COVID-19 GN Update - June 11, 2020

Premier’s update:

Good morning. There are still no confirmed or probable cases of COVID-19 in Nunavut.

Today, the total number of people under investigation to date is 1,197. 128 people are currently under investigation.

Nunavut’s Public Health Emergency has been extended for an additional two weeks, until June 25.

I have received some messages about inconsistencies in some of the isolation hubs. We have looked into this, and I want to assure Nunavummiut that anyone who is not following the rules – rules that apply to everyone coming into Nunavut – must re-start isolation and will spend another 14 days in the hub.

We have taken isolation and entry into Nunavut very seriously since the beginning of this pandemic three months ago. This measure is helping to keep us COVID-free so far. There will be absolutely no double standard, no difference in treatment between isolation guests, and no exceptions.

And although it’s not COVID-related, I want to say a very special, happy birthday to Qaapik Attagutsiak, who turns 100 in Arctic Bay today. She has been such an inspiration to so many, and we are honoured by her wisdom and teachings. Happy, happy birthday Qaapik – thank you for everything!

As part of the Government of Nunavut’s (GN) effort to protect Nunavummiut against the risk of COVID-19, GN Departments are implementing the following:

Department of Health Services

COVID Hotline and Self-Assessment Tool

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., or notify their community health centre right away, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.

Anyone with access to internet can also take the online self-assessment tool nu.thrive.health

New Email for Travellers

A new email address has been established for Nunavummiut planning travel outside of the territory. All travellers must submit an Isolation Reservation Request Form to @email as soon as travel plans are known to ensure that the travel team can identify room availability and reserve stays in a designated isolation facility. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.

Isolation sites concern inbox

A new email address has been established to better address concerns and comments from clients completing 14-day isolation in the Isolation Sites in southern Canada. The new email will take pressure off the COVID toll free line, patient relations and the CPHOtravel requests inbox. The new email address is @email.

Volumes

Traveller repatriation summary:

Critical Worker Requests

As of June 10, there are 1,520 requests, 1143 of which are critical worker requests.

Department of Community and Government Services

Requests to enter Nunavut for construction-related projects

Starting May 15, 2020 requests to enter the territory for construction related projects or to travel within the territory for construction related projects can be emailed to @email  

GN office buildings in all communities remain closed to the public at this time. If a member of the public needs to meet with GN staff, alternate arrangements need to be made. Please call ahead of time and make an appointment.

Nunavummiut’s health is our shared responsibility! Remember: wash your hands and surfaces, practice social distancing, listen to the advice of health officials, and stay home if you’re sick.