Mass screening for tuberculosis is scheduled to occur in Inukjuak, Que., this month, with plans to extend the initiative to other villages in the future. The Inuulitsivik Health Centre (IHC), serving Nunavimmiut along the Hudson Bay coast, will establish mobile clinics in Inukjuak from Nov. 3 to Nov. 28. Following this, each community along the Hudson coast will undergo its own screening.
According to a statement provided to CBC News by IHC, the decision to implement this screening effort arises from a pressing need to combat tuberculosis, prompted by concerns raised by local mayors earlier this year. The IHC emphasized that this initiative is a top priority for both the health center and the communities it serves.
Reports from September indicated a significant increase in tuberculosis cases in the region, surpassing national rates and ranking among the highest globally. By Sept. 16, there were 83 confirmed cases in the region this year, with outbreaks in seven villages. The health board fears that without intervention, 2025 could witness a record number of cases.
IHC detailed that screening clinics will be strategically located in key spots within Inukjuak, including schools, workplaces, and the local co-op. Additionally, outreach staff will conduct door-to-door visits to educate Nunavimmiut about tuberculosis. This mass screening in Inukjuak is intended to serve as a blueprint for future efforts in other communities.
The IHC emphasized that early detection of tuberculosis allows for treatment within the community, avoiding the need to transfer patients. Symptoms to watch for include a persistent cough lasting over three weeks, coughing with blood, fever, extreme fatigue, decreased appetite, night sweats, and weight loss.