SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Police are cautioning the public after charging a 25-year-old HIV positive man with three counts of aggravated sexual assault in Yellowknife on Thursday.

Bobby Kaotalok, of no fixed address, made an initial court appearance on Friday. He will remain in jail until his next court appearance, scheduled for March 1.

Due to Kaotalok's serious health condition, the RCMP is asking anyone who may have had any contact with his blood or bodily fluids to contact their nearest hospital or health centre, as well as the police.

Following the RCMP press release, Kami Kandola, chief public health officer for the NWT, issued a statement reminding NWT residents that information on HIV/AIDS is available through the Department of Health and Social Services' website and its information phone line.

HIV attacks the immune system, leaving those afflicted vulnerable to various infections. It is often fatal.

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