North Kawartha and Trent Lakes Well Water Drop Off Program Resumes On Tuesday

The well water sampling drop-off program in the Township of North Kawartha and the Municipality of Trent Lakes resumes Tuesday.

Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.

The program offers free sample collection kit pick-up and sample drop-off.

Water samples can be dropped off at,

• North Kawartha Municipal Office is located at 280 Burleigh St., Apsley, Ont., on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.

• Trent Lakes Municipal Office, located at 760 County Rd. 36, Trent Lakes, Ont., Tuesdays and Thursdays between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m.

The samples are then couriered to the Public Health Ontario Lab in Peterborough for testing. Empty sample bottles can be picked up during regular business hours.

Well water testing is recommended twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. The samples are tested for two types of bacterial contamination: total coliforms and E. coli. PPH says that anyone can become ill if they consume contaminated water, but young people, older adults and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk.

Samples must be dropped off at the municipal offices within 24 hours of collection to ensure they reach the lab and are processed in a timely manner.

Residents are encouraged to carefully read each kit's sampling and collection instructions. Filled sample bottles should be delivered to the municipal office's front desk. Staff will then place them in a fridge until the courier collects them.

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

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

• Peterborough Public Health, 185 King St., Peterborough, is open between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon on Fridays.

• Public Health Ontario Laboratory, 99 Hospital Dr. weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 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.

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Peterborough Public Health Issue Drug Poisoning Alert High Number Recorded Wednesday

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is issuing an alert of high drug poisonings that were observed on Wednesday.

Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.

There were five drug poisonings resulting in EMS calls or ED visits which are considered higher than the normal rates over the last five days according to PPH.

While Naloxone cannot reverse the effects of sedatives, PPH says there is no harm in administering it if you suspect a drug poisoning.

Drug poisoning can look different for every person, depending on the drugs involved. PPH urges everyone that drug poisoning is a medical emergency and always to call 9-1-1.  

This is a list of actions you can take if you suspect the following:

Drug Checking:

• Available at Consumption & Treatment Site (CTS) – 220 Simcoe St.

• Test strips for fentanyl, benzos, and xylazine are available at the CTS during hours of operation (9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.; daily)

Harm Reduction Support:

• Consumption & Treatment Site (CTS) – 220 Simcoe St. Open 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.; daily

• National Overdose Response Service – 1-888-688-6677 (NORS)

• Krasman Centre - Warm Line & Peer Crisis Support Services – 1-888-777-0979

  • krasmancentre.com/what-we-do/warm-line-peer-crisis-support/; Available 10 a.m.-midnight

Crisis Support:

• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline - Call or text 9-8-8; National 24/7 suicide or emotional distress hotline. Telecare Distress Centre of Peterborough – call 705-745-2273; Open 24/7

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HPK and Peterborough Public Health Vote to Merge By Jan. 1 Next Year

The Boards of Health for the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) are seeking provincial approval and funding to merge during a virtual press conference on Wednesday afternoon voluntarily.

Screenshot.

The decision was influenced after the Ministry of Health announced plans to strengthen the public health sector in August by offering one-time funding, resources and support to local public health agencies that decide to merge by Jan. 1.

“The province has informed us they have a three-year merger support fund,” said Dr. Natalie Bocking, HKPR medical officer of health. “The amount of that fund has not been disclosed and so we don’t know what the province has put aside to be available for those health units that are merging.”

Bocking adds that the total sum could be teased over the coming weeks. There would be an increase in funding even if the health units were unsuccessful or opted not to merge.

“All health units have been informed that we should expect a one percent base increase from the province in the next three years, in the absence of mergers for the health units that will not be merging of which there are many,” she explained.

Last November, a Joint Board Merger Exploration Working Group was established with representatives from both health units and external consulting firm Sense & Nous to prepare a comprehensive Feasibility Assessment Report according to a press release. These findings were recently presented to both Boards of Health for consideration to help make an informed decision.

Both Bocking and Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH medical officer of health agreed that all funding aside, the merger had several benefits between the two organizations.

“The primary benefit is going to be strength in numbers and strength in capacity and size across a larger geography,” said Piggott. “It means that our critical capacity could potentially be improved. There’s a lot of opportunity to improve the strength of our programs and services.”

“There will be some time found when we look at streamlining of services and some efficiencies found,” said Bocking. “We will be able to put that time and any efficiencies found into additional programs and services.”

During their meeting on Feb. 15, the HKPR District Health Unit Board of Health decided to proceed with a proposal to merge with Peterborough Public Health voluntarily.

“We have been diligent in the timeframe provided to review and consider all possible outcomes and impacts of a voluntary merger,” said David Marshall, Chair for HKPR District Health Unit’s Board of Health. “Ultimately, we agreed that by merging with Peterborough Public Health we can strengthen our capacity to deliver exceptional public health programs and services and to better respond to the unique needs of our small urban and rural communities.”

Should both health units merge, the population serviced would be roughly 345,000 people, according to Bocking.

During their meeting last Wednesday, the PPH Board of Health decided to proceed with a proposal for the voluntary merger with the HKPR District Health Unit.

“Over the past several months, we have carefully examined how a merger can strengthen the services that we provide to our communities,” said Joy Lachica, PPH Chair for the Board of Health. “This process revealed that joining together offers us the best pathway possible to protect and promote public health and keep our residents healthy. We are thrilled to start this journey together.”

The HKPR District Health Unit and PPH Boards of Health will submit a joint voluntary merger application to the Ontario Government by April 2. The application proposes how a proposed merger would benefit the communities they serve while supporting outcomes and priorities identified for public health by the Ministry of Health according to a press release.

Mergers of public health units require provincial legislative change which will not be definitive until the province has approved this and commits adequate funding for its success later in the year.

PPH and HKPR District Health Unit will continue operating independently during the provincial review period.

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Peterborough Public Health to Cease Sewage Permit and Inspection Program In Mid-November

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is no longer overseeing the permitting and inspection process for onsite sewage systems in the City and County of Peterborough after Nov. 17.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The delivery of these services in the region as responsibility for permitting and inspections is transferred to local municipalities after the deadline.   

“Peterborough Public Health has provided these building inspection services related to onsite sewage systems for over forty years, but we are now only one of eleven public health units offering this service,” said Julie Bromley, Chief Building Official and PPH manager of environmental health.

“This decision by the Board of Health was challenging, given the long-standing positive relationships with residents served by this program and the dedicated work of our staff in this area,” said Kathryn Wilson, board of health chair councillor. “The transfer supports a one-stop-shop for residents and builders at municipal building departments and allows Peterborough Public Health to focus on our core work, as mandated by the Ontario Public Health Standards in a period of inadequate provincial funding for our core work.” 

PPH says they are working closely with all municipalities that will return to delivery of this service to ensure a smooth transition for building departments and minimize disruptions to residents and industry experts. The transition will occur over two phases.   

Phase 1: Effective April 1, the following municipalities will receive all new applications and activities related to onsite sewage systems: 

• Township of Cavan Monaghan 

• Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan 

• Township of Selwyn 

• Municipality of Trent Lakes 

Phase 2: Effective Nov. 18, the following municipalities will receive all new applications and activities related to onsite sewage systems:

• Township of Asphodel-Norwood 

• Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen 

• City of Peterborough 

The Townships of North Kawartha and Douro-Dummer already oversee activities related to sewage systems so no changes are made for those municipalities.

Residents with open applications or permits with PPH will be contacted with further information and direction on closing their applications.

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United Way Reaches 63 Per Cent of Its $1.45 Million Fundraising Goal

United Way Peterborough & District has reached 63 per cent of its $1.45 million 2023 Community Campaign fundraising goal, announced at Peterborough Public Health (PPH) on Thursday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“For 82 years United Way has facilitated a community campaign to meet the current and emerging needs in Peterborough,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “This years campaign builds on that tradition of giving and public goodwill.”

The $1.45 million is a 10 per cent increase from last year’s goal, according to Russell.

“We are happy to update today on the success so far and the need to meet our goal, a goal which is 10 per cent higher than last year’s achievement and a goal that is based on the need in the community,” he said. “We are well on our way to meeting that goal but there is still time to give so that we can invest in building a strong, healthy and inclusive community for us all.”

During the media event, Peterborough Public Health donated $11,756.25 to United Way as part of its 2023 Workplace Campaign.

“The diverse projects served by United Way Peterborough address critical issues affecting the health and wellness of members of our community,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH’s medical officer of health. “It was an honour to support this year’s tremendously successful campaign and my congratulations to all those who participated for the important funds that have been raised for our community.” said Piggott.

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'One in Five Households Struggle to Afford Food' Says Peterborough Public Health

Food security has become an increasing issue as nearly one in five Peterborough City and County residents worry about running out of money for food according to a new report from Peterborough Public Health (PPH) announced on Monday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 2023 Addressing Food Insecurity in Peterborough Report says that inadequate incomes result in the highest rates of food insecurity our region has ever seen as stated by PPH.  

“It is no secret that the cost of food has gone up,” said Lauren Kennedy, PPH registered dietitian. “Many people are really struggling to afford food, a basic human need. No one should have to choose between shelter or food but this is a reality that is negatively impacting their physical and mental health.”  

Although food prices have increased dramatically over the past year, insufficient income remains the critical issue behind rising food insecurity said Kennedy.

“This report documents the lived experience of too many members of our community,” she said. “It is disturbing that nearly 20 per cent of households worry about running out of money for food. This is the highest level we have ever seen.”

Joan DiFruscia, Peterborough Food Action Network member and Chair of the Otonabee-South Monaghan Food Cupboard, says she has supported emergency food programs for over 40 years.

“Food banks work hard to serve community members in need. But they are meant to be a temporary fix, not the solution,” she said. “They do not address the root cause of food insecurity. Systemic change is urgently needed and increasing income is key.” 

“We encourage everyone in our community to speak up for more money for food,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH Medical Officer of Health. “Raising incomes is the only way to prevent food insecurity. Now is the time to stand up for more money for food.” 

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CO2 Monitors Available To Borrow For Free In Local Libaries

According to Peterborough Public Health (PPH), residents can borrow a CO2 Monitor at any library in Peterborough City, County and Hiawatha First Nation, effectively immediately.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

In March last year, Peterborough Public Library in collaboration with PPH, —supported by devices donated by Prescientx and CO2 Check — was the first library in North America to offer CO2 monitors as part of their Library of Things lending catalogue.

As a result of cooler temperatures and rainy weather, people spend more time gathering indoors. An increased risk of spreading and acquiring respiratory illnesses stems from being indoors more often. Respiratory illnesses like RSV, Influenza and COVID-19 can be transmitted through the air we breathe according to PPH. Carbon dioxide (CO2), the air we exhale, can be monitored and used to indicate the quality of the air we breathe.

“As we enter cold and flu season, carbon dioxide monitors are one tool we can add to our suite of tools to help us stay healthy; CO2 monitors can act as a proxy for determining whether a space has adequate ventilation and fresh air,” said Keith Beecroft, PPH health promotor.

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Water Sample Courier Service Paused 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 Municipal Office and the Trent Lakes Municipal Office is Nov. 30.

The free well water sample drop-off service returns on the first week of April. During the winter months, residents can continue to drop off their samples at the following locations:

• Peterborough Public Health, 185 King St., Peterborough, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Fridays

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

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

PPH says it is essential to test well water several times throughout the year. It is recommended to test the water twice per year for a drilled well. 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 can cause illness if consumed,” said Chris Eaton, PPH public health inspector. “We look forward to resuming our courier service with the municipalities in the spring so it’s easier for residents to submit well water for testing.”

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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Peterborough Public Health Urges Public To Protect From Mosquito Bites After Confirmation of Virus Found From a Horse

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites following a positive horse case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) in the Peterborough region last week.

Stock photo.

This is the first equine case in our area and the sixth confirmed in Ontario this year according to PPH.

EEEV is transmitted to horses through mosquito bites, similar to West Nile Virus. Humans can also contract it from mosquitoes carrying the virus. It cannot acquire the virus from horses or other humans, only the bite of an infected mosquito. While human infection of EEEV is extremely rare, the symptoms can be severe and life-threatening.

Preventing Mosquito Bites:

• Wear long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing, or special clothing (e.g., clothing treated with permethrin) designed to protect you from bugs

• Use mesh screens and close routes of entry (e.g. windows, doors) to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home

• Stay indoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or icardin

• Remove sources of stagnant/standing water from your property to prevent mosquito breeding

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Peterborough Public Health Issues Second Heat Warning of the Season

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has issued the second heat warning of the season that started Monday and is expected to continue into Thursday.

Daytime temperatures could reach between 29 – 34C according to PPH. Tuesday and Wednesday have an expected humidex near forty on both days. Slightly cooler temperatures are expected overnight.

PPH reminds the public that while extreme heat can put everyone at risk, health risks are greatest for people experiencing homelessness, older adults, infants and young children, those taking certain medications or with certain conditions such as respiratory, cardiac and psychiatric conditions and outdoor workers.

Anyone taking medication or having a health condition is urged to ask their healthcare provider if it increases their health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.

Community Services:

One Roof Community Centre will extend its hours of service on Tuesday and Wednesday this week and will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. One Roof Community Centre provides services on behalf of the City of Peterborough and is located at 99 Brock St. 

Peterborough Public Health continues to test beach water at the two beaches located within the City of Peterborough. Splash pads are extending operations until Monday.

Outdoor water bottle filling stations are available at City facilities in the following locations:

• Quaker Foods City Square, 215 Charlotte St.

• Eastgate Park, 2150 Ashburnham Dr.

• Peterborough Marina, 92 George St. N.

Members of the public are also able to refill a water bottle inside the following City facilities during hours of operation:

• Peterborough Public Library, 345 Aylmer St.

• Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, 775 Brealey Dr.

• Healthy Planet Arena, 911 Monaghan Rd.

• Kinsmen Civic Centre, 1 Kinsmen Way

Health Risks:

According to the PPH, people suffer heat-related illnesses when their body temperature quickly rises, and they are unable to cool themselves. The risk of heat-related illness increases with the amount of time spent in the heat, the temperature and an individual’s sensitivity to heat. If you feel faint, find it hard to breathe, or feel confused and disoriented because of the heat, PPH urges anyone to call 911 or go to the Emergency Department.

Heat illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet, and ankles), heat rash, and heat cramps.

Watch for symptoms of heat illness, which may include:

• heavy sweating;

• muscle cramps and/or headache;

• weakness, dizziness, or fainting;

• nausea or vomiting;

• paleness, tiredness;

• rapid breathing and heartbeat;

• extreme thirst; or

• decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.

If you experience any of these, you should immediately move to a cool place and drink water.

How to Protect Yourself During Hot Weather:

• Drink lots of water even if you don’t feel very thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.

• Avoid going out in the direct sun or heat when possible. If you go outside, rest frequently in green spaces with lots of shade and plan to go out early in the morning or in the evening when it is cooler.

• Use an air conditioner if possible, and if you don’t have air conditioning, keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows slightly open.

• Wear loose-fitting, light clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

• Keep lights off or turned down low.

• Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cold, wet towels.

• Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.

• Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.

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