Advisory: Arctic Fox infected with Rabies in Whapmagoostui
CBHSSJB is advising residents of Whapmagoostui and Kuujjuarapik to be cautious following the report of an Arctic fox that tested positive for rabies in early January.

The Public Health Department is collaborating with community officials and MAPAQ to investigate the situation, contain the risk of infection and protect residents and domestic animals.
There is a fox overpopulation in the area, and about 70 animals have been euthanized during an ongoing fox cull carried out by local emergency workers.
Rabies is a viral disease that is fatal for animals and humans. We advise all residents to be on the lookout for foxes wandering in the community, as there is a high possibility they’re rabid. Rabies can spread to people and dogs if they are bitten, scratched or licked by an infected animal.
If you or your child have been bitten or scratched by a fox or a dog, report it immediately to the CMC.You’ll be evaluated and treated.
Recommended Precautions
- Children should be supervised while playing outside.
- If you go out walking, be aware of your surroundings and cautious about the route.
- If you see a dog behaving strangely, lurching, frothing at the mouth, choking or making strange noises, or any dead animal, don’t touch it. Report it to the Animal Control Officer at (873) 967-0748 or (819) 929-9466.
- Garbage attracts animals. Keeping garbage tidy and enclosed, and backyards clear. This will help protect our community spaces.
- Don’t let dogs roam freely outside without supervision.
- Vaccination is the most effective rabies protection for dogs. Dog vaccination clinics will be available soon.
All dogs should be monitored for possible rabies symptoms for the next six months.
Please inform the Animal Control Officer immediately if you believe your dog encountered a fox. They will provide guidance to manage the situation. The dog should be isolated in a separate, closed room and monitored for symptoms.
- Common symptoms in dogs include vomiting, weakness, difficulty walking, excessive salivation, and aggressive behaviour.
Larger fox population this season calls for caution
The arctic fox population is larger and more present this winter in Whapmagoostui and across Northern Quebec. It is common for foxes to carry rabies and the risk is ongoing.
Do not play or feed foxes or other wildlife. Keeping a clear distance helps reduce the risks associated to rabies.
learn more

Rabies is a contagious and deadly disease.