There is one more COVID-19 case in Yellowknife.
The Office of the Chief Public Health Officer announced late Thursday that an individual has been identified and that the infection is linked to the exposure notice issued April 21.
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It involves an individual at a Yellowknife school, who is now self-isolating.
The school was not identified. But within an hour of the announcement, Yellowknife Education School District No. 1 issued letter to parents via email that it had received confirmation from the OCPHO that YK1 schools are not involved.
"The NWT sends a sample of the virus detected from all those diagnosed with COVID-19 to our southern lab partners to test for any Variants of Concern," states a release issued by the OCPHO.
According to the release the investigation is currently active and ongoing and that 40 contacts have been identified related to the case.
"The local public health unit is conducting follow up with the individual and identified contacts," the announcement said.
"Individuals identified as contacts will be advised to isolate and follow recommendations from public health."
The staff and students identified as contacts are required to isolate for 14 days.
They will receive a letter from public health authorities on the next steps.
"Students who are required to self-isolate will be supported by the school to continue their classes through distance learning," states the letter.
"Public health is ensuring the individual and any potential contacts are supported."
Stay vigilant with healthy practices
Chief public health officer Dr. Kami Kandola stated that as NWT cases appear to be increasing, "it’s important we are especially vigilant in sticking to the healthy habits we know work to stop COVID-19 in its tracks."
She continued to recommend self-isolating when required, retaining physical distance of six-feet between yourself and others, staying home when feeling sick and contacting public health unit and setting up an appointment at the first sign of being sick with COVID.
For more information and other helpful tips, please visit the GNWT Department of Health and Social Services web page and read the full news release.