Arviat residents are being warned by the territorial Department of Health that a fox that had previously attacked a dog in the community has now tested positive for rabies.
The April 3 incident has resulted in the dog being confined and it will be euthanized, according to the GN.
Due to the danger presented by the disease, the Department of Health advises all Arviat residents to be aware of any foxes in the community.
If bitten or scratched by a fox or a dog, please go to the local health centre to report the incident immediately. Treatment must be sought immediately after potential exposure, since rabies infections are almost always fatal if left untreated, the department stated on April 26.
Any domestic animals that spend time outdoors should be monitored for changes in behaviour and rabies symptoms. These include behaving in any way strangely or aggressively, staggering, frothing at the mouth, making choking or other uncharacteristic noises.
Wild animals infected with rabies could also appear friendly and approach humans without apparent fear. Animals exhibiting these symptoms or behaviours should be avoided and immediately reported to the regional environmental health office or conservation officer.
Any residents who spot a fox or wolf wandering around the community, please contact the conservation officer at 867-857-2976.
If a dog has come into contact with a fox or wolf, call the regional environmental health officer at 867-222-0163 or 867-975-4815.