NewsDesk @bactiman63
The Nunavut Department of Health is advising residents of Iqaluit that a sled dog has tested positive for rabies. All other sled dogs on the team are isolated and being monitored for rabies. Due to the danger of rabies, officials advise all residents to be on the lookout for foxes in the area.
If you have been bitten or scratched by a fox or a dog, go to the Qikiqtani General Hospital and report the incident immediately. Treatment must be started quickly after exposure, as rabies infections is almost always fatal.
Domestic animals that spend time tied up outdoors should be monitored for a change in behavior and signs of rabies.
Signs of rabies include behaving strangely, staggering, frothing at the mouth, choking or making strange noises. Animals exhibiting these signs should be avoided and reported to the Regional Environmental Health Office or Conservations Officer. If you see a fox or wolf wandering around the community, contact the Conservation Officer at 867-975-7780. If your dog had contact with a fox or wolf, call the Regional Environmental Health Officer at 867-975-4817.
