Public health measures eased in Arviat

News Release

Public health measures eased in Arviat

Iqaluit, Nunavut (September 22, 2021) – Dr. Michael Patterson Nunavut’s Chief Public Health Officer, today announced the easing of public health restrictions in Arviat after confirmation of negative surveillance testing results.

“More than 80 swabs were collected in an effort to determine if COVID-19 was transmitting undetected in Arviat,” said Dr. Patterson. “All tests have come back negative for COVID-19 and the risk of the virus transmitting in the community is low. For that reason, it is safe to ease public health measures. However, masks remain mandatory across Nunavut.”

Effective immediately, the more stringent public health measures in Arviat are lifted, including the no travel recommendation and the isolation advisory for individuals not fully vaccinated, who left Arviat on or after September 6. As well:

• There is no limit to the number of people for outdoor gatherings.
• Indoor gatherings in dwellings increase to 15 people, plus household members.
• Indoor public gatherings, including places of worship, gyms, fitness centres, and swimming pools, are increased to 100 people or 75 per cent capacity, whichever is less.
• Libraries, galleries may allow 25 people or 50 per cent capacity
• Public places may allow group tours, group workouts and singing.
• Team sports may resume.
• Restaurants and licensed establishments are restricted to 75 per cent capacity.
• Group counselling sessions increase to 20 people.
• Parks buildings may open.
• 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 symptoms of COVID-19 is advised to call the COVID-hotline at 1-888-975-8601 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST to arrange testing or notify their community health centre right away. Please do not go to the health centre in person, and immediately isolate at home for 14 days.

Vaccine continues to be available across the territory. Call your health centre to make an appointment or walk into Iqaluit Public Health every weekday for Moderna (18+) and Wednesday for Pfizer (ages 12 to 17). Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community.

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Media Contact:

Chris Puglia
Acting Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5949
@email