August 8, 2025 – The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are urging residents to avoid handling bats after a noticeable spike in bat-related exposures this summer.

Attempting to capture a bat indoors can increase your chances of being bitten or scratched, which raises the risk of being exposed to the rabies virus. If there was no direct contact with a bat, meaning it did not touch or land on a person, the risk of rabies is extremely low. Rabies is a viral disease that spreads through the saliva of animals and is known to infect bats throughout Ontario.

What to Do if you Discover a Bat Indoors
If you find a live bat in your home and there was no direct contact:

• Do not touch or attempt to capture it.
• Confine it to a room, turn off the lights, and open a window to allow it to fly out on its own.
• If the bat does not leave, contact a pest control professional for safe removal.

What to Do if you or Someone you Know has Come in Contact with a Bat
If bitten, scratched, or if any physical contact with a bat occurred:

• Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water (or hand sanitizer if soap is unavailable)

• Immediately consult a healthcare provider about post-exposure treatment or call the Health Unit.
• Rabies is preventable with timely treatment, but once symptoms appear, it is fatal.

When is Medical Treatment Recommended
Rabies exposure treatment, also called post exposure prophylaxis, is recommended if a bat touches or lands on you and it is possible that you were bitten, scratched, or got bat saliva in a cut, your mouth, eyes, or nose, even if you are not sure.

If a bat is found in a bedroom or sleeping area, with a child or individuals who are unable to give a reliable assessment (ex. deep sleepers, intoxicated, unable to communicate etc.) of direct contact with the bat, contact your healthcare provider.

If you find a dead bat indoors or on your property, contact the Health Unit.

Protect Your Pets from Rabies
Rabid bats also pose a risk to pets. Ensure your pet’s rabies vaccination is up to date. In Ontario, rabies vaccination is required by law for domestic cats and dogs.

Cats and dogs are natural predators that often catch and kill or injure bats. If your pet catches a bat, contact your veterinarian immediately to ensure it receives rabies vaccine/booster. The veterinarian can also arrange to send the bat for testing.

Report Unusual Bat Deaths:

• Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre: 1-866-673-4781
• Natural Resources Information Support Centre: 1-800-387-7011

For more information on rabies prevention, visit www.hkpr.on.ca/rabies.

• If you live in the County of Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes, or Northumberland County, call 1-866-888-4577 ext. 5006.

If you live in the County or City of Peterborough, call 705-743-1000.

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

(AUGUST 8, 2025) – The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are informing that Environment Canada is forecasting hot, humid weather over the next several days. An extended heat warning is being issued for the region starting tomorrow, August 9^th, through to Tuesday, August 12^th. The County of Haliburton is forecasted to cool down a day earlier, ending the warning in that region on Monday. Daytime highs are forecasted to reach up to 31°C, with a humidex up to 39. Overnight lows are expected to remain around 20-23°C, providing little relief from the heat.

The Health Unit is taking protective action by alerting the public of extreme heat events to prevent and reduce heat-related illnesses and direct community response and outreach to at-risk and priority populations. Based on criteria from Environment Canada, the Health Unit will issue the following alerts:

• Heat Warning: when the daytime temperature is expected to be 31°C or higher, with a minimum overnight low of 20°C or higher, for two (2) consecutive days. A heat warning can also be issued when the humidex is forecast to be 40 or higher for two (2) consecutive days.
• Extending Heat Warning: when the same conditions apply above, but the heat event is expected to last for three or more days in a row.

Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be very dangerous, especially to those most vulnerable to health risks including people who work outdoors, people who are unhoused, elderly and some people with disabilities or chronic diseases, people who are pregnant, and children and infants. Residents are strongly encouraged to check in on neighbours and family, particularly those who may be at higher risk. Checklists to help complete heat health check-ins can be found at peterboroughpublichealth.ca/heatcheckin.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• tiredness and weakness
• dizziness and/or fainting
• rash
• nausea or vomiting
• rapid breathing and headache
• extreme thirst
• decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine

If you experience any of these, you should immediately move to a cool place and drink water. If you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, hot flushed or very pale skin, and is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating, call 911 immediately. These are signs of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency!

To help reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses during an extreme heat warning:

• Stay hydrated; drink lots of water even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid going out during the hottest time of the day and avoid direct sun.
• Keep your home cooler by closing blinds and curtains, turning off heat-generating lights or appliances, and preparing meals that don’t use your oven.
• Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
• Take a cool bath/shower or cool down with cold, wet towels.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor physical activity.
• If your home feels too hot, plan to spend some time in a cool, public space.
• Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
• Pay attention to how you feel and check-in with others (i.e., family and neighbours).
  • Find tools to complete heat health check-ins at ca/heatcheckin
• Contact your local municipality to ask about designated public cooling centres or visit public spaces such as libraries or malls that are air conditioned, or local beaches and splash pads.

Extreme heat events have been increasing in the context of climate change, and our region is at health risk of extreme heat as shared in the Climate Change and Vulnerability Health Assessments from the HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health. Extreme heat can be dangerous. Knowing how to prepare and keep cool will help you stay safe and healthy. Find more information, tips, resources and active local heat alerts at hkpr.on.ca/Heat or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/ExtremeHeat.

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

(AUGUST 1, 2025) – The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are informing that Environment Canada is forecasting the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to reach moderate or high levels throughout the region. Although currently low risk, the AQHI is expected to worsen over the long weekend.  

Smoke from wildfires in the Prairies is moving through our region, causing poor air quality. Even at low or moderate levels, and sometimes without a noticeable smell, wildfire smoke can impact your health. However, when there is an extreme heat event occurring at the same time as poor air quality, you should 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 engaging in strenuous outdoor activity. For these individuals, it is especially important to take precautions to protect your health and well-being. 

Understanding the Air Quality Health Index 

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a tool used to understand how air pollution can affect your health. It uses a scale from 1 to 10+, with higher numbers indicating a greater risk. Here’s what the numbers mean: 

• 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. 

What You Can Do 

• Check the?AQHI?forecast daily. 
• Sign up?to 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.  
• 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, you can help protect your health and minimize the risks associated with poor air quality conditions. Find more information, tips and resources at hkpr.on.ca/AirQuality or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/air, and hkpr.on.ca/wildfires. 

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

(JULY 30, 2025) – The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are informing that a Special Air Quality Statement has been issued today by Environment Canada for Haliburton. Current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) levels in Haliburton are within the moderate (4-6) range but are expected to increase overnight. Although currently low risk, the AQHI in Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, and Northumberland are expected to increase to moderate throughout the evening and into tomorrow.   

Smoke from wildfires in the Prairies is moving through our region, causing poor air quality. Even at low or moderate levels, and sometimes without a noticeable smell, wildfire smoke can impact your health. However, when there is an extreme heat event occurring at the same time as poor air quality, you should 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 engaging in strenuous outdoor activity. For these individuals, it is especially important to take precautions to protect your health and well-being. 

Understanding the Air Quality Health Index 

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a tool used to understand how air pollution can affect your health. It uses a scale from 1 to 10+, with higher numbers indicating a greater risk. Here’s what the numbers mean: 

• 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.

Currently, our region ranges from low to moderate risk, but conditions vary depending on time of day and weather conditions and are forecasted to worsen. The Health Unit will continue to monitor air quality and provide further updates and guidance, as necessary. Residents are encouraged to be aware of how smoke may be impacting them and take precautions when needed. 

What You Can Do 

• Check the?AQHI?forecast daily. 
• Sign up?to 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 can be found at peterboroughpublichealth.ca/heatcheckin 
• 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, you can help protect your health and minimize the risks associated with poor air quality conditions. Find more information, tips and resources at hkpr.on.ca/AirQuality or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/air, and hkpr.on.ca/wildfires. 

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

Some Dental Offices Now Requesting CDCP Enrollment for Families with Children on Healthy Smiles Ontario  

JULY 23, 2025 –As eligibility expands for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) (now legally merged) are encouraging families to explore this federal program to ensure they continue to receive the dental coverage they need. With changes to both the CDCP and the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program, it’s important that parents and guardians understand how these programs work together, and public health is here to help them navigate the application process with confidence. 

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 between the ages of 18 and 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.” 

What Families Need to Know About CDCP
With CDCP now being open to all ages, families with an adjusted family net income of $90,000 or less, with no private dental insurance and who have filed their taxes 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 to help keep teeth and gums healthy. 

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. It is important to wait until this start date before booking any dental appointments.

Finding a Dentist Who Accepts CDCP
Start by asking your current dental office if they accept CDCP. If you don’t already have a dentist, you can look up CDCP-approved providers using Sun Life’s online search tool or by calling Sun Life at 1-888-888-8110 for help. 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.

Families should never pay the full cost upfront, as Sun Life will not reimburse them directly. 

How to Apply 

Families can apply for the CDCP online or get help from the Health Unit. Visit http://www.hkpr.on.ca/CDCP for more information on who qualifies and how to apply. The Health Unit is ready to answer any questions and help with applications. Call 1-866-888-4577 extension 1247. Families are reminded they must meet the eligibility requirements each year to continue to qualify for the CDCP. 

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

Residents urged to take precautions against mosquito bites. 

(JULY 17, 2025) — The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are notifying the public that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in Northumberland County. This is the first confirmed case of WNV in the area this year. 

The Health Unit received lab results from The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, confirming that two American Crows who were found deceased in Hamilton Township, Northumberland County, have both tested positive for West Nile virus. The finding of WNV in the Health Unit area is not unusual, as the virus is typically detected around this time of year through routine mosquito surveillance. 

West Nile virus is a viral infection primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While not all mosquitoes carry the virus, it is important to stay informed and take precautions during the peak mosquito season, typically from late spring to early fall. The Health Unit actively monitors WNV activity throughout the summer by conducting mosquito trapping and surveillance across the region. While no positive human cases have been detected this year, the presence of the virus in birds serve as a reminder of the ongoing risk.  

“Finding West Nile virus in a bird indicates that the virus is present in our environment, and residents should take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” said Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health. “We urge everyone to protect themselves from mosquito bites and help eliminate potential breeding sites for mosquitoes around their homes and properties.” 

West Nile Virus Prevention: Cover Up and Clean Up 

• Prevent Bites: When outdoors from dusk to dawn, wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. Use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin. Keep windows and doors closed or properly screened to stop mosquitoes from getting inside. 
• Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Remove standing water around your home, cottage or campsite — mosquitoes lay eggs in even small amounts of water, like in birdbaths, old tires and containers. Trim overgrown shrubs, clear debris, and turn compost piles regularly. 

West Nile virus is primarily spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people infected with WNV will not exhibit symptoms, however, some may experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and neck stiffness. In rare cases, WNV can lead to more severe symptoms, including confusion, tremors and sudden sensitivity to light, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. 

For more information about West Nile virus surveillance and prevention, please visit hkpr.on.ca/WNV or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/west-nile-virus. 

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(JULY 11, 2025) – The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are informing that Environment Canada is forecasting hot, humid weather starting today, July 11th, through to possibly Thursday, July 17th, for the City of Kawartha Lakes, City of Peterborough and the County of Peterborough.  

Currently daytime highs are forecasted to reach up to 32° C, with a humidex of 35 to 40. Overnight lows are expected to remain around 19-23°C, providing little relief from the heat. The hottest day is expected to be Saturday, July 12th. Surrounding areas, including Northumberland County and the County of Haliburton, may also experience temperatures close to heat warning level and residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions. 

The Health Unit is taking protective action by alerting the public of extreme heat events to prevent and reduce heat-related illnesses and direct community response and outreach to at-risk and priority populations. Based on criteria from Environment Canada, the Health Unit will issue the following alerts:

• Heat Warning: when the daytime temperature is expected to be 31°C or higher, with a minimum overnight low of 20°C or higher, for two (2) consecutive days. A heat warning can also be issued when the humidex is forecast to be 40 or higher for two (2) consecutive days.
• Extending Heat Warning: when the same conditions apply above, but the heat event is expected to last for three or more days in a row.

Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be very dangerous, especially to those most vulnerable to health risks including people who work outdoors, people who are unhoused, elderly and some people with disabilities or chronic diseases, people who are pregnant, and children and infants. Monitor yourself and those around you for signs of heat-related illness and seek medical attention if required. Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• tiredness and weakness
• dizziness and/or fainting
• rash
• nausea or vomiting
• rapid breathing and headache
• extreme thirst
• decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine

If you experience any of these, you should immediately move to a cool place and drink water. If you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, hot flushed or very pale skin, and is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating, call 911 immediately. These are signs of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency! 

To help reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses during an extreme heat warning: 

• Stay hydrated; drink lots of water even if you don’t feel thirsty. 
• Avoid going out during the hottest time of the day and avoid direct sun. 
• Keep your home cooler by closing blinds and curtains, turning off heat-generating lights or appliances, and preparing meals that don’t use your oven.  
• Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing. 
• Take a cool bath/shower or cool down with cold, wet towels.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor physical activity.
• If your home feels too hot, plan to spend some time in a cool, public space. 
• Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight. 
• Pay attention to how you feel and check-in with others (i.e., family and neighbours). 
• Contact your local municipality to ask about designated public cooling centres or visit public spaces such as libraries or malls that are air conditioned, or local beaches and splash pads.  

Extreme heat events have been increasing in the context of climate change, and our region is at health risk of extreme heat as shared in the Climate Change and Vulnerability Health Assessments from the HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health. Extreme heat can be dangerous. Knowing how to prepare and keep cool will help you stay safe and healthy. Find more information, tips, resources and active local heat alerts at hkpr.on.ca/Heat or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/ExtremeHeat.  

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

Ashley Beaulac, Communication Services Manager, HKPR District Health Unit, abeaulac@hkpr.on.ca, 1-866-888-4577, ext. 1212

Did You Know We Merged?
As of January 1, 2025, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health merged to form the Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Public Health (legal name only).  
 
Efforts are currently underway to develop an operational name and a brand identity. In the meantime, you will see logos and other marketing material from both legacy organizations. You may also see references and documents using the legal name Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Public Health. 

Partners and members of the public should continue to engage with their local public health offices as usual until otherwise directed.

Residents Urged to Check Exposures, Monitor for Symptoms 

PETERBOROUGH, ON (June 17, 2025) — Today, Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged with Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit) is releasing a list of potential public measles exposures, after another case of measles has been confirmed within the region. Measles has been identified in a vaccinated resident who was a contact of the first case shared last week. 

The Health Unit is continuing to identify public exposure locations and affected individuals. Measles is airborne and one of the most contagious viral diseases in the world. Current known exposure locations are as follows: 

*Please note that additional time has been included in this information to reflect the potential for airborne transmission

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.

Symptoms 

Symptoms begin 7-21 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 people, and those with existing medical conditions. Possible complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. 

While the current risk to the public is low, PPH is reminding residents of the importance of ensuring that they are up to date with their vaccinations. Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination status and call their health care provider if they are not up to date. Those without a health care provider can book an appointment at PPH’s Routine Immunization Clinic by calling 705-743-1000, ext. 331. 

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

PPH is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates, as necessary. Learn more about measles and vaccination, including a video from Dr Thomas Piggott, at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/measles.  

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Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

Ashley Beaulac, Communication Services Manager, HKPR District Health Unit, abeaulac@hkpr.on.ca, 1-866-888-4577, ext. 1212

The Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Health Unit Board of Health will meet in-person. 

PORT HOPE and PETERBOROUGH, ON (June 16, 2025) – The Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Health Unit (formerly the HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health) would like to advise media and the community of an upcoming Board of Health meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 5 p.m. 

The Board of Health meeting will be held in person at the Peterborough office located at 185 King Street, Peterborough. Items on the agenda include: 

• Medical Officer of Health Updates 
• Report: Stewardship Committee – 2024 Draft Audited Financial Statements 
• Report: Measles Update 
• Report: Merger Update 
• Report: Association of Local Public Health Agencies Annual General Meeting Resolutions 

How to Attend
Members of the media and community can watch the livestream by accessing our YouTube Channel.

Agenda and Board Package
Please find the agenda and Board of Health package on the HKPR District Health Unit website and the Peterborough Public Health website.

Media Contacts:

Ashley Beaulac, Communication Services Manager, HKPR District Health Unit, abeaulac@hkpr.on.ca, 1-866-888-4577, ext. 1212
Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 1-705-743-1000, ext. 352

Beaches are Tested and Monitored for Bacteria and Harmful Algae 

Beach water testing has resumed just in time for the warm weather! Testing includes public beaches in Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations, and in the County and City of Peterborough. Starting today, these beaches will be regularly tested by Peterborough Public Health (PPH) to ensure that water quality conditions are safe for recreational use. 

The routine surveillance program for all public beaches begins today (June 2nd) and will continue until the end of August. Please note that Rogers Cove is no longer an active beach in the City of Peterborough and is no longer being sampled for water quality by Peterborough Public Health. 

The following beach is sampled daily, Monday to Friday:

• Beavermead Park (2011 Ashburnham Drive, Peterborough)

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

• Buckhorn Beach(12 John Street, Buckhorn)
• Crowe’s Line Beach(240 Crowe’s Line Road, Trent Lakes)
• Curve Lake Henry’s Gumming (150 Chemong Street S, Curve Lake)
• Curve Lake Lime Kiln Park (150 Whetung Street E, Curve Lake)
• Douro North Park (251 Douro Second Line, Douro-Dummer)
• Ennismore Waterfront Park (1053 Ennis Road, Ennismore)
• Hiawatha Park (1 Lakeshore Road, Hiawatha)
• Jones Beach(908 Jones Beach Road, Bridgenorth)
• Lakefield Park (100 Hague Boulevard, Lakefield)
• Sandy Beach(1221 Lakehurst Road, Buckhorn)
• Selwyn BeachConservation Area (2251 Birch Island Road, Selwyn)
• Squirrel Creek Conservation Area (2445 Wallace Point Road, South Monaghan)
• Warsaw Caves Conservation Area (289 Caves Road, Warsaw)

The following public beaches are samples 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)

Though PPH will maintain its sampling schedule, 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, an indicator of fecal contamination in the water. It takes approximately 24 hours for PPH 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. You can find the status of public beaches at any time by visiting www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/beach-testing-results or calling 705-743-1000 ext. 232 Monday to Friday.

Our region is fortunate to have so many beautiful recreational waterfront areas. Our 2023 climate change and health vulnerability assessment indicates that our region will continue to experience warming temperatures and an increase in the number of very hot days. Most of the local beaches are free to access and a great way to beat the heat, so we all need to do what we can to protect the water quality. There are several things that you can do 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

A list of all the beaches that will be tested for the 2025 summer months and more information about the surveillance program, is available at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/beach-testing/.

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For further information, please contact:

Media Relations

media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca