Nunavik’s 14 mayors call for public health emergency over tuberculosis cases
The mayors of 14 Inuit communities in northern Quebec have issued a plea to the provincial government to declare a public health emergency due to the alarming increase in tuberculosis cases in Nunavik. This region has seen the highest number of reported cases in recent history, with 95 cases reported last year and 40 cases already reported in 2025.
In a letter addressed to Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé, the mayors highlighted two key concerns that prompted their call for action. Firstly, they cited the unprecedented surge in tuberculosis cases as a major cause for concern. Additionally, they expressed apprehension over potential cuts to infectious disease resources for Nunavik, although these cuts have not been independently verified by CBC News.
The mayors attributed the escalating tuberculosis numbers to systemic racism and inequalities within Quebec’s health system. They emphasized that Inuit residents in Nunavik are not receiving equitable treatment and resources compared to other populations in the province.
Tuberculosis is a treatable disease that primarily affects the lungs. The Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services reported active outbreaks in six out of the 14 communities, marking the highest number of simultaneous outbreaks on record. In response to this dire situation, Adamie Kalingo, the mayor of Ivujivik, described the state of affairs as “out of control” and emphasized the need for urgent intervention.
The mayors outlined a series of demands to address the crisis, including the deployment of emergency medical resources to the region and investments in critical infrastructure such as water, housing, and utilities. They underscored the importance of preventing the spread of tuberculosis in overcrowded households, where the disease can easily propagate.
Furthermore, the mayors criticized the inadequate state of health services in Nunavik, citing a lack of qualified staff, high levels of burnout, and limited access to essential resources like testing kits and lab services. They emphasized the urgent need for additional support to enable large-scale screening and containment efforts, similar to the rapid response seen in outbreaks in other regions like Montreal.
In conclusion, the mayors warned of the dire consequences if the tuberculosis crisis is not addressed promptly. They urged the Quebec government to prioritize the health and well-being of Inuit communities in Nunavik and allocate the necessary resources to combat this public health emergency. CBC News has reached out to relevant authorities for comment on this pressing issue.
