Fox euthanized, tested for possible rabies in Arviat

A fox that was acting abnormally and suspected of having rabies was euthanized in Arviat and will be sent for testing, the Department of Health announced Tuesday.

The fox made contact with dogs, but there was no human contact, the department said in a news release. It advised residents to be on the lookout for foxes in and around the community.

Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a fox or dog should go to a local health centre and report the incident immediately. Treatment must be started quickly after exposure, as rabies infections are almost always fatal if left untreated.

Domestic animals that spend time tied up outdoors should be monitored for signs of rabies, the release said.

Signs of rabies include an animal behaving strangely or aggressively, staggering or frothing at the mouth, and choking or making unusual 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.

Anyone whose dog has been bitten or attacked by a fox should contact the environmental health officer at 867-983-5241 or the conservation officer at 867-857-2976.