News

Blue-Green Algae in Ottawa River Near Thorne

TOWNSHIP OF POITRAS – The Health Unit would like to advise the public that blue-green algae has been found in the Ottawa River near the village of Thorne, Ontario. The geographic location of the algae is N 46.72267, E -79.11362. The blue-green algae bloom does not affect the drinking water in Thorne, as the municipal water is taken from a different river. 

Because of the blue-green algae, immediately follow these safety measures:

• Do not use the water. This includes: drinking, cooking, bathing,...

Protect Yourself from Forest Fire Smoke

 

NORTH BAY, ON - The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (“Health Unit”) is reminding people to protect themselves should they encounter forest fire smoke. The smoke can be particularly harmful to children, seniors and pregnant woman; people who have chronic heart or lung problems; as well as people who are very active doing work or sports outside.

 “Forest fire smoke is made up of a mixture of gases and very small particles that are produced when wood and other organic matter burn,”...

Whooping Cough Identified in Powassan and Surrounding Area

 

NORTH BAY, ON - There have been confirmed cases of whooping cough (pertussis) identified in Powassan and surrounding area. As a result, the Health Unit urges residents to check that they, as well as their children, are vaccinated. Getting vaccinated is important for everyone, especially since parents, grandparents and caregivers play an important role in helping to prevent the spread of whooping cough.

“Whooping cough can be very dangerous, and in extremely severe cases, can be fatal,” says...

Tick tests positive for lyme disease

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (“Health Unit”) has confirmed that a blacklegged tick found in North Bay tested positive for the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease. The tick was found in the skin of an individual and was submitted to the Health Unit for identification and testing. To date in 2018, 14 ticks have been sent for identification, with seven being identified as blacklegged. Only one of those seven ticks tested positive for the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.

“Though...