(JULY 4, 2025) – The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) is informing that Environment Canada is forecasting hot, humid weather Saturday, July 5 through Sunday, July 6 for the City of Kawartha Lakes, City of Peterborough and the County of Peterborough.  

Currently daytime highs are forecasted to reach up to 33° C, with a humidex of 40. Overnight lows are expected to remain above 21°C, providing little relief from the heat. The heat event is expected to end Sunday evening. 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.

Presumed Measles Case Confirmed Not Measles with Lab Testing

PETERBOROUGH, ON (June 20, 2025) — Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged with Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit) is retracting a list of potential public measles exposures, after a presumed case of measles (high clinical suspicion due to compatible symptoms and a known exposure), with significant possible exposures, was confirmed to not be measles.

The public exposure sites were shared earlier today, out of an abundance of caution. Individuals who are susceptible to measles have a short timeframe for post-exposure care if exposed and because of this, PPH made the decision to share exposures prior to laboratory confirmation. The retracted exposure locations include Peterborough buses on June 14^th to 18^th, as listed below.

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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.

Prepare and protect yourself and your family from hot weather conditions this summer.

As we move into the summer months, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are sharing reminders of the significant health risks people can experience during extreme heat conditions, and how to prepare and stay protected this summer.

In Southern Ontario, heart warnings are issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada. Residents are encouraged to sign up to receive local weather alerts, including extreme heat conditions, so that they can take appropriate public health measures to protect themselves. It is currently forecasted that the Health Unit region could experience a multi-day heat event beginning Sunday, June 22, 2025.

Extreme heat can affect everyone’s health, but some individuals are more vulnerable to heat-related illness. These include infants and children, older adults, people with pre-existing medical conditions and people taking certain medications, people who lack adequate shelter or who are unhoused, newcomers to Canada, outdoor workers, and sports/outdoor enthusiasts. 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 isn’t just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous, especially for those most at risk,” says Bernie Mayer, Manager of Environmental Health with the Health Unit. “By planning ahead, staying hydrated, and knowing where to cool down, we can all take simple but effective steps to protect ourselves and our communities during the hot summer months.”

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly and should be monitored carefully. Signs and symptoms include:

• Heat Rash: red or pink rash usually found on the neck, back, chest and/or elbow creases.
• Heat Cramps: painful muscle cramps.
• Heat Exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and fainting.
• Heat Stroke: headache, dizziness, confusion, and fainting; skin may be hot and dry or damp; this is a medical emergency and 9-1-1 should be called right away.

Tips to Stay Safe in the Heat

Heat-related illnesses are preventable, and it is important to stay cool and well-hydrated. Here are some steps to prepare and stay safe during extreme heat events:

• Stay Cool: Avoid direct sun exposure and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid strenuous activities, take extra breaks, and plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. Take cool showers or baths. Use a fan and aim the airflow in your direction. Spend time in air-conditioned spaces, such as a community centre, shopping mall, public library or designated cooling centre. Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Add more fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet.
• Food Safety: Don’t keep food at room temperature for more than one hour during extreme heat conditions. Use a cooler with ice to keep food cool when travelling and avoid leaving groceries or food in the car. Always remember to keep food out of the temperature danger zone of 4°C to 60°C (40°F to 140°F). Harmful bacteria can grow in as little as two hours in this temperature range.
• Sun Safety: Check the Ultraviolet (UV) Index daily and take extra precautions when it is 3 or higher. Protect yourself from harmful UV be seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen (and lip balm), and stay hydrated.
• Stay Informed: Contact your local municipality for information on air-conditioned cooling centres during extreme heat. Sign up for local weather alerts to be notified of upcoming extreme heat conditions and take appropriate measures to protect yourself and others. Follow your local health unit (@HKPRDHU or @PtboHealth) for local alerts, information, and updates. If you are taking medication or have a health condition, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or call Health811 to find out if your health risk increases in the heat or if your skin becomes more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays.

By taking simple, preventative steps and staying informed, you can reduce your risk of heat-related illness and enjoy a safer, healthier summer. For more tips and local resources to help you prepare for extreme heat, visit 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

Health Unit Announces First Local Case in More Than a Decade

Today, Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is announcing the first case of locally acquired measles within the region in more than a decade. The resident is an adult who has been fully vaccinated (considered a “breakthrough case”), with the current source of the exposure unknown. Although rare, breakthrough cases can occur; they cause much less severe symptoms than cases in those who are unvaccinated.

A series of outbreaks have been affecting regions throughout Ontario over the last few months, with neighbouring Health Units reporting cases, but the disease had not been identified within Peterborough until now. Investigations are currently underway to determine potential exposure locations and affected individuals. Peterborough Public Health has identified the following known exposure locations:

*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:

Measles is airborne and one of the most contagious viral diseases in the world; this is why even one case draws attention from public health. 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.

Measles Vaccination Information:

Cases in fully vaccinated individuals are rare and known as “breakthrough” cases. “These cases are usually milder, less likely to require hospitalization, and occur in people who have close contact with a case over a longer period of time,” said Dr. Natalie Bocking, Deputy Medical Officer of Health. The vast majority of measles cases in the current provincial outbreak are in unvaccinated individuals – over 94%.

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

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.

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For further information, please contact:
Media Relations
media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca

Active wildfires in Saskatchewan and Manitoba trigger health guidance response. 

(JUNE 5, 2025) — With active wildfires continuing in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (Health Unit) are closely monitoring local air quality conditions through Environment Canada’s Air Quality Health Index. As smoke from these fires may begin to affect the region, the Health Unit is providing important health guidance, resources, and tips to help residents stay informed and prepared for potential environmental and health impacts. 

Wildfire smoke can travel thousands of kilometres from the fire zone, affecting communities far from the source. That’s why it’s important to monitor the air quality in your area so you can take the right steps to protect your health as conditions change. Even at low levels, and sometimes without a noticeable smell, wildfire smoke can impact your health. Common symptoms of smoke exposure include:  

• Sore and watery eyes 
• Runny nose and sinus irritation 
• Scratchy throat and mild coughing 
• Headaches 

Some at-risk populations face greater health risks when exposed to poor air quality. This includes but not limited to seniors, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people with pre-existing medical conditions, 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 that helps you 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 is within moderate to high risk but may vary depending on time of day and weather conditions. 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 the smoke may be impacting them and take precautions when needed. 

What You Can Do to Prepare 

• Check the AQHI forecast daily, especially during smog season (April to September). 
• Sign up to receive smog and air quality alerts directly to your email.
• Create a clean air space at home by keeping windows closed on high-risk days and using an air purifier with a HEPA filter if possible. 
• 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. 

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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.

Media Relations, Peterborough Public Health, 

media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca 

705-743-1000, ext. 352 

OR

Ashley Beaulac, Manager of Communication Services, 

HKPR District Health Unit, abeaulac@hkpr.on.ca 

1-866-888-4577, ext. 1212 

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

Health Unit Celebrates World No Tobacco Day 

For nearly forty years, May 31st has been celebrated as World No Tobacco Day. The day both commemorates the decades of work that public health agencies have engaged in to fight the tobacco epidemic and highlights the work that is yet to be done. 

Locally, Peterborough has long been a provincial leader in tobacco-wise policies working to curb commercial tobacco use. The first local by-law was enacted in 1972, prohibiting smoking in workplaces; this preceded provincial smoke-free laws by nearly 35 years. In 2012, Peterborough once again was a leader in creating a by-law protecting park and playground users from harmful secondhand smoke. Since then, most of Ontario has become protected by the Smoke-Free Ontario Act (SFOA), 2017, which prohibits smoking or vaping in many areas that children, youth, families, and athletes gather across the province – indoors and out.   

Despite these laws being long-standing, some residents and visitors need a reminder that parks, playgrounds, beaches, and sports fields are smoke, vape, and cannabis-free. 

“Peterborough and the Kawarthas are home to some of the best outdoor spaces in the province,” said Julie Bromley, Manager of Environmental Health at Peterborough Public Health. “From Musicfest concerts all summer, to baseball and soccer tournaments, to local farmers’ markets and street festivals, to beaches and playgrounds – we need people to know that the air is shared, and they can’t smoke or vape there.” Failure to comply with these laws could cost $305. 

“When it comes to secondhand smoke, there are no safe levels of exposure,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health for PPH. “Likewise, nicotine from vapes impacts the developing teenage brain, affecting everything from mood, to memory, to concentration. When youth see people smoking or vaping, it normalizes it, undoing the decades of work that we are celebrating on World No Tobacco Day,” he added. “The SFOA is designed to protect everyone from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and from vapour products”. 

This winter, Tobacco Enforcement Officers (TEOs) from Peterborough Public Health worked in partnership with recreation staff in the City and County at local arenas to enforce the SFOA. Over a six-week blitz, the following infractions were addressed by TEOs: 

• Charges: 6 
  • Healthy Planet Arena (1) 
  • Memorial Centre (3) 
  • North Kawartha Community Centre (1) 
  • Otonabee Memorial Community Centre (Keene) (1) 
• Educational conversations: 42 
• Formal warnings: 22 

TEOs are also responsible for ensuring that Specialty Vape Shops and convenience stores don’t sell tobacco or vape products to minors. Since November 1, 2024, the following infractions have been addressed: 

• Convenience stores: 6 charges; 4 warnings
• Specialty Vape Stores: 1 charge 

With the change of season, TEOs and park staff will double down on their efforts to focus on parks, sports fields, patios, beaches, and other outdoor spots to ensure compliance with the SFOA and local bylaws. Residents can report smoking or vaping violations by calling 705-743-1000 or online at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/report-secondhand-smoke-vapour. 

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For further information, please contact: 

Media Relations 

media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca  

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

PORT HOPE and PETERBOROUGH, ON (May 12, 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 Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 1 p.m.

The Board of Health meeting will be held in person at the Hiawatha L.I.F.E Services and Administration Office locations at 431 Hiawatha Line, Hiwatha First Nation. Items on the agenda include:

• Medical Officer of Health Updates
• Report: Policy Approvals
• Report: Formation of Governance Working Group
• Report: Indigenous Health Advisory Circle

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.

During this time, both the HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health remain committed to engaging with the communities they serve, partners and teams to determine future opportunities to continue the legacy of public healthcare across the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, Northumberland County and the Greater Peterborough Area.

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