By Canadian Press

Nunavut orders full lockdown, bans gatherings, over rising COVID-19 cases

Dec 24, 2021 | 11:40 AM

IQALUIT, Nunavut — Nunavut has ordered an immediate “circuit-breaker” lockdown over rising COVID-19 cases in various communities.

The government said Friday that all indoor gatherings are banned and all non-essential businesses are to close.

Libraries, gyms, arenas and churches must also close. Restaurants are limited to takeout food only.

Visitors are no longer allowed in long-term care homes and elders’ facilities.

Daycares can remain open for essential workers only. And schools are to remain closed until at least Jan. 10.

Raiders AGM

Raiders impact on Prince Albert local economy continues to go up: AGM report

12h ago

Court proceedings

'The impact of this trauma will echo for generations': court case surrounding La Ronge woman's death reaches conclusion

Dec 11, 2024

Going Global

P.A.'s Zablocki named to Team Canada for U18 Women's World Championships

Dec 11, 2024

The changes come one day after the territory announced tighter restrictions in Iqaluit, when a case was confirmed in a person who has not left the capital city for more than a month.

As of Friday, there were eight active cases in Nunavut, up from three on Thursday.

Chief public health officer Dr. Michael Patterson said there were three cases in Iqaluit, three in Pangnirtung, one in Sanirajak and one in Rankin Inlet. 

“With introductions of COVID-19 in multiple communities over the past week, we must move to the strictest public health restrictions across the entire territory,” Patterson said in a news release.

“This is a circuit-breaker approach to minimize further spread to more of our communities. We need to act quickly to help trace and contain the outbreak.

“I understand this will make the holiday season harder for many, but it is necessary for the health and safety of our communities and loved ones.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 24, 2021.

The Canadian Press