News

SWPH investigating a dog bite incident at PetSmart in St. Thomas.

When fluoride levels are in the range of 1.5 – 2.4 mg/L, the Ontario Ministry of Health recommends heightened public awareness to educate people on how to manage exposure from other sources of fluoride, such as food and toothpaste. This is to protect against dental fluorosis in young children.

Oxford County municipal water containing sodium levels under 200 mg/L is considered safe for drinking. However, sodium levels above 20 mg/L may be a concern for individuals on sodium-restricted diets, due to various medical conditions and illnesses. In these cases, the Medical Officer of Health is required to inform health professionals in order to assist these individuals.

Southwestern Public Health is issuing a public reminder about levels of naturally present fluoride and sodium in some of Oxford County’s municipal drinking water which may pose a concern for specific residents. Parents with children seven years of age and under should be aware of fluoride exposure to prevent dental fluorosis, while those on sodium-restricted diets should pay close attention to sodium they may be consuming from municipal water.

Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures as low as -20˚C and -27˚C with the wind chill, in the SWPH region, with cold conditions continuing from the previous weeks. These conditions are currently forecasted to continue until Monday, February 2nd.

Ongoing fire alarm triggered at health unit prompts site closure out of an abundance of caution.

HVAC system repairs are underway for airflow fault that prompted a St. Thomas site closure on January 28, 2026.

Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures as low as -24˚C and -30˚C with the wind chill in the SWPH region, with cold conditions continuing from the previous weeks. These conditions are currently forecasted to continue until Saturday, January 31st. 

Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures as low as -25˚C and -27˚C with the wind chill, in the SWPH region with cold conditions beginning this evening. These conditions are currently forecasted to continue until Sunday, January 25th. 

Local Age-Friendly steering committees in Elgin-St. Thomas and Oxford County were recognized by the province for their contributions to more inclusive physical and social environments for aging adults.