Respiratory Illnesses

Reporting of Communicable Diseases to the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a legislative duty to report notifiable and reportable diseases to the Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO) as required in the NWT Public Health Act (2009, SNWT 2007, c.17, SI-007-2009), with required information and timelines for reporting as defined in the Disease Surveillance Regulations (2009, R-096- 2009) and within the NWT Communicable Disease Manual.
Mandatory Reporting of Outbreaks for ALL Communicable Diseases
Immediately report all outbreaks or suspect outbreaks in hospital, long-term care facility (LTCF) or congregate living by telephone (867) 920-8646 to the OCPHO.
NOTE: This is not just for respiratory diseases but for ALL communicable diseases. Outbreaks for different diseases are defined within the NWT Communicable Disease Manual.
Mandatory Reporting of all deaths where a communicable disease is either a contributing factor or the person was infected with via telephone (867) 920-8646.
Report of Long-Term Care Facility Outbreaks to DHSS

2026-27 Fall Respiratory Season Program Guidelines for Influenza, COVID-19 and Pneumococcal Vaccines
Disease Surveillance Regulations
NWT Reportable Disease Regulations Schedule 3
NWT Communicable Disease Manual
NWT Immunization Schedule Health Professionals
Report of Long-Term Care Facility Outbreaks to DHSS
Wastewater Monitoring
811 Health Advice Line - HCPs are encouraged to let clients know about calling 811 regarding symptoms or health questions. Nurses are available 24/7 to help clients assess when it is appropriate to access an appointment, when someone should call ahead to warn the health centre of a potential communicable disease or when to manage their symptoms at home. 811 now offers mental health supports and support in quitting smoking/vaping.