GNU: Chief Public Health Officer taking every precaution for the Omicron Variant

Press Release

22 December 2021

Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Michael Patterson, today released the following statement:

“The threat of Omicron has forced the Government of Nunavut to act quickly and decisively to make difficult decisions this holiday season. One of those was to advise everyone with two doses or less of a COVID-19 vaccines to isolate when they come into Nunavut. Those who have received two doses and their booster shot more then two weeks ago are not being asked to isolate.

In the interests of public health, we are asking everyone else to please isolate for the full 14 days. This may lead to low capacity within the public service and schools in early January, but it is important to limit the potential spread of the virus in-territory.

Additionally, I caution against any large gatherings or community Christmas games. Please respect the current gathering limits and keep events small and safe.

Masks remain mandatory across the territory and physical distancing should be maintained in public spaces.

Vaccination, though not as effective against Omicron as it is with other strains, remains our very best protection against COVID-19. Please get vaccinated and get your booster as soon as you are able.

The spread of Omicron, especially for those who are double vaccinated, is shockingly high and fast from what we’ve seen so far. Please protect yourself, those you love and your communities by following all public health measures.

Measures may be changed quickly as we learn more about Omicron and how to respond. Thank you to all Nunavummiut for your continued patience and understanding as we continue to fight this pandemic.

Stay healthy and stay safe.”

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Media Contact:

Chris Puglia
Acting Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5949
cpuglia@gov.nu.ca

IHT5

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