Tag: HPPH

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Alerts Breaking News WFP

Huron Perth Public Health Scrubs Incriminating Press Releases Amidst Inspector Perjury Allegations

(Wingham, On) Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has recently removed several incriminating press releases from their official website, sparking public outrage and raising questions about transparency. The press releases in question reportedly contained information related to the enforcement actions and legal proceedings against various local businesses, including Buck & Jo’s, a café previously cited for violating COVID-19 restrictions.

HPPH Inspectors Face Perjury Allegations

In a development that has further fueled the controversy, several HPPH inspectors are facing allegations of perjury. If found guilty, the inspectors could face prison sentences of up to 14 years. The allegations have raised significant concerns about the integrity of the health inspections and the legal processes that followed. Legal experts emphasize the severe consequences of perjury, noting that it can undermine public trust in the judicial system and compromise the fairness of legal proceedings.

Judicial Oversight and the Dangers of Ignoring Perjury

The case has also highlighted the critical role of judges in overseeing legal proceedings and ensuring justice is served. Ignoring instances of perjury can have dire consequences, potentially leading to wrongful convictions or the dismissal of valid claims. Legal analysts warn that judicial leniency towards perjury can erode the rule of law and encourage further misconduct within the legal system.

For-Profit Prosecution Model Under Scrutiny

The controversy surrounding HPPH has also cast a spotlight on the for-profit prosecution model. Critics argue that this model can incentivize prolonged legal battles, as outsourced prosecutors may extend cases to maximize billable hours. This not only strains the resources of the accused but can also delay the administration of justice. The ongoing legal battles and appeals, including the case of Buck & Jo’s, illustrate how such a model can drag out legal processes to the detriment of all parties involved.

Upcoming Ruling on Buck & Jo’s Appeal

The café, Buck & Jo’s, closed its doors before the compliance deadline for COVID-19 restrictions. Despite this, the owners faced legal action and were convicted of violating public health directives. On July 11, a judge is set to rule on their appeal. The outcome of this ruling could have significant implications for similar cases and the broader discourse on public health enforcement during the pandemic.

Conclusion

The removal of press releases by Huron Perth Public Health, coupled with the allegations of perjury against its inspectors, underscores the need for accountability and transparency in public health enforcement. As the legal system grapples with these issues, the upcoming ruling on Buck & Jo’s appeal will be a crucial moment in determining the balance between public health mandates and individual rights.

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Alerts Health Departments Huron Perth Public Health

HPPH Pushing Vaccines Again

Huron Perth, ON – Measles cases are increasing globally, including in Ontario. Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) strongly encourages residents to make sure they have protection against the measles virus and receive a vaccination if necessary.

Measles is one of the most highly contagious infectious diseases. The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing and it can live for up to two hours in the air or on a surface. 

Many people recover from measles within two to three weeks, but measles can cause complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhea, hearing loss, brain swelling (encephalitis), seizures, or, rarely, death.

In December 2023, the World Health Organization reported a 30-fold increase in measles cases in Europe. A rise in imported measles cases has been reported in the Americas, and there are currently four active cases of measles in Canada – two in the Greater Toronto Area.

“Vaccination against measles is safe and effective at preventing the virus,” says Dr. Miriam Klassen, Huron Perth Medical Officer of Health. “With the recent global and provincial increase in measles cases, I encourage everyone to consider their risk for measles, for example if planning to travel internationally, and to receive a vaccination if they are at increased risk.”

Current recommendations for vaccines against measles:

According to Ontario’s Publicly Funded Routine Immunization Schedule:

  • Children and adolescents should receive two doses of vaccine against measles to be considered up to date.
    • In Ontario these doses are typically given on or after the first birthday and at four to six years of age
  • All adults 18 years of age and older who have previously received one dose of vaccine against measles should receive a second dose if they are:
    • Healthcare workers
    • Post-secondary students
  •  Adults born before 1970 can be presumed to have acquired natural immunity to measles.

With increased international travel expected over March Break, the Chief Medical Officer of Health has made the following additional recommendations:

  • Infants six to 11 months of age who are travelling to areas with increased measles transmission should be immunized with one dose of vaccine against measles. Two additional doses are required on or after the first birthday.
  • Adults 18 years of age and older who have previously received one dose of vaccine against measles should receive a second dose if they are planning to travel to areas with increased measles cases.

If you are in one of the above groups, speak to your doctor. If you do not have a family physician, call Huron Perth Public Health. More information on international travel and measles risk can be found at Canada’s Global Measles Notice.  

Role of Public Health

Children in Ontario are required to be immunized against measles under the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA).

HPPH is currently carrying out a review of student vaccination records as part of its regular ISPA review process, which will also identify students who may be missing a dose of measles vaccine.

Local healthcare providers are required to report to HPPH any suspect or confirmed cases of measles; HPPH takes actions to prevent the further spread of any measles. 

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Health Departments Huron Perth Public Health

North Huron Covid Surge – Braemar Outbreak

Case count

  • Our data from Sunday, December 27, shows that Huron-Perth has a cumulative total of 635 confirmed cases since the beginning of the pandemic, with 70 cases added between December 24 and 27. There are currently 101 active cases.   
  • Sadly, one person has passed away since our previous update and we extend our condolences to their loved ones. The person’s passing was not associated with a long-term care home outbreak.
  • There are currently 3 people in Huron-Perth in hospital due to COVID.

Outbreaks

  • Hospitals:
    • The outbreak at Listowel Memorial Hospital continues and the confirmed cases remain at 4 patients and 9 staff.  
  • Long-Term Care & Retirement Homes:
    • There are currently five active long-term care outbreaks in Huron-Perth:
      • Braemar in North Huron (1 staff)
      • Caressant Care in North Perth (1 staff)
      • Exeter Villa in South Huron (4 residents, 5 staff)
      • Hillside Manor in Perth East (1 staff)
      • Knollcrest Lodge in Perth East (2 staff)
    • The Cedarcroft outbreak continues to be under control. There has been no change in case numbers: 50 confirmed cases in residents and 24 cases in staff. There are no active cases among residents or staff.

COVID-19 Vaccine

  • HPPH continues to work with Middlesex-London Health Unit, Southwestern Public Health, and London Health Sciences Centre to arrange vaccinations in London for long-term care and retirement home healthcare workers from Huron and Perth, as part of Phase 1 of the vaccine distribution plan.
  • In addition, HPPH is working together with local partners including Ontario Health partners (such as SW LHIN, Hospitals, Home and Community Care), Primary Care, and Paramedic Services to plan for Phase 2 and Phase 3 when more vaccines are available and they can be delivered in Huron Perth.
  • Only priority groups established by the Ministry of Health are receiving the early vaccine doses. At an unknown later time, this will be expanded by the province.
  • For the latest information about vaccines in the province, visit https://covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-vaccines-ontario 

Provincial Lockdown

  • The province-wide lockdown came into effect on Saturday, December 26, 2020
  • The provincewide shutdown is to help interrupt or slow current community transmission, reduce mobility and allow our health care and public health systems that are reaching critical limits to recover briefly and catch-up
  • To find out more about the restrictions and public health measures in place, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/covid-19-provincewide-shutdown

For more information

Visit: https://www.hpph.ca/en/news/coronavirus-covid19-update.aspx 

Categories
Alerts Health Departments Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance

Covid-19 Outbreak At Listowel Hospital, Stratford General Hospital, Knollcrest Lodge & Cedarcroft

Case count

Outbreaks

  • Hospitals:
    • An outbreak has been declared on the 2nd floor medicine unit of the Listowel Memorial Hospital. Currently, 4 patients and 8 staff have been identified as part of the outbreak.  HPPH is working closely with the hospital in responding to the outbreak. For more information: https://lwha.ca/covid-19-outbreak-declared-at-lmh/
    • The outbreak at the Medicine Unit at Stratford General Hospital appears to be under control and remains at 7 staff members.  Outbreak control measures continue to be in place.
  • Long-Term Care & Retirement Homes:
    • There is currently 1 outbreak at Knollcrest Lodge, declared after a healthcare worker tested positive during routine surveillance.
    • There continues to be no change in number cases related to the Cedarcroft outbreak. The total number of confirmed cases remains at: 50 confirmed cases in residents and 24 cases in staff. There are no active cases among residents OR staff.

COVID-19 Vaccine

Categories
Health Departments Huron Perth Public Health

Outbreak Update: 12 Dead At Cedarcroft

  • There are a total of 333 cumulative confirmed cases in Huron-Perth (15 added since Saturday), with 52 cases currently active.
    • The new cases are in: Central Huron (2), South Huron (1), North Perth (6), Perth East (2), Perth South (1), and Stratford (4) and one was reassigned to another health unit
  • There continue to be 2 long-term care home outbreaks, and the Cedarcroft Retirement Home outbreak continues
  • We have one private school continuing in Outbreak
  • We currently have 4 people in hospital who are community members (not related to the Cedarcroft outbreak).

Cedarcroft outbreak

We sadly learned of the passing of a Cedarcroft resident who had tested positive for COVID-19 and was experiencing residual effects following recovery from the COVID-19 infection.

The current status of the Cedarcroft outbreak is 45 confirmed cases in residents, and 23 cases in staff:

RESIDENTS:

  • Total number of deaths: 12
  • Total residents active: 2
  • Total residents recovered: 31 (a recovered resident is now captured under death)

STAFF:

  • Total number of staff cases: 23
  • Total number of staff cases resolved: 19
  • Total number of staff cases active: 4

TESTING

  • We received the results of our fifth round of prevalence testing on 12 residents and all 12 were negative. (Prevalence testing is done on asymptomatic residents who had previously tested negative.)
  • The fourth round of prevalence testing on 49 staff has been completed and two staff tested positive.

Schools Update

  • The outbreak status continues for Northside Christian School and the school remains closed to all staff and students. Based on further investigation, HPPH has decided to extend the closure of the school until at least December 11. HPPH will determine when the outbreak is over and when the school can be reopened
  • There are confirmed cases at Goderich Collegiate in Goderich and Anne Hathaway elementary school in Stratford
    • Each of the schools has 1 confirmed case
    • Our case and contact management team have followed up with close contacts and instructed them to isolate.
  • There are 4 confirmed cases at St. Marys Catholic school in Listowel. Three cohorts have been dismissed. HPPH staff are continuing their investigation and are following up with close contacts.

Public Health will contact you if you are considered a high-risk/close contact to a confirmed case and will provide further direction. If you do not hear from public health, then it has been determined that you are not a close contact.

Class Order regarding Self Isolation

  • As you may know, I issued a Class Order under Section 22 of Ontario’s Health Protection and Promotion Act, which came into effect November 29.
    • The Order is a legal measure that authorizes the health unit to enforce individual compliance with public health measures
    • The key focus of this Order is to ensure people who have been told to self-isolate by public health or a healthcare provider are doing so.
    • As of today, no one has yet been fined under this Order.
    • We continue to work with our relevant partners and stakeholders regarding an enforcement strategy.

For more information:

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Health Departments Huron Perth Public Health

$5,750/Day In Fines Possible For Those Not Following Covid-19 Rules

Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth Public Health has issued a Class Order under Section 22 of Ontario’s Health Protection and Promotion Act.

The Order is a legal measure that authorizes the health unit to enforce individual compliance with public health instructions. The key focus of this Order is to ensure people who have been told to self-isolate or quarantine by public health or a health care provider are doing so. Those who do not comply can be given a ticket under the Reopening Ontario Act with a fine of $750 per day. You could be charged and fined up to $5,000 per day under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.

Dr. Klassen says that while most Huron Perth residents have been doing what they should, there has recently been an increased lack of adherence by people who have been told to self-isolate because they are COVID positive or are a high risk contact to a positive case. “Our case and contact investigators are finding more and more people who are not willing to adhere to our instructions to self-isolate. This is not acceptable, as it threatens the health of other members of the community as well as increases the potential to overwhelm our healthcare system. This Order gives us the authority to charge people who will not follow our instructions.”

This Class Order applies to anyone who has been told to self-isolate and/or quarantine for any reason related to COVID-19 by Huron Perth Public Health, or a healthcare provider at an assessment/testing centre, emergency department or family doctor’s office.

Instructions included within the Order include isolating yourself in accordance with instructions provided by Huron Perth Public Health, keeping those around you safe from infection, staying away from vulnerable persons, and seeking prompt medical attention should you need it.

The order came into effect at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, November 29 and applies to all residents of Huron and Perth counties. It can be enforced by public health inspectors, and provincial offence officers such as police and by-law officers.

For more information:

Categories
Health Departments Huron Perth Public Health

Covid-19 In Area Schools: Northside Christian, St. Ambrose, Anne Hathaway & Goderich Collegiate

  • There are a total of 318 confirmed cases in Huron-Perth (11 more than yesterday), with 44 cases currently active. Sadly, yesterday we learned of the death of a community member who had tested positive for COVID and had been hospitalized; our thoughts go out to this individual’s family.
  • Four people who are confirmed cases are currently in hospital (3 are community members and 1 is related to the Cedarcroft outbreak).
  • There are 2 active long-term care home outbreaks and 1 active school outbreak.
  • Cedarcroft Place Retirement Residence remains in outbreak.

Cedarcroft outbreak

The current status of the Cedarcroft outbreak is a cumulative total of 45 confirmed cases in residents, and 22 cases in staff:

RESIDENTS:

  • Total number of resident cases: 45
  • Total number of deaths: 11
  • Total residents active: 1 (who was decanted due to other illness and remains in hospital)
  • Total residents recovered: 33

STAFF:

  • Total number of staff cases: 22
  • Total number of staff cases resolved: 20
    • Total number of staff cases active: 2

Long-term care homes

  • An outbreak was declared at Knollcrest Lodge in Milverton after a symptomatic staff person tested positive. Outbreak measures are in place and testing continues.
  • An outbreak was declared at Spruce Lodge after an asymptomatic staff person tested positive during routine surveillance testing. Outbreak measures are now in place and testing continues.

Schools

  • The outbreak status continues for Northside Christian School and the school remains closed. Due to the nature of the school, one cohort could not be identified and therefore HPPH has closed the school until at least December 1. HPPH will determine when the outbreak is over and when the school can be reopened
  • There are confirmed cases at Goderich Collegiate in Goderich and Anne Hathaway elementary school in Stratford
    • Each of the schools has 1 confirmed case and cohorts have been dismissed
    • Our case and contact management team are following up with close contacts.
  • There are 3 confirmed cases at St. Ambrose School. Our public health investigation has determined that there was not transmission at school. A cohort has been dismissed and our case and contact management team are following up with close contacts.
  • Public Health will contact you if you are considered a high-risk/close contact to a confirmed case with further direction. If you do not hear from public health, then it has been determined that you are not a close contact.

Source: HPPH
Date: November 28, 2020

Categories
Health Departments Huron Perth Public Health

Covid-19 Outbreak Declared In Area School – 4 Schools In Ontario Shutdown

An outbreak has been declared at Northside Christian School; this will be posted on our website (https://www.hpph.ca/en/index.aspx) according to our process for reporting school outbreaks

The school is near Listowel

An outbreak is declared in a school when there are two or more cases of COVID-19 in students and/or staff (or other visitors) within a 14-day period, where at least one case could have contracted the virus in the school.

Due to the nature of the school, one cohort could not be identified and therefore HPPH has closed the school until at least December 1. HPPH will determine when the outbreak is over and when the school can be reopened.

There have been confirmed cases reported at other elementary schools, including Anne Hathaway PS in Stratford, St. Ambrose School in Stratford, and a few private Christian schools in Huron and Perth.

In the case of Anne Hathaway, it was determined that the person did attend school while infectious, and therefore a cohort has been dismissed. HPPH continues its contact tracing work and following up with affected families

St. Ambrose: there was no school exposure so no cohort has been dismissed.

A case very recently identified, related to Goderich District Collegiate Institute. The cohort has been dismissed as per regular protocol. We are still in the early investigation of this case.

HPPH continues to work closely with the school boards, staff and families at these schools

Provincial data continues shows that COVID is not transmitting rapidly in schools

86% of schools have no reported active/current cases and at present, only 4 schools (0.08% ) across the province are closed due to outbreaks

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Uncategorized

11 Dead – Cedarcroft Outbreak Update

There are a total of 278 confirmed cases in Huron-Perth, with 40 cases currently active. There have been 15 new community cases added over the weekend. (Please note that one duplicate case file was adjusted on the weekend, meaning the total cases went to 263 before the 15 community cases were added for the current total of 278).

There are no active long-term care home outbreaks and no active school outbreaks

Cedarcroft Place Retirement Residence continues to be in outbreak.

Cedarcroft outbreak

HPPH was saddened to learn of the passing of two residents since we last reported who had tested positive for COVID-19. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of these individuals.

RESIDENTS:

Total number of deaths: 11

Total residents active: 13

Total residents recovered: 19

STAFF:

Total number of staff cases: 19

Total number of staff cases resolved: 18 (please note this case does not show on our website as staff resides outside of Huron Perth)

Total number of staff cases active: 1

Move to Orange-Restrict

There have been some questions on why the province moved Huron-Perth to the Orange-Restrict level of public health measures.

Our level is determined by multiple factors including

Rates of cases in our health unit and in neighbouring regions

Rates of cases that are not ‘epi-linked’ (not in a known chain of transmission which is suggestive of community transmission) in our health unit and in neighbouring regions

R (Reproduction number) in our health unit and in neighbouring regions

Hospital capacity in our health unit and in neighbouring regions

Public Health capacity to do Case and Contact Management in our health unit and in neighbouring regions

Additional information on what indicators the province uses when assessing the need for an area to move to a different level of public health measures can be found at COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open.

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