Indigenous Health Authority to Monitor Coroner’s Inquest on Blastomycosis Deaths

First Nations health authorities in Northwestern Ontario are set to monitor an upcoming coroner’s inquest into the deaths of five residents of the Constance Lake First Nation. The individuals succumbed to blastomycosis, a fungal infection, between November 19, 2021, and January 23, 2022. The inquest is scheduled to begin on October 15, 2023, and will last for approximately 25 days, hearing from around 30 witnesses.

The coroner’s office has confirmed that those who passed away include Luke Moore, aged 43, Lorraine Shaganash, 47, Lizzie Sutherland, 56, Mark Ferris, 67, and Douglas Taylor, 60. All five died in hospital during an outbreak of the disease in the northeastern Ontario First Nation, which is located near Hearst.

Significant Health Concerns in Northwestern Ontario

Officials from the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA) have expressed their intent to closely observe the inquest findings. Although Constance Lake is not a member community of the SLFNHA, the organization is concerned about the broader implications, particularly given that the Northwestern Health Unit reports significantly higher annual rates of blastomycosis in its catchment area compared to the rest of Ontario.

According to statistics, the rates of blastomycosis in the Northwestern Health Unit’s jurisdiction were 52.4 cases per 100,000 people in both 2022 and 2023, and 41.4 in 2024. In contrast, the incidence rates across Ontario during those years did not exceed 1 case per 100,000 people. Within SLFNHA communities, Lac Seul has reported 18 cases between 2022 and 2024, despite having a population of just over 900 residents, according to Indigenous Services Canada.

The Nature of Blastomycosis and Its Symptoms

Blastomycosis is caused by inhaling spores from the Blastomyces fungus, which is commonly found in disturbed soil, decaying wood, and leaves. The symptoms of the infection can take from three weeks to three months to appear, often mirroring those of other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza or COVID-19. This overlap in symptoms can lead to delays in proper diagnosis and treatment, particularly during the late spring and summer months when most people are exposed to these spores.

Dr. Lloyd Douglas, the public health physician at SLFNHA, emphasized the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers. “We have collaborated with the Northwestern Health Unit and Indigenous Services Canada to provide educational sessions for healthcare professionals,” he stated. “It is crucial that they consider blastomycosis as a possible diagnosis when patients present with respiratory symptoms.”

Once diagnosed, blastomycosis can be effectively treated with antifungal medications. Dr. Douglas noted that while it is important to remain vigilant about the risks associated with the outdoors, the goal is to encourage outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing among community members, especially children.

“We want individuals to enjoy the land and participate in traditional activities,” he remarked. “Our messaging focuses on striking a balance between safety and the enjoyment of outdoor life.”

The upcoming coroner’s inquest presents an opportunity to better understand the factors contributing to the recent deaths and to enhance health promotion strategies in affected communities. The insights gained may play a vital role in preventing future outbreaks of this serious fungal infection.