Nunatsiavut Government: Measures being taken following confirmation of tuberculosis-related death
March 22, 2018
Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe says all steps are being taken to deal with issues related to a tuberculosis-rated death of a 14-year-old Nain boy.
“This is a tragic situation, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time,” says President Lampe.
The boy reported to the Nain clinic on Friday, March 16 with TB-related symptoms and was medevaced to the Labrador Health Centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and subsequently to the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre in St. John’s where he died late Sunday evening. Based on a combination of diagnostic imaging, laboratory results, and the preliminary results of an autopsy, the Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that TB is the suspected cause of death.
The Nunatsiavut Government’s Department of Health and Social Development (DHSD) is working with Labrador-Grenfell Regional Health Authority (LGH) to immediately implement a series of public health measures. Contact tracing is under way and, as a precautionary measure, treatments may be prescribed to those deemed at risk.
“It is important for residents to understand that there is no imminent risk to the community, as TB is spread through close contact with infected individuals,” says President Lampe. “If residents are concerned they or their loved ones may have signs of tuberculosis, they should immediately report to the Nain clinic. TB can be prevented and can be treated.”
Symptoms may include:
- a cough lasting at least two weeks;
- coughing up sputum (phlegm) or blood;
- feeling weak or very tired;
- loss of appetite;
- weight loss;
- fever;
- night sweats; and
- chest pain
It is anticipated that the contact tracing and precautionary treatments will be intensive and comprehensive. DHSD and LGH are determining whether additional supports are needed and have been in contact with the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch of Indigenous Services Canada.
“(DHSD) Minister Darryl Shiwak and I spoke with Indigenous Services Minister Jane Philpott today by telephone and briefed her on the situation and the measures that are being undertaken,” notes President Lampe. “Minister Philpott has assured us that all necessary supports will be provided. We are working out the details, but expect required resources to arrive in the community as soon as possible.”
As a follow-up, President Lampe and Minister Shiwak, along with Provincial Health and Community Health Services Minister Dr. John Haggie, will participate in another call with Minister Philpott later this afternoon.
Residents of Nain will be provided with updates as they become available.
Media Contact:
Bert Pomeroy
Director of Communications
(709)896-8582
bert.pomeroy@nunatsiavut.com
NT5
