Possible Rabid Fox in Iqaluit

Public Health Advisory
Possible Rabid Fox in Iqaluit

The Department of Health is advising residents of Iqaluit that a fox that attacked a domestic dog in the Lower Base area on January 2, 2023, is being tested for rabies. The dog is currently under confinement. 

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, go to the hospital 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, staggering, frothing at the mouth, choking or making strange noises. Animals exhibiting these signs should be avoided and reported to the Regional Environmental Health Officer or Conservation 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 your local Regional Environmental Health Officer at 867-975-1163.

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Media Contact:

Victoria Morgan         
Communications Specialist
Department of Health
867-975-5949
vmorgan2@gov.nu.ca