Huron Perth Public Health

Join our team! We currently have openings for a Community Developer, Parent Resource Visitor, Student Facilities Staff (2 positions) & a Nurse Practitioner. Closing dates vary. See postings for complete job descriptions/requirements/application process: www.hpph.ca/careers

Thank you for your continued patience & support, Huron Perth! Yes, we know you’re anxious to receive the #COVID19Vaccine & waiting’s frustrating. Please know that there will be enough vaccine for all who want to get vaccinated. See Dr. Klassen’s recent statement about the vaccine program in Huron Perth: bit.ly/3a9akk0.

DYK? #WellnessTogetherCanada offers free & confidential online mental health & substance use supports including counselling, 24/7. These now include great new features like self-analysis! Track your wellness journey at: https://wellnesstogether.ca/en-CA

Based on the latest information from the province about vaccine supply, all available appointments for vaccinations in Huron Perth have been booked & our booking system has been temporarily closed. We will open more clinic appointments as supply becomes available. Currently, scheduled appointments are not impacted by this change. See full news release for details: bit.ly/32dhgIw.

Thanks to this mild weather it's more desirable to get out & get active. Remember to stay within your community; maintain a distance from those outside your household (when you can't, wear a face covering) and wash/sanitize your hands often.

/mask/ Noun 1. A face covering well-designed & fitted to one’s face, covering both the nose & the mouth to help prevent the spread of infectious respiratory droplets. 2. One method to help keep the transmission of #COVID19 down. 3. Used to protect and respect others.

Ready for the first day of your smoke-free life, with a chance to win a $500 reward? Join the #FirstWeekChallenge today! Register today to be smoke-free for the first seven days of 2021 at: www.firstweekchallengecontest.ca #BeAQuitter #NewYearNewYou

Winter weather can be unpredictable but some extra caution when driving can help you stay safe. Slow down & stay in control. Remember to give some space between you & other vehicles as it takes longer to stop on slippery roads. For more tips visit: Ontario.ca/winterdriving

COVID doesn't care if you've known someone for 20 years. COVID doesn't care if you met them recently. COVID doesn't care if you trust them. COVID doesn't care.... But we care. So be wise. Follow public health guidelines. Do it for yourself, your family & our community. Huron Perth is stronger than COVID.

Great news! Our website is now back up and running. We thank you for your patience. And, don't forget to visit www.hpph.ca/coronavirus to find current statistics and information.

Twelve new cases [Bluewater (1) | Central Huron (1)| Howick (1) | North Huron (1) | South Huron (2) | North Perth (4) | Perth East (1) & Perth South (1)] added today for total of 96 active cases in Huron Perth. Update includes info on area outbreaks & preparations for distribution of vaccine when it arrives. See full update for details: https://bit.ly/35kWuJ5

We're reporting 7 new active #COVID19 cases added today [North Huron (1) | South Huron (1) | North Perth (2) | Perth South (2) | Stratford (1)]. There are currently 87 active cases in Huron Perth, with 6 active outbreaks in Long-term Care & Retirement Homes, plus 1 hospital outbreak. See full details including vaccine update: https://bit.ly/3mXvLbE

Our website is currently down and unavailable. We are working to get the situation resolved. Good news is that you can still reach us by phone or email.

Today is #WorldChildrensDay! Hats off to the children & youth of Huron & Perth counties who have helped develop the Huron & Perth Charter of Rights of Children & Youth. Your voice is being heard across our community.

What's made of ice, forms at the edge of a roof and prevents snow from draining? It's not a riddle, it's an ice dam - and it COULD cause some serious dam-age! Check your roof throughout the winter for ice dams and gently clear them away. Get more tips to stay #FloodReady at: Canada.ca/Flood-ready

We are reporting 71 active cases of #COVID19 in Huron Perth region, with 17 new confirmed cases having been added today. Full PSA includes update on area outbreaks & vaccine planning: https://bit.ly/3oYtGxt

A COVID-19 update for Huron-Perth for Monday, December 28, 2020, can be found here: http://ow.ly/4GTM50CVBpg

It's no surprise. Influenza ("the flu") has arrived in Huron Perth. Currently there are a small number of cases of influenza, which typically circulates from Nov. to April. To protect against the flu & stop the spread in our community, we advise all residents to: get the flu shot, wash hands thoroughly & frequently, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, keep surfaces & items disinfected, stay home if you are sick & continue to practice #COVID19 precautions. See details: https://bit.ly/2HnODSm

Protect your loved ones who are at risk of more severe illness or outcomes from #COVID19 by celebrating the season with lower-risk, physically distanced holiday activities. Consider a holiday lights tour with your household, no-contact outdoor sports, & doorstep gift exchanges. See more: www.hpph.ca/holidays

Today is the #TransDayofRemembrance. A time to pause & commemorate the trans, two-spirit and non-binary people who have lost their lives to transphobic violence.

Yes 2020 has been a tough year. Feelings of stress, sadness & anger can impact your mental well-being. Learn about the #MentalHealth & addictions supports available to you & your loved ones, & how to get help when you need it at: ontario.ca/mentalhealth

During the November 19 media briefing, Dr. Klassen reported that the #COVID19 outbreak at Knollcrest Lodge in Milverton has been declared over. In the update on Cedarcroft, it was noted that HPPH is saddened to learn that another resident has passed away. Additional updates were provided. See complete notes for details: https://bit.ly/35KD3tD

It's time to break up your sitting time now! Canadian adults need to sit less and move more throughout the whole day. So, take a stand against sedentary behaviour. #LessSittingIsBetter

Bullying is never okay & shouldn't be considered "just part of growing up." Children who are victimized may bully other children, with bullying taking many forms (physical, verbal, social, written or cyberbullying). We can all help stop bullying. Learn more: ontario.ca/page/bullying-we-can-all-help-stop-it #BullyingAwarenessWeek

Are you expecting? We offer FREE online prenatal classes so you can learn in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace, using any device. Learn more or register at: www.hpph.ca/prenatalclasses

Food Recall Warning: Loblaw Companies Limited is recalling PC Blue Menu brand Artichocke & Asiago Dip due to undeclared egg. People with an allergy to egg should not consume. Learn more: https://bit.ly/2RNhK2R

We know that last week was hectic, getting back into a routine, and getting the kids back to school. If your child was in Grade 7 (2019/20 class) they may have missed receiving their 2nd does of Hepatitis B & HPV vaccines. That 2nd dose is needed for full protection. Last chance vaccination catch-up clinics are being held in Huron & Perth counties. Appointments are required. Booking now: bit.ly/3i56yd8

Don't forget to sign up your child NOW for kindergarten next fall! Visit your school board's website for online registration details if your child will be 3 or 4 yrs old by December 31, 2020.

Parents, caregivers & teachers can stay informed about #COVID19 cases in schools & child care centres with Ontario's new data webpage, updated Mon-Fri: https://bit.ly/32JAvdX

UPDATED Food Recall Warning: Certain Compliments brand & Levitts brand deli meat recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes has been expanded with additional best before dates added. Consumers should not consume the recalled products listed in updated recall notice: https://bit.ly/37pfWFZ

Heading to the grocery store? Dont forget your mask! Find more tips to keep you safe from #COVID19 while grocery shopping & bringing your groceries home: bit.ly/3jHJf9U

Starting today, Ontario has reduced the number of people allowed at unmonitored or private social gatherings. Unsure what an unmonitored or private social gathering is? They include: functions, parties, dinners, gatherings, BBQs or wedding receptions held in private residences, backyards, parks and other recreational areas. Read more: https://bit.ly/3hFVz9q

Wearing your mask, avoiding in-person gatherings, washing your hands, & #PhysicalDistancing have become part of everyday life. Taking these simple but important precautions today will get us closer to a tomorrow where we can be together in person. #StopTheSpread of #COVID19.

#PhysicalDistanding doesn't mean you can't socialize with your friends! Right now, during this week before Christmas, if you haven't heard from someone in a while, we're sure they would appreciate to hear from you. Organize a video chat or phone call. It's important to remember that everyone handles stress, especially #COVID19 related stress, differently. Take the time to let your friends & loved ones know that you're thinking about them.

Worried about what "close contact" in a school setting means? This is a phenomenal explanation of a close contact in a school setting from our colleagues at Toronto Public Health!

Heading to the grocery store? Don't forget your mask! Find more tips to keep you safe from #COVID19 while grocery shopping & bringing your groceries home: bit.ly/3jHJf9U

Help limit the spread of #COVID19. Download the COVID Alert app. The app will notify you if youve recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Visit Ontario.ca/covidalert to learn more or to download the app. #ProtectYouProtectMe & our community!

Winter is coming! Make sure your car is winter-ready: Get a maintenance checkup | Keep your fuel tank at least half full | Pack an ice-scraper & washer fluid for down to -40 degress Celsius | Put together a winter survival kit. For more tips see: Ontario.ca/winterdriving

#COVIDlife hasnt been easy. We all want to return to they way things were and have a bit of fun; but while #COVID19 is still with us, taking precautions & making safer choices are the way to go. When you put yourself at risk, you put the people you care for at risk too! Be #COVIDSmart & be #COVIDSafe.

Huron Perth has 54 active #COVID19 cases; 27 being added since Saturday's report. Update on area outbreaks & COVID-19 vaccine. See full update: https://bit.ly/37jFJzk

Are your kids going to school tomorrow morning? Get up. Get dressed. Make lunch. Use the daily Student Screening Tool before they head off to school: https://bit.ly/2Ru6CrB

Help limit the spread of #COVID19. Download the COVID Alert app. The app will notify you if you've recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Visit Ontario.ca/covidalert to learn more or to download the app. #ProtectYouProtectMe & our community!

#COVIDlife hasn't been easy. We all want to return to they way things were and have a bit of fun; but while #COVID19 is still with us, taking precautions & making safer choices are the way to go. When you put yourself at risk, you put the people you care for at risk too! Be #COVIDSmart & be #COVIDSafe.

Attention Parents & Guardians! Your child in Grade 7 (2019/20 class) may have missed their 2nd dose of Hepatitis B & HPV vaccines. A second dose of both is required for full protection. Our Last Chance immunization catch-up clinics are being held Sept. 30-Oct. 3 in Huron & Perth counties. Let's get your child up-to-date! We're booking now. Details: bit.ly/3i56yd8

Dont go down with the sun, take a stroll to wrap up your day! Stretching your legs & getting some fresh air before bed will help you sleep better. The Whole Day Matters! #LessSittingIsBetter

Yes, mornings are hectic! Between getting the kids ready for school, feeding the dog, and getting your turn in the shower you might forget something. PLEASE DON'T FORGET that you must screen your child for #COVID19 every day before they go to school to keep our community safe. https://bit.ly/2Ru6CrB

Don't go down with the sun, take a stroll to wrap up your day! Stretching your legs & getting some fresh air before bed will help you sleep better. The Whole Day Matters! #LessSittingIsBetter

Its back-to-school time for many families in Huron-Perth. Families can use our new Parent Screening Tool each morning when assessing your childs health: www.hpph.ca/school. Answer the questions and follow the instructions to determine whether your child can attend school. Lets all work together to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community

It's back-to-school time for many families in Huron-Perth. Families can use our new Parent Screening Tool each morning when assessing your child's health: www.hpph.ca/school. Answer the questions and follow the instructions to determine whether your child can attend school. Let's all work together to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community

The best way to prevent #WestNileVirus is to protect yourself from #mosquito bites. Apply insect repellent that has DEET or icaridin & follow instructions on the label. More tips: Ontario.ca/westnilevirus

Today is #WorldSuicidePreventionDay. By spreading the word that hope, help & healing are possible, we can work together to prevent suicide. Talking about suicide can provide relief & being a listener is the best intervention anyone can give. Learn how: https://bit.ly/32isIDz

Has your teen downloaded the COVID Alert app yet? Its a great way for them to get a notification if they (or their phone) have been exposed to someone testing positive for #COVID19! Its one more way to stay safe & #COVIDSmart! Learn more: Ontario.ca/covidalert

Has your teen downloaded the COVID Alert app yet? It's a great way for them to get a notification if they (or their phone) have been exposed to someone testing positive for #COVID19! It's one more way to stay safe & #COVIDSmart! Learn more: Ontario.ca/covidalert

Just a reminder that we are preparing for tomorrow's Facebook LIVE event with Dr. Miriam Klassen. Join us on Wednesday, September 9 at 4PM when Dr. Klassen will answer your questions & provide insights on #BackToSchool in Huron & Perth counties. Please post your questions in the comments below and we will try to answer as many as we can during our LIVE session on Wednesday.

Just a reminder that we are preparing for tomorrows Facebook LIVE event with Dr. Miriam Klassen. Join us on Wednesday, September 9 at 4PM when Dr. Klassen will answer your questions & provide insights on #BackToSchool in Huron & Perth counties. Please post your questions in the comments below and we will try to answer as many as we can during our LIVE session on Wednesday.

Reminder Perth County residents! Participate in an online survey to share your perceptions of community safety & well-being. Your input helps development of the CSWB Plan. Access survey at: https://surveymonkey.com/r/CSWBPsurvey

Don't let a small pest turn into a big problem. Shower or bathe within 2 hours of being outdoors to wash away loose ticks. Learn more: www.Ontario.ca/lyme

The results from the September 4th beach water resampling are back, and good news! The following beaches are safe to swim at and the no swim advisories have been removed: Ashfield Township Park beach, Port Albert beach, Goderich Main beach, Howard Street beach and Port Blake beach. Please note some sites may be closed to public due to #COVID19 restrictions. Have a wonderful and safe labour day weekend! For more information: www.hpph.ca/beachinfo

Are you spending the #LabourDay weekend outdoors? Protect your family from mosquitoes that may carry #WestNilevirus by using insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin. Learn more: www.ontario.ca/westnilevirus

Dont let a small pest turn into a big problem. Shower or bathe within 2 hours of being outdoors to wash away loose ticks. Learn more: www.Ontario.ca/lyme

It's true: Were down to 0 active cases in Huron & Perth! Also, we must continue to practice #PhysicalDistancing, wash our hands often, wear face coverings/masks in enclosed public spaces & stay home if feeling ill. Let's protect each other from #COVID19!

Making plans for the #LongWeekend? Check out this tool to help you choose low risk activities to protect yourself & your family from #COVID19: https://bit.ly/3lQ831x And, if you don't feel well, please stay home & get tested.

Its true: Were down to 0 active cases in Huron & Perth! Also, we must continue to practice #PhysicalDistancing, wash our hands often, wear face coverings/masks in enclosed public spaces & stay home if feeling ill. Lets protect each other from #COVID19!

Beach water testing results from the September 2, 2020 samples are back! Due to high bacteria levels, Ashfield Township park, Port Albert, Goderich-main, and Port Blake beaches are unsuitable for swimming. If planning to visit a public beach this weekend, please contact the municipality in which that beach is located as some sites may be closed to public due to #COVID19 restrictions.

We are preparing for our upcoming Facebook LIVE event with Dr. Miriam Klassen. Join us on Wednesday, September 9 at 4PM when Dr. Klassen will answer your questions & provide insights on heading #BackToSchool in Huron & Perth counties during #COVID19. Please post your questions in the comments below and we will try to answer as many as we can during our LIVE session next Wednesday.

We're hiring! HPPH is hiring a building maintenance position. The Maintenance Lead is responsible for overseeing the building, property, planning & maintenance of all HPPH buildings. Deadline to apply: Sept. 8, 2020. Details: www.hpph.ca/careers

Don't forget the snacks when getting ready to head #BackToSchool! Healthy snacks can help fuel your kids and support them throughout their day. These oat and pumpkin no-bake bites are sure to become a family favourite. See recipe: https://bit.ly/2DrwkK3

Has COVID-19 changed your life? As we are dealing with completely altered living conditions because of the pandemic, it is essential to understand how we are coping, today and in the coming months. Join thousands of Canadians in a research study on the impact of #COVID19 on our daily lives. Help shape our collective future. Join the COHESION study at http://etudecohesion.ca

Were hiring! HPPH is hiring a building maintenance position. The Maintenance Lead is responsible for overseeing the building, property, planning & maintenance of all HPPH buildings. Deadline to apply: Sept. 8, 2020. Details: www.hpph.ca/careers

Local family physician Dr. Sean Blaine of Star Family Health Team, in Stratford, offers some helpful advice about heading back to school.

You may have heard of "The Riddler", but have you heard of "The Wriggler"? It's the name for mosquito larva that live in standing water. To protect yourself from West Nile virus, dump standing water that you may find outside of your home. Make sure to cover rain barrels with a screen mesh.

Dont forget the snacks when getting ready to head #BackToSchool! Healthy snacks can help fuel your kids and support them throughout their day. These oat and pumpkin no-bake bites are sure to become a family favourite. See recipe: https://bit.ly/2DrwkK3

Outbreak UPDATE: Investigation of Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to onions imported from the U.S. continues. Onions grown in Canada are not associated with this outbreak. If you unsure where a red/yellow/white/sweet yellow onion was grown, do not eat it. See full update: https://bit.ly/3jAoSvA

The HEALab is still looking for teens age 13-19 to participate in their survey exploring the effects of #COVID19 & physical distancing on teen health-related habits and well-being. Take the survey at www.quaranteening.ca

Get the facts about masks. Non-medical masks should: allow for easy breathing fit securely to the head with ties or ear loops be comfortable and not require frequent adjustment For more information: https://bit.ly/34W3zAm

You may have heard of "The Riddler", but have you heard of "The Wriggler"? Its the name for mosquito larva that live in standing water. To protect yourself from West Nile virus, dump standing water that you may find outside of your home. Make sure to cover rain barrels with a screen mesh.

Just a reminder! Protect your pet. With rabies in the area, make sure your cat or dog is vaccinated for rabies & that their vaccinations are up-to-date. A low-cost rabies clinic is being held tomorrow (Sept. 2) at the St. Helens Community Hall for #HuronCounty pet owners. See details: https://bit.ly/3lBXO0L

You have the ability of making an act of simple kindness. Wearing your mask when #PhysicalDistancing is difficult & when in indoor public spaces helps protect those around you. #WearingIsCaring