COVID-19 restrictions to ease in Iqaluit starting Friday

COVID-19 restrictions will be eased in Iqaluit beginning Friday after more than a week without an active case in the city.

Nunavut Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Michael Patterson made the announcement in a press release Tuesday.

"After assessing the risk, it is safe to ease public health measures in the capital," Patterson said in the release.

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on July 2, travel restrictions in and out of Iqaluit will be lifted, and isolation for people leaving the capitalwill also no longer be required.

As well, restaurants, bars and the theatre may open at 25 per cent capacity or for up to25 peoplewhichever is less.

Indoor gatherings may increase to 10 people plus household members,public indoor gatherings may increase to 50 people or 50 per cent capacity again, whichever is less andoutdoor gatherings will increase to 50 people.

Gym capacity for solo workouts and swimming pools along with libraries, museums and galleries may open to 25 people or 50 per cent capacity, whichever is less, while arena capacity may increase to 50 people or 50 per cent capacity as well as a maximum of 50 spectators.

Finally, Iqaluit's long-term care facility may allow two visitors per resident who are the resident's immediate family members.

Masks will remain mandatory except when eating or drinking.

More details will be provided at a media update Wednesday morning, according to the press release.

As of Tuesday morning, there were zero active cases of COVID-19 in Nunavut.