New Covid-19 XBB1.5 strain circulating in Nunavut

Get vaccinated and stay home when sick, among health tips

By Trevor Wright Northern News Services Nunavut

Nunavut’s Department of Health is advising Nunavummiut of a new Covid-19 variant being detected in the territory.

The variant is XBB1.5 and is likely expected to overtake other Covid-19 strains and will likely become the most dominant strain circulating in the territory.

Masks remain mandatory in all healthcare facilities in Nunavut.

The Department of Health would like to remind residents of Nunavut that Covid-19 remains a threat and that flu season isn’t over yet.

They recommend all Nunavummiut over six months of age to get both the flu and Covid19 vaccine.

Other ways to stop the spread of respiratory illnesses like influenza, Covid-19 and other virus can include:

- Staying up-to-date on vaccinations

- Staying home when sick

- Coughing or sneezing into your sleeve

- Washing hands often

- Physical distancing when out and about

- Avoid touching your face

- Throwing away used tissues in the trash right away

- Not smoking indoors or around others, particularly babies