October 28, 2016 – Public Health Benefits Include Higher Physical Activity Rates and Fewer Injuries

Today, Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough Public Health, joined Susan Sauvé, Transportation Demand Management Planner for the City of Peterborough, on her last cycling tour of theyear.

The purpose of Sauvé’s cycling tours was to showcase the City’s new cycling facilities, which include buffered bike lanes, green markings on pavement and two-stage left turns for cyclists, and to also see where future improvements can be made. Dr. Salvaterra was particularly interested in viewing and navigating some of the City’s newly installed cycling facilities given that past research has shown many connections between certain facility types and their effect on higher physical activity rates and lower incidence of injuries.

“The City has worked very hard over the past decade to provide a designated space for cyclists to travel in Peterborough,” said Dr. Salvaterra.  “In as little as ten years the City has added over 30 km of new cycle lanes and trails to our cycling network, which is an extremely impressive expansion.”

The 2014 Peterborough City and County Active Transportation and Health Indicators Report showed that from 2003 to 2012 there were 3,283 emergency department visits and 137 hospitalizations in Peterborough City and County as a result of cyclist collisions.   Dr. Salvaterra feels that every effort should be made to decrease these numbers and that improved safety and injury prevention should be prioritized when the City is planning the expansion of our cycling network.  Current research shows that the presence and type of cycling facilities can have a drastic effect on usage and injury rates.  For example, according to the University of British Columbia, there is a decrease in cyclist injuries when cyclist designed facilities are provided (e.g., designated cycle lanes, cycle track or off-road cycle paths).

Along with having the right cycling facilities available, Dr. Salvaterra added that “a person’s comfort and familiarity with using a new piece of infrastructure is also a big factor when they are deciding whether to go for a bike ride and what route they should take.”

With the 5.5km of new cycling facilities implemented across the Cityin 2016, it is important for residents to get out and experience the new features.  The two-stage left turn bike box at the intersection of George and Hunter streets is a new feature that may be unfamiliar to some, but is a facility that is becoming more commonly used across North America.

“I am very happy to join Ms. Sauvé today so I can see the changes to the cycling network,” said Dr. Salvaterra.  “I encourage every Peterborough resident to do the same so that you can provide ideas and insight to the City during times of public input.”

Today, Dr. Salvaterra experienced just a few of the new facilities in town, which include:

• Buffered bike lanes:
  • An example of this is located on the cycle lanes on George St. and Water St.
  • These lanes are created by hashing out space on the pavement between the bike lane and the vehicle lane, the buffer creates additional space between vehicles and people on bicycles
  • Additionally, in some sections the buffer is between the parked cars and the cycle lane to decrease the risk of a cyclist colliding with an opening car door
• Green markings on pavement:
  • An example of this is located at the corner of Water St. and Parkhill Rd.
  • In North America, green is the standard colour for cycling facilities. Green-painted pavement identifies locations for potential conflicts with vehicles, such as street- and driveway crossings. Watch for turning, crossing, or merging motor vehicles.
• Two stage left turn box:
  • The only example of this in the City presently is on the south west corner of the George Street and Hunter Street intersection.
  • There is a green square on the pavement with a bicycle symbol and a left turn arrow.  This is where bikes can wait to make a left turn at Hunter Street from George Street.  Some cyclists find it difficult or unnerving to cross over to the left lane to turn left in this location because there can be a lot of vehicles.  The bike box provides a comfortable way for cyclists to turn left without having to enter the vehicle lanes.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

October 20, 2016 – As new research reveals increasing rates of cancers caused by HPV (human papillomavirus), Peterborough Public Health is pleased to offer the HPV vaccine to both Grade 7 boys and girls thanks to Ontario’s newly expanded student immunization program.

“In a new report from the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society, released on October 18, we learned that cancers of the mouth and throat caused by HPV are rising dramatically and are poised to surpass the rate of cervical cancer,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health at PPH.  “Projections are that 1,200 Canadians will die from HPV-related cancers this year alone. We strongly encourage parents to get their children in Grade 7 vaccinated at no charge so they are protected against these cancers later in life.”

The vaccination, which was previously only offered to girls, is now available to boys as well, and continues to be offered to girls entering Grade 8 in the 2016-17 school year. PPH’s expanded delivery of this vaccine is supported by the provincial expansion of publicly-funded immunization programs aiming to protect youth from preventable infections such as HPV.

HPV vaccine (Gardasil) is safe and effective, and has demonstrated very high success in preventing the occurrence of HPV. HPV is a common virus that can lead to several types of cancer. According to Cancer Care Ontario, HPV is estimated to cause 1,090 new cancers each year in the province. The virus has been estimated to cause an average of 254 deaths and 1,000 cases of cancer in Ontario every year. These risks can be minimized through early immunization.

Information and consent forms have been provided to students, and parents are asked to review and discuss this information with their sons and daughters to ensure awareness and understanding of both HPV and the vaccine. In order to receive HPV vaccination through the school vaccine program, students must provide signed consent forms to their school in advance of the school immunization date. As an alternative, students are also able to receive the vaccine at public health vaccination clinics or through their healthcare provider.

Through partnerships with local school boards, the school immunization program is delivered within school facilities by registered public health nurses. Through this program, students in Grade 7 are also offered Hepatitis B and Meningococcal vaccine in addition to the HPV vaccine.

For more information about the HPV vaccination, visit the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care’s Website. For more information about the PPH immunization program, members of the public are invited to visit our website, or call 705-743-1000 x 129.

Read the report released by the Public Health Agency of Canada and Canadian Cancer Society here: http://www.cancer.ca/en/about-us/for-media/media-releases/national/2016/canadian-cancer-statistics-2016/?region=on#ixzz4NXLCPzlU

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence

Communications Manager

705-743-1000, ext. 391

February 18, 2016 – Expert Prenatal Advice and Newborn Parenting Tips!

Expectant parents and their families are invited to a fun and informative night out to attend the Prenatal Health Fair hosted by Peterborough Public Health at the Holiday Inn on Monday, February 22, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This FREE must–attend evening of resources, support and information on “everything pregnancy and baby” is open to anyone with an interest in learning how best to prepare for having a baby, and what’s available in the Peterborough area.  The Prenatal Health Fair features interactive displays and demonstrations on a wide variety of topics such as nutrition for baby and mom, becoming a parent, baby’s development, and much more.

Car seat experts from the newly-formed Peterborough and Area Car Seat Committee will share tips and answer questions about how to safely buckle up your baby, a massage therapist will demonstrate infant massage techniques, a chiropractor will recommend ways to prevent back pain in pregnancy and hospital staff will share the many ways they provide support to get families off to a good start.  Fathers-to-be won’t want to miss trying on the “Empathy Belly” and visiting the fathering display.  You might even win the door prizes!

For more details, please call Kris Hazlitt at Peterborough Public Health at (705) 743-1000, ext. 254.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391

November 26, 2015 – Public Encouraged to Help Raise Remaining $73,000 to Build Unique Community Kitchen Designed to Reduce Food Insecurity

The Peterborough Public Health will soon be home to the area’s only public health kitchen thanks to a generous lead gift announced today by AON’s Smith family.

The Smith family made the donation in memory of their matriarch Myrtle Smith who recently passed away at 100 years old.  Mrs. Smith was known for her love of cooking and the Peterborough community.  This new commercial-quality kitchen will be named “Myrtle’s Kitchen”, and will be built on the second floor of Public Health’s new location at 185 King St.  It will support a wide range of community programs to create food security for vulnerable residents in partnership with Nourish Project and other local partners, as well as nutrition andsafe food handling programs.

This gift was made on behalf of Myrtle’s sons Hugh Smith, Braydon Smith and the late Ross Smith, as well as AON Inc.

“Myrtle would have been so proud to have her name on a kitchen where others can practice their cooking skills,” said Ruth Smith, Myrtle’s daughter-in-law. “Throughout her life Myrtle loved to cook for her family and friends. She is remembered by so many for her generosity and hospitality, both at her home and the family cottage on Chemong Lake. We are still trying to duplicate her Christmas cake, Christmas pudding and brownies!”

With this gift, together with other major donations that include gifts from Flying Colours, Community Food Centres Canada and a generous grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, 64% of the campaign goal is raised allowing construction on the kitchen to begin in January 2016.  Today’s announcement launches the public phase of the $204,000 campaign to raise funds for Myrtle’s Kitchen.  Donors with an interest in poverty reduction and public health are encouraged to help raise the remaining $73,000 needed to complete this one-of-a-kind project.

“We are enormously grateful for the Smith family’s generous gift and for all our donors to date as the community kitchen is essential to Peterborough’s poverty reduction strategy, yet above and beyond what the government currently funds us for,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health.  “The Public Health is one of the few public organizations that operates its own food literacy and access programming with a trained chef on staff.  Fundraising from this campaign will stretch well beyond Public Health too – it will benefit partners suchas the Nourish Project who needed accessible space for their own programs.”

The Greater Peterborough Vital Signs reports highlight the need for coordinated action around food security and the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, which produces these reports, is investing $50,000 in Myrtle’s Kitchen. “This investment builds on the Community Foundation’s partnerships with local organizations such as Nourish and Food for Kids to promote a vital community where everyone has access to healthy food” said Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough Board Chair, Betty Morris.

The vision behind Myrtle’s Kitchen is to improve the quality of life of our community by establishing a regional, shared meeting place where all people can come together to access healthy food and learn valuable life skills, while advocating for enough food for everyone.  People can “buy a seat” with a donation of $1,000 or “buy a table” with a donation of $5,000.  All gifts are 100% tax deductible as Public Health is a registered charity.

“Good food can have a transformative impact on our community,” said Dr. Salvaterra.  “We know that 11.5% of our local households experience food insecurity which means that every day there are thousands of residents who cannot access healthy foods.”  She explained that by expanding the quality of food skills programs, and eliminating kitchen rental costs for community agencies who deliver these programs, Myrtle’s Kitchen will significantly benefit our most vulnerable populations.

“No gift is too small when it comes to creating a food secure community; everyone deserves to be food secure,” said Dr. Salvaterra.

To make a donation towards the building of Myrtle’s Kitchen at 185 King St., please call 705-743-1000, ext. 264 or donate online at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and click on “Make a Donation”.

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For further information, please contact:

Alida Tanna
Executive Assistant, Medical Officer of Health
705-743-1000, ext. 264

November 12, 2015 – Canada’s Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection Accounts for 52% of All Local Reportable Disease Cases

According to the annual snapshot of reportable diseases released today by Peterborough Public Health, the number of chlamydia cases in 2014 increased by 17%, halting a three-year trend of decreasing incidence of this common sexually-transmitted infection.

“While 2014 did show an increase in the number of local chlamydia cases, this one year does not necessarily mean the downward trend is reversed,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health.  “It does however serve as a strong reminder to every sexually active person to remain vigilant and use condoms consistently and correctly to prevent the spread of infections.”

Dr. Salvaterra noted that chlamydia primarily affects young adults, particularly women, and that people can be infected not show any symptoms so it’s important to get tested after unprotected sex.  “Our clients who come into the Sexual Health Clinic are always relieved to discover how easy it is to test for and treat chlamydia, and that it’s completely curable when caught early enough,” she explained.

In 2014 chlamydia made up 52% of all confirmed reportable disease cases in Peterborough City and County.   There were 375 cases in 2014 compared to 320 cases in 2013, and the average age of cases was 22 years old and two thirds (66%) were female.

Chlamydia is the most widespread bacterial STI in Canada.  Upwards of 70% of people who are infected may not experience symptoms – typified by a burning sensation when urinating or, in females, symptoms of a vaginal infection.  If left untreated, infections can lead to long-term complications such as infertility.  Sexually active individuals are encouraged to practice consistent condom use seek screening.

Other highlights from Public Health’s 2014 report include an increase in the number of influenza cases.  There were 103 cases in 2013 and 130 in 2014.  Influenza is the most commonly reported respiratory disease and represents 18% of all local reportable diseases.  Influenza is likely under-reported, however, since Public Health requires laboratory confirmation of an infection and most community cases are not brought to a healthcare providers’ attention.

“Getting the flu vaccine every year and getting it early is your best defense against the flu,” said Dr. Salvaterra. “The flu can be very serious for young children and seniors, so you may actually save a life by getting vaccinated, as well as lessen how sick you get if you do get the flu.”

There are more than 60 communicable diseases that all healthcare providers are required to report to Public Health.  The Public Health’s 2014 report organizes these diseases into four categories: food and waterborne diseases; sexually-transmitted and blood-borne infections; diseases spread by direct contact and respiratory routes; and ‘other’ which includes vaccine-preventable diseases, vector-borne diseases, and zoonotic diseases.

To see the full report, visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca, click on “About Us”, then “Plans & Reports”, then “Reportable Diseases in Peterborough (City & County) – 2014”.

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

May 25, 2015 – Public Health Activates Heat Alert and Response System

With summer quickly approaching and warmer temperatures imminent, Peterborough Public Health has activated its Heat Alert and Response System (HARS) to advise residents of the best way to protect their health when temperatures soar.

The Public Health monitors forecasted weather conditions daily, as provided by weather forecasters and Air Quality Ontario.  Heat advisories will be issued to the media and key stakeholders and posted at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca  when a hot or humid air mass is forecast and heat related health effects may occur.  Upon learning that a potential heat threshold is forecasted to occur within 24-48 hours, Public Health will activate the HARS.

The Public Health has adopted a series of extreme heat thresholds designed to advise the public, health professionals, and community service providers of appropriate measures they can take to reduce the health effects of hot, humid and smoggy weather.  Information about these three advisory levels is available on the Extreme Weather – Heat webpage on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and outlined below:

Level 1: Heat Alert

A Level 1 Heat Alert is issued when the temperature is forecasted to reach 36ºC, with or without humidity, for two consecutive days with NO smog advisory.  This level of alert reminds residents of the following core messages: to keep their home cool, stay out of the heat, keep the body cool and hydrated, assist others, and recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion.

Level 2: Heat Warning

A Level 2 Heat Warning is issued when the temperature is forecasted to reach 36?C, with or without humidity for two consecutive days AND a smog advisory has been issued OR when the temperature is forecasted to reach 40?C, with or without humidity for two consecutive days with NO smog advisory OR at least two consecutive nights with minimum temperatures greater than 25ºC.  This level of warning reminds residents of the core messages above in addition to providing details on how and where to stay cool, advising suspension of strenuous outdoor activities, reminders to assist vulnerable groups, and to watch for further information through the media and Public Health website.

Level 3: Heat Emergency

A Level 3 Heat Emergency is issued when the temperature is forecasted to reach 36?C, with or without humidity, with contributing factors (such as a power outage) OR when the temperature is forecasted to reach or reaches 40?C, with or without humidity, for two consecutive days AND a smog advisory has been issued OR when the temperature is forecasted to reach or reaches 45?C, with or without humidity, for two consecutive days WITH OR WITHOUT a smog advisory OR when the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) has determined a heat emergency based on reports of heat related illness.  This level of emergency reminds residents of all the core messages above in addition to asking residents to STOP all unnecessary strenuous outdoor activity, and to listen to media for further information and updates.

Extreme heat events are a potentially significant health risk and can have a severe impact on the health of vulnerable populations including infants, the elderly, shut-ins, persons with chronic diseases, the morbidly obese and the marginally housed.  Heat related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are preventable.  Most healthy people can tolerate a short period of hot and humid weather as long as they stay cool and drink plenty of fluids. It is important to be aware that some medications may increase the health risks from extreme heat events.

The Public Health encourages all stakeholders to advise vulnerable clients of the heat advisory system and precautions they can take to prevent and manage heat related illness.

How to Protect Yourself During Hot Weather:

• Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices 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 must go outside, stay in the shade as much as possible and plan to go out early in the morning or evening when it is cooler.
• Go to air conditioned or cool places such as shopping malls, libraries, community centres or a friend’s place.
• 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 cool, wet towels.
• Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
• Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.
• If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• heavy sweating
• muscle cramps
• weakness
• headache
• fainting
• paleness, tiredness
• dizziness, nausea

Air conditioned public facilities are available to city and county residents seeking a place to cool off, such as shopping malls, community centres, arenas and libraries.  Residents are advised to phone in advance to determine hours of operation.

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For further information, please contact:

Wanda Tonus
Public Health Inspector
705-743-1000, ext. 285

May 1, 2105 –  Students who missed the opportunity to receive the meningococcal vaccine or two doses of the hepatitis B vaccine in Grade 7 when they were offered in school can make an appointment to get the vaccine at Public Health in May.  Also, females who missed the opportunity to get all three doses of the human papillomavirus vaccine when they were in grade 8 can also call to make an appointment to get the vaccine at these clinics.  All three vaccines are free of charge.

In 2014, an additional vaccine was added to the list of vaccines required for children in school. Even though the meningococcal-C vaccine is administered to infants, the meningococcal ACYW-135 vaccine offered in grade 7 offers protection against more strains.  The meningococcal ACYW-135 vaccine is now required under the Immunization of School Pupils’ Act.

To check if your child received this vaccine in Grade 7 or 8, call Public Health at (705)743-1000.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
705-743-1000, ext. 391

April 30, 2015 – May is Speech and Language Month

According to Peterborough Public Health, strong communication skills are essential for children’s growth, development and future success, as these skills help them learn new things, including reading and writing.

“Every word counts when it comes to a child’s speech skills,” says Leisa Baker, a Public Health Nurse with Public Health. “Parents and caregivers need to play, talk, listen and read with children to encourage speech and language development.”

May is Speech, Language and Hearing month and a great time to listen closely to their child’s vocabulary. Read a few extra books with your child this month.  Research shows that ‘reading aloud by parents is the single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading.  The more words a child hears as a baby and toddler, the larger his vocabulary will be by school age.

Baker notes that approximately one in 10 Ontario preschool children will experience a communication delay, a discovery that can be a surprise to parents and caregivers. Some parents may think their child is just quieter than other children, or that his or her frustration over words will work itself out over time. In reality, these may be indicators of speech and language problems, she says. Other warning signs to watch for in children include: difficulty following directions, having a hard time being understood, relying on gestures to communicate, and not pronouncing words clearly.

“Some parents may ignore these warning signs, thinking the problem will fix itself,” Baker adds. “Parents shouldn’t delay, and instead should address any speech and language issues. If identified early enough, the problem can usually be addressed.”

A good way for parents to assess a child’s communication ability is by using the Ontario government’s speech and language milestones for children up to the age of five years. The milestones and other resources are available at www.kidtalk.on.ca. People concerned about a child’s speech and language development can also turn for assistance to the District Preschool Speech and Language Program by calling Public Health at 705-743-1000 and speaking to a nurse.

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For further information, please contact:

Leisa Baker, RN
Public Health Nurse
705-743-1000, ext. 312

January 6, 2014 –  Next Program Starts January 14 for Local Women

Quitting smoking isn’t any easier when you’re pregnant. Thanks to a new partnership between Peterborough Public Health and the  Partners in Pregnancy Clinic (PIPC), local area women who are pregnant or have young children have more options to help them quit smoking and to stay smoke free.

The Choose to Be…Smoke Free quit smoking program is tailored specifically for women, incorporating best practices, women’s knowledge of their community and lived experiences.

“We find that women who are pregnant or just finished pregnancy are very motivated for healthy lifestyle changes.  This government funding allows more women to access this great smoking cessation program and we are very pleased to be part of it,” said Dr. Joan Himann, Lead Physician with PIPC.

“Pregnant women who are trying to quit smoking report feeling guilty, ashamed and alone,” said Mary Pat Fasken, Public Health Nurse. “That is why we are thrilled to be a part of this innovative program that combines behavioural counselling and group support with access to free nicotine replacement therapy, made possible with funding from the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care.”  Other key program components include free transportation, help with childcare, positive smoke free resources, women-centred quit kits, opportunities for social networking, and incentives such as weekly gift cards for a grocery store or pharmacy.

Local rates of smoking throughout pregnancy are higher in Peterborough County and City than the provincial average. The Choose to Be…Smoke Free program helps women identify barriers and opportunities for change, build confidence and motivation, ultimately improving their chances of meeting smoking cessation goals and living smoke free.

“The good news is it’s never too late to quit smoking. There are benefits to quitting smoking at any stage of pregnancy.”

For more information about the Choose to Be…Smoke Free program or to register for the next group that begins January 14, 2015, contact Peterborough Public Health at 705-743-1000.

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence

Communications Supervisor

705-743-1000, ext. 391

October 1, 2014 – Canadian Sport for Life Publishes Feature Article Celebrating Local Access to Recreation Leadership Initiative

The success of Peterborough County and City’s efforts to improve access to recreation for local residents is in the national spotlight following the publication of a feature online article today by Canadian Sport for Life.

“It’s wonderful to see the collaboration and hard work of our nine local townships recognized like this at the national level,” said Janet Dawson, Health Promoter at Peterborough Public Health who facilitated the Access to Recreation (ATR) Project.  “Their leadership in creating a Peterborough area-wide policy to improve access to recreation for all residents truly was groundbreaking, and now can be used as a model for other municipalities across Canada.”

The Canadian Sport for Life movement advocates for alignment and collaboration of sport, education, health and recreation sectors as a means to provide quality sport and physical activity opportunities to all Canadians.  In their online feature article entitled “Peterborough County: Changing the Landscape of Municipal Recreation”, it describes how the nine county townships and the city overcame the systemic challenge of working separately and instead developed an overarching policy that improved access to recreation on many fronts.

One of these fronts is the better coordination of how local recreation programming is delivered. An example of this would be that municipalities now have a communication mechanism with other municipalities to plan when recreation and sports programming is offered so that they can attract the most appropriate demographic and avoid duplication.       The policy also helps remove barriers, such as cost and travel time, so that citizens can get the physical activity they need.

Described in the article as an “incredible success”, the workgroup has since formalized to look at other related issues, and now includes other key partners such as the City/County Social Services Department and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Sport. 

To learn more about access to recreation, please visit:

http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/5702981/access-to-recreation-key-messages-ospapph-pdf-559k?da=y

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For further information, please contact:

Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391