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
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
Skin-to-skin….everyone wins
Skin-to-skin means baby is placed on mother’s bare chest for at least an hour, or until the end of the first feed. Mother and baby can be covered with a light blanket. Most procedures and checks can be done with the mother and baby skin-to-skin. If there are medical reasons for separation of mother and baby after birth, dad can … Read More
Staying Active During Pregnancy
Regular physical activity throughout life has many health benefits. Pregnancy does not have to stop you from being active. Regular physical activity during pregnancy: Improves or maintains physical fitness Helps with weight management Improves heart and lung health Reduces the risk of gestational diabetes Reduces the risk of high blood pressure Improves feeling of well-being If you have been regularly … Read More
Winter Driving – Are You Prepared?
Driving in the winter time can pose many dangers. You should ensure your car is prepared to handle emergencies. The following is a list of things you should have in your car to be prepared: Food that won’t spoil, such as energy bars. Water in plastic bottles so they won’t break if frozen (change every 6 mths). Blanket, extra clothing and shoes. First aid … Read More
Does your Community Program need a BOOST?
Does your program target children in Chatham-Kent ages 0-12? Does your program help children in Chatham-Kent become more physically active? Does your program aim to bring the community of Chatham-Kent together to improve overall health and well-being? If you answered yes to all of the above questions, than the ‘CK Boosters’ program may be for you! The Super Kids CK … Read More
Potluck Parties – Food Safety Guidelines
Potluck parties are a very popular way to celebrate with friends and family. People like potluck parties because they reduce the burden of cooking and food preparation for everyone. However, before you share your favourite dishes, take a little time to learn and practice basic food safety. Different foods need to be handled and cooked differently, and it is important for … Read More
Changes to Ontario dental programs
Ontario dental programs are still available until December 31st. As of January 1, 2016, the following 6 publicly funded dental programs will be combined into the new Healthy Smiles Ontario program: dental benefits for children under Ontario Works dental benefits for children under the Ontario Disability Support Program dental benefits for children under the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities … Read More
Pamper and Protect Yourself!
Everyone enjoys a little pampering! To ensure you have a great experience the following tips are recommended to reduce your risk of infection. Look and see if: The spa is inspected by the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit. All work areas are well lit, clean and organized. The spa operator washes their hands before starting your service. The operator uses new files … Read More
Chlamydia – 8 out of 10 infected don’t know they have it
Did you know that chlamydia is the most common bacterial STI (sexually transmitted infection)? Chlamydia is spread during sexual contact. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. People with chlamydia don’t always have symptoms and therefore don’t know they have the infection. Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics, but it can sometimes lead to serious complications if … Read More
Do you know what a standard drink size is?
When it comes to drinking alcohol, SIZE MATTERS! Find out why! Check out the new Rethink Your Drinking website. We want you, and our communities, to “Rethink Your Drinking” by looking at your relationship with alcohol, like why, when and how much you drink.
November is Radon Awareness Month
Radon is the second leading cause of Lung Cancer in Canada! What is radon? Radon is a natural radioactive gas from the soil and rock beneath our homes. When it seeps into your home, you can’t see it, taste it or smell it. Radon can kill you. Not many people know that a simple test in your home can … Read More