Premier Akeeagok isolating due to COVID-19

Press Release

Premier of Nunavut, P.J. Akeeagok, today released the following statement:

“I have tested positive for COVID-19 today while in Naujaat for our Cabinet retreat. I was feeling mild cold symptoms and immediately acquired a test. I will be isolating until I am cleared for travel back to Iqaluit.

All Ministers and staff who were attending the retreat have taken rapid tests. At this point no one else has tested positive or is symptomatic. However, due to precautions, we are all isolating in our hotel rooms.

In the past 24 hours I have visited with Tuugaalik High School and community members. If anyone that I was in contact with during this time starts to experience symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19, please isolate immediately.

I want to inform the community of Naujaat that the community feast that was scheduled for this evening has been cancelled to avoid any possible spread of COVID-19.

As I am fully vaccinated, I am only experiencing mild symptoms. I want to remind Nunavummiut that the vaccine and boosters are our best line of defense against COVID-19. It is an important step in keeping our families and communities safe.”

As of August 26, all Nunavummiut older than six months are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine is safe and is our best protection against the virus. While masks are no longer mandatory, they are encouraged to provide an additional layer of protection when in public.

If you have questions about the vaccine, call the COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-975-8601.

###

Media Contact:

Sima Sahar Zerehi
Press Secretary
Office of Premier Akeeagok
867-975-5059
szerehi6@gov.nu.ca

IHT5

NationTalk Partners & Sponsors Learn More