The Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency has confirmed two cases of active tuberculosis in Behchokǫ̀. Authorities say there is “no evidence that the general public is at increased risk.”
In a Wednesday statement to Cabin Radio, TCSA chief executive officer Kevin Armstrong said public health workers were “following established procedures to identify and contact anyone who may require testing or follow-up.”
Tuberculosis, or TB, is a contagious airborne bacterial infection that primarily attacks the lungs.
Armstrong said the people most at risk from exposure to TB are those who have close, ongoing contact with someone who is sick and coughing while actively infected.
He stressed TCSA has not recommended that children be kept home from school and if you haven’t been contacted by public health, there is currently no indication you have been exposed to TB.
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Earlier this week, social media posts had circulated suggesting there were dozens of cases in the community. Armstrong’s statement suggested that was not the case.
“We are aware that community members have questions and concerns about recent TB cases in Behchokǫ̀,” Armstrong stated. “Public health is conducting contact investigations and providing follow-up as required … If additional public action becomes necessary, that information will be shared with the community.”
If you think you have symptoms of TB you should call the health centre to speak with a nurse, Armstrong said. If you have general questions about TB, call 811 for information and advice from a nurse.
