Fox tests positive for rabies in Arviat

The Department of Health is advising residents of Arviat that a fox suspected of being infected with rabies has tested positive. The fox attacked a dog in the community on April 3, 2024, and the dog has been under confinement since the attack and will be euthanized.

Due to the danger of rabies, The Department of Health advises 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, please go to your local health centre and report the incident immediately. Treatment must be started quickly after exposure, as rabies infections are almost always fatal.

Domestic animals that spend time tied up outdoors should be monitored for a change in behaviour and signs of rabies.

Signs of rabies include behaving strangely, aggressive, staggering, frothing at the mouth, choking or making strange noises. Wild animals infected with rabies may also appear friendly and approach humans without fear. Animals exhibiting these signs should be avoided and reported to the Regional Environmental Health Office or Conservation Officer.

If you see a fox or wolf wandering around the community, contact the Conservation Officer at 867-857-2976. If your dog had contact with a fox or wolf, call the Regional Environmental Health Officer at 867-222-0163 or 867-975-4815.