Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The NWT today is headed for a health crisis, one unknown to most of us. Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are unfortunately rather common in the NWT, but one in particular is not, nor is it common in other parts of Canada. That one is syphilis.
As of last Friday there were 18 confirmed cases of syphilis in the NWT. Compare that to a total of four cases in the NWT in the last 13 years. In early September health officials noted that five cases had been confirmed in the month previous. Added to the three already confirmed cases, that made a total of eight. Several weeks later another five cases were confirmed to bring the total to 13. And now another five cases brings it to 18 as of last Friday.
Why are we continuing to see an increase in the number of cases of syphilis in our territory and why in this day and age when it’s easily cured? Eighteen cases to date for this year alone versus four cases in 13 years. There’s something wrong here, Mr. Speaker.
I understand that the department is trying to track down anyone who has been infected or is at risk of infection and administer appropriate treatment, yet we are continuing to see an increase in the number of syphilis cases. What else is the Department of Health doing to halt this outbreak? Not enough, in my estimation.
A month ago there were some reports in the newspapers, and there is a warning of the outbreak hidden deep in the department’s website. These actions are insufficient to really warn the public, to mobilize residents who may be at risk. A major education and publicity campaign is warranted, Mr. Speaker.
Early last month the department refused to identify the two NWT communities where the syphilis cases have been reported, in spite of the fact that patient confidentiality is guaranteed. Syphilis is an infection, and it has disastrous consequences if not treated. People die from this infection. It is easily cured, however, if you know you have it. The department should be doing more to highlight which residents are at risk and which residents should consider getting themselves tested. An STI can be stopped in its tracks as long as everyone who has been infected gets treated. It’s time the Department of Health took aggressive action to stop this outbreak.
Thank you, Ms. Bisaro. The honourable Member for Nahendeh, Mr. Menicoche.
