Fungal Outbreak Claims Five Lives in Remote First Nation

A recent inquest into the deaths of five individuals in Constance Lake First Nation has concluded, with a jury ruling their passing from a fungal disease as natural causes. The outbreak of blastomycosis led to significant fear and trauma within the community of approximately 800 people, with nearly 50 individuals diagnosed with the illness. The jury's findings were accompanied by a comprehensive set of 79 recommendations aimed at addressing systemic issues.

The inquest highlighted critical concerns regarding healthcare for Indigenous people, including instances of discrimination and misdiagnosis at Notre Dame Hospital in Hearst. Jurors recommended the hospital adopt Joyce's Principle for equitable access and the province establish an Indigenous Patient Ombudsperson. Additionally, calls were made for adequate funding of the Jane Mattinas Health Centre to prevent unnecessary travel for treatment and for the hiring of Indigenous patient navigators.

Further recommendations addressed environmental concerns, including mold remediation in homes and addressing blue-green algae in Constance Lake. The jury also urged research into blastomycosis origins and the development of an early warning system. The implementation of these recommendations is to be overseen by a newly formed blastomycosis committee, with the hope of preventing future tragedies.