Unusual Clinical Manifestations of a Disease, New and Emerging Infectious Diseases, including Epidemic Forms or Outbreaks

December 1, 2023

 

CASE DEFINITION

Not all diseases or health conditions are mandated to be reported to the Office of the Chief Public Health Officer (OCPHO), but when there is an unusual occurrence or a pattern that deviates from the expected norm, or unusual clinical manifestations with possible infectious causes it is crucial to report such instances promptly.

The reasons for reporting include:

  1. Early identification and response: Prompt reporting allows for early identification of potential outbreaks or unusual disease patterns, enabling a rapid response to contain and manage the situation effectively.
  2. Locating specific sources or causes: When a disease is linked to a particular location or activity, reporting helps in identifying the source or cause. This information is crucial for taking preventative measures. Reporting unusual clinical manifestations helps initiate thorough investigations into the case, source, and potential spread of illness.
  3. Tracking trends (surveillance): Monitoring unusual disease patterns assists in identifying trends, patterns, or changes in disease behavior that might indicate new pathogens or mutated strains, enabling public health authorities to implement targeted interventions or public health campaigns if necessary.

Early warning: Prompt reporting provides an early warning system, allowing public health officials to respond swiftly and efficiently, preventing further transmission.

REPORTING

All HCPs must follow the NWT Public Health Act. Measures for contact tracing and legislative requirements are laid out within the Reportable Disease Control Regulations and reporting timelines are found in the Disease Surveillance Regulations.

Note: the only acceptable methods of reporting to the OCPHO are outlined below. Information provided outside of these methods will not be considered reported unless otherwise stated by a CPHO delegate.

Health Care Professionals

For Part 2 written report within 24 hours

  • Confirmed and probable cases are to be reported to the Office of the Chief Public Health Office (OCPHO) within 24 hours after diagnosis is made or opinion is formed by completing the following Communicable Disease Report Form then submitting to Communicable Disease Control Unit (CDCU) via secure medical fax 867-873-0442 or Secure File Transfer CDCU@gov.nt.ca.
  • If there are any updates regarding the case or contacts the appropriate form will need to be resent with the additional information.
  • Immediately report all outbreaks or suspect outbreaks by telephone (867) 920-8646 to the OCPHO.