Nunavut has seen an increase in the number of people recovering from Covid-19 this past week, with Rankin Inlet’s last cases considered recovered as of Dec. 3.
As the territory heads into its first weekend following the easing of public health measures in most of Nunavut on Dec. 2, the Government of Nunavut (GN) is urging caution.
“We’re heading into the first weekend of eased restrictions in most of our communities again, I’m asking all Nunavummiut especially in Arviat, to maintain our current public health measures,” said Nunavut Premier Joe Savikataaq during a Covid-19 update on Dec. 4.
“Our case numbers are going down, but that does not mean we can relax our hard work against this virus.”
The Premier reiterated the importance of washing your hands, social distancing and wearing masks whenever possible.
"This is good news," said Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s chief public health officer (CPHO). "This means we’re moving in the right direction and can be optimistic."
The CPHO also urged caution as the territory moves forward, as easing restrictions does not mean the outbreak is over.
Everyone in Sanikiluaq is also out of isolation, if there are no new cases in the community, the outbreak will be considered over in two weeks.
There will be people still isolated in Rankin Inlet for at least another 10 days Patterson said, adding “it will take nearly a month from now, assuming there are no new cases of Covid-19, to declare the outbreak in Rankin Inlet over.”
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.
“Please be considerate of everyone, it is up to each and everyone of us,” said Savikataaq.
“Let’s all stay well, stay safe and make sure this holiday season is as safe as possible for everyone.”