Sexual Health At All Ages

This year’s campaign will discuss sexual health at different stages of life, from children to teens, to adults and seniors. We are complex individuals. This means knowing that from beginning to end, we are sexual beings in need of correct information about our sexual health. We all experience and express ourselves differently and sexual health is a very important part … Read More

Eye Health Issues and the Impact on Student Learning

2 boys smiling at a school desk

Please watch this eye opening video from the Ontario Association of Optometrists website. In this video four teachers with simulated vision troubles experience what it is like for students with these common issues to do school work. The teachers begin to understand and relate to the struggles children can have with eye health issues and the impact on student learning. … Read More

A Guide to Mould

Picture of mouldy tub with a rubber duck toy

What is mould?  Moulds are fungi, a group of organisms that also includes mushrooms and yeast. They are present everywhere in the natural environment. How does mould grow? Mould requires water or moisture and other nutrients to grow. Mould grows when materials remain wet or damp. How can mould affect you? Moulds may cause negative health effects; however, individuals can … Read More

Canning

Picture of pickled vegetables

Canning is a method of preserving food that prevents spoiling.  It uses heat and acid to help preserve food and keep it safe for us to eat. You can preserve all types of foods. Popular choices include: tomatoes jams jellies sauces fruits chutneys relishes pickles vegetables It is also possible to can meat, fish, poultry, milk and prepared foods like … Read More

Do your kids know what to do in an emergency?

When an emergency occurs it can be very stressful on everyone, especially when children are involved.  Here are a few things you can do when preparing your family for emergencies and after emergencies happen to help make it easier on you and your children. – Talk with your children about emergencies that occur in your community and how to prepare … Read More

BE PREPARED

Severe storms can include thunder, lightning, hail and tornadoes.  They often occur when the weather is hot and humid.  A good rule of thumb is “if the sky roars, get indoors.”  During a severe summer storm, you are advised to stay away from items which can conduct electricity, such as appliances and running water.  Remain inside for 30 minutes after … Read More

Be food safe – Always wash fruits and vegetables!

Fresh fruit and vegetables in fresh clear water

The food we eat in Canada is generally very safe. But sometimes it may carry parasites that can make us sick.  One such parasite is Cyclospora. Click here for more information on Cyclospora Everyday Tips for Washing Fruits and Vegetables Before you start, Wash your hands with soap and hot water for 15-20 seconds. Wash all fruits and vegetables under running … Read More

Tips to Stay Cool

Picture of kids in a sprinkler

Extremely hot weather and humidity can be very dangerous. Follow these steps to “STAY COOL” this summer: Frequently visit neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated. Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not … Read More

Is your furry family member up-to-date?

 Did you know? Rabies is a fatal disease that affects the brain and spinal cord of almost all mammals including humans.    It is spread by contact with saliva of an infected animal through bites or scratches in the skin.  Once you get rabies there is no cure.  Rabies vaccination will protect your pet and therefore your family. This is why … Read More

What is Listeriosis? – Food Recall

Picture of salad greens

Listeriosis is a serious illness usually caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria called Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria bacteria is found in food, soil, plants, sewage and other places in nature. Animals and humans can carry Listeria in their intestines without knowing it. Listeriosis symptoms may start suddenly and include vomiting, nausea, cramps, diarrhea, headache, and fever. In more serious cases Listeriosis can lead … Read More

Best Before Dates VS Expiry Dates

Picture of girl in supermarket

BEST BEFORE DATES vs. EXPIRY DATES When it comes to food, the terms ‘best before date’ and ‘expiry date’ have different meanings. What does a best before date actually mean? A food past its best before date does not mean the food cannot be eaten safely.  A best before date is simply a promise from the manufacturer that the food … Read More