The Mushuau Innu First Nation and Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services are advising the public of an outbreak of tuberculosis (TB) within the community of Natuashish.

To reduce the risk from TB, the Mushuau Innu First Nation and NL Health Services have been actively identifying contacts and potential new cases through contact tracing and supporting access to testing.

Facts About TB

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of TB should contact the local community clinic for an appointment.

Symptoms associated with TB include:

• persistent cough
• fever
• night sweats
• weight loss

It is also possible to be infected with TB and not have any symptoms.

TB is a disease caused by bacteria that usually affects the lungs. It is spread through the air when a person with active TB coughs, talks, laughs, or sings. In most cases TB is transmitted after close and prolonged exposure to someone with the active disease.

Prevention and Treatment

While TB can cause significant illness, treatment is available within the community. Treating TB is important both for the health of the person who is ill and to prevent spreading illness.

Those with symptoms of TB are encouraged to seek medical assessment quickly. While waiting for assessment, individuals should minimize close contact with others. Those who have been notified as a contact with someone who has active TB are advised to follow up with the local community clinic as soon as possible to complete any required testing.

As communities prepare for upcoming gatherings, residents are reminded to:

• refrain from attending public events if they are experiencing symptoms of TB;
• follow all Public Health instructions if advised to isolate or undergo testing; and
• respond promptly and cooperate with Public Health as contact tracing continues.

At this time, there is no elevated risk associated with regular activities in the community. Public Health recommends that the usual precautions be maintained during respiratory season, which include:  

• clean your hands regularly with soap and water or hand sanitizer;
• use a tissue or your arm to cover coughs and sneezes;
• contain your illness by staying home and resting; and
• refrain from sharing smoking devices.

General Information

The Mushuau Innu First Nation and NL Health Services are working closely together and are confident that a timely, coordinated response – including screening, treatment, and follow-up support – will help minimize further spread and bring the outbreak under control.

For more information about TB, talk to your health-care provider, Public Health, or visit the Hi Website.

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