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Nurse-Family Partnership Presentation 

Krista Ward, Manager, Child Health Services, delivered a presentation on the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP), a collaborative project of Peterborough Public Health and Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPRDHU). The NFP is an evidence-based, home visiting program for young, first-time mothers experiencing social or economic disadvantage. The program pairs mothers with a Public Health Nurse in the early stages of their pregnancy through to their child’s second birthday. Visits are spread over this two-year period, with 14 visits during pregnancy, 28 during infancy, and 28 during toddlerhood. The core goals of the NFP are to improve pregnancy outcomes, enhance child health and development, and increase parents’ economic self-sufficiency. Evidence has found that NFP significantly reduces risk of preterm deliveries, childhood language delays, behavioural and intellectual problems, and child abuse and neglect. The program is open to individuals 24 years of age or younger who reside in the PPH and HKPRDHU service areas and are expecting their first child. Eligible participants must also have limited support and resources and enroll in the program by the 28th week of their pregnancy. As of October, 4 participants have enrolled in the program since the program launched in September. 

Health Care Worker Influenza Immunization 2022-2023 

The Board of Health received a staff report from the Immunization Program detailing influenza vaccination coverage rates for local health care settings, including Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) and long-term care homes (LTCH). According to the report, there were 601 lab-confirmed influenza cases in the 2022-2023 surveillance season and 8 outbreaks. A significant decline in immunization rates was observed in 2022-2023 compared to the previous year. Specifically, in 2022-2023, 69.21% of PRHC staff and 64.8% of LTCH staff received influenza immunizations, compared to 69% and 89.3% the previous year. These declines may be attributable to immunization fatigue and low rates of influenza circulating in the region in 2021-2022, which may have influenced staff decisions to not pursue immunization. Low rates of immunization in the LTCH sector were exacerbated by health human resource challenges observed during the pandemic, including loss of staff during the influenza surveillance season.

Drug Poisoning Update   

Jocelyn Qualtrough, Health Promoter and Carolyn Doris, Manager with the Family and Community Health team delivered an update on the local drug poisoning crisis. Qualtrough noted that Peterborough is experiencing harms at comparable levels to the province and Canada. Despite these challenges, Doris stated that while Peterborough has moved progressively and effectively to introduce new programs, services and supports in response to escalating drug-related harms, a systems-based approach led by all level of government is required to achieve meaningful reductions at the local level. This must in turn include a continuum of services and supports geared towards reducing and preventing the risk factors that contribute to substance use, such as childhood abuse and neglect, trauma, and other Social Determinants of Health.  

Qualtrough also explained that inhalation drug use continues to outpace other modes of use in the community and remains a significant driver of drug-related deaths and harms in the region. According to a local survey of people who use drugs conducted in July 2023, 96% (n=62) of survey respondents said they would use the Consumption and Treatment Services site to inhale drugs, if this was available. The majority of respondents (58%) noted that they would use this service over 4 times per day, while 57% percent indicated that inhalation was their preferred method of consuming drugs, compared to only 15.7% who selected injection. This survey data supplements the finding of a previous analysis that found local demand for safer inhalation equipment in the PPH region was 6 times greater than the demand for injection equipment. Despite these findings and ongoing advocacy by PPH and others, the province continues to block expansion of the CTS program to support delivery of safer inhalation services.  Additionally, the Ontario government announced in early October, the pausing of additional CTS approvals as a review of services is conducted. 

Doris and Qualtrough concluded by drawing attention to the need for community safety for all local residents, emphasizing that criminalization of those most impacted by the Social Determinants of Health is not an appropriate response to the current situation. PPH has a pivotal role to play in providing leadership related to prevention, as well as ensuring effective collaboration and a systems-level response through the Peterborough Drug Strategy. 

Audio Access for Media and Members of the Public Will be Available

Media and the community are advised that the next Board of Health meeting will take place in-person on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

This meeting is open via teleconference line to the community and members of the media. The public can access live audio during the meeting via teleconference line.

To access the board package and teleconference information, please visit: https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/about-us/meetings/.

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

SPIKEVAX XBB.1.5 Vaccine Will be Available to Residents 6 Months and Older

The Ministry of Health has released guidance for Fall COVID-19 vaccines. In the coming weeks, Moderna’s updated SPIKEVAX XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine will be available for all residents 6 months of age and older. This vaccine, which better protects again the new Omicron XBB variant, can be received by those who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine and those who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine within the last 6 months (168 days). Individuals who have been previously vaccinated but have had a COVID-19 infection recently are asked to wait 6 months after the infection, and at least 6 months after the last COVID-19 vaccine dose, to receive their fall dose.

 

“At this time, sub lineages of the XBB COVID-19 strain are circulating in the country with predictions that it will become the dominant strain this season. This means that the new XBB vaccine should provide an important update to people’s current protection, even if they have previously had booster doses including the bivalent vaccine,” says Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health. “Those who are at higher risk for complications related to a COVID-19 infection are strongly advised to receive a booster dose with the XBB.1.5 formulation”

Immunization Eligibility

Eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine will align with eligibility for the Influenza vaccine.

First eligible group:

  • Hospitalized individuals and hospital staff
  • Long-Term Care Home and Elder Care Lodge residents, staff, and caregivers

Next eligible group:

  • Individuals at high-risk for influenza and/or COVID-19 related complications or hospitalization:
    • Residents and staff of congregate living settings (e.g., chronic care facilities, retirement homes)
    • Pregnant individuals
    • Individuals ? 65 years of age
    • All children 6 months to 4 years of age [influenza risk]
    • Individuals who are from a First Nation, Inuit or Métis community, and/or who self-identify as First Nation, Inuit, or Métis, and their household members
    • Individuals 6 months of age and older with underlying health conditions per NACI (Influenza & COVID-19)
    • Members of racialized and other equity deserving communities
  • Health care workers and first responders

Final eligible group:

  • Administration for the general public will begin as soon as supply permits.

While data has shown that the XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine will provide a stronger immune response and greater protection this fall, individuals who wish to receive the bivalent BA.4/5 sooner should speak with their health care provider or local pharmacist who is administering the COVID-19 vaccine.

Throughout October and November, Peterborough Public Health will be holding community COVID-19 immunization clinics across the county and at our office. Residents who are eligible can book an appointment through the provincial vaccine booking centre call line at 1-833-943-3900 or online at COVID?19 vaccines | ontario.ca.  Some PPH immunization clinics will be offering COVID-19 vaccines and Influenza vaccines. Additional information will be available on the provincial vaccine booking centre website. Many local pharmacies will be offering both COVID-19 and influenza vaccines this season. Please confirm with the pharmacy what vaccine types they have available. To find a participating pharmacy, residents can visit https://www.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations/

Pfizer XBB and Novavax XBB COVID 19 vaccines are still awaiting approval from Health Canada and are therefore not available at this time.

Join Dr. Piggott on Thursday, September 28 at 5:00 p.m. on Instagram LIVE (@ptbopublichealth) to learn more and ask questions about the upcoming respiratory season, and the COVID-19 and Influenza vaccines.

For more information about COVID-19, vaccine eligibility, and clinic availability, visit https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/novel-coronavirus-covid-19/ 

To receive weekly updates of the COVID-19 and Respiratory Virus Risk Index, sign up at https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/covid-19-risk-index/

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Media Relations

Media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca

Presentation: 2023-24 Respiratory Season Update 

Gillian Pacey, Infectious Diseases Manager, and Carolyn Pigeau, Epidemiologist, delivered a presentation outlining local data and anticipated trends heading in to the 2023-2024 respiratory virus season. Local data shows that outbreaks of COVID and other respiratory viruses have remained steady over the summer despite typical seasonal declines. Pacey also shared that the number of outbreaks appear to be trending higher in 2023 compared to previous years. As of September 13, PPH is currently responding to 3 active outbreaks in the community.  

Pacey outlined efforts to prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season. During the summer, PPH and community partners completed outbreak and surge management planning to ensure readiness and a robust response should there be a sudden increase in cases locally. This effort is complemented by an internal respiratory virus surge plan to ensure adequate resources are in place in the event of a sudden increase in outbreaks locally.  

With respect to vaccination, Pacey noted that approximately 78% of residents aged 70 years and older will be eligible for booster doses. As in previous years, eligibility for the new XBB vaccine will follow a phased roll-out, beginning with the highest risk populations in September and October, before opening to the general population in November and December. Once available, residents can access the updated COVID vaccine formulation from 28 local pharmacies, at PPH-led mobile or pop-up clinics, or at the PPH office through our Routine Immunization Clinic. Influenza vaccinations can also be accessed from 43 local pharmacies, at PPH for children under 2 years of age and their families that do not have a health care provider, or through a primary care provider. Residents may continue to visit PPH’s COVID-19 and Respiratory Virus Index for weekly updates to risk levels and relevant data based on local data.  

Stewardship Report: 2024 Budget Considerations II 

Mayor Matthew Graham reviewed the proceedings of the Stewardship Committee’s August 31 meeting, where 2024 Budget Planning scenarios were discussed. To guide approval of the final budget at the end of October, the committee directed staff to complete a prioritization exercise focusing on the unfunded areas of the Ontario Public Health Standards where PPH is currently non-compliant due to chronic and outstanding budget limitations.  

First Case of COVID-19 BA 2.86 Variant Confirmed in Region

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) COVID-19 Risk Index moves to moderate risk due to increase in case rates, outbreaks, and wastewater signal. The Respiratory Risk Index remains at low risk for community members in our region.

“The increase in COVID-19 indicators is a clear sign that transmission of COVID-19 is increasing in our region,” says Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health. “With students in schools and more people gathering indoors, there are more opportunities for close contact and we anticipate COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses will continue to circulate in our community.”

Dr. Piggott adds “This week we received confirmation of our first COVID-19 case with the BA 2.86 variant in the region. Other reports of this variant do not indicate an increase in the severity of symptoms compared to other COVID-19 strains. However, this variant does show signs of high transmissibility. There are also early reports of this variant being able to escape the protection that previous COVID-19 vaccines provide. Fortunately, the new COVID-19 XBB vaccine shows promising results in protecting against this strain.” The team at PPH is working hard to plan for the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines in the coming weeks to help protect residents in our community. More information on the availability of the COVID-19 and Influenza vaccines should be available shortly.

In the moderate risk level, we recommend wearing a well-fitted KN95/N95 style mask in high-risk indoor settings, gathering outdoors, or in spaces with proper ventilation. In general, all residents who feel unwell should stay home to prevent further spread of infection and practice respiratory etiquette. These protections are not only lifesaving for individuals at high risk of severe illness, but the overall health of our community.

Peterborough Public Health has also introduced a weekly alert system to help residents stay up-to-date with the COVID-19 and Respiratory Risk Index updates. Starting today, residents who sign up for the alerts will be able to receive the updated COVID-19 and Respiratory Risk Index to their email inbox weekly, which will be important information as we progress through the fall. To bookmark the Index or sign up for alerts, please visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/covid-risk-index.

The COVID-19 and Respiratory Virus Risk index will be updated on the webpage today by 5 p.m.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Media Relations

Media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca

Audio Access for Media and Members of the Public Will be Available 

Media and the community are advised that the next Board of Health meeting will take place in-person on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. Closed session will commence at 5:30 p.m. Open session is expected to start between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.  

This meeting is open via teleconference line to the community and members of the media. The public can access live audio during the meeting via teleconference line. 

To access the board package and teleconference information, please visit: https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/about-us/meetings/. 

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

Residents Reminded to Protect Themselves from Mosquito Bites

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites following a positive horse case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) in the Peterborough region, last week. This is the first equine case in our region and the sixth confirmed in Ontario this year.

EEEV is transmitted to horses through mosquito bites. Like West Nile Virus, EEEV can also be transmitted to humans through mosquitoes carrying the virus. It is important to note that humans cannot acquire the virus from horses or other humans, it is only the bite of an infected mosquito that can transmit the disease to humans. While human infection of EEEV is extremely rare, the symptoms can be severe and life threatening. The best way to prevent an infection of EEEV is to prevent mosquito bites.

Preventing Mosquito Bites:

  • Wear long sleeved, light coloured clothing, or special clothing (e.g., clothing treated with permethrin) designed to protect you from bugs
  • Use mesh screens and close routes of entry (e.g. windows, doors) to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home
  • Stay indoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET or icardin
  • Remove sources of stagnant/standing water from your property to prevent mosquito breeding

Learn more about EEEV and preventing mosquito bites at https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/your-health/insects-rodents-other-pests/eastern-equine-encephalitis-virus-eeev/

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For further information, please contact:

Media Relations
Media@peterboroughpublichealth.ca

Today Peterborough Public Health is issuing the second Heat Warning of the season. A heat event began on Monday and is expected to last until Thursday, September 7. Daytime temperatures could reach between 29 – 34  ?C on Tuesday and Wednesday with a humidex expected near forty on both days. Slightly cooler temperatures are expected overnight.

While extreme heat can put everyone at risk, health risks are greatest for people experiencing homelessness, older adults, infants and young children, those taking certain medications or with certain conditions such as respiratory, cardiac and psychiatric conditions, and outdoor workers. Peterborough Public Health encourages all stakeholders and service providers to advise at-risk clients of the heat warning and precautions they can take to prevent and manage heat-related illness. If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your healthcare provider if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.

Community Services:

One Roof Community Centre will extend its hours of service on Tuesday and Wednesday this week and will be open 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. One Roof Community Centre provides services on behalf of the City of Peterborough and is located at 99 Brock Street.  For full description of meals and other services that One Roof provides, please visit its website at www.oneroofptbo.ca.

Peterborough Public Health continues beach water testing at the two beaches located within the City of Peterborough. Results of beach testing are regularly updated at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.  The City of Peterborough has also extended the operating season for splash pads to September 11, 2023.

Outdoor water bottle filling stations are available at City facilities in the following locations:

  • Quaker Foods City Square, 215 Charlotte St.
  • Eastgate Park, 2150 Ashburnham Dr.
  • Peterborough Marina, 92 George St. N.

Members of the public are also able to refill a water bottle inside the following City facilities during hours of operation:

  • Peterborough Public Library, 345 Aylmer St.
  • Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, 775 Brealey Dr.
  • Healthy Planet Arena, 911 Monaghan Rd.
  • Kinsmen Civic Centre, 1 Kinsmen Way

Health Risks:

People suffer heat-related illnesses when their body temperature quickly rises, and they are unable to cool themselves. The risk of heat-related illness increases with the amount of time spent in the heat, the temperature and an individual’s sensitivity to heat. If you feel faint, find it hard to breathe, or feel confused and disoriented because of the heat, call 911 or go to the Emergency Department.

Heat illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet, and ankles), heat rash, and heat cramps. Watch for symptoms of heat illness, which may include:

  • heavy sweating;
  • muscle cramps and/or headache;
  • weakness, dizziness, or fainting;
  • nausea or vomiting;
  • paleness, tiredness;
  • rapid breathing and heartbeat;
  • extreme thirst; or
  • decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.

If you experience any of these, you should immediately move to a cool place and drink water.

How to Protect Yourself During Hot Weather:

  • Drink lots of water even if you don’t feel very thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.
  • Avoid going out in the direct sun or heat when possible. If you go outside, rest frequently in green spaces with lots of shade and plan to go out early in the morning or in the evening when it is cooler.
  • Use an air conditioner if possible, and if you don’t have air conditioning, keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows slightly open.
  • Wear loose fitting, light clothing and a wide brimmed hat.
  • Keep lights off or turned down low.
  • Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cold, wet towels.
  • Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
  • Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.

Extreme heat is often accompanied by poor air quality.  Peterborough Public Health encourages you to monitor the Air Quality Health Index found as a link on the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation & Park’s website www.airqualityontario.com and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

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

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) Reminds Residents to Regularly Check Risk Index

The risk for COVID-19 transmission has moved up to MODERATE after a summer of low risk in the Peterborough region. The current transmission risk of other respiratory viruses is LOW.

“We are seeing an increase in local COVID-19 indicators, including percent positivity of PCR tests and wastewater signal,” says Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health. “A continued increase in respiratory virus activity is anticipated headed into the fall. We are asking the community, especially those who may be at an increased risk for severe symptoms, to review the COVID-19 and Respiratory Virus Risk Index weekly. The Risk Index is intended to provide residents with an understanding of their current risk for infection and guidance on staying safe this season.”

Dr. Piggott adds, “As new variants continue to emerge globally, like BA.2.86, it is important to remember that guidance for prevention of COVID-19 infections remain the same. PPH continues to monitor dominant strains of COVID-19 in the community and will keep the community updated if there are any emerging variants of concern.”

Donna Churipuy, Director of Health Protection explains, “The community can expect guidance on fall vaccines, including COVID-19 and influenza vaccines, to come shortly. Peak circulation of both COVID-19 and influenza is expected in the fall during respiratory virus season. Receiving both vaccinations will provide maximum protection against these viruses.”

To protect yourself against respiratory infections at the moderate risk level, we recommend wearing a well-fitted KN95/N95 style mask in high-risk indoor settings, gathering outdoors, or in spaces with proper ventilation. In general, all residents who feel unwell should stay home to prevent further spread of infection and practice respiratory etiquette. These protections are not only lifesaving for individuals at high risk of severe illness, but the overall health of our community.

Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are available for self-serve pick-up at our Client Services Desk, located on the 3rd floor of our office at 185 King Street, while supplies last.

For flu and COVID-19 vaccine information, visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/clinics-and-classes/immunization-clinics/

The COVID-19 and Respiratory Virus Risk Index is updated weekly on Wednesdays by 5:00 p.m. and can be found on our website at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/covid-risk-index.

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

Local partners call for more action to change course on the drug poisoning crisis  

Today, Peterborough Drug Strategy partners called for more action to address the opioid crisis.

Between January 1 and July 31, 2023, Peterborough paramedics responded to 182 suspected opioid-related 911 calls, and drugs were responsible for 232 emergency department visits. Sadly, already this year 43 people are suspected to have died as a result of drug poisonings.

The opioid crisis is an urgent issue, that is seen beyond the County and City of Peterborough. It is a nationwide crisis, a continent-wide crisis. It is complex, and more than one program or solution is needed to help prevent further harms. Sufficient resources need to be made available to implement robust prevention, harm reduction, and treatment in the continuum of care. While the community of Peterborough and the Peterborough Drug Strategy partners are making a positive impact through collaboration and action, all levels of government have a critical and urgent role to play in ending the drug poisoning crisis.

This call to action comes the week of International Overdose Awareness Day. Held annually on August 31, this day honours the lives lost to drug use, the family and friends grieving the loss of a loved one; workers in healthcare and support services extending strength and compassion; or spontaneous first responders who selflessly assume the role of lifesaver, and recognizes the importance of eliminating the stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs. In Peterborough, this event has held increased significance in recent years due to the devastating impact of overdose on individuals, families, and the community as a whole.

On August 31, Moms Stop the Harm Peterborough will host a memorial event at Millennium Park from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event will feature stories from family members who have lost loved ones, as well as information about substance use, overdose prevention, and harm reduction training.?In the lead-up to August 31, community partners will be hosting flag raisings, and harm reduction and naloxone distribution pop-ups throughout the City of Peterborough. These pop-ups can be found at the following locations:

Flag Raising – Peterborough City Hall
Thursday, August 24, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m.

Peterborough Public Library
Friday, August 25, 2023 @ 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Tuesday, August 29, 2023 @ 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Peterborough Square
Monday, August 28, 2023 @ 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Peterborough Public Health, 185 King Street
Wednesday, August 30 @ 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

For more information about the data cited in this news release, please visit here.

Quotes:

“International Overdose Awareness Day is a day of reflection and remembrance. Each year we have the opportunity to honour those who have lost their lives to the drug-poisoning crisis. My heart goes out to those who have been impacted by the loss of loved ones, and those who have responded to the drug poisoning crisis. Each year we have the opportunity to reflect on our support systems and services and commit to building a better community to support people who use drugs and their loved ones. On August 31st, we will grieve those that we have lost, and renew our vow to demand better drug policies that are based in health equity and human rights.” – Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health, Peterborough Public Health.

“The ongoing drug poisoning crisis has ripped a hole through our community. Despite the impassioned, compassionate, and pragmatic response by those who love, support, and serve people who use drugs, these efforts have clearly demonstrated that they are not enough. The drug supply is toxic, unregulated, and unpredictable.? Social perception and criminalization of those who use drugs only further contributes to the lives lost every day. Overwhelming evidence supports the value of harm reduction, which includes access to safe spaces, decriminalization, and regulation of the drug supply. On this day, we demand an end to preventable death by updating outdated drug policies. We cannot afford to stand silently by.? The time to act is now. ?We remember those we have lost with heavy hearts, and we join together to shout for change.” – Carolyn King, Safer Supply Program Manager, Peterborough 360 Degree Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic

“FourCAST has been operating the CTS site for 14 months, our experience in those months gives us a unique perspective on the struggles of opiate addiction in our community. The need for more supports and strategies is apparent. Our staff see tragedy on a daily basis and understand that meaningful solutions must be comprehensive and compassionate.?For many people, International Overdose Awareness Day can be difficult. Please know you are not alone. Today, we mourn together.” –  Donna Rogers, Executive Director, FourCAST.

“We continue to see and hear from those directly impacted by drug poisoning and the mounting health and social harms due to this crisis in our community. The truth is that we are failing to meet the needs of the community in addressing this crisis and the factors that have helped us arrive here; lack of available affordable housing, inequitable access to mental health supports, and pervasive stigma that continue to put the lives of our community at risk. This is a complex issue that requires a spectrum of care opportunities and approaches to be properly addressed. It is so important that while addressing these harms those with lived and living experience are included in the conversation, at the table, and in executing any action plans. We need to work smarter and more collaboratively across all levels of government to ensure success. Change starts with you and me. We all have a role to play in ending this crisis in and for our community, and our community includes people who use drugs.” – Aizha Pollock, Manager of Harm Reduction Services, Peterborough AIDS Resource Network.

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

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