Arviat sees new case of COVID-19

The Government of Nunavut announced one new case of COVID-19 in Arviat on Tuesday.

That brings the total number of active cases in the territory to nine, all in the hard-hit community of Arviat.

There is still no evidence of community transmission, according to Dr. Michael Patterson, the territory’s chief public health officer. That means public-health officials have been able to trace the sources of all new infections.

Still, “it is necessary to maintain all current public-health measures to slow any additional spread,” he said in a news release.

Arviat remains under lockdown, following the hamlet’s decision last week to declare a state of emergency. Residents are expected to stay at home unless they have to buy groceries or visit the health centre.

Recoveries in the community have recently begun to outpace new infections. On Feb. 26, Arviat had 26 active cases.

“I am very pleased with the efforts to date and I encourage everyone to stay strong in their efforts,” Patterson said. “Thank you for all your work to keep your community healthy. Please keep going and know your hard work is effective.”

Vaccine clinics in the territory are ongoing. Nunavummiut who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine can call their health centre for an appointment.

To date, 8,066 Nunavummiut have received at least one dose of the Moderna vaccine.

Anyone who has reason to believe they have been exposed to COVID-19 is asked 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.