Nunavut health officials warn of trichinosis in Sanikiluaq

(Updated Feb. 19)

Nunavut health officials are warning residents of Sanikiluaq to be aware of trichinosis.

Trichinella is a parasite or roundworm found in some uncooked meat, which, when consumed by humans, can cause a serious infection called trichinosis.

In this case, Government of Nunavut’s Department of Health said there is a “strong suspicion” that some residents in Sanikiluaq have trichinosis, based on symptomatic complaints and abnormalities in basic blood work.

But the results of more thorough blood tests will take another week or two to be confirmed.

Polar bear meat almost always has trichinella, health officials said, so testing the meat itself is rarely useful.

Residents of the Belcher Islands community who have eaten any uncooked polar bear meat in recent weeks should be aware of possible symptoms of trichinosis, which can include stomach pain, muscle pain, diarrhea, swollen eyelids, sweating and weakness.

Health officials say anyone experiencing those symptoms should go to their local health centre.

Trichinosis can be treated with medication, but if left untreated, the disease can cause death.

The parasite itself cannot be killed by freezing meat; polar bear meat must be cooked until there is no more pink or red colour left in the flesh to ensure the trichinella is destroyed.

Hunters who want to make sure their polar bear or walrus meat is safe to eat can contact their local hunters and trappers organization to have it tested for free. More information on trichinella is available here.