Spike in flu cases in Fort Simpson, N.W.T., prompts public health advisory
'Significantly increased' flu activity in Dehcho, says chief public health officer
The N.W.T.'s chief public health officer says there has been a "significant spike" in flu cases in Fort Simpson.
A public health advisory issued Thursday warns about influenza A and B in the Dehcho region, noting that 14 out of 20 confirmed cases in the territory over the past week were in the Dehcho — which, until now, had only had two cases reported this season.
"Many more residents have reported recent influenza-like illness but were not tested," the advisory states.
The advisory notes Fort Simpson's wastewater shows the virus circulating in the community, but there have also been reports of illness in many other Dehcho communities.
The advisory comes after the nearby community of Jean Marie River asked the N.W.T. Health and Social Services Authority to send help when nearly half the households in the community of around 70 people reported illnesses. In that case, the health authority sent a nurse from Fort Simpson to Jean Marie River.
Signs of flu include fever, cough, runny nose, body aches, fatigue or general feeling of unwellness. People can call 811 to talk with a registered nurse if they need advice.