YELLOWKNIFE (March 29, 2018) - Cases of mumps were recently identified in the NWT, for the first time since 1995.

The Chief Public Health Officer is concerned that the virus may be circulating within some NWT communities. NWT healthcare providers have been reminded to carefully monitor for signs and symptoms of mumps and ensure that people with symptoms are appropriately tested and treated if needed.

YELLOWKNIFE January 22, 2018 - The office of the Chief Public Health Officer has been made aware that an unlicensed tattoo artist may be practicing in Yellowknife, offering services in private homes.

Tattoo services require sterile equipment and a sanitary environment to prevent transmission of skin infections and bloodborne systemic infections such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

YELLOWKNIFE (November 25, 2016) – With a number of near fatal overdoses presenting at the Stanton Territorial Hospital Emergency Department in the past 24 hours, the Chief Public Health Officer has issued a second public health advisory regarding the dangers associated with illicit opioids. The first was issued on February 16, 2015.

YELLOWKNIFE (February 16, 2015) – A rise in the use of street fentanyl or commonly known as Greenies has prompted the Chief Public Health Officer to issue a public health advisory regarding the dangers associated with the drug.

Illicit fentanyl has been appearing in green pill and powder form and has been sold as Oxycontin(R), heroin and other substances. Illicit fentanyl is more toxic than other opioids and is very lethal. Small quantities can result in overdose and people can die on their first use.

YELLOWKNIFE (October 3, 2012) – The presence of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), commonly known as “superbugs”, continues to be a concern in the Northwest Territories (NWT). 

Rates of MRSA infection are currently highest in the Tli Cho and Beaufort Delta regions. The greatest increase in numbers has been found in the 0-4 age group, which is particularly worrisome given the greater susceptibility of infants to more severe infections.