News

Southwestern Public Health expects COVID-19 measures to be our ‘new normal’

Local health experts advise continued public health practices until treatments and vaccinations are widely available

As Ontario continues to loosen restrictions and re-open the economy, officials at Southwestern Public Health caution that COVID-19 will be an indefinite threat.

Based on global epidemiology models and known attributes of coronaviruses, it is probable the COVID-19 virus will continue to spread. The World Health Organization issued a warning on May 13 that novel-coronavirus will likely...

Southwestern Public Health Issues First Heat Advisory of Year and First During Pandemic

Today, Southwestern Public Health issued its first heat advisory of the year which also happens to be the first local heat advisory issued during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A heat warning or extended heat warning is issued when prolonged exposure to outdoor conditions could prove dangerous to public health. Today’s heat warning is based on forecasted temperatures around 30°C this afternoon, with a similar forecast for Wednesday in the City of St. Thomas, Elgin County and Oxford County. Humidex...

Southwestern Public Health working with Ingersoll’s Secord Trails to contain COVID-19 Outbreak

As of May 22, 7 health care workers have been confirmed positive with the virus.

On Monday, a single case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in a health care worker at Secord Trails Care Community. As of this morning, Southwestern Public Health confirms an additional six COVID-19 positive test results - bringing the total to seven health care workers within the organization.

The affected staff hold various positions with varying levels of contact with residents. They are all self-isolating at home. No residents...

Southwestern Public Health working with local growers to safely bring back seasonal workers

Warm weather has arrived and with it comes important seasonal work by area growers

As a largely rural public health unit, Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) has long worked with area farmers on matters related to the health and safety of the seasonal workers that come to Elgin and Oxford Counties to assist with the growing season. That work takes prominence with spring’s arrival. The region requires hundreds of extra workers to plant, maintain and eventually harvest local crops – all within the context...

Southwestern Public Health Confirms Second Case of COVID-19

This is the first case of novel coronavirus confirmed in Oxford County.

Dr. Joyce Lock, Medical Officer of Health for Southwestern Public Health has confirmed the second positive case of COVID-19 in the region. A male in his 30s tested positive for COVID-19 after close contact with someone outside the region who has the virus. He is a resident of Oxford County.

This individual was assessed, tested and released by Woodstock Hospital where all appropriate infection control precautions were followed....

Southwestern Public Health Well Supported by Partners in the Fight Against Novel Coronavirus

All sectors working together to protect the health of the community.

Southwestern Public Health is working with all sectors – public institutions, local government, private employers and non-profits to ensure a thoughtful, proactive and coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are actively participating at tables with municipalities, first responders, business leaders, long term care homes, health care professionals, hospitals, and so many others. We’re also in regular contact with local...