December 16, 2014 – A provincial study conducted in Peterborough last year showed that a nasal spray version of the influenza vaccine called FluMist was effective and preferred by children over the injected version.
“Our research demonstrated that offering FluMist increased vaccine uptake among children and seemed to reduce their anxiety about getting immunized,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough Public Health and one of the study’s authors. “Thanks to the support of Peterborough schools and students who volunteered for this study, we could see FluMist added into the pool of publicly-funded vaccines for Ontario.”
Dr. Salvaterra noted that other provinces already offer FluMist for free as a way to increase the number of children who get vaccinated. School age children are known to drive influenza epidemics. This study explored the hypothesis that vaccinating children through schools may improve societal influenza control by reducing vaccine accessibility barriers.
Ten local schools with a total of 2,852 students were recruited for the study. Five schools were randomly assigned to receive the injected version of the influenza vaccine, and five schools were assigned to receive FluMist. School-based immunization clinics were held from November 11-22, 2013, and the vaccine uptake for schools where FluMist was offered was 19.3%, compared to 12.2% where the vaccine was provided using a needle.
Parents surveyed by the researchers cited convenience as the top reason they chose to have their child vaccinated at school. Principals thought clinics ran smoothly with little disruption to school routines. Most principals agreed that school-based influenza immunization is a good idea and should continue, with the option of vaccinating staff as well.
Currently, parents can request a prescription for the FluMist vaccine from their healthcare provider, however it will cost approximately $30 per dose.
Results of the study were shared publicly for the first time at the Canadian Immunization Conference that ran in Ottawa from December 2-4, 2014. The study was conducted in partnership with Public Health Ontario, Peterborough Public Health and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care with funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada/Canadian Institutes of Health Research Influenza Research Network.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391
December 12, 2014 – Food Handler Training Courses OfferedFree of Charge at Public Health
The Peterborough Public Health is reminding residents and food premises that the second phase of the by-law takes effect in the City and County of Peterborough on January 1, 2015, making it mandatory for moderate-risk food premises to have at least one certified food handler working in a supervisory capacity on site at all times.
“We look forward to working with our food premises partners to increase the number of certified food handlers overseeing 
how food is prepared in our community,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Local establishments have been receptive to this new by-law and understand that educating staff that handle food has been shown to improve inspection results and reduce food borne illness.”
On January 1, 2015, the by-law will extend to include moderate-risk food premises such as fast-food establishments, chip trucks and bakeries that have fewer preparation steps and generally serve healthier populations. Earlier this year on January 1, 2014, the first phase of the by-law came into effect for high-risk premises, defined as food establishments that prepare and handle large quantity of potentially hazardous foods (e.g. poultry, fish, and beef) that are often involved with foodborne illness, such as restaurants, banquet halls and cafeterias. Low-risk premises which do not prepare food but simply store and sell food such as convenience stores are exempt from the by-law.
A certified food handler is someone who has completed the Food Handler Training and Certification Course offered by Public Health or an equivalent course. The course covers:
- proper food handling techniques with an emphasis on temperature control
- legislation and the role of Public Health
- chemical, physical and biological hazards in food
- personal hygiene
- cleaning and sanitizing
Peterborough City and County join other jurisdictions that have passed similar by-laws such as cities of Toronto, Hamilton, Brantford and London, as well as Niagara Region and parts of Essex County.
The Peterborough Public Health remains one of only a few health units in Ontario that continues to offer Food Handler Training and Certification Courses to residents free of charge. More than 14,000 people have taken this course and received their certification from Public Health since 1997. Individuals or businesses wishing to take the Food Handler Training and Certification Course should call Public Health at 705-743-1000. Further information about the course is also available on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca in the “My Work” section under Food Services.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391
December 11, 2014 – The Peterborough Public Health reported the first local lab-confirmed case of seasonal influenza today.
“The case is lab-confirmed for influenza A, and we now know that seasonal influenza is circulating in our local population,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Usually there are more cases of influenza in the community than are reported by the lab so we strongly encourage residents to get their flu shot to protect themselves and others – it’s not too late.”
The flu shot is recommended for everyone over six months of age. It is especially important for people with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, young children, the elderly and anyone who takes care of people in these groups.
Flu shots are widely available at many local pharmacies, from physician offices, and local walk-in clinics.
The Public Health is also offering by-appointment clinics for all residents at its location on 185 King Street on the following dates:
Saturday, December 20, 2014 | 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Saturday, January 3, 2015 | 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
Saturday, January 17, 2015 | 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
To book an appointment, please call 705-743-1000, ext. 139.
Dr. Salvaterra advised that in addition to getting the flu shot people take the following precautions to reduce the spread of infection:
- Stay home if feeling unwell
- Wash your hands frequently
- Clean and sanitize commonly-used surfaces frequently
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue and washing hands afterwards
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence, Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391
December 4, 2014 – Public Health Activates Extreme Cold Response Plan
With the colder winter months ahead, Peterborough Public Health has activated its Extreme Cold Response Plan (ECRP) to advise residents on the best way to protect their health when temperatures plummet.
“Cold weather injuries, such as frostbite and hypothermia, are preventable,” says Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Most healthy people can tolerate a short period of cold weather if dry and properly attired. Our plan is designed to advise those who are the most vulnerable, suffer from cardiovascular disease and are at the highest risk of cold weather injuries how to protect themselves.”
Dr. Salvaterra notes that vulnerable populations in our communities include the elderly, infants (under one year), people with a history of cardiovascular disease such as heart attacks and strokes and mental disabilities, and people who are homeless or marginally housed. She added that between 2003 and 2013 there were 64 visits to the emergency department due to exposure from excessive cold, and that the hospital sees 6-7 people each year for this reason.
Cold weather, combined with wind, can cause serious injuries or even death. The Public Health monitors the forecasted weather conditions from December 1 to April 1. The ECRP defines a series of cold weather thresholds that trigger Public Health to notify the general public, healthcare providers and community service providers of appropriate measures they can take to reduce the risk of cold weather injuries for themselves and the vulnerable populations they serve. Notifications of extreme cold will be posted on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca and issued to the media and stakeholder groups when the forecasted temperature or wind chill may result in an increased risk of frostbite.
The Public Health ECRP has three levels of notification:
- Frostbite Alert
- Frostbite Warning
- Cold Weather Emergency
Public health messages as well as actions taken by Public Health will vary depending on the level of notification, as described below:
Level 1: Frostbite Alert
A Level 1 Frostbite Alert is issued when meteorologists forecast a temperature of -27?C to -38?C or a wind chill of -27 to -38. This level of notification reminds residents to: cover unprotected skin; avoid prolonged outdoor exposure; drink warm fluids; watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia; check on neighbours; and maintain a warm indoor environment (ideally 20?C or warmer).
Level 2: Frostbite Warning
A Level 2 Frostbite Warning is issued when meteorologists forecast a temperature between
-39?C and -47?C or a wind chill of -39 to -47. This level of notification reminds residents of the core messages above in addition to: reminding children and the elderly to stay indoors; advising the general public to reduce time spent outdoors; and advising the public to check their faces and extremities frequently for signs of frostbite.
Level 3: Cold Weather Emergency
A Level 3 Cold Weather Emergency is issued when meteorologists forecast a temperature of
-48?C or colder or a wind chill of -48 or colder OR when the temperature is below -27?C or a wind chill below -27 accompanied by a contributing risk factor such as a power outage, or critical infrastructure failure. This level of notification reminds residents of all the core messages above in addition to: requesting that residents stay indoors; ensuring vulnerable individuals are in a warm, safe environment; and advising the public to check their faces and extremities frequently for signs of frostbite. Further information about Public Health’s ECRP is available on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca under the section for “My Environment”.
The Public Health recognizes that other community organizations may have developed their own internal policies and procedures for dealing with extreme cold for the population they are serving (i.e. school boards, and day care providers). Community agencies and partners that would like direct notification from Public Health in the event of an extreme cold alert should contact Public Health’s Communications Supervisor at 705-743-1000, ext. 391.
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For further information, please contact:
Donna Churipuy
Manager, Environmental Health Programs,
705-743-1000, ext. 218
December 2, 2014 – Protect Your Family from Invisible Cancer-Causing Gas
The Peterborough Public Health has a limited supply of free radon test kits available to local residents.
Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural breakdown of uranium found in
rock and soil. It can enterbuildings through cracks in foundation floors and walls, gaps in service pipes, open floor drains, or any other area of exposed soil. The likelihood of a radon problem cannot be predicted by the age or location of a home; all homes are at risk.
Long-term exposure to high levels of radon greatly increases your risk of lung cancer. According to the World Health Organization, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
It is easy to test for radon. Just put the detector in the lowest lived-in level of your home, and leave it there for three months. Afterwards, mail it away to the lab and they will send you the results. (Public Health kits even include the shipping fee.)
Free kits are available by dropping by Public Health offices located at 185 King Street, Peterborough (across from the Peterborough Regional Health Centre). So come and pick up your free radon test kit today and take action on radon!
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For further information, please contact:
Wanda Tonus
Public Health Inspector
(705) 743-1000, ext. 285
November 24, 2014 – Public Health Calls For More Product Regulation As Concerns Grow Regarding Health Risks of E-Cigarettes
Today’s announcement from the Ontario government that it plans to prohibit e-cigarettes use wherever smoking is not permitted, and ban sales to minors, displays and promotion, was commended by Peterborough Public Health.
“This helps reduce the confusion when it comes to enforcing smoke-free places, and also upholds the cultural value that smoking in any form is socially unacceptable,” said Donna Churipuy, Manager of Environmental Health Programs with Public Health. “Peterborough’s leadership over the years creating smoke-free spaces is an important part of public health’s success lowering tobacco use rates overall, so we’re pleased to see this latest provincial effort to protect the health of all residents.”
While today’s legislation makes it easier to enforce smoke-free places, Public Health pointed out that further regulation is needed to control the safety of e-cigarette products. Currently there is no oversight governing how much nicotine or other chemicals are loaded into e-cigarette vials, causing poisoning in children in other parts of North America. Health units across the province have called for more legislation to address the growing concern of exposure to e-cigarette vapours containing nicotine and other chemicals.
In addition to its plans to restrict the use of e-cigarettes, the Ontario government also announced proposed changes that would make tobacco products less tempting by banning flavoured tobacco, including menthol. These changes are part of the province’s efforts to have the lowest smoking rate in Canada.
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For further information, please contact:
Donna Churipuy
Manager, Environmental Health Programs
(705) 743-1000, ext. 218
November 24, 2014 – Online Donations for Healthy Students, a Perfect Holiday Gift for Teachers
Looking for an extra special way to celebrate your child’s teachers this holiday season? Make an easy, online donation to Food For Kids at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/ffk on December 2 to support your school’s breakfast club.
After Black Friday and Cyber Monday comes “Giving Tuesday”, a global day for giving back. “Giving to your local breakfast programs this holiday season in lieu of gifts is a great way to make a positive difference in Peterborough City and County—it’s a gift that gives more! A $30 donation provides a school with 40 pounds of locally grown food,” said Luisa Magalhaes, Public Health Nutritionist. “Donations are the backbone of Food For Kids’ student nutrition programs across the city and county, so we’re inviting families and community members to make a donation online that recognizes someone special while helping our students be well-nourished and ready to learn.” Food For Kids Peterborough and County is a non-profit community partnership that has supported breakfast programs in local schools for over 20 years.
Donations made to Food For Kids can be directed to specific school programs. Donors are able to include a message in the comment box, including a teacher’s name and school, and Food For Kids will send a thank-you card to the teacher on their behalf. To make a donation, visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/ffk, click on “Donate Now” and select “Food For Kids”. Tax receipts are available.
In the 2013/2014 school year, Food For Kids ensured that 17,434 students had access to breakfast programs in 47 schools throughout Peterborough City and County. A total of 1,037 volunteers contributed an average of 903 hours each week to prepare and serve the meals for the students. Over 160 generous local partners donated food, supplies, funds, time and space – truly a remarkable community-wide effort to give local students a healthy start to their day so that they can perform their best.
Ms. Magalhaes noted that kids come to school hungry for many reasons, such as long bus rides, rushed mornings, or lack of food at home. Your local school program welcomes donations of food items such as bags of apples, cheese strings, and yogurt tubes throughout the school year.
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For further information, please contact:
Luisa Magalhaes, MHSc, RD
Public Health Nutritionist
(705) 743-1000, ext. 233
November 19, 2014 – For many smokers the cost of nicotine replacement products can be a barrier to quitting. The STOP (Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients) Program workshop offers eligible participants in Peterborough five weeks of cost-free nicotine replacement therapy and smoking cessation information to help them in their quit attempt.
Nicotine replacement therapy has been shown to effectively help people quit smoking by easing withdrawal symptoms. Workshop participants also receive educational material with quit smoking and relapse prevention strategies, along with information to address other unhealthy lifestyle factors that are known to accompany smoking.
STOP workshops will be held in Peterborough on Tuesday, December 2, 2014. For more information, to see if you are eligible to participate and to register for the workshop(s) call Peterborough Public Health at (705) 743-1000.
The STOP Program is led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), and is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care as part of its Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy.
CAMH is Canada’s leading addiction and mental health teaching hospital. Integrating clinical care, scientific research, education, policy development and health promotion, CAMH transforms the lives of people impacted by mental health and addiction issues.
For more information contact: Michael Torres, CAMH Media Relations, at (416) 595-6015.
Mary Pat Fasken, Peterborough Public Health, at (705) 743-1000 ext. 217
Background: The STOP Program
Introduced in 2005 through a partnership between the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and the former Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport, the STOP Program has already provided smoking cessation medication, free of charge, along with behavioural support to an unprecedented 90,000 Ontarians.
Questionnaires administered pre- and post-treatment will help STOP Program researchers learn more about the long-term impact of providing nicotine replacement therapy and other smoking cessation aids free of charge to smokers across Ontario. To date, results for STOP participants have shown an improvement of at least two times the typical quit rates.
November 18, 2014 – Free Orange Juice Given to Local Student Nutrition Programs Since 1996
Minute Maid staff were on hand this morning at St. John’s school serving food to students at the breakfast program. The special event recognized Minute Maid, not only a proud supporter of Breakfast Clubs of Canada across Ontario since 2003, but also one of the area’s longest-standing donors to local student nutrition programs, helping our programs in Peterborough and County since 1996.
“For the past 18 years, Minute Maid has been a valuable sponsor to our programs,” said Chris McCarthy, Student Nutrition Program Coordinator with Food for Kids Peterborough and County. “Minute Maid’s ongoing generous donation of juice contributes cost savings to our programs, and provides healthy food choices for our students.” All 48 local schools who run breakfast programs are invited to pick-up a free case of orange juice every month; from January until June of this year, the donation valued $4,620.
Minute Maid is one of over 160 local generous community donors who support Food For Kids programs with financial and in-kind donations. Student nutrition (breakfast) programs are open to all students accessing healthy breakfasts and snacks, allowing them to attend school well-nourished and ready to learn. In the 2013-2014 school year, 17, 434 students enjoyed almost 2.2 million meals locally through Food For Kids breakfast programs. Food For Kids is grateful to all who donate food, funding, supplies, space and volunteer time to make our programs a success!
Programs are partially funded by the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services, Breakfast Clubs of Canada, and Breakfast for Learning through the Peterborough Family Resource Centre, as well as from generous donations from the community.
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For further information, please contact:
Luisa Magalhaes, MHSc, RD Chris McCarthy
Public Health Nutritionist Student Nutrition Program Coordinator
Peterborough Public Health Food For Kids Peterborough and County
705-743-1000, ext. 233 cmccarthy.snp@live.com
November 14, 2014 – To view the meeting summary from the November 12 meeting of the Board of Health please click the image below:
