Public health restrictions eased in Iqaluit, wastewater testing introduced
News Release
Public health restrictions eased in Iqaluit, wastewater testing introduced
Nunavut (July 14, 2021) – Today, Dr. Michael Patterson, Nunavut’s Chief Public Health Officer, has announced the easing of public health measures in Iqaluit, and the beginning of wastewater testing in Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet.
“As there are no new cases of COVID-19 in Iqaluit, it is safe to further ease public health measures,” said Dr. Patterson. “It’s important to remember that Iqaluit’s outbreak is not yet over, and all Nunavummiut need to continue to be vigilant. Masks in all communities continue to be mandatory to mitigate potential risk.”
In Iqaluit, as of 12:01 a.m. Friday July 16:
- • Outdoor gatherings increase to a maximum of 100 people.
- • Indoor gatherings in dwellings increase to 15 people, plus household members.
- • Indoor public gatherings, including places of worship, may now be 50 people or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less.
- • Restaurants and licensed facilities may open to 50 per cent capacity.
- • Activities in licensed establishments such as darts, pool, live bands and karaoke are not permitted.
- • Group counselling is permitted for up to 20 people.
- • Fitness classes are allowed for a maximum of 10 people.
- • Museums, galleries and libraries may allow group tours.
- • The theatre may open at 50 per cent capacity.
- • Indoor team sports are now permitted. The addition of wastewater testing as part of COVID-19 surveillance testing will allow for a faster response to outbreaks and improve initial COVID-19 detection. This testing will be conducted as a pilot project over the next three months in Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit, due to the nature of sewage disposal in those communities.
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.
For all the latest information, including the numbers of recovered and active cases per community, go to: www.gov.nu.ca
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Media Contact:
Chris Puglia
Acting Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5979
@email