Indigenous Health Authority to Monitor Coroner’s Inquest on Blastomycosis

In a significant development, First Nations health authorities in Northwestern Ontario will closely observe a coroner’s inquest into the deaths of five residents from the Constance Lake First Nation, all attributed to blastomycosis. The inquest, scheduled to commence on October 15, 2023, aims to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatalities that occurred between November 19, 2021, and January 23, 2022.

The deceased individuals include Luke Moore (43), Lorraine Shaganash (47), Lizzie Sutherland (56), Mark Ferris (67), and Douglas Taylor (60). All five passed away in hospital during an outbreak of the fungal infection affecting the northeastern Ontario community near Hearst. Blastomycosis arises from inhaling spores of the Blastomyces fungus, which is commonly found in disturbed soil, decaying wood, and leaves.

Officials from the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA) emphasize the importance of this inquest, despite Constance Lake not being a member community. According to data from the Northwestern Health Unit, the annual incidence of blastomycosis in the region is markedly higher than the provincial average. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, the rates of blastomycosis in the Northwestern Health Unit’s area were recorded at 52.4, 52.4, and 41.4 cases per 100,000 people, respectively. In contrast, the incidence rate in Ontario has remained below 1 per 100,000 during the same period.

Dr. Lloyd Douglas, a public health physician at SLFNHA, expressed a desire to uncover the details surrounding these deaths. “We would like to understand, as best as possible, what happened,” he stated. The authority aims to gather insights that can improve health promotion and education efforts in the region.

The blastomycosis outbreak has affected several communities. Notably, the Lac Seul First Nation reported 18 cases from 2022 to 2024, despite having a population of just over 900 residents, according to data from Indigenous Services Canada. Other communities, such as Pikangikum and Eagle Lake, have also noted cases in recent years.

Symptoms of blastomycosis can take between three weeks to three months to manifest, often resembling those of respiratory illnesses like influenza or COVID-19. Dr. Douglas noted that the timing of symptoms can coincide with flu season, leading to underdiagnosis of the infection. He urged healthcare providers to consider blastomycosis when evaluating patients presenting with respiratory symptoms.

“We have collaborated extensively with the Northwestern Health Unit and the health branch through Indigenous Services Canada to provide information sessions and education for healthcare providers,” Dr. Douglas added. He emphasized the importance of awareness, stating that patients can request testing if they suspect exposure.

Despite the serious nature of the infection, Dr. Douglas reassured the community about outdoor activities. “We don’t necessarily want people not to enjoy the outdoors. We still want individuals to go out on the land to gather, to hunt, to fish, and we want kids to be playing on the playground,” he said, highlighting the need for a balanced public health message.

The upcoming inquest is expected to last 25 days and will hear from 30 witnesses, aiming to provide clarity and understanding about the outbreak and its impact on the community.