Health officials to investigate womans in-hospital death

Nunavut Health officials will investigatea recent death at the territory's only hospital.

There aren't many details yet, but Nunavut's Department of Health has confirmed that a young woman died following childbirth last week at Qikiqtani General Hospital in Iqaluit.

Ina statement, territorial chief of staff Dr. Sandy MacDonaldcalls ita rare and unfortunate event.

Death during pregnancy or after childbirth isuncommon in Nunavut.

The Public Health Agency of Canada reportsno maternal deaths between 1996 and 2010.

MacDonald says the case was referred to the coroner's office since it was an in-hospital, unexpected death.

The Department of Health says the hospital has not yet done its own investigation, but a spokesperson says the case will be reviewed.

The woman's baby survived. MacDonald says thechild is healthy and with family.

The woman who died was originally from Pangnirtung.

MacDonald extended condolences to the family, on behalf of hospital staff and the Department of Health.