Public Health measures eased in Kinngait

Press Release

Iqaluit, Nunavut (October 5, 2021) – Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s Chief Public Health Officer, today announced the easing of public health measures in Kinngait.

“As there has not been a new case of COVID-19 in the community since September 19, it is safe to ease public health restrictions in Kinngait,” said Dr. Patterson. “Masks remain mandatory across the territory.”

Effective immediately:

• Outdoor gatherings are limited to 100 people.
• Indoor gatherings in dwellings increase to 15 people, plus household members.
• Indoor public gatherings, including places of worship may allow 50 people or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less.
• Gyms, fitness centres, swimming pools, libraries and galleries may allow 25 people or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less. Group sessions and tours are limited to 10 people.
• No public places may allow group tours, group workouts or singing.
• Gatherings in arenas are restricted to 50 people or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less. Max 50 spectators. Masks mandatory.
• Restaurants and licensed establishments are restricted to 50 per cent capacity, masks mandatory for staff and patrons, except while sitting.
• Group counselling sessions may have up to 20 people, masks mandatory.
• Parks remain open but buildings are closed.
• Schools and childcare facilities remain open, but masks are mandatory.
• Long-term care and elders’ facilities may allow a max of two visitors per resident; masks mandatory for all visitors over age of four; only immediate family.

Anyone who develops COVID-19 symptoms 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 by telephone. Please do not go to the health centre in person.

COVID-19 vaccines are still available to all Nunavummiut aged 12 and older. Contact your health centre to make an appointment. Iqaluit Public Health takes vaccine walk-ins for Pfizer (ages 12 to 17) on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Walk-ins for Moderna (18 and older) are held Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For all the latest information on COVID-19 in Nunavut, go to: https://www.gov.nu.ca/

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Media Contact:

Chris Puglia
A/Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5949
[email protected]

IHT5