On average we spend seven to ten hours per day at work. Imagine the health impact workplaces have on their community! Employers reap the benefits of a healthy workforce through reduced absenteeism and improved productivity. Workplace Wellness programs give employees the tools they need to live healthy lives at work, at home and in their community. Chatham-Kent employers looking for … Read More
Do you have backyard chickens? Did you know they can make you sick?
Owning backyard chickens is becoming more and more popular. They produce eggs, eat pesky bugs, and make fun pets. So what’s the risk? Chickens often carry germs that can make you sick. Chicken poop can be contaminated with germs like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which cause diarrhea and vomiting. These germs can be on their bodies, in their coops, in their … Read More
Back to School with Clear Vision
Have all of your supplies ready for school? Pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, clear vision? That’s right, one of the most important tools your child will need is clear vision. 80% of learning is visual and one in four children have vision problems. But don’t worry about this being yet another added expense, because eye exams are fully covered by OHIP each year for children … Read More
Have you read the signs at our CK beaches? What do they mean and when is it safe to swim?
The sun is shining, the car is packed, and you’re ready for a fun day at the beach! Before you and your family jump in the water and cool off you have a thought—Is the water safe to swim? Before hitting the beach, read through these frequently asked questions so you can be sure you are always swimming safe! How … Read More
Protective Factors of Mental Wellbeing in Children
Did you know… Evidence shows there are ways to protect our children from struggling with their mental wellbeing. Children who: Have dinner together with the family 5+ times per week, Engage in 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day, Find it easy to talk to their parents about things that bother them, Have a high level … Read More
A Day in the Life of a Public Health Inspector: Seasonal Workers Edition
It’s a well known fact that Chatham-Kent is a world leader when it comes to agriculture. In fact, we are the number one producer in all of Canada for tomatoes, carrots, seed corn, pumpkins and cucumbers. We also lead the provincial pack in producing green peas, broccoli, cauliflower and quail. High production levels of asparagus, field peppers, Brussel sprouts and … Read More
Dog Days of Summer are here-be safe when you’re BBQing
Summer are here—Time for relaxing, traveling, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. Summer is also a great time to fire up the BBQ and grill up some delicious eats. It’s important to make sure that safe food handling practices don’t go on vacation this summer! Follow these simple tips to prevent foodborne illness at your next cookout: Thawing … Read More
A Day in the Life of a Public Health Inspector: Special Events Edition
Many people know that Public Health Inspectors examine local food establishments like dine-in restaurants, fast food joints, and even your favourite corner convenience store. What many people don’t know is the role that PHI’s play when it comes to ensuring on-site safety of special events across Chatham-Kent. This year alone, your CK Public Health Inspectors were responsible for the inspection … Read More
A Day in the Life of a Public Health Inspector: Vector Borne Diseases Edition
Ah, Summer! Beaches, boating, ball games, BBQ’s, and Vector Borne Diseases. “Vector Borne Diseases” is a relatively LARGE term that is brought on by two incredibly small organisms; mosquitos and ticks –and with the warmer weather we are at an increased risk of coming into contact with these organisms. Thankfully, CK Public Health Inspectors have “got your back” and are … Read More
Am I at Risk for TB if I Travel?
You should always keep in mind that certain countries are considered higher risk for acquiring Tuberculosis. Currently the five countries with the highest TB incidence worldwide are: 1. India 2. China 3. South Africa 4. Indonesia 5. Pakistan For a complete list of other high burden countries visit www.stoptb.org/countries/tbdata.asp If you have travelled to any of these countries it does … Read More
How to Safely Dispose of Needles
Watch the video below for a step-by-step guide on how to properly dispose of needles found on public or private property. For more information please contact the CK Public Health at 519.355.1071 ext. 5901 or email ckpublichealth@chatham-kent.ca
Are you on a well in low-lying areas where flooding is occurring?
Record high water levels and heavy rain fall have contributed to flooding in low lying areas and may cause septic systems to fail. If your drinking water comes from a well—test it immediately! Did you know that: Sewage can contain harmful bacteria such as E.coli If you are experiencing flooding—test your well water immediately to make sure it’s safe to … Read More