New Insights on Zoonotic Diseases in the Canadian Arctic

A recent comprehensive review has provided essential insights into zoonotic infections--diseases transferred from animals to humans--in the Canadian Arctic. With the region gaining increased global interest and facing the challenges of climate change, this guidance is particularly timely for healthcare professionals.

Published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, the review outlines methods for identifying and managing seven specific zoonotic infections that pose risks to the population. The authors emphasize the unique cultural connection Indigenous communities have with the Arctic environment, which contributes to their exposure to various zoonotic diseases.

The Canadian Arctic is characterized by three distinct bioclimatic zones: subarctic, low arctic, and high arctic. Indigenous groups, including the Inuit, Gwich'in, and Athabaskan peoples, inhabit this vast area. The authors advocate for a holistic approach among clinicians treating patients from these communities, integrating Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit--Inuit Traditional Knowledge--with the One Health principle. This principle underscores the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental factors.

The authors note that cultural practices and interactions with the Arctic ecosystem significantly influence the understanding of lesser-known infectious diseases in the region. By respecting and understanding Indigenous customs, healthcare providers can better identify potential infectious exposures and develop effective prevention strategies.

Several risk factors for zoonotic infections in the Arctic have been identified, particularly dietary habits that include traditional foods such as wild game, fish, and marine mammals. Activities like hunting, harvesting, and caring for sled dogs also contribute to these risks.

Furthermore, the impact of climate change on the Arctic ecosystem is evident. Changes in animal behavior, including altered migration patterns due to diminishing sea ice, complicate hunting practices and can disrupt parasite life cycles. The thawing of permafrost has also affected food preservation methods, making traditional practices less reliable. Warmer temperatures are leading to the spread of insect vectors to higher latitudes, which may introduce new infectious diseases to vulnerable populations in the Arctic.

The article includes illustrative materials that depict the complex relationships between people, animals, and the transmission of diseases. The findings highlight the need for ongoing research and awareness regarding zoonotic infections in the Arctic to protect both Indigenous communities and the wider population.