Peterborough and Surrounding Area Under Special Air Quality Statement; Risks Expected to Rise Overnight

The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) have reported a Special Air Quality Statement as issued by Environment Canada on Wednesday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) levels in Haliburton are within the moderate (4-6) range but are expected to increase overnight. Despite being low risk, the AQHI in Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough and Northumberland are expected to rise to moderate throughout the evening and into tomorrow according to PPH.   

Reports of smoke from wildfires in the Prairies are moving through the region, resulting in poor air quality. PPH says your health can be impacted even at low or moderate levels and sometimes without a noticeable smell.

If an extreme heat event coincides with poor air quality, residents are advised to prioritize keeping cool.

Common symptoms of smoke exposure include:  

• Sore and watery eyes 

• Runny nose and sinus irritation 

• Scratchy throat and mild coughing 

• Headaches 

Some populations face greater health risks when exposed to poor air quality. This includes, but is not limited to, seniors, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people with pre-existing medical conditions (particularly lung disease like asthma, COPD, or cardiovascular disease), and those in strenuous outdoor activity.

The following is the Air Quality Health Index:

• Low Risk (1–3): Ideal conditions for outdoor activities for everyone. 

• Moderate Risk (4–6): Most people can continue outdoor activities, but those with heart or breathing problems should monitor for symptoms. 

• High Risk (7–10): Consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities, especially if you experience symptoms like coughing or throat irritation. 

• Very High Risk (10+): Everyone should avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Those at higher risk should stay indoors and limit exposure.

PPH suggests doing the following in case of air quality statements:

• Check the AQHI forecast daily

• Receive smog and air quality alerts directly to your email

• Create a clean air space at home by keeping windows and doors closed 

• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your home, if possible

• Monitor your symptoms and adjust your activities as needed

• Check in on others, especially those in the at-risk population

• Tools to help you check in during extreme heat

• If you are included in the at-risk population, consult your primary health care provider about additional ways to protect your health when air quality is poor. 

By taking these precautions, PPH says you can help protect your health and minimize the risks associated with poor air quality conditions.

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Health Unit Encourages Eligible Families to Access Free or Low-Cost Dental Care

As eligibility for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) expands, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) encourage families to explore the federal program for needed dental coverage, announced on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

PPH says familes should understand the changes to CDCP and the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program.

According to a press release, the CDCP is a federal government initiative aimed at making dental care more affordable for eligible Canadians. Applications are currently open for seniors aged 65 and older, children under 18, and adults with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate. As of last month, the program has expanded to include all eligible adults aged 18 to 64. 

“Good oral health is fundamental to overall well-being, and programs like HSO and the CDCP play a critical role in making dental care accessible to qualifying children and youth,” said Anna Rusak, Health Promoter, with the HKPR District Health Unit. “And with an increasing number of dental providers asking patients to enroll in CDCP, we want to make sure families are aware and prepared. We are here to help them through the application process.” 

The CDCP is now open to all ages and families with an adjusted family net income of $90,000 or less who have no private dental insurance and have filed their taxes. These families are invited to submit one application for their household. This program helps cover the cost of dental care, including regular check-ups, cleanings and treatments. 

Families who qualify for CDCP will receive a package from Sun Life, the company managing the program. This package will include a member card, program details, and the start date for benefits to be activated. PPH advises waiting until this start date to book any dental appointments.

PPH says when making an appointment and before starting any treatment always:

• Confirm that the dentist accepts CDCP clients

• Check your benefit start date and any costs you may need to pay

• Ask if there are any extra fees beyond what CDCP covers and if so, request an estimate or the specific amount that will be owed

PPH advises that families should never pay the full cost upfront, as Sun Life will not reimburse them directly. 

Families can apply for the CDCP online or get help from the Health Unit.

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First Local Case of Measles In Region Says Peterborough Public Health

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has reported the first case of locally acquired measles within the region in over a decade, as announced on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The resident is an adult who has been fully vaccinated (which PPH considers a ‘breakthrough case’), with the source exposure unknown. Although rare, breakthrough cases can occur; they cause much milder symptoms than those in unvaccinated individuals according to PPH.

They continue to state that a series of outbreaks have been affecting regions throughout Ontario over the last few months, with neighbouring Health Units reporting cases. Still, the disease had not been identified within Peterborough until now. PPH has launched investigations to determine potential exposure locations and affected individuals.

PPH has identified the following known exposure locations (in following graphic):

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Public Health.

If you believe you have been exposed at any of the dates and locations above:

1. Check your vaccination record. Confirm that household members have received two (2) doses of the measles vaccination (MMR or MMRV). If you have 2 doses of measles vaccine, you are not considered susceptible.

2. If you do not have two doses or are unsure, notify Peterborough Public Health. Please call 705-743-1000.

3. Consider vulnerability and need for post-exposure care. If you were exposed AND are immunocompromised, unvaccinated, or pregnant, contact PPH at 705-743-1000 to assess eligibility and need for post-exposure care.

4. Monitor for symptoms. Stay home if you develop any symptoms. Contact PPH (705-743-1000) and notify them that you may have measles. Always phone any clinic, emergency department, or health care setting before attending if you have been exposed or are experiencing symptoms.

Measles is airborne and one of the most contagious viral diseases in the world according to PPH.

Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after infection and may include:

• High fever (38.8°C or 101°F, or higher)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Drowsiness

• Irritability

• Red, watery eyes

• Small white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat

• Red, blotchy rash (3-7 days after symptoms start), spreading across the body

Although most people who contract measles recover without treatment, it can be severe for those who are immunocompromised including infants, pregnant women and those with existing medical conditions. Possible complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling and death.

“These cases are usually milder, less likely to require hospitalization, and occur in people who have close contact with a case over a longer period of time,” said Dr. Natalie Bocking, PPH Deputy Medical Officer of Health.

She adds that the vast majority of measles cases in the current provincial outbreak are in unvaccinated individuals – over 94 per cent.

While the current risk to the public is low, PPH is reminding residents of the importance of staying up to date with their vaccinations.

“Measles vaccination really is the most effective tool we have to prevent measles cases and outbreaks,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer. “A full series will provide you with about 97 per cent protection.”

Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination status and contact their healthcare provider if they are not up to date. Individuals without a healthcare provider can book an appointment at PPH’s Routine Immunization Clinic by calling 705-743-1000, extension 331.

The PPH recommends that children receive one dose of the MMR vaccine at the age of one year. Then a second dose (of MMRV vaccine) between four and six years old – ideally before entry to school. Generally, adults born before 1970 are considered immune to measles. Adults born in or after 1970 should have at least 1 dose of the MMR vaccine.

The following adults are eligible to receive a second dose for additional protection:

• Health care workers

• Post secondary students

• Travellers to areas where disease is of concern

• Other adults, based on health care provider’s clinical judgement

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Water Quality Testing Underway at Local Beaches

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has resumed beach water testing in Peterborough and the surrounding area to ensure that water quality conditions are safe for recreational use. 

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations, Peterborough County and the City are being subject to regular testing until the end of August.

PPH notes that Rogers Cove is no longer an active beach in the City of Peterborough and is no longer being sampled.

The following beach is sampled daily, Monday to Friday:

• Beavermead Park

Most public beaches in the county are sampled at least once a week, including:

• Buckhorn Beach

• Crowe’s Line Beach

• Curve Lake Henry’s Gumming

• Curve Lake Lime Kiln Park

• Douro North Park

• Ennismore Waterfront Park

• Hiawatha Park

• Jones Beach

• Lakefield Park

• Sandy Beach

• Selwyn Beach Conservation Area

• Squirrel Creek Conservation Area

• Warsaw Caves Conservation Area

The following public beaches are sampled once a month from June to August:

• Chandos Beach (2800 County Road 620, Apsley)

• Quarry Bay Beach (1986 Northey’s Bay Road, Woodview)

• Belmont Lake (376 Miles of Memories Road, Belmont)

• Kasshabog Lake (431 Peninsula Road, Havelock)

• White’s Beach (26 Clearview Drive, Trent Lakes)

PPH says the following factors may result in high levels of bacteria or other conditions that cause the beach to be unsafe for swimming between sampling periods:

• Heavy rainfall

• High winds or wave activity

• Large numbers of swimmers

• Harmful algae blooms

• Large numbers of waterfowl

Water samples are submitted to the Public Health Laboratory for bacteriological analysis. Samples are tested for E. coli bacteria, a common indicator of fecal contamination in water.

PPH says it takes approximately 24 hours for them to receive and analyze the water quality results from the lab. If levels of bacteria exceed recommended thresholds for recreational water use, the beach will be posted as unsafe and to avoid becoming ill, people should not use the beach for swimming. If a significant risk to human health is identified, such as a toxic spill or the identification of a harmful algae bloom, a beach may be closed to the public.

PPH is offering tips to help ensure the water quality stays safe:

• Do not feed waterfowl

• Do not let children swim in soiled diapers

• Pick up your garbage

• Clean up after your pet

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North Kawartha and Trent Lakes Well Water Sampling Program Resumes For 2025 Season

The well water sampling drop-off program will resume for the 2025 season on Tuesday in the Township of North Kawartha and the Municipality of Trent Lakes.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The program offers free water sample collection kit pick-up and sample drop-off through these municipal offices. 

Water samples can be dropped off at: 

• North Kawartha Municipal Office – 280 Burleigh St., Apsley,
  Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. 

• Trent Lakes Municipal Office – 760 County Road 36, Trent Lakes,
  Tuesday and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.  

Samples are then couriered to the Public Health Ontario Lab in Peterborough for testing. Empty sample bottles can be picked up from these offices during regular business hours. Samples must be dropped off at the municipal offices within 24 hours of collection to ensure they reach the lab and are processed promptly. Residents are encouraged to carefully read each kit's sampling and collection instructions. Filled sample bottles should be delivered to the front desk at the municipal office. Staff will then place it in a fridge until the courier collects it. 

Well water testing is recommended at least twice yearly, in the Spring and Fall. Water samples are tested for two types of bacterial contamination: total coliforms and E. coli. Anyone can become ill if they consume contaminated water, but young people, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk. 

Water samples can also be dropped off year-round at the following locations: 

• Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Township Office, 1 Ottawa St., Havelock
  Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.   

• Peterborough Public Health, 185 King St., Peterborough
  Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  Friday., 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon  

• Public Health Ontario Laboratory, 99 Hospital Dr. 
  Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Residents will receive water quality results by mail or can call Public Health Ontario’s Interactive Voice Response at 1-877-723-3426. If they have questions about their test results, call the PPH Safe Water Program at 705-743-1000, ext. 232. 

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Peterborough Public Health Provides Tips to Protect Yourself From Cold Weather

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has again activated its Extreme Cold Response Plan (ECRP) for the region and have provided tips to stay warm during the cold temperatures.

A normal body temperature is approximately 37°C; changes of even one or two degrees to a core body temperature can increase a person’s risk of harm. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The ECRP mandates that PPH monitor temperatures and notify residents how to protect themselves when the temperature or wind chill reach temperatures that could cause negative health impacts according to PPH.

When it is activated, alerts will be shared on PPH’s social media, through media outlets, and with partner agencies. 

While extreme cold can put everyone at risk, health risks are greatest for the following individuals: 

• people experiencing homelessness 

• older adults 

• children, especially infants and young children 

• people taking certain medications 

• people with certain health conditions (e.g., respiratory, cardiac, mental illness, mobility limitations) 

• people who live in homes that are poorly insulated, without heat/power 

• people who are active outdoors (e.g., outdoor workers, winter sport enthusiasts)  

Residents are reminded to protect themselves and those in their care from extreme cold by: 

• seeking shelter when the temperatures drop or there is a wind chill 

• always wearing clothing appropriate for the weather 

• dressing in layers, with a wind-resistant outer layer 

• wearing warm socks, hat, gloves, and scarf 

• changing into dry clothing as soon as possible, if you get wet 

• paying attention to weather alerts, including wind chill alerts 

• knowing their own risk factors, such as certain medical conditions  

PPH says most common cold-related injuries are windburn, frostbite and hypothermia, all of which are preventable. They continue to state that there is a higher risk of heart attacks during extreme cold events since a person’s heart rate will increase as the body tries to pump blood faster to maintain warmth. It is also likely to be slippery during cold periods, increasing the risk of falls and injuries because of hazardous conditions. 

The City of Peterborough has extended the hours of Trinity Community Centre, located at 360 Reid St, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (overnight services remain 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.). PPH encourages residents of the County to visit heated public spaces, such as libraries, arenas or warming centres when needed.   

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Peterborough Healthcare Providers Offer Tips During Respiratory Illness Season

With respiratory illness season upon us, the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), Peterborough Family Health Team (PFHT) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) are providing healthcare tips to consider before going to the Emergency Department.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

With mounting patient volumes at PRHC, all providers ask patients to assess the urgency of their conditions and consider alternatives to the ED if they do not require emergency care. PPH says to consider your family doctor or nurse practitioner (if you have one), as they may offer same-day appointments.

PFHT-affiliated physicians also offer extended-hour clinics to serve their rostered patients with non-emergent health concerns. Those with a family physician or nurse practitioner are encouraged to call them first and to use the extended hours service if their physician is away. Learn more about the extended hours service.

Those without a primary care provider can view a list of alternative healthcare options. 

PRHC's ED is available 24/7 for patients who need emergency care.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for anyone over six months. PRHC does not offer these vaccines to members of the community. They may also be available at your local pharmacy. COVID-19 vaccination can be booked through the Provincial Vaccine Booking Centre online or by calling 1-833-943-3900. Eligible residents can receive testing for COVID-19 at participating pharmacies.

Residents are advised to check Peterborough Public Health’s COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Virus Risk Index for guidance on staying safe during holiday gatherings. PPH suggests to consider borrowing a CO2 monitor from your local library to monitor indoor air quality and help prevent the spread of respiratory infections.

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HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health Moves Forward With Merger

The Boards of Health for Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) are moving forward with a voluntary merger, effective on Jan. 1, announced on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The merger's goal is to sustain and improve the delivery of public health programs and services across the City of Kawartha Lakes, the County of Haliburton, Northumberland County, Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Alderville First Nation, Peterborough County and the City of Peterborough as stated by PPH.

The merger will be supported through an investment of $10.1 million from the Province of Ontario, which was announced on Monday. The investment will support the merger directly, catch-up activities, and service improvements to strengthen public health in this region.

“This is an important milestone bringing both public health units together to form one new organization,” said David Marshall, Board Chair for the HKPR District Health Unit. “Our dedicated and now combined employees of more than 300 public health professionals will continue to work with our communities, partners and stakeholders to protect and promote health and prevent disease within our combined areas to keep our residents healthy.”

In August last year, the Ministry of Health announced plans to strengthen the public health sector by offering one-time funding, resources and support to local public health agencies that voluntarily merged by Jan. 1.

In response to the announcement, the both organizations say they engaged the consulting firm Sense and Nous to conduct a feasibility study on a potential merger. They voted to move forward with the merger process in February and a voluntary merger proposal and budget was submitted to the Ministry of Health on April 2. The new Board of Health will meet for the first time in the new year. The Ministry of Health has assured the public health unit that the government commits to 100 per cent provincial funding support for this merger with no fiscal impacts to municipalities and First Nations as a result of this merger, and in principle also commit to funding eligible merger expenses in subsequent years according to a press release.

Membership of the new Board of Health will include nine municipal representatives (two from the County of Northumberland, two from the City of Kawartha Lakes, one from the County of Haliburton, two from the County of Peterborough, and two from the City of Peterborough). In addition, the new Board of Health intends to have section 50 representation (one member from Curve Lake First Nation and one from Hiawatha First Nation). The new Board of Health will also include provincial appointees, as outlined in the Health Protection and Promotion Act, and these members are yet to be confirmed.

“Peterborough residents became more familiar with public health’s role and leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the health unit in our community has served us for over 135 years with a wide-reaching scope beyond infectious diseases,” said Councillor Joy Lachica, PPH Board Chair. “With our friends at HKPR and the generous funding investment by the province, we will sustain and grow public health services for our residents.”

A new organizational structure and leadership team for the merged public health unit will be announced later. Both current public health units will remain operational, with no immediate impact on programs and services provided to the public says PPH. A new identity and brand will be launched in early 2025.Further communication will be released once the new health unit launches its official business name and new logo.

During this time, both the HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health remain committed to engaging with the communities they serve, partners and teams to determine future opportunities to continue the important work of public health across the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, Northumberland County, Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Alderville First Nation, Peterborough County and the City of Peterborough.

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Peterborough Public Health Pauses Water Sample Courier Service For Winter Season

Peterborough Public Health (PPH), the Municipality of Trent Lakes and the Township of North Kawartha have paused their joint well water sample drop-off program for the winter.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The final date for county residents to drop off their samples at the North Kawartha or Trent Lakes Municipal Offices is Nov. 28. The drop-off service will resume in the first week of April 2025.

Throughout the winter months, residents may continue to drop off well water samples at: 

• Peterborough Public Health, 185 King St., Peterborough
  8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday
  8:30 a.m. –12 noon Friday 

• Public Health Ontario Laboratory, 99 Hospital Dr., Peterborough
  8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday 

• Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Township Office, 1 Ottawa St., Havelock
  8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday 

PPH says it is essential to test well water several times yearly. Testing the water twice per year for a drilled well is recommended. For a dug well, the recommendation is four times per year.

“Even when the ground is frozen, contamination may be present. Sampling water from your well is the best way to ensure that the water is free of pathogens, which may cause illness if consumed.” said Chris Eaton, Public Health Inspector.  

Well water samples are tested for two types of bacterial contamination: total coliforms and E. coli which indicates the water has been contaminated with fecal material, which can contain disease-causing microbes. These can cause severe gastrointestinal illness. Anyone can become ill if they consume contaminated water but the young, elderly and immuno-compromised are at a higher risk.

After samples are submitted, residents will receive water quality results by mail or call Public Health Ontario’s Interactive Voice Response at 1-877-723-3426.

For interpretation of the test results or to find out how to test for contaminants other than total coliforms or E. coli, please call Peterborough Public Health’s Safe Water Program at 705-743-1000, ext. 240 or visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.

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Recalled Beef Jelly Tongue Products Sold in Region

Health Canada has issued a recall of Beef Jelly Tongue products following confirmed cases of listeria linked to these products that have been sold within the region.

THe product sold at the Bridgenorth Deli. Photo courtesy of the Government of Canada.

One case of Listeria infection has been confirmed following the purchase of the product at Bridgenorth Deli, located at 871 Ward St. in Bridgenorth, prior to being informed of the recall.

The premise is cooperating with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) regarding the product recall and assuring the safety of their clients according to press release. The deli is making every effort to contact the customers directly.

A visible display of sliced beef jelly tongue being sold. Photo courtesy of the Government of Canada.

Actions to take:

• DO NOT EAT recalled products

• If you are ill and think you have consumed the product, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

• Check to see if you have recalled product and throw out or return to location of purchase.

Symptoms to monitor for:

• Vomiting

• Nausea

• Persistent fever

• Muscle aches

• Severe headache

• Stiff neck

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