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.