PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY – Arctic Fox Population Calls for Caution

The Arctic fox population across Northern Quebec has greatly increased in the 2025 winter season. Arctic foxes may carry rabies that can infect other animals and humans. It is important to exercise caution. Public Health advises all residents of Eeyou Istchee to be on the lookout for Arctic foxes wandering in their community, as there is a high possibility they may be rabid.

Rabies is a contagious, fatal disease for animals and humans.  The disease attacks the nervous system and can spread easily through bites, scratches or licks from an infected animal.

The CBHSSJB Public Health Department is collaborating with community officials, MAPAQ, and the Ministry of Environment to contain the risk of infection and protect residents and domestic animals in Eeyou Istchee.

Arctic fox rabies is endemic among Arctic fox and red fox populations in Northern Quebec. Even animals that appear healthy can be infected with rabies. Once symptoms of rabies appear, death is inevitable. Suspected infections require immediate treatment. It is difficult to eliminate Arctic fox rabies in the region because the fox population can travel hundreds of kilometres across the Arctic Circle, potentially spreading the virus over vast areas. 

• Avoid feeding Arctic foxes or any other wildlife, whether it’s intentional or accidental. Feeding wildlife accustoms them to human presence, increasing the risk of contact or attacks on humans or domestic animals.
• Secure all food sources (e.g., enclose garbage, pet food, and carcasses) to prevent attracting foxes or other wildlife. Using closed garbage bins and regular waste collection will reduce food availability near homes, which can help limit the presence of foxes.
• Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect dogs against rabies. Contact your Public Safety Officer (PSO) or Animal Control Officer (ACO) if your dog needs the rabies vaccine or requires an updated dose.

• If you or your child are bitten or scratched by an animal, or come into contact with its saliva, clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes, even if it appears to be minor. Immediately contact your CMC or Hospital for appropriate medical follow-up.
• If your pet has been in contact with an animal suspected of being rabid, isolate your pet and promptly contact your Public Safety Officer (PSO) or Animal Control Officer (ACO). They will provide guidance to manage the situation. Common symptoms of rabies in animals include vomiting, weakness, difficulty walking, excessive salivation, and aggressive behavior.
• If you see a wild animal in the community (either dead or alive), or if a wild animal poses an immediate threat to your safety or that of others, contact your Public Safety Officer (PSO) or Animal Control Officer (ACO). 

• Ensure your pets are vaccinated and do not allow unvaccinated dogs to roam freely outside without supervision.
• Keep pets away from carcasses. Make sure they do not touch or consume them.
• Keep garbage tidy and enclosed and keep the backyard clean to protect community spaces.
• Remain vigilant around outdoor garbage bins or dumps.
• Stay alert while walking outside and carry a stick for protection.
• If you see a dog behaving strangely (i.e., lurching, frothing at the mouth, choking or making strange noises) or any dead animal, don’t touch them. Report the situation to your local Animal Control Officer (ACO) or Public Safety Officer (PSO).
• Supervise children while they play outside.
• Do not handle carcasses with bare hands. Wear gloves. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose while handling carcasses or possibly contaminated equipment.