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April 30, 2013 -Low-Cost Rabies Clinics Taking Place across Peterborough City and County

The Peterborough Public Health and local veterinarians are teaming up again this year to provide pet owners with low-cost rabies clinics across Peterborough City and County on Saturday, May 11 from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m.

The cost for a rabies shot is only $25 per animal, cash only.  The clinics are for dogs and cats only and they must be restrained.

“Protecting your cat or dog against rabies is not just a good idea, it’s the law,” said Atul Jain, Manager of Inspection Services who oversees the rabies prevention program for Public Health.  “We hope that the community will take advantage of these low-cost rabies clinics because while it’s rare, when humans develop rabies from infected animals it is almost 100% fatal.” 

Provincial law requires that all cats and dogs over three months of age in Peterborough City and County must be vaccinated for rabies. Vaccinations protect pets from rabies and help protect your family if your pet is bitten by a rabid wild animal. A conviction for not having an animal properly vaccinated carries a $110.00 fine per animal.

Rabies vaccination clinics are taking place at the following locations throughout Peterborough City and County on May 11 from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m.:

 

COMMUNITY

LOCATION:

All clinics run on Saturday, May 11 from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m.

unless otherwise posted:

APSLEY

North Kawartha Community Centre  – Zamboni entrance

 BUCKHORN

Harvey Township Garage

 DOURO

 Township Garage

 DUMMER

Warsaw Township Fire Hall

 ENNISMORE

 Township Fire Hall

 KINMOUNT

 Fire Hall, Galway Rd.   ($20.00 per animal)

 HAVELOCK

HBM Public Works Garage (6th line Belmont & Hwy 7)

 LAKEFIELD

 Village Animal Hospital, 127 Queen St. Lakefield

 NORWOOD

Norwood Veterinary Services (12 noon – 3:00 p.m.)4247 Hwy 7, 88 Peterborough Street

PETERBOROUGH

  • Champlain Animal Hospital, Highway 28 North
  • High Street Animal Hospital, 815 High St. Unit 7E 
  • Jackson Creek Pet Services, 1140 Parkhill Rd. W.
  • Parkhill Animal Hospital, 1535 Chemong Rd.
  • Peterborough Pet Hospital, 379 Lansdowne St. E.
  • Peterborough Veterinary Service, 720 The Kingsway
  • Peterborough West Animal Hospital, 2605 Stewart Line

The Ministry of Natural Resources’ aggressive Rabies Control Program has dramatically reduced the incidence of rabies in foxes, skunks and raccoons in Ontario.  Bats, like other mammals, may have rabies and can transmit rabies to dogs and cats.  There are eight species of bats in Ontario, each of which has its own strain of rabies, but the more common strains are big brown bat, little brown bat, and silver-haired bat.

In 2012, there were 25 rabid bats (four of these were in the Peterborough area), one rabid skunk, one rabid dog (who became infected with bat strain rabies) and one rabid cat confirmed in Ontario.  Pet vaccination and the provincial baiting program are still required to keep rabies at bay for the protection of Ontario families.

Rabies is a deadly disease of the central nervous system that affects humans and other mammals. The virus is concentrated in the saliva of a rabid animal and can spread through a bite, cut or scratch, or if the saliva comes in contact with the moist tissues of the mouth, nose or eyes. There is no known treatment for rabies once the symptoms appear.  The disease cannot be treated, but it can be prevented through vaccination.

All animal bites or other cases of suspected rabies exposure must be reported to Public Health.  The Public Health investigates every report it receives to prevent and control the spread of the disease.  In 2012, a total of 233 cases were investigated in the Peterborough city/county area.

You can prevent being infected with the rabies virus by remembering these tips:

  • do not feed wild animals and stay at a safe distance when observing them
  • supervise children and teach them not to approach or touch animals they do not know
  • stay away from animals showing signs of rabies
  • do not bring home wild animals
  • if you suspect an animal is rabid, stay away from it and contact the local authorities
  • if you have pets or livestock, make sure to vaccinate them against rabies
  • seek medical advice/care for all animal bites or scratches

For further information about rabies prevention, including bat rabies, and the upcoming clinics on May 11, please visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and under the “My Home & Environment” section click on “My Home – Rabies Prevention” or call 705-743-1000.

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For further information, please contact:

Atul Jain
Manager, Inspection Programs
(705) 743-1000, ext. 259

 

 

April 26, 2013 – Public Health Advises Heath Precautions to Keep Water, Food and Sewage Systems Safe

The Peterborough Public Health is advising residents who are experiencing flooding to take precautions to protect their health.  Floodwaters can have negative impacts on private drinking water supplies, private sewage disposal systems and food safety.

Drinking Water Precautions for Private Well Owners

Floodwaters contain bacteria that can be harmful to human health.  Dug and drilled wells that are surrounded by flood water are at risk of becoming contaminated with these harmful bacteria; if drinking water is supplied from private wells, it should be considered unsafe for human consumption.  As a precaution, residents relying on water from private wells that have been flooded may wish to use an alternate source of potable water (i.e. bottled water) for drinking, making infant formula, cooking, washing produce, brushing teeth, etc.  Water from flooded wells can be treated and made safe for consumption by rapidly boiling the water for at least one minute or by adding two drops of household bleach per one liter of water, stirring and allowing the water to sit for 30 minutes before use.  Once flood conditions have ceased and floodwaters recede, homeowners should sample their well and submit their samples to public health for testing to ensure that the water is free of harmful bacteria before use of the drinking water resumes.

Sewage Systems

If a septic system becomes flooded, there is the risk of sewage backup into your home.  To protect your sewage system and prevent sewage backup during flood conditions, take the following precautions: 

  • DO NOT pump your septic tank as this may result in the tank shifting due to high water conditions.
  • Limit the use of water in your home in order to relieve pressure on the septic system.
  • Ensure that eaves trough runoff is directed away from the area of your septic system.
  • Keep children and pets away from ponding sewage in a flooded septic area.

Food Safety 

Residents should also be aware that food which has come in contact with floodwater is likely contaminated and must be thrown out.  Canned food can be saved if the cans are washed with soap and water then sanitized by immersing the can in a mild bleach and water solution for two minutes (1 tsp household bleach per 3 cups of water).  If there is a power outage associated with the flood, dispose of foods that have been above 4°C (40°F) for more than two hours, including fish, poultry, meats, eggs, dairy products and prepared foods like soups, stews and casseroles.  Depending on the length of time power has been off, some foods may be safe to keep:

  • A full upright or chest freezer will keep food frozen for about two days; a half-full freezer will keep food frozen for about one day.  Keep the door closed as much as possible.
  • A refrigerator will keep food cold for four to six hours; adding ice to the refrigerator may help food stay cool longer.  Keep the door closed as much as possible.

For more information on dealing with various issues related to flooding conditions or for guidance on cleaning up after a flood, visit Public Health’s website at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca or call Inspection Services at 705-743-1000 to speak with a Public Health Inspector.  Fact sheets on flood precautions can also be downloaded directly from Public Health’s website in the “My Home & Environment” section under “My Home – Emergency Preparedness”.

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For further information please contact:
Julie Ingram
Public Health Inspector
705-743-1000, ext. 351

April 26, 2013 – Feedback Period Open until Friday, May 3

The Peterborough Public Health has posted its draft 2013-2017 Strategic Plan and is inviting all residents to share their thoughts on the plan they helped to develop.

Hundreds of community voices were heard through a number of consultation sessions, focus groups, and an online survey that helped shape the strategic directions articulated in the plan.

The Public Health hopes to use any feedback received to finalize the plan in time for the June 12 Board of Health meeting where it will be tabled.

The draft plan is posted on Public Health’s website www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca where it can be easily accessed from the home page.  All comments can be emailed to Brittany Cadence, Communications Supervisor, at bcadence@peterboroughpublichealth.ca .

The plan will remain open for comment until Friday, May 3.

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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
705-743-1000, ext. 391

 

April 25, 2013 –  “Understanding Mood Problems in Children and Adolescents: From Mood Swings to Depression and Bipolar Disorder”

Featuring Dr. Kevin Nugent, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist

Peterborough Healthy Families invites parents and caregivers to a free presentation entitled “Understanding Mood Problems in Children and Adolescents: From Mood Swings to Depression and Bipolar Disorder” on Tuesday, May 7, 2013 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Peterborough Public Library.

This presentation is geared towards parents and family members as well as professionals who work with children and adolescents.  In a lecture-style format, Dr. Kevin Nugent, a consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, will provide an overview of mood difficulties and disorders in the pediatric age group. He will address issues such as poor mood regulation and severe anger problems as well as the occurrence and nature of clinical depression and Bipolar Disorder in young people. There will be opportunity for questions and discussions.

As this event coincides with Children’s Mental Health Week, Mayor Daryl Bennett will be on hand to open the presentation and declare it Children’s Mental Health Week in Peterborough.

Dr. Nugent is a consultant to several youth agencies and schools in the Peterborough area.  In 2011 he received the Naomi Rae Grant Award from the Canadian Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry for innovation and excellence in consultation and community intervention.           

Light refreshments will be provided and everyone is welcome to attend.  The free event will take place in the Library’s Auditorium, located at 345 Aylmer St. N., Peterborough.

Peterborough Healthy Families is a multi-agency initiative made up of several local community partners, including Peterborough Public Health, Kinark Child and Family Services, Learning Disabilities Association-Peterborough, Peterborough Family Resource Centre, Peterborough Public Library, and the Asphodel Norwood Public Library.

For more information, please call 705-742-3803 or 1-800-386-6561 or visit www.peterboroughhealthyfamilies.ca.

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For further information, please contact:

Leisa Baker                                                                         Sylvia Davies

Public Health Nurse                                                        Volunteer & Community Relations

Peterborough Public Health                  Kinark Child and Family Services

 705-743-1000, ext. 312                                                  705-742-3803, ext. 343

 

April 22, 2013 – Statement from Dr. Arlene King, Chief Medical Officer of Health

As we mark World Immunization Awareness Week, I want to remind Ontarians of the immense value and benefit immunization brings to our lives. The threat of infectious disease is only too common in our world, and immunization is the most effective way you can protect yourself, your family and your community.

Read more…

April 19, 2013 – The community is advised that a special meeting of the Board of Health will take place on Wednesday, April 24, 2013 at 4:45 p.m. in the Board Room of Peterborough Public Health located at 185 King Street, Peterborough.

To download the agenda, please visit:

http://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/about-us/about-us-2/board-of-health/meeting-agendas

 

April 18, 2013 –  Hundreds of Volunteers and Sponsors Recognized at Appreciation Luncheon

Today more than 300 people gathered to celebrate Food For Kids breakfast and snack programs in local schools and to honour the incredible contributions of local volunteers and sponsors who run this program throughout the community.

“This is a proud day for our entire community and the hundreds of volunteers, schools and sponsors who have kept young minds nourished for over 20 years,” said Chris McCarthy, Food For Kids Student Nutrition Program Coordinator.  “Thanks to the high level of community involvement, Food For Kids has developed into an incredibly successful program that makes a real difference to local students.”

Food For Kids student nutrition programs are available to all students at 46 participating schools.  Nutritious foods are prepared by and served by volunteers in a friendly, welcoming environment.  Last school year, breakfast and snacks were made available to approximately 17,000 students, and over 1.8 million meals were served. 

“Hunger is a serious learning problem. There is direct link between good nutrition and learning,” said Carolyn Doris, Public Health Nutritionist at Peterborough Public Health.  “With breakfast club involvement, there are noticeable improvements in student behaviour, attitude, attention span, concentration, academic achievements, and school attendance.”

Through the collaborative efforts and contributions of committed community members, the Food For Kids partnership has grown to 46 school breakfast programs, nearly one thousand volunteers, and over 175 community partners and sponsors.

Today’s luncheon recognized the contributions and dedication of Food For Kids’ community partners, schools and volunteers who generously support student nutrition programs throughout Peterborough County and City.  

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For further information, please contact:

Chris McCarthy
Food For Kids Student Nutrition Program Coordinator
(705) 742-2269
cmccarthy.snp@live.com

 Carolyn Doris
Food For Kids Student Nutrition Program Health Promoter
Peterborough Public Health
(705) 743-1000, ext. 251
cdoris@peterboroughpublichealth.ca

www.pcchu-testing.ca/ffk

 

April 17, 2013 – $20,000 Needed to Help Local Adults Living on Low-Incomes Access Urgent Dental Care

In recognition of Oral Health Month, a new fundraising campaign launched today by the Basic Needs Committee hopes to raise $20,000 to help hundreds of local adults living on low-incomes and who don’t qualify for government assistance access emergency dental services.

“The Dental Treatment Assistance Fund (DTAF) exists to help those who have no other way to get the urgent dental care they need,” said Brenda Dales, Chair, Basic Needs Committee, a sub-group of the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network.  “Even though public health clinics are heavily booked providing much-needed dental care to children and families who qualify for government assistance programs, many still do not qualify because the income eligibility criteria were set too low. Reports of people whose teeth are falling out, or who are pulling their own teeth to obtain relief, are not uncommon.”

“Public health receives at least 15 calls per week from individuals living on low incomes who are suffering from acute dental pain caused by infection or trauma and we often advise that there is nothing we can do to help because they do not qualify for government assistance programs,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health with Peterborough Public Health. “For many, DTAF is their only option.”  Dr. Salvaterra noted that 1 in 5 Ontarians  do not visit a dentist because they cannot afford it.

DTAF is funded strictly by donations and provides up to $200 per calendar year to adults in Peterborough City and County who are unable to afford the urgent dental care they require, have no form of dental coverage and are ineligible for government assistance. In 2012, a total of 115 people between the ages of 18 and 82 received support from DTAF. So far in 2013, 24 adults have been able to access urgent dental care because of DTAF. The average cost of emergency treatment from the fund was $122 per person.

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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391

April 15, 2013 – Women Using Alysena 28 Urged to Contact Their Healthcare Provider

Peterborough Public Health is alerting women, primary and other healthcare providers that Health Canada has expanded its initial recall of the oral contraceptive (birth control pill) Alysena 28. Women affected by this recall are urged to contact their pharmacist or primary care provider.

Officials have been alerted that the recalled Apotex Inc. product lots have expanded to include LF01899A LF01901A; LF01980A; LF02037A; LF01900A; LF01982A; LF02036A; LF01898A; LF01981A; LF02026A; LF01894B; LF01979A may contain two rows (14 tablets) of placebo (sugar) tablets. Correct packaging should contain one row of placebo tablets (7 tablets) and three rows of active contraceptive tablets (21 tablets) in the blister pack.

The effectiveness of the Alysena 28 product to prevent pregnancy may have been reduced therefore there is a potential risk of unplanned pregnancy associated with this recall.  It is necessary for any woman who uses any birth control to find out if they are affected.

Alysena is similar to the birth control pill, Alesse.  If women received a prescription for Alesse and had it filled at a pharmacy, it is possible the pharmacy may have provided Alysena instead.  Women are advised to contact their pharmacy to find out whether they have been given Alesse or Alysena.

The Public Health recommends that all women who use this brand of birth control use a non-hormonal (barrier) method of contraception, such as condoms, as an interim measure until they obtain medical advice. If you believe you are affected by this recall, please call or visit the pharmacy where your prescription was dispensed, visit your healthcare provider or call Public Health’s Sexual Health Clinic at 705-748-2021.

Wholesalers, distributors and retailers in the following provinces have been affected by this recall: Ontario, Quebec, British Colombia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

More information about this recall is available on Health Canada and Apotex, the drug manufacturer, websites.

Residents can pick up free condoms at the Sexual Health Clinic, located at 185 King Street, Peterborough.

For more information on birth control or healthy sexuality visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca, or call the OPH Information Line at 613-580-6744. You can also follow Public Health on Twitter and Facebook.

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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Officer
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391

 

April 9, 2013 – “The Roots of Literacy: Play and Language” Features Child Language Expert Dr. Carol Westby, May 10, 2013

The Speech, Language and Hearing Association of Peterborough (SLHAP) invites local parents and healthcare providers who work with children to attend a one-day conference exploring the significant role of play in developing children’s literacy.

Entitled “The Roots of Literacy: Play and Language”, the conference features child language expert Dr. Carol Westby and will take place on Friday, May 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Showplace Peterborough. Participants will gain insights into the development and interrelationships of cognition, play, language, social/emotional skills, and literacy.

They will also learn many new skills, such as how to:

• evaluate a child’s play/language skills,
• engage children in conversations that promotes academic language skills, and
• use play to promote the cognitive, language, and social-emotional skills that underlie children’s effective social interactions and literacy comprehension.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for anyone working with young children in Peterborough, including interested parents, to listen to this internationally-recognized expert on the power of play and how we can use play to promote a child’s social, language, and cognitive development,” said Marion Habermehl, Infant Development Worker at Peterborough Public Health.

Dr. Carol Westby is a Fellow of the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and holds Specialty Recognition in Child Language. Dr. Westby has published and presented internationally on play assessment and development, language-literacy relationships, narrative development and facilitation, assessment and facilitation of written language, and issues in assessment and intervention with culturally and linguistically diverse populations.

Early bird registrations received prior to April 15, 2013 are $65 for professionals and $35 for parents or students. To register, visit www.kidtalk.on.ca to download a registration form and mail it in with payment to SLHAP, P.O. Box 30043, RPO Chemong, Peterborough, ON K9H 7R4.

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For further information, please contact:

Marion Habermehl
Infant Development Worker
705-743-1000, ext. 312

Leisa Baker
Public Health Nurse,
Child Health Program
705-743-1000, ext. 216