Pangnirtung community-wide tuberculosis screening clinic completed

Pangnirtung, Nunavut (December 6, 2023) – Today the Department of Health, in partnership with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI), announced the successful completion of the community-wide tuberculosis (TB) screening clinic in Pangnirtung.

“The screening clinic in Pangnirtung further advances the Government of Nunavut and NTI’s commitment to eliminating TB in Nunavut,” said Minister of Health John Main. “Ending tuberculosis is a shared responsibility that requires the collective efforts of individuals, communities, healthcare professionals and dedicated partner organizations such as NTI, as well as the support from the Hamlet of Pangnirtung.”

During the 10-week clinic, 94 per cent of the target population was screened, and six active cases and 55 latent cases of TB were identified.

While the screening clinic has concluded, the Department of Health will continue to work diligently to analyze the collected data, collaborate with healthcare providers, and continue to provide support and resources in the community to ensure that individuals identified during the screenings receive the necessary follow-up care and support.

TB screening continues to be available at the health centre for anyone who has been exposed to an active case or is showing symptoms of TB, and anyone who requires follow-up appointments. The Pangnirtung health centre is staffed with additional dedicated TB personnel to provide adequate access to testing, education, treatment, and support, as necessary.

“NTI and the Department of Health’s joint efforts on the TB screening clinic in Pangnirtung sets an example of what can be accomplished when we work together towards a common goal,” said NTI President Aluki Kotierk. “NTI will continue to invest in initiatives and programs that support Inuit, families and communities affected by TB, and continue to advocate for the right measures to lower the high rates of TB in Nunavut.”

The community-wide TB screening clinic’s success can be attributed to the collaborative efforts and support from the Hamlet of Pangnirtung, NTI, and the Department of Health. This clinic was further supported by Indigenous Services Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada.

For more information on TB and screening, please visit the Department of Health webpage.