Naujaat tuberculosis outbreak update

The Department of Health is advising that the outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) declared in Naujaat on May 16, 2023, is ongoing.

Since January 2023, 21 individuals have been diagnosed with active TB and 121 individuals have been diagnosed with latent TB in the community.

Community members who have been exposed to an active TB case, or who have TB symptoms, should visit the health centre for screening.

The following are symptoms of active TB:

• A cough that lasts longer than three weeks.
• Feeling very tired.
• Loss of appetite.
• A fever or night sweats.

Anyone with these symptoms should go to the health centre as soon as possible for screening. TB is a treatable disease with medications available within your community. If you have any questions, please contact your local health centre.

Latent TB is not contagious but is treated to prevent it from becoming active. The Department of Health will continue to provide support and resources to the community to ensure access to adequate testing, education, treatment, and support.

A community-wide TB prevention screening clinic is ongoing in the community and all Naujaatmmiut are encouraged to attend the screening.

To learn more about TB and treatments, please visit the Government of Nunavut website.