Possible rabies exposure due to fox activity in Arviat

Press Release

October 14, 2025

The Department of Health advises Arviat residents that a fox acting abnormally was euthanized and will be sent for testing. This fox made contact with dogs, but there was no human contact.

Due to the danger of rabies, the Department of Health advises all residents to be on the lookout for foxes in and around the community.

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 signs of rabies.

Signs of rabies include behaving strangely, aggressively, 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 Environmental Health Officer or the Conservation Officer.

If your dog was bitten or attacked by a fox, please call the Environmental Health Officer at867-983-5241 or the Conservation Officer at 867-857-2976.

Contact

Charmaine Deogracias
Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5712
cdeogracias@gov.nu.ca

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