Weekly, the Public Health Unit submits articles to numerous newspapers in Grey
and Bruce Counties under the banner Making Health Happen. Public health nurses
and public health inspectors write the articles, covering public health issues
of interest to the general public.
Being Sued Can Ruin A Good Party December 28,
2004
Your hockey team won a tournament! Your best friend got engaged! You are
throwing a party to ring in the New Year. To celebrate, you invite friends
over for drinks. Your decision has important legal implications.
Keeping Children Safe over the Holidays
December 21, 2004
Not many sights warm our hearts more than the joy of children as they venture
outside on a perfect snowy day or open gifts by the Christmas tree. Holidays
are a time for fun and family, but safety needs to be a part of the
celebration too.
The Difference Between Influenza and the Common Cold
December 14, 2004
Influenza or the flu is one of the most confusing diseases. Whenever a family
member becomes ill and there isn’t a diagnosis, it is often labelled “the
flu”. However, influenza is a respiratory disease...
Woodburning December 7, 2004
As the weather cools, many people turn to woodstoves and fireplaces to provide
additional heat in their homes. Not only does wood smoke lower indoor and
outdoor air quality, research studies have established that exposure to wood
smoke may lead to serious health effects.
Breakfast Programs November 30, 2004
Children’s dreams are filled with images of being all-star hockey players and
famous movie stars, of singing in front of millions of people and travelling
to the moon. Although most children won’t reach such lofty goals, a parent’s
dream is to see their children reach their full potential.
Taking Action Against HIV/AIDS November 16,
2004
For almost 20 years Canada has commemorated National AIDS Awareness Week at
the end of November. This year we challenge you to take action against
HIV/AIDS. We know that HIV is preventable yet, around the world and here at
home, people continue to be infected with this virus.
Parents' Power Regarding Drug Awareness
November 9, 2004
When you talk about the important stuff, like the dangers of drinking or doing
other drugs, more of it sinks in than you might realize! This is what
children themselves in Grey and Bruce Counties have told us. You are their
number one role model. But how do you talk to your child about alcohol and
other drugs?
Building Additions and Renovations November 2,
2004
If your cottage or house is serviced by a private sewage system, this sewage
system was most likely designed and installed to meet the exact design
characteristics of your particular house.
Why Adults Still Matter to Teens October 26,
2004
Where do you draw the line with teenagers? When are you flexible? All
parents deal with these issues. How you choose to deal with them can have an
impact on how healthy and competent your teens grow to be.
Annual Adolescent Sexuality Workshop – Sexual Coercion Among Adolescents
October 19, 2004
The statistics are alarming – in Canada, 54% of girls under the age of 16 will
experience some form of unwanted sexual attention. Sexual coercion or sexual
“bullying” among teens is the focus of the 8th annual adolescent
sexuality workshop, organized by the Public Health Unit.
Ontario Breast Screening Program October 12,
2004
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, women are confronted with
many messages about this disease. The good news is that more women are now
surviving breast cancer. What can women do to lower their risk?
Breastfeeding – Safe, Sound and Sustainable
October 5, 2004
The Public Health Unit is ready to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week (WBW).
This weeklong event is celebrated in over 120 countries around the world.
Will You Be Protected This Winter? September
28, 2004
Are you someone who has never received a flu shot? Do you think that the flu
isn’t serious or that a flu shot will make you sick?
Maintaining A Septic System September 21, 2004
Following a few simple guidelines will protect you and extend the life of your
septic system. Daily household actions can have lasting and costly effects on
the life and health of your septic system and leachfield and the environment
around you.
Rabies - Don't Let a Friend Die Vaccinate Your Pet
September 14, 2004
It's no way for a friend to die. Rabies is well known throughout Grey and
Bruce counties and we continue to experience one of the highest rates in the
province.
Is Smoking Going Up in Smoke? September 7, 2004
Youth and adult smoking rates have been on a steady decrease since 1999, and
with a continued strong tobacco control strategy in place, we can only hope
this trend will continue.
Planning That Dream Vacation August 31, 2004
If you are planning a trip outside of Canada
you may need immunizations based on the destination you choose and the length
of time you are travelling. A certificate for certain vaccinations are
required before entering the country.
Positive Youth Development August 24, 2004
As an adult in your community do you know the names of the youth in your
neighbourhood? As a youth in that community who do you turn to for advice and
guidance?
Relationships are a Determinant of Health
August 17, 2004
Our relationships are important. They can affect our self-esteem, and our
willingness to take risks, have dreams and reach goals.
Making Connections! August 10, 2004
Research has amassed a considerable amount of evidence in recent years about
early brain development and the importance of a child's early years from birth
to six. To ensure a child's brain grows and matures to its fullest potential,
a parent can do the following.
Hot Tubs, Spas - Water Quality and Safety
August 3, 2004
Don't lose friends over your hot tub! If you operate a hot tub, do not expose
your family and friends to conditions that can result in mild to serious skin
infection or possible respiratory illness.
Booster Seat Legislation July 27, 2004
The mandatory booster seat is for children weighing between 40-80 pounds, or
under 4’10” height, or maximum age of 8 years. Car seat laws apply to
parents, grandparents, babysitters and other caregivers.
Air Quality and Smog July 20, 2004
Smog can have a wide range of short- and long-term adverse health effects on
children, elderly, those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular
conditions as well as healthy individuals. Steps such as checking the air
quality level and avoiding or reducing outdoor activities during peak smog
times are important in reducing exposure.
What About Grey Water Waste? July 13, 2004
If you live in a rural setting or in a municipality where there are no
sanitary sewers, chances are treatment and disposal of sewage wastewater is
your own responsibility. Some knowledge of the requirements for sewage
disposal is necessary in order to protect you and your family’s health, the
environment and the value of your property.
Have an Active Family Summer July 6, 2004
The winners of the Turn off the Screens summer challenge have been
announced, and prizes have been awarded. And now summer is here. What do you
and your family have planned to keep active and healthy throughout the
summer? Why not focus on family fun!
Fight The Bite! June 29, 2004
Summer is here and so are the mosquitoes! It is important to clean up areas
all around your house and garden where mosquitoes like to breed. Take a
closer look around your house and property and get rid of mosquito-friendly
places that would make good breeding sites or resting places.
Father Involvement Crucial For Our Future June
22, 2004
Research has found that children with involved fathers are better problem
solvers, have enhanced cognitive development, greater self-esteem, fewer
behavioural problems and are more physically competent.
Sun Safety Reflected UV June 15, 2004
Most of us are very aware of the dangers of UV radiation,
and the risks of being out in the sun unprotected. However, many of us are
not aware of the additive effects of "scattered" UV radiation when we're at
the beach or by the pool--or any outdoor area for that matter.
Early Childhood Tooth Decay June 8, 2004
Early Childhood Tooth Decay (ECTD) is a serious condition
that affects preschool-aged children and is 100% preventable. The results of
ECTD can lead to further problems in the future in the following areas.
Fight the Bite! Protect Yourself Against West Nile Virus Infection
June 1, 2004
The warm weather has arrived and with it those pesky mosquitoes. When dealing
with West Nile virus, prevention is your best defence. You can reduce the
risk of infection by following some simple steps.
A Call to Action for Employers to Provide Healthier Workplaces!
May 25, 2004
Employers are in a “sellers” market when it comes to hiring
people and it will last for the next 10 years. Those individuals who are
looking for work are not putting salary at the top of their priorities, they
are looking for positive working environments and challenging work that will
allow career growth.
Alcohol May 18, 2004
When it comes to alcohol and health, the news can be
confusing. We hear information about benefits and risks. Where is the line
between the good or bad effects on a person’s health?
Public Health G.I.S. May 11, 2004
The application of GIS to the health sector is a relatively
new initiative and will be a critical component in solving the most difficult
of the world’s health problems.
Changing Attitudes about Teen Pregnancy May 4,
2004
Teen mothers are often scared about their future. Despite
all the negatives, pregnancy for adolescent teens can be a positive
experience.
Toys Spread Germs Too April 27, 2004
If you care for children in your home or you are interested
in protecting your own children, these are some handy tips to reduce illness
spread by tots putting toys in their mouths.
April is Oral Health Month. Time to Brush Up on a Good Habit!
April 20, 2004
The Public Health Unit is launching a dental health
campaign to mark Oral Health Month in April with the clear message "2 for 2
is what you do".
Home Renovations and Sewage Systems April 13,
2004
The following information could be of interest to you if
your home or business is serviced by a private sewage system, such as a septic
tank system, and you are now planning an addition or renovation.
Prevention and Early Detection of Cancer April
6, 2004
More than half of all
cancer cases could be prevented according to Cancer Care Ontario and the
Canadian Cancer Society. Here are some tips to help reduce your risk of
cancer.
Preconception March 30, 2004
Spring is here and love is in the air. If you are thinking
about having a baby, now is the time for you and your partner to start
planning for a healthy pregnancy.
Baby Your Teeth During Pregnancy March 23, 2004
While it may be the time to keep your feet up, pregnancy is
not the time to relax your toothbrush. That's because expectant mothers often
experience an increase in gum disease.
Mould March 16, 2004
Although effects of moulds
on the general population are less well known, this does not mean that mould
growth indoors should be left alone.
Eat Well March 9, 2004
March is Nutrition March and local registered dietitians
this year have some simple ideas to help support you in making healthy eating
a day-to-day reality.
The Truth About Breastfeeding March 5, 2004
There are many myths that surround the issue of
insufficient milk supply – it is time to dispel such myths and uncover the
truth.
Heart Health February 24, 2004
Locally, heart disease is a very real threat. Our way of
life has changed. But there are things you can do to aim for a longer,
healthier life.
Norwalk Virus February 17, 2004
Cruise ships are being plagued again this season with a
nasty little virus referred to as a norovirus or Norwalk virus. This virus is
usually responsible for illness that is more commonly called the “stomach flu”
or “the 24-hour flu.”
Achy Breaky Heart February 10, 2004
Break-ups hurt a lot and can impact future relationships. Although time plays
a major part in moving on, there are still many ways to help heal the hurt and
help you move on with a lighter heart.
Power Outage and Food Safety February 3, 2004
The recent power outage that struck many parts of Ontario,
including Grey and Bruce counties, lasted long enough for us to recognize the
need to use caution when it comes to food stored in the refrigerator and
freezer.
Hand Sanitizers No Substitute for Soap and Water
January 27, 2004
Instant hand sanitizers, also
referred to as waterless hand washes, have recently become very popular,
especially with parents of small children. However, consumers should be aware
that these products are not a substitute for good old soap and water.
School Suspensions January 20, 2004
It is because of routine immunization programs that we
don’t see many disease outbreaks anymore. However, should immunization rates
drop, we could see a rise in vaccine preventable diseases.
Prenatal HIV Testing January 13, 2004
Since 1999 there has been a push for healthcare providers
to encourage prenatal testing for their pregnant clients. Why is this? And
what proportion of pregnant women are being tested?
Would You Quit Smoking To Win A Car? January 6,
2004
This is the time for New Year’s resolutions and good
intentions. If you smoke daily and want to quit, you now have extra incentive
– the chance to win a new Mini Cooper car in the Quit Smoking 2004 Contest.
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