Partnering for a TB-free Nunavut on World TB Day

Press Release

(March 24, 2025 – Iqaluit, Nunavut) Today, Government of Nunavut Minister of Health John Main and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) President Jeremy Tunraluk reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating tuberculosis (TB) in Nunavut. On World TB Day, they recognize the ongoing collaborative efforts to combat TB, reduce TB-related fear and stigma, and improve health outcomes for people and communities affected by TB across Nunavut.

This year’s World TB Day theme is “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”. This reinforces the importance of Nunavut’s commitment, targeted investments, and action-driven solutions.

To mark the day, the GN and NTI are launching a territory-wide art contest. Open to Nunavummiut of all ages, including Nunavut Inuit who reside outside the territory, the contest offers exciting prizes for different age groups. Submit your artwork to demonstrate how we can unite as a healthy community to end TB, and support those who are affected by it. Selected artwork will be featured in a 2026 TB awareness calendar. Submissions are open now until April 25, 2025, and winners will be announced later in May.

TB is an infectious disease that impacts many worldwide. Collaboratively, the GN and NTI, guided by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami’s TB elimination framework, are working to bring an end to TB in Nunavut by improving access to TB testing and treatment in communities. They are also providing direct support to communities impacted by TB, as well as wrap-around supports, such as access to nutritious food to individuals with active TB, and encouraging everyone with symptoms of TB to get tested.

“The fight against TB requires all of us to work together. By getting screened, following treatment, and supporting one another, we can help eliminate TB in Nunavut,” said Minister Main. “As we reaffirm our partnership with NTI and approach World TB Day, we are strengthening our resources and communication efforts. Prevention, early detection, and completing treatment is key to reducing future outbreaks and protecting our communities.”

“Tuberculosis is preventable and curable. I encourage anyone with symptoms to get tested, and if needed, treated for TB,” said NTI President Tunraluk. “Being sick with TB is not easy, and that is why NTI offers nutritional supports to individuals with active TB. By working together, we can end TB in Nunavut.”

Nunavummiut are encouraged to play a role in their community’s health by staying informed, engaging in TB prevention efforts and utilizing local health resources for testing and treatment. For more information on tuberculosis prevention and treatment or to learn about the Art Contest, please visit the Government of Nunavut website.

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Media Contacts:
Ivaluarjuk Merritt
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
media@tunngavik.com

Charmaine Deogracias
Manager, Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5712
cdeogracias@gov.nu.ca

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