The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has launched a new visual dashboard to track COVID-19, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Behchokǫ̀, Fort Simpson, Fort Smith, Hay River, Norman Wells and Yellowknife. The user-friendly dashboard allows residents to clearly visualize data, including graphs, helping them stay on top of virus trends in their community.
The dashboard displays key information including:
- the presence of COVID-19, influenza and RSV;
- the level of detection: high, moderate, low, or no detection;
- the evolution of wastewater over the past year.
The GNWT Wastewater Surveillance Program is funded in part by the Public Health Agency of Canada and is delivered in partnership with the Department of Health and Social Services, the Department of Environment and Climate Change (Taiga Environmental Laboratory), the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs, the National Microbiology Laboratory, and communities across the Northwest Territories. Samples are collected weekly in participating communities to test for these viruses, and additional communities can join the program at any time.
Wastewater monitoring provides early warning signs of viral activity, allowing public health officials to respond quickly and share results with residents. By checking the dashboard, NWT residents can take steps to protect themselves, such as getting vaccinated (if needed), washing their hands frequently and staying home when sick.
To view the dashboard and learn more about wastewater monitoring, visit www.gov.nt.ca/wastewater-monitoring.
Media representatives are requested to contact:
Andrew Wind
Communications Manager
Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
Email: [email protected]
867-767-9052, ext. 49034
