
- In Iqaluit, Public Health remains open.
- Well baby clinics, prenatal visits and immunizations are continuing across Nunavut.
- Mental Health services remain the same in communities.
- Options are being pursued for additional crisis debriefing and counselling support via telephone and telehealth.
- The office of patient relations can be contacted at the usual email address: patientrelations@gov.nu.ca.
- Boarding homes have enhanced their cleaning protocols.
Adjusted services:
- Direct patient relations phone service is currently unavailable, but a solution is being developed.
- In Iqaluit; mental health counselling will be completed by phone (via central intake phone line: 867-975-5999).
- At Qikiqtani General Hospital: For non-emergency situations please call first before coming to the hospital. Clinical sessions will be completed over the phone where possible.
- Health is limiting visitations to Qikiqtani General Hospital and community health centres.
- At Qikiqtani General Hospital: visitors are restricted to one visitor per patient (preference given to parents and escorts).
- Rehab appointments are being assessed, and some may be postponed.
- Youth wellness team is available only to meet with youth on a 1:1 basis by appointment
- All non-urgent requests will be triaged daily.
- Outpatients are redirected at Akausisarvik so they do not mix with the residents.
- Youth workers are not having drop-in hours or any group activities but are still available to see youth 1:1 if necessary.
- All Continuing Care Centres have been instructed to restrict visitation where possible – and for those coming into the facility be screened before entering.
- Qikiqtani General Hospital and Health Centres have limited visitation. One visitor per patient.
Closed/Cancelled/Suspended services:
- Cafeteria access at Qikiqtani General Hospital is restricted.
- All regularly scheduled dental services are cancelled until further notice.
- At Community Health Centres: visitation to Health Care Facilities has stopped.
- All non-essential medical travel outside of the territory, has been postponed:
- Appointments that are postponed will be either rescheduled to a later date, moved to telehealth, or will be completed in-territory.
- Health is working with referring specialists to prioritize essential medical travel.
- All medical travel clients will be screened for possible COVID-19 illness prior to receiving clearance to travel home.
- Travellers unable to return home immediately will remain on medical travel status – they will be provided support for meals, accommodation, transportation and case management.
- If required, isolation will be supported via private rooms at boarding homes or hotels.
- All in-person training courses facilitated by the Quality of Life Secretariat scheduled for March and April are cancelled.
- In-territory specialty clinics are cancelled.
- Youth Wellness Team drop-in counselling sessions, afterschool programs, outreach, and camps scheduled for March and April are cancelled.