Government confirms Nain boy died of TB

The Nunatsiavut Government has confirmed that Gussie Bennett of Nain, 14, died of tuberculosis-related complications.

The Nunatsiavut Government stated in a news release Thursday that it is working with Labrador Grenfell Health to try to track down anyone who may have been in close contact with the boy, and is taking measures to try to contain further cases.

“It is important for residents to understand that there is no imminent risk to the community, as TB is spread through close contact with infected individuals,” Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe stated in the release. “If residents are concerned they or their loved ones may have signs of tuberculosis, they should immediately report to the Nain clinic. TB can be prevented and can be treated.”

The Department of Health and Community Services also issued a news release on the matter, saying people who have had regular or prolonged contact with the boy will be contacted by a public health nurse.

Bennett came in to the Nain clinic on Friday, March 16 and was medivaced to Happy Valley-goose Bay and then to St. John’s, where he died late Sunday evening.

The government news release also confirmed that based on a combination of diagnostic imaging, laboratory results and the preliminary results of an autopsy, the Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed TB is the suspected cause of death.