#newfamilyrule

Mother and daughter applying sunscreen

Why a new family rule? The good news is that the majority of melanoma cases can be prevented. Since sun/UV exposure is the primary cause of melanoma and other skin cancers, the best way to reduce your child’s risk is to protect their skin. Watch this video for more information.

Recalls – What to do…

Food Inspection Agency Logo

In the past week or so there have been food recalls due to possible contamination of a bacteria called listeria. For a complete list of food recalls Click here When a product is recalled, it means you and your family are being protected from potential hazards. Still, you can help too. If you hear a product has been recalled, follow these … Read More

Unwanted Bugs in Your Food

If you think you may have a food poisoning, see your health care provider and contact your local public health unit. Here are the bugs most likely to cause you food poisoning: Campylobacter It is the most common cause of food poisoning. It is found in undercooked poultry, pork, raw milk and unchlorinated drinking water. I causes symptoms such as … Read More

Home Drinking Water Testing Scams

Ever have someone come to your door to test your water? They tell you some story about questionable drinking water and convince you to let them test yours for free. Then you hear that your water is bad and you need some sort of water treatment device they happen to be selling. Well don’t be fooled! No one coming to … Read More

Tired of Packing Lunches?

By this time of year, many parents and students are running out of ideas for the lunch box. Here are some tips to help you and your family refresh some of your lunch ideas. Start out by: Plan ahead for the week Once a month, have your child make a list of foods he or she likes- download  the lunch … Read More

WORKPLACE HEALTH MAKES CENTS

The workplace can impact our health – either positively or negatively.  Supports in the workplace that encourage employees to practice healthy lifestyle behaviours can result in healthier, happier, and more productive employees. Eight small Chatham-Kent businesses (100 or less employees) are being offered $250.00 seed funding, to assist employers in providing supports to create a healthy work environment. This opportunity … Read More

Group A Streptococcal (GAS) Disease (impetigo, necrotizing fasciitis)

Over the past couple of weeks, the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit has received many calls related to the new splash pad in Chatham. We want to reassure everyone that there are no reports of any diseases caused by visiting the new splash pad. The water at the splash pad is treated and is safe, so enjoy! In fact it is … Read More

Food Safety Tips for Grocery Shopping

Are you aware that mishandling of food while grocery shopping can also result in cross contamination and temperature abuse? This food may make you sick with symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.  Are you worried about you and your family getting sick? Don’t be! Remember some tips while buying groceries: Buy groceries at the end of shopping. Put raw meat, fish, … Read More

Hot Weather Alerts and their impact on babies and young children

Babies and young children up to four years of age are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate protection.  Remember the following: Never leave children unattended in a vehicle even for a few minutes. Place them in tubs of lukewarm water frequently to lower their body temperature. Give children … Read More

National Drowning Prevention Week

It is important to remember children are most at risk for drowning so there’s absolutely no substitute for constant adult supervision. The Lifesaving Society recommends that parents keep children under five years of age within arms’ reach at all times. If you’ve invested in a pool, protect your loved ones. Make it your mission to obtain the knowledge and training to … Read More