News

Ontario Moves to Step Three of Roadmap to Reopen Tomorrow

Based on province-wide vaccination rates and continuing improvements in key public health and health system indicators, the Ontario Government will move the province into Step Three of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 16, 2021.

“Although we are thrilled to make another step forward, the very real threat of circulating COVID-19 variants still remains and it is of the utmost importance that everyone takes action now to protect themselves, their families and the communities they...

SWPH Seeks Information on Dog Involved in Biting Incident

July 15, 2021

Southwestern Public Health Seeking Information on Dog Involved in Biting Incident

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

The incident occurred on Monday, July 12, 2021 at approximately 7:30 p.m. in Les McKerrel Park on Southwood Way, in Woodstock, Ontario.

The dog owner was identified as a woman in her 30s who was sitting at the benches when the bite occurred. A dog, described as small,...

St. Thomas Supportive Living Residence Ordered to Close Due to Public Health Violations

At 12:00 p.m. on July 7, Southwestern Public Health issued a Section 13 Order under the Health Protection and Promotion Act to close Walnut Manor in St. Thomas due to the existence of significant health hazards. As a result, residents were required to vacate the premises, effective immediately.

The Order was advised in consultation with agencies at the municipal and provincial levels, including St. Thomas Fire Department, City of St. Thomas, Ministry of Labour, Training and Development, and the Ontario...

12 - 17 Year Olds Eligible for Accelerated Second Doses & Booking Support Available

Southwestern Public Health is committed to ensuring local youth can be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before the beginning of the 2021/22 school year.

Starting Monday July 5, 2021 youth aged 12 – 17 who have received their first dose of an mRNA vaccine, are eligible to receive their second dose of an mRNA vaccine a minimum of 28 days after the first.

This means that pending appointment availability, youth in Oxford County, Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas may rebook for an earlier second...

Students critical to vaccination efforts in SWPH region

Health unit providing unique opportunity for youth to be a part of history

This year has been different in every way. COVID-19 has forced us all to adapt and transform the way we live our lives. The pandemic has changed our world and challenged individuals, businesses and organizations each step of the way. But, the pandemic has also provided many opportunities.

This year, Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) is providing valuable work experience to dozens of students at the mass immunization clinics...

SWPH issues heat warning June 28 - June 29

June 28, 2021 at 12:00 AM

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 morning and is forecast to end overnight Tuesday, June 29. Humidex values reaching 40°C are expected for the next...