COVID-19

Effective April 1, 2022, anyone, regardless of vaccine status, can enter the NWT. Self-Isolation Plan is no longer required.

 

COVID-19 is caused by a virus producing mild to severe respiratory infections. COVID-19 can spread from person to person through heavy breathing, coughs and sneezes of people who are carrying the coronavirus. Anyone can get COVID-19, regardless of how active or healthy you may be. It can cause serious illness requiring hospitalization, especially in people who are at higher risk, and even resulting in death.

Those at a higher risk for severe outcomes of COVID-19:

  • Over the age of 60
  • Unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or have not received a booster (including those under 5 who cannot yet be vaccinated)
  • Pregnant
  • Moderately or severely immunocompromised
  • People with any of the following conditions:
    • Had an organ transplant
    • Undergoing cancer treatment
    • Taking immune suppressing drugs
    • Have high blood pressure
    • Diagnosed with cardiac or severe chronic lung disease
    • Diagnosed with severe kidney or liver disease
    • Suffering from dementia or have had a stroke
    • Diabetic
    • Obese (Body Mass Index more than 40)

If you have any of the above higher-risk conditions and have symptoms of COVID-19, you are at greater risk for severe outcomes. If your symptoms are worrisome or you cannot manage your symptoms at home please visit your local health centre for an assessment. Treatments that reduce severe outcomes are available for those at higher risk. To be considered for treatment, an assessment by a healthcare provider is needed. You can also call 8-1-1 for none urgent medical advice.

The most effective way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and stay up to date on your vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines are available free of charge in the NWT. To find out if you are up to date on any of your vaccinations, please see the NWT Immunization Schedule or contact your local health centre.

For information on vaccine clinics and testing, please click on the following to the NTHSSA website:

For more information on COVID-19, please click on the following links to the Canada.ca/COVID-19 website:

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