There are 10 probable or confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Whatì.
Public health issued an advisory Saturday evening, saying the community is “in the early stages of community transmission.”
Public health officials have traced the source of the outbreak likely being a community BBQ on Sept. 6.
The notice says any residents that attended the BBQ is considered a contact of COVID-19.
Fully vaccinated residents must self-monitor for symptoms, while partially or non-vaccinated residents must isolate and notify the local health centre.
According to the vaccination data, 77 per cent of Whatì residents have at least one dose of the vaccine, while 68 per cent are fully vaccinated.
Dr. Kami Kandola, the NWT chief public health officer, is also issuing a 14-day containment order in the community, which begins Sept. 11 at 11:59 p.m.
Under the order, non-essential businesses must close and schools must go to remote learning. There are also restrictions on indoor and outdoor gatherings to people within the same household.
Non-essential travel in and out of the community is discouraged. Anyone who is not fully vaccinated and has travelled from Whatì to another community must now isolate at their destination and notify public health.
Sept. 10 flight exposure
Earlier on Saturday, public health announced an additional COVID-19 exposure on a flight on Sept. 10.
On Friday, Canadian North Flight 244 left Edmonton and travelled to Inuvik with stops in Yellowknife and Norman Wells. Rows 17 to 23 are affected by the exposure notification.
Full vaccinated residents must self-monitor for symptoms. If they develop, then isolate immediately and arrange for testing.
Partially and non-vaccinated residents must isolate for 10 days and arrange for testing.
