News

Everyone born in 2009 or earlier is eligible for COVID-19 vaccine.

With the school year approaching and the Delta variant spreading quickly; the Health Unit wants to maximize protection

Following direction from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Southwestern Public Health has expanded access to COVID-19 vaccines by inviting all children who turn 12 in 2021 for the COVID-19 vaccine. This opportunity is for anyone born in 2009, even if they have not yet celebrated their twelfth birthday. This change is effective immediately.

“As much as we are enjoying...

Southwestern Public Health Issues Heat Warning August 10-August 13

Southwestern Publi­c Health issues extreme heat alerts when Environment Canada forecasts temperatures that are expected to be at least 31°C and overnight temperatures are at or above 20°C for two days, or the Humidex is forecasted to be at least 40°C for two days.

Environment Canada is forecasting warm temperatures throughout the SWPH region beginning this afternoon and is forecast to end in the evening on Friday August 13.

Overnight temperatures above 20°C are expected for the next 3 nights.

Public Notice: Risk of COVID-19 Transmission in Oxford County

On August 1 2021, an individual in Oxford County tested positive for COVID-19. Southwestern Public Health has identified an additional 8 cases linked to similar exposures.

The individual visited several businesses during the time frame that they were infectious. As such, out of an abundance of caution and in an effort to stop further transmissions, Southwestern Public Health is asking anyone who visited the following places to get tested, even if they have not shown symptoms or are fully or partially...

Southwestern Public Health Seeking Information on Dog Involved in Biting Incident

Southwestern Public Health has been notified of a dog biting incident and is seeking information from the owner about the dog involved.

The incident occurred on Saturday, July 10, 2021, at approximately 8:00 p.m. at the dog park in Ingersoll, Ontario.

A woman was at the dog park when her dog and another dog got into a minor fight. She stepped in between them to break them up and was bitten in the process. The dog owner’s name is Steve and he owns a large, black fluffy dog named Jackson. They frequent...

SWPH Urges Residents Not to Delay Vaccination Any Longer

The health unit specifically hopes to reach more people between the ages of 12 and 39 over the coming weeks.

The time to act is now.

That is the message from Southwestern Public Health’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Joyce Lock, to community members who have not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19.

With an excellent supply of safe, effective vaccines and many appointments available, it has never been easier to be vaccinated against a virus that continues to result in illness, disability, and...

Southwestern Public Health Updates Vaccine Clinics to Reduce Access Barriers

Southwestern Public Health is updating its COVID-19 vaccination efforts to reach people who may have trouble accessing vaccines in Elgin County, Oxford County, and the City of St. Thomas.

Beginning today, all three mass immunization clinics in St. Thomas, Woodstock, and Tillsonburg will offer walk-in appointments in addition to servicing pre-booked first and second dose appointments. After July 23, the Tillsonburg clinic will transition to a Friday-only site to reflect ongoing demand for Friday appointments...