The presumptive case of COVID-19 in Makkovik has been deemed negative following a confirmatory test in the provincial lab.

The initial test on Wednesday caused widespread concerns in Labrador, where remote and Indigenous communities are considered at high risk during the pandemic.

The Nunatsiavut Government says the news may be comforting, but they’re encouraging all residents to continue following public health guidance.

The restriction on all commercial flights to and from Makkovik has been lifted, but residents are still advised not to travel by snowmobile to neighbouring communities under any circumstances.

Questions have been raised as to why a public briefing was not called to provide an update on the pandemic response in Labrador.

Premier Andrew Furey responded by saying although no briefing was scheduled, he has been in regular contact with Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe and other Indigenous leaders to discuss the vaccine rollout, border security, and protecting vulnerable communities.