COVID-19 outbreak likely spreads to Makkovik, as Nunatsiavut reports presumptive case

The viral outbreak in metro St. John's has now likely spread to one of the farthest reaches of the province, theNunatsiavut government says.

Residents of Makkovik are being asked to remain calm and within their own households, as the government suspends flights in and out of the community due to a presumptive positive COVID-19 test among its residents, according to a media release sent outWednesday night.

The presumptive case is linked to travel to the St. John's region. It won't be confirmed until the test is sent to the provincial lab in thecapital for analysis on Thursday.

Arrangements are underway to have all Makkovik residents tested for the virus, the release said. Officials expect to announce details Thursday morning, and say they will implement an emergency response plan formulated specifically for the community.

Only those traveling for medical emergencies can fly out of Makkovik effective immediately, while Nunatsiavut is asking people not to travel by snowmobile to surrounding areas "under any circumstance."

Contact should be limited to people within their own household, the release said.

People in Makkovik have received both doses of the Moderna vaccine required for immunization, with the second dose administered earlier inFebruary. The Nunatsiavut government has said73.8 per cent of eligible adults have been vaccinated.

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