COVID-19 case reported in Iqaluit
First new case in almost two months involves a traveller who tested positive after flying from Ottawa
Many services in Ivujivik are closed as public health officials have discovered several COVID-19 cases in the community over the past several days. (Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay)
A traveller who arrived in Iqaluit last week after a flight from Ottawa has tested positive for COVID-19, Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s chief public health officer, has confirmed.
The person arrived in Iqaluit last Friday and tested positive after developing symptoms on Sunday, Patterson said in a news release issued Monday. The Health Department did not disclose the person’s age, sex or place of residence.
“In accordance with the rules, the individual has been isolating since returning to Iqaluit,” the statement reads. “Contact tracing is ongoing and at this time the risk to the community is considered low.”
The Department of Health is encouraging other passengers from Canadian North flight 5T-101 to self-monitor for 14 days, and to isolate and get tested if they develop symptoms. Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers who were seated in rows 10 through 16 are advised to arrange testing. Fully vaccinated passengers in those rows may also arrange testing if they choose. Testing can be arranged by calling 1-888-975-8601 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. EDT.
Monday’s new COVID-19 case is the first new case in Iqaluit since the city’s outbreak was declared to be over on July 20. However, there will be no new additional restrictions, Patterson said.
“As 97 per cent of Iqalummiut over 12 years of age are fully vaccinated, there will be no changes to public health measures at this time,” the news release states.
Travel to Nunavut requires authorization from Nunavut’s chief public health officer. Unvaccinated travelers must undergo a 14-day isolation before arrival. Fully-vaccinated travellers may apply for an exemption, but are required to wear a mask in public settings for 14 days upon arrival.
Iqianaq.
You figure the traveler should have been tested upon checking in prior to his/her departure or show proof of being vaccinated. I agree with jn ‘ikianak’ is right. My thought for today.
It doesn’t say the person wasn’t vaccinated.
In case it’s not already obvious, there is no “light at the end of the tunnel”. What we’re dealing with right now will be around for many years to come.
The economy will also not fully recover for many years. Whatever party wins control of the government tonight/tomorrow, I would not want to be the party that presides over an economic collapse in this country and around the world.
Get ready folks – it’s coming!