Public Health Alerts
Public Health Alert – Increase in local cases of Blastomycosis
Situation Although it is known that Northwestern Health Unit’s (NWHU) catchment area has the highest rate of blastomycosis in Ontario (2019-2023 annual rate per 100,000 17.2-50.4 in NWHU, 0.2-0.6 in the rest of Ontario), this alert is to inform you that there has been an increase in reported blastomycosis cases Read more…
Public Health Alerts
Public Health Alert – Influenza A confirmed in the region
Situation The Northwestern Health Unit has identified the first laboratory confirmed case of Influenza for the 2024-25 season in the Sioux Lookout area. The type is Influenza A. It is certain that others in the region have also been infected, and it is likely that influenza is now a risk Read more…
Public Health Alerts
Public Health Alert – Bromazolam and xylazine in unregulated drug supply
Situation Toxicology report in Fort Frances showed bromazolam and xylazine present when reported substance used was fentanyl. Xylazine is a medication used by veterinarians for pain relief, sedation, and muscle relaxation of large animals. Bromazolam is a short-acting benzodiazepine-related drug. Both are not approved for human use. Due to proximity Read more…
Public Health Alerts
Public Health Alert – Blastomycosis
Situation Northwestern Health Unit’s (NWHU) catchment area continues to have the highest annual rate of blastomycosis in Ontario. Between 2019 and 2023, the annual rate for NWHU ranged from 17.2-50.4 cases per 100,000 while the rest of Ontario ranged from 0.2-0.6 cases per 100,000. Blastomycosis continues to be seen throughout Read more…