News Media Room

COVID-19 confirmed case in Arviat

Last updated Thursday, November 19, 2020

News Release

COVID-19 confirmed case in Arviat

Iqaluit, Nunavut (November 13, 2020) – Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s Chief Public Health Officer, has confirmed a case of COVID-19, in Arviat.

“The individual is currently outside the territory, is isolating and doing well. We have initiated contact tracing in Arviat and our Rapid Response Team is on standby to support should it become necessary,” said Dr. Patterson. “Out of an abundance of caution, beginning Sunday, November 15, all travel between Kivalliq communities will be restricted, with the exception of cargo and emergency travel.”

For the entire Kivalliq region, only essential services are to remain open with grocery stores implementing reduced hours. Indoor gatherings are no longer permitted, and all outdoor gatherings are limited to five people or less. Kivalliq residents are required to wear a mask while outside of their homes, stay at home as much as possible and limit contact with others, including family members not living in the same household.

“As we see the numbers of COVID cases rising throughout Canada, it’s critical we maintain our public health measures, act with caution and pay strict attention to our actions,” said Premier Joe Savikataaq. “To everyone in the Kivalliq, please know we are with you, we’re sending you strength and our government is ready to help. Stay well and care from one another safely.”

Anyone who has reason to believe they have been exposed to COVID-19 is advised to call the COVID-hotline at 1-888-975-8601 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST, or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days. Please do not go to the health centre in person.

An update will be provided at a press conference at 11 a.m. today.

###

Media Contact:

Cate Macleod
Press Secretary to Premier Savikataaq
867-975-5059
@email

Chris Puglia
A/Manager Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5949
@email

Share this page

Is this page useful?

Thank you for contacting the Government of Nunavut.

Please do not send sensitive or personal information, including (but not limited to): social insurance numbers, birthdates, information of other people, or health information. Please only send a brief description of your issue or concern and how we can contact you. We will make sure the correct person contacts you if they need more information or if they can answer your question or concern.