Fox in Arctic Bay

Public Health Advisory

Fox in Arctic Bay

The Department of Health would like to notify residents of Arctic Bay that a fox has exhibited aggressive behaviour. The fox was destroyed and will be tested for rabies. This fox had been in contact with at least one sled dog in the community. All sled dogs on the team are isolated and being monitored for rabies.

Due to the danger of rabies, we 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 health centre and report the incident immediately. Treatment must be started quickly after exposure, as rabies infections is almost always fatal.

A fox that is sick may appear friendly. Children should not play with foxes or other wildlife. Keep domestic animals tied up when they are outdoors and monitor for a change in behaviour 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, or if your dog had contact with a fox or wolf, call the Regional Environmental Health Officer at 867-645-6660 or Conservation Officer at 867-527-0141.

###

Media Contact:

Danarae Sommerville
Communications Specialist
Department of Health
867-975-5712
@email