News

SWPH Conducting Feasibility Study for Consumption and Treatment Services

Data collection to be completed in March 2023, with a final report anticipated later this year

February 9, 2023 -- A feasibility study is underway in the Southwestern Public Health region to analyze the perceived need, support, and service models available for Consumption and Treatment Services. The study’s geography will span Elgin County, Oxford County, and the City of St. Thomas.

The health unit has formed an external advisory committee to consult with local figures from various sectors. These...

39% of Southwestern Public Health residents report risky alcohol consumption

Canada’s new Guidance on Alcohol and Health states even a small amount of alcohol can be damaging to health

Today the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction finalized Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health with updated thresholds for low-, moderate-, and high-risk alcohol use. While local data shows most adults in the Southwestern Public Health region already follow the new guidance, nearly 4 in 10 regularly put their health at risk.

As a replacement to...

First lab confirmed cases of influenza identified

NEWS

October 27, 2022

First lab confirmed cases of influenza identified in Southwestern Public Health region

This week Southwestern Public Health received notification of two lab-confirmed cases of influenza A – the first two cases of the 2022/23 season. Both cases are in young children residing in Oxford County.

These confirmed cases are an indication that influenza is circulating within our community. Surrounding health units are also experiencing sporadic activity.

“The influenza vaccine has...

Sweater Weather

Autumn brings with it a predictable rhythm. The air chills, the leaves turn colour and fall, and we wrap ourselves in the coziest of our sweaters in preparation for the winter ahead.

Many of us already have the fall routine of visiting our health care team or pharmacy for a flu shot. With COVID-19 here to stay, each of us should also add a COVID-19 booster to our fall wellness schedule.

The influenza vaccine is updated each year. Scientists try to match the vaccine with the strain of flu that they...

Southwestern Public Health offering bivalent COVID-19 vaccine

Effective September 12 2022, the health unit moves to appointment-only format to manage supply demands

Southwestern Public Health will begin offering Moderna’s new Omicron targeting bivalent vaccine aligned with Provincial timelines announced today.

Who is eligible?

• Beginning September 12 at 8 a.m., people aged 70 and older, adult healthcare workers, First Nation Inuit and Métis adults (and their adult household members), pregnant adults, and moderately to severely immunocompromised people...

Oxford Coalition Hosts Overdose Awareness Event

Media Release

August 11, 2021

Oxford Partnership Reaches Out to those Grieving Loss Due to Overdose

International Overdose Awareness Day is an annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind

On Wednesday, August 31, 2022, communities around the world will recognize International Overdose Awareness Day. The theme is Time to Remember. Time to Act.

On that day, the members of the Harm Reduction...