Nunavut has identified its first COVID-19 patient in the community of Pond Inet, according to chief public health officer Michael Patterson.
Nunavut is the last territory or province in Canada to report its first COVID-19 case.
“We did anticipate that it was only a matter of time before our territory had a confirmed case, and unfortunately today is that day,” said Patterson in a press release. “We have initiated contact tracing in the community and our rapid response team is on its way to Pond Inlet, to provide care and ensure the community has all necessary supports to help manage the situation.”
It’s unclear at this point how the individual contracted the virus.
“There is no need to panic. Nunavut has had time to prepare, and we are in a solid position to manage this. We ask people not to place any blame, not to shame and to support communities and each other as we overcome COVID-19 in Nunavut,” Premier Joe Savikataaq said.
