The first COVID-19 case in Nunavut was confirmed on Thursday to be located in Pond Inlet, a fly-in community.
There are 129 COVID-19 cases in First Nation communities on reserve and 16 confirmed cases in Nunavik’s Inuit communities, which covers a third of Quebec in its northern region.
Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services said the community, the territorial government and Indigenous Services will give the case in Pond Inlet full attention to ensure contract tracing and maximum containment efforts are undertaken.
Miller said $690 million has been directly allocated by Indigenous Services to the health response for COVID-19.
“This includes activities undertaken directly by the department such as procurement of supplies and nursing services as well as the preparedness measures being undertaken by communities,” he said.
Miller said the pandemic is impacting indigenous communities in many ways including mental wellness.
“Whether there are cases or not or close to their communities, people find themselves experiencing distress, anxiety and uncertainty,” he said.
“This is particularly the case for people who are at higher risk, or the family members of those who are at higher risk.”
Miller said the Hope for Wellness helpline is also available for immediate culturally safe telephone crisis intervention 24/7 for First Nations, Inuit and Metis at 1-855-242-3310.
“These are real and understandable reactions and there are mental wellness supports available to help. It’s important to underscore that many communities and service providers are adapting their operations to respect the requirement for physical distancing and they should continue to do so,” he said.
Miller said crisis intervention counselors have increased at the Hope For Wellness helpline to keep up with demand.
He said Indigenous Services will continue to work with communities to address their needs.
