Premier Caroline Cochrane stated in a news release Wednesday evening that she is saddened and disappointed in the announcement of a second confirmed case of COVID-19.
“I was saddened to hear that the Chief Public Health Officer had confirmed a second case of COVID-19 in the Northwest Territories today," she stated. "My thoughts are with this person and their family and I wish them well as they deal with this infection. While we knew that it was only reasonable to expect more cases would be discovered in the Northwest Territories, this news still comes as a disappointment to many."
Cochrane also stated there are positives to focus on. including that the person with the virus is following the advice of authorities and staying home in self-isolation.
“I hope that those disappointed by the news, were reassured like I was to hear that the individual had been following the advice to self-isolated at home, along with members of their household," she stated. "I am also pleased that public health officials were able to respond quickly to this new case and that this individual is not expected to need hospitalization for their mild symptoms."
Cochrane goes on to say in the statement that the work of public health officials in detecting cases as early as possible ensures the sick get the treatment they need right away and that others in the community don't get the virus.
“Today’s news does demonstrate that COVID-19 is in the Northwest Territories and we all have to keep doing our part to help slow its spread and lessen the impact on our friends, families and loved ones," she stated. "Now more than ever, we must make sure we are following the orders of our Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO)."
Premier Cochrane's full statement can be read here.
As of Wednesday evening, the GNWT Health and Social Services department reported that there are two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the NWT, with 979 completed tests, 977 with negative results and 130 tests pending.