Igloolik dealing with potential rabies outbreak

The hamlet of Igloolik, Nunavut, is dealing with a potential rabies outbreak.

In early December, a fox showing no fear of humans was caught  and sent out for testing. The results came back positive for rabies.

Ever since, the Government of Nunavut and the hamlet office have asked people to be careful when going outdoors.

Paul Quassa, the community’s mayor, is urging people to be careful when going outdoors.

"We've asked children to bring hockey sticks with them for protection since rabid animals can attack."

Two people have been bitten and are being treated for possible rabies.

The Hamlet has hired people to catch any dogs that are loose in town because they can also be infected with the disease.

"There is a process in place now whereby any of these animals that could be rabid are taken to an incinerator facility and destroyed so that there is no human risk," said Peter Hale, wildlife research manager for the Government of Nunavut.

Hale says there is no need to panic, but he says no one should approach animals that are not afraid of people.

The Hamlet and the GN are ordering vaccine shots for dogs in Igloolik. The outbreak of rabies may be related to the high number of lemmings this year.

Quassa said rabies is a very serious condition and people should continue to take precautions.