Weekly Public Health Media Briefings To Resume Starting Thursday, August 18, 2022 As the landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) remains committed to providing timely and credible public health information to the community. With the next school year about to begin, the WECHU […]
Health
Common Sense Health: Tattoos and Piercings Still Come with Risks
Jack London, the American novelist who wrote Call of the Wild in 1903, said, “Show me a man with a tattoo and I’ll show you a man with an interesting past.” But in 2022, with tattoos found on more than a third of North Americans and on nearly one in two young […]
First West Nile Virus Positive Mosquito Pool in Windsor-Essex County
First West Nile Virus positive mosquito pool found in Windsor-Essex County this season Routine monitoring for West Nile Virus (WNV) has identified one positive mosquito pool in our community. This is the first sign of WNV in Windsor and Essex County (WEC) this year. Certain types of mosquitoes spread WNV, […]
Common Sense Health: Know and Love a Woman? Protect Her Heart
How many people realize women’s coronary arteries are understudied, underdiagnosed, and undertreated? The Cleveland Clinic, a leading cardiology centre, says heart disease is seven times deadlier for women than breast cancer. Build up of plaque in the heart’s arteries contributes to the death of one in every three women, more […]
How Do You Dispose of Broken Glass and Other Sharp Objects?
If you’ve ever broken a glass (and who hasn’t?) have you found yourself wondering how you should dispose of it? Chances are you’ve put it in a garbage bag and hoped for the best. But the time for such uncertainty is over. The Municipality of Leamington has spelled out what […]
Update: COVID-19 Outbreak at Windsor Regional Hospital
Windsor Regional Hospital is continuing to experience outbreaks of COVID-19 on multiple in-patient units. To date, a total of 63 patients have tested positive for COVID-19 on the following units: Met Campus: 7 North 6 North 5 North 4 North 4 West Ouellette Campus: 2 North 6 East 7 Medical […]
Main Street Pharmacy Booking COVID Vaccines: Ages 6 Months – 5 Years Old
We have Pediatric SpikeVax, the Moderna COVID vaccine, available by appointment only. We are booking for patients aged 6 months to 5 years of age: * August 4th from 8 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. * August 13th from 1 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. You can make an appointment by calling us at […]
Common Sense Health: When Is the Right Time to Hang Up the Car Keys?
Helen Keller, the disability rights advocate who lost her sight and hearing at 19 months of age, famously warned of “having sight but no vision.” Hers was a metaphor on living. But what happens to our eyesight as we age? And how common is it to have sight, but poor […]
Opioid Crisis Response: Faith Community Distributes 500+ Naloxone Kits
Faith Community’s Response to Opioid Crisis Results in 500+ Naloxone Kits Distributed Rising rates of opioid-related overdose and death continue to be a concern for local health and social services leaders working on the Windsor-Essex Community Opioid and Substance Strategy (WECOSS). As part of the response to the growing crisis, […]
COVID-19 Outbreaks at Windsor Regional Hospital
Windsor Regional Hospital is experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks on the following units: • 7 North, 6 North, 5 North, 4 North, and 4 West at Met Campus • 7 East and 7 West at Ouellette Campus To date, 39 patients have tested positive for COVID-19 on the outbreak units. The majority […]
Common Sense Health: Fainting Frightens, But Is Usually Benign
People have been swooning for joy since at least the 13th Century when the earliest recorded use of the word can be found. By the 20th Century, losing consciousness for love and rapture was a necessary attribute of a Southern belle. Even today, swooning has a positive connotation, defined as, “a few […]
COVID-19 Vaccine Bookings Open For Children 6 Months to Under 5 Years
COVID-19 Vaccine Bookings to Open For Children Aged Six Months to Under Five Years COVID-19 Paid Sick Days Extended to March 31, 2023 TORONTO — As of 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022, parents and caregivers of children aged six months to under five years will be able to […]
Main Street Pharmacy: COVID Vaccines by Appointment from July 21
We have COVID vaccines available by appointment only. We are booking for Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for 12 and up: * Friday July 22nd * Saturday July 23rd * Monday July 25th, * Wednesday July 27th * Thursday July 28th We are booking for SpikeVax the Moderna COVID vaccine: * […]
WECHU Confirms First Case of Monkeypox
Through lab confirmed testing, a Windsor-Essex County (WEC) resident has been diagnosed with monkeypox. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is notifying the community of the first confirmed monkeypox case to keep residents informed, but due to client privacy and confidentiality, no further details will be shared publicly. According to Acting […]
Common Sense Health: Online Grocery Shopping a Cause for Concern
Food products in stores are changing. Shoppers easily find more processed, attractively packaged, and conveniently prepared meals. With online shopping, the way these products are now selected and put in the cart has changed too. For that, consumers may be paying more than just the price of inflation. Online food […]
Ontarians Aged 18+ Eligible for Second Booster Shot
Free rapid antigen tests extended to December 31, 2022, including for general public TORONTO — The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is expanding eligibility for second booster doses to Ontarians aged 18 and over in order to provide an extra layer of protection to […]
Common Sense Health: No Guff – Swearing Eases Pain
A taboo forbids a practice that is deemed unacceptable. Swearing, especially in polite company, is an example. But here’s good news for the foul-mouthed. Swearing can have surprising benefits – including a remarkable effect in reducing pain! Dr. Emma Byrne knows a lot about letting the filth fly. She published […]
Due to ED and EMS Pressures Other Patient Alternatives Encouraged
Emergency Department and EMS Pressures Continue. Patients Encouraged to Seek Alternatives Where Possible WINDSOR, ON. – Windsor Regional Hospital and Erie Shores HealthCare, in conjunction with Essex-Windsor EMS, are reminding the public about capacity pressures across the acute care system in our region causing longer than normal waits, while underlining […]
COVID Vaccines by Appointment at Main Street Pharmacy from July 7-12
We have COVID vaccines available by appointment only. We are booking for Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for 12 and up: * Thursday July 7th * Friday July 8th * Monday July 11th * Tuesday July 12th Eligibility spotlight To confirm your eligibility use the handy eligibility calculator on our website. […]
Common Sense Health: Viruses Love a Weak Immune System
Justin Bieber, the mega-successful pop icon, has had better days. His mental health and addiction issues are common to many superstars. He’s had Lyme disease and infectious mononucleosis. COVID infections interrupted concert dates. Now, he is suffering from a viral disease that has affected his speech and made him cancel […]
WRH to Increase Number of Visitors, Remove Active Screening on July 1
WRH Increasing Number of Allowable Visitors; Removing “Active” Screening at Entrance But Asking Anyone Who Visits to Self Screen for COVID Symptoms WINDSOR, ON _ Windsor Regional Hospital is opening up visitation to allow two essential caregivers to visit with a patient at a time, while also requiring those who […]
Common Sense Health: The Original Medicine of Stingless Bees
The American poet Emily Dickinson understood the profound gifts of nature. She wrote, “The lovely flowers embarrass me, They make me regret I am not a bee –” If bees could speak, they might add, “Let me do my work, so that you may live.” Bees are vital pollinators, ensuring […]
Common Sense Health: Ease Arthritis Pain Naturally
“Why shoot a mouse with an elephant gun?” It’s a good question to ask those suffering from osteoarthritis (the wear-and-tear type of arthritis). Why is it that so many of these people have never been advised to try natural approaches before using strong drugs which can cause major side effects […]
Update on WRH’s Challenges to Restore Surgery Capacity to Pre-COVID Levels
WINDSOR – Windsor Regional Hospital wants to continue its ongoing public communication by providing an update to the community regarding a continued backlog of surgical procedures and our challenges in addressing the issue. Please note that although the backlog at WRH has been reduced – as of May 19th, 2022, […]
WECHU Beach Water Testing Results Available
No beaches are closed this week. Swimming is not recommended at Mettawas Beach. Please visit our Beach Safety page for information about planning a safe day at the beach. Please visit our blue-green algae page for instructions on how to stay safe if there is a bloom present. The bacterial counts given reflect the […]
Government Confirms Suspension of Vaccination Mandate in Many Settings
Today, the Federal Government announced that it will suspend vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel, federally regulated transportation sectors and federal government employees. As of June 20, 2022, at 00:01 EDT, evidence of vaccination will no longer be a requirement to board a plane or train in Canada. However […]
Common Sense Health: Québec Set to Assist Alzheimer’s Patients
How ironic that Québec, the most Roman Catholic province in Canada, is proposing progressive legislation for Alzheimer’s patients. It’s time for other Canadian provinces and American states to show similar humanity. Québec’s Health Minister, Christian Dubé, has tabled Bill 38 that would allow patients with severe Alzheimer’s disease to receive […]
Masking Requirement Lifted at Most Essex County Facilities
The County of Essex has lifted masking requirements to align with changes recently announced by the provincial government. This means members of the public, tenants and staff are no longer required to wear masks while in county facilities, as long as they can maintain a distance of at least two metres […]
Main Street Pharmacy Has COVID Vaccines by Appointment in June
We have COVID vaccines available by appointment only! We are booking for Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 12 and up: * Friday June 10th * Monday June 13th * Tuesday June 14th * Thursday June 16th We are booking for Pediatric Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages […]
WRH Mask Mandate to Remain in Place
This release is being sent out on behalf of Windsor Regional Hospital, Erie Shores Healthcare and Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare: WINDSOR, ON. _ Mask mandates in settings deemed high risk are set to expire in Ontario. Earlier this spring, the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health (OCMOH) announced […]
Scheduled Maintenance for WECHU on Friday June 10
Scheduled Maintenance Our network will be undergoing scheduled maintenance on Friday, June 10 at 8 p.m. which will include www.wechu.org. All network resources should be back up and running at 9 p.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Common Sense Health: Can AI Help Fight Cancer?
The short answer is yes – cancer and other health problems too. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a game-changer. Not only can this rapidly advancing technology improve the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis and treatment, it has enormous potential to predict health problems, allowing for far more effective prevention programs […]
WRH Update: Contrast Dye Shortage Affects Non-Emergency Appointments
As previously released on May 28th, 2022, Windsor Regional Hospital is monitoring an international shortage of a solution known as iodinated contrast dye used in diagnostic imaging scans that will result in the postponement of non-emergency CT, cardiac angiograms and diagnostic studies requiring contrast dye until at least the end […]
Emergency Department Pressures at Local Hospitals, Longer Waits
Emergency Department Pressures at Local Hospitals; Longer Waits for Care Windsor Regional Hospital and Erie Shores HealthCare, in conjunction with Essex-Windsor EMS, are once again alerting the public about capacity pressures across the acute care system in our region. On April 13, a news release was issued noting that hospitals […]
Common Sense Health: Bend So You Don’t Break
Getting older takes a toll. Weakening bones, increasing aches and pains, and failing balance, flexibility and strength can make the body feel like worn-out baggage. But there’s a curious truth in an ancient Hindu text that states, “Everyone else is conquered by the body, but the body is conquered by […]
Common Sense Health: How Do You Know if You’re Deficient in Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient found in citrus fruits and as a dietary supplement. Now, a reader asks, “How do I know if I have a deficiency of vitamin C?” It’s a good question, as studies show that 14 percent of North Americans aren’t getting even the meagre recommended […]
Main Street Pharmacy: COVID Vaccines by Appointment Starting May 24
We have COVID vaccines available by appointment only! We are booking for Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for 12 and up for: * Tuesday May 24th * Wednesday May 25th * Monday May 30th * Tuesday May 31st Eligibility spotlight To confirm your eligibility use the handy eligibility calculator on our […]
WECHU to Hold Vaccination Clinic at Kingsville Arena on May 20
Walk-in Clinic The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has announced that a Pop-Up Vaccination Clinic will be held at the Kingsville Arena on Friday, May 20, 2022. The clinic will be open to walk-ins for COVID-19 vaccinations. Hours: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Address: 1741 Jasperson Lane Kingsville For a list […]
Common Sense Health: Flashy Marketing Deceives New Mothers
The global formula milk industry is huge and growing rapidly, at about US$55 billion and projected to reach US$110B by 2026. Aggressive and deceptive marketing by manufacturers is driving this growth. The World Health Organization (WHO) is ringing alarms. It charges the industry with using new digital marketing tactics to […]
Windsor-Essex County Health Unit Starting Active Tick Surveillance
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) launched their active tick surveillance program on Friday, May 13, 2022. This involves the identification and testing of ticks that are collected by public health staff. The field surveillance is conducted at public parks and trails that are frequently used by residents to retrieve local […]
WRH Nursing Week Award Winners
Nurses Honoured With Recognition for Excellence, Education Funding WINDSOR – Nurses at Windsor Regional were honoured this week to recognize nursing excellence and continuing education efforts. Winners of the Jeanne Mance Extraordinary Nursing Care Awards, which go to a nurse who continually goes above and beyond to provide compassionate and […]
Common Sense Health: Watch Out for Warm Summer Nights
John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John sang about romance in “Summer Nights”, the opening song in the hit movie, Grease. But now, at 68, he, more so than she, may want to watch out for a different kind of summer heat. New research shows that warm summer nights increase the risk of […]
WRH and U of W Look to Expand Ongoing Partnership
WINDSOR, ON _ Windsor Regional Hospital and the University of Windsor are exploring a potential partnership around a new health and innovation park on lands purchased for the new future Windsor/Essex Acute Care Hospital. “Research and Education has always been one of the main drivers behind the need for a […]
COVID Vaccines Available at Main Street Pharmacy Through May 12
We have COVID vaccines available by appointment only. We are booking for Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for 12 and up: * Wednesday May 4th * Thursday May 5th We are booking for SpikeVax the Moderna COVID vaccine: * Friday May 6th * Tuesday May 10th * Wednesday May 11th […]
Common Sense Health: A Little Nostalgia Goes a Long Way
Tracing the medical history of nostalgia involves a sharp U-turn. Centuries ago, it was considered a psychopathological disorder. Still today, nostalgia can be associated with negative feelings and sadness. But researchers are reaching new conclusions about the health benefits of wistful affection for the past. We recently witnessed the medicinal […]
The GO-VAXX Bus is Coming to Leamington!
The Provincial ‘GO-VAXX Bus’ Mobile COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic will be in Leamington on Monday, May 2 and Tuesday, May 3. The GO-VAXX Bus is a safe and convenient way to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. We encourage anyone who is eligible for a dose to visit the GO-VAXX Bus and get […]
Common Sense Health: Boosting Nitric Oxide the Antidote to Getting Older
The French existentialist, Gabriel Marcel, asserted “Life is not a problem to be solved but a mystery to be experienced.” Nevertheless, scientists remain intent on figuring it out. The cells in our bodies are susceptible to damage. A sunburn is a visible example. Ultraviolet rays scorch skin cells, causing rapid death. Damage occurs at […]
WRH Employee Lands Prestigious Award for Role in COVID-19 Pandemic
WINDSOR, ON. – Lucy Di Pietro, Technical Coordinator in the Microbiology Department at Windsor Regional Hospital, has been named a 2022 Lerners Healthcare Champion honouring her work during the COVID-19 pandemic. The awards are given out each year recognizing hardworking individuals and organizations that go above and beyond the call […]
WECHU’s Scheduled Maintenance on April 22, 2022
Scheduled maintenance on Friday, April 22 at 8 p.m. Our network will be undergoing scheduled maintenance on Friday, April 22 at 8 p.m. which will include www.wechu.org. All network resources should be back up and running at 9 p.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Common Sense Health: Is Cholesterol the Enemy?
The headline of a prestigious health and nutrition publication reads, “Do we need to limit dietary cholesterol?” For decades, the answer was yes. We were told to limit our intake of cholesterol to 300 milligrams (mg) or less daily to decrease the risk of heart attack. Was it just a […]
Main Street Pharmacy COVID-19 Vaccines Available by Appointment
We have COVID vaccines available by appointment only! We are booking for Comirnaty the Pfizer COVID vaccine for 12 and up: *Friday April 22nd *Saturday April 23rd *Monday April 25th *Wednesday April 27th *Thursday April 28th We are booking for SpikeVax the Moderna COVID vaccine: *Tuesday April 19th *Thursday April […]
WECHU Closed on Friday and Monday During Easter Weekend
There are two days during the Easter weekend when Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will be closed to the public. Those dates are Friday, April 15 and Monday, April 18. Regular hours of operation from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. will resume on Tuesday, April 19. Website: Windsor-Essex County Health Unit […]
Emergency Department Pressures Increase at Local Hospitals
Windsor Regional Hospital and Erie Shores HealthCare, in conjunction with Essex-Windsor EMS, are cautioning the public about intensifying capacity pressures across the acute care system in our region. We are asking patients to seek care where possible, for non-emergency needs, at community settings, such as their family doctor or local […]
Common Sense Health: For Men, Don’t Disregard a Lump in the Breast
Few findings cause women as much fear as discovering a breast lump and wonder if it’s cancer. But what about men who notice a mass and pain in the breast? Male breast lumps are not commonly discussed in the locker room. But confusion and embarrassment can delay diagnosis of a […]
Ontario Expanding Access to COVID-19 Antivirals and PCR Testing
Ontario Expanding Access to COVID-19 Antivirals Province also increasing public access to PCR testing to more high-risk individuals TORONTO — As part of its plan to stay open and manage COVID-19 for the long-term, the Ontario government is expanding eligibility for COVID-19 antiviral treatments and PCR testing to more high-risk […]
CRST to Hold Leamington Vaccine Clinic Days April 11-22
ESSEX COUNTY – Following the announcement of increased eligibility for 4th dose COVID-19 vaccinations, the Community Response and Stabilization Team (CRST), in conjunction with the Municipality of Leamington, will be holding vaccine clinics at the Leamington Municipal Building. The walk-in clinics will take place from April 11th to 22nd (a complete listing of […]
Ontario Expanding Fourth-Dose Eligibility
Additional booster dose will provide an extra layer of protection against severe illness and hospitalization TORONTO — The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is expanding eligibility for fourth doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to individuals aged 60 and over as well as First Nation, […]
Common Sense Health: Urinary Incontinence in Women
Some women say, “You only know a place well if you know where the restrooms are located.” They’re suffering from urinary incontinence (UI). They know if they delay too long, there’ll be an accident. But there are ways to correct this nerve-racking problem. A report from the University of California […]
Ontario Providing Rapid Antigen Tests for At-home Use Until July 31
To support the easing of public health measures and a safe re-opening, Ontario will continue to provide free rapid antigen tests to the general public, childcare settings, workplaces, hospitals, long-term care and retirement homes, and other congregate care settings until at least July 31, 2022 Ontarians can now get a […]
PUMA Clinic Services Moving Inside Met Campus April 4
WINDSOR, ON. – The services offered at Windsor Regional Hospital’s Paediatric Urgent Medical Assessment or PUMA Clinic are moving inside the Met Campus building. The clinic has been located inside a temporary facility adjacent to the Emergency Department parking lot since late August 2021. Volumes at the PUMA clinic have […]
Outbreak Rescinded At Erie Shores HealthCare
ESSEX COUNTY – A COVID-19 outbreak in an inpatient unit at Erie Shores HealthCare was rescinded this morning by the Windsor and Essex County Health Unit. The announcement comes 12 days after two patients tested positive for COVID-19. It’s believed they contracted the virus from a visitor to the unit. […]
Locations for Catch-Up Immunization Clinics for Students Grades 7-12
Catch-Up Immunization Clinics for Students in Grades 7-12 Are Coming to a Location Near You! The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) began offering clinics at Devonshire Mall (former Sears building) on March 8th for eligible students to receive their vaccine series for Hepatitis B, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Meningococcal disease. As […]
Common Sense Health: Common Sense in End-of-Life Choices
Few want to think about it. But there are choices to be made about death. Doing nothing is one option. Life will, inevitably, one way or another, come to an end. But making common sense decisions about personal preferences for end-of-life should not be taboo or disallowed. And politicians should […]
ESHC Launches Online X-Ray Scheduling Tool
ESSEX COUNTY – A new online scheduling tool will allow Essex County residents to schedule their own x-ray appointments at the Erie Shores HealthCare (ESHC) Diagnostic Imaging Department. The new tool allows patients to schedule their x-ray conveniently, with same-day appointments available Monday through Saturday. In order to booking an […]
ESHC Emphasizes PPE Requirements Following Outbreak Announcement
ESSEX COUNTY – The announcement of an outbreak on an inpatient unit at Erie Shores HealthCare shows the need for continued visitor restrictions and PPE requirements. The outbreak stems from two patients who tested positive for COVID-19 on March 18, 2022. It’s believed those patients were infected by a visitor […]
Health and Information Fair for Migrant Workers on April 3, 2022
The Migrant Worker Community Program is a non-profit organization. It is our mission to provide a positive balance to the lives of the migrant worker community by offering educational, social, cultural, recreational, and communication opportunities to help them better integrate into their new community. Our focus is on supporting agricultural […]
Common Sense Health: Building Up Bones for a Lifetime
What’s one of the worst errors that young people make early in life? It’s the failure to practice preventive medicine. So, let’s have a talk with young people about how to protect their bones for a lifetime. We know that kids of all ages break bones playing sports. It’s annoying […]
Devonshire Mall Vaccination Centre To Cease Operations April 2nd
Windsor and Essex County residents have until 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 2nd to walk-in and get vaccinated against COVID-19 at the Devonshire Mall vaccination clinic. For grade 7 – 12 students who have not started or completed their vaccination series for Hepatitis B, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and/or Meningococcal Disease and […]
Health Unit Announces Scheduled Maintenance on March 17
Scheduled Maintenance Our online inspection reporting system will be undergoing scheduled maintenance Thursday, March 17 at 8:30 a.m. This will impact https://www.wechu.org/inspections. The services should be back up and running at 10 a.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.
WECHU and BBBB Offer Virtual Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes
Building Blocks for Better Babies (BBBB) in collaboration with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is offering free monthly virtual Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED: Call the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, Healthy Families Hotline at 519-258-2146 ext. 1350 All prenatal families are welcome to join to learn the basics of […]
Common Sense Health: Music for the Mind
Music may be the world’s greatest medicine. From infants to centenarians, people love music and the way it makes them feel good. In tribute to its universal qualities, Hans Christian Andersen said, “Where words fail, music speaks.” Even without lyrics, songs certainly convey feelings. Among healthy people, researchers have shown […]
Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Moore On Public Health Measures
TORONTO — On March 9, 2022 Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health issued the following statement: “With the peak of Omicron behind us, Ontario has been able to cautiously and gradually move through its reopening milestones. The majority of public health and workplace safety measures have now been […]
Common Sense Health: Decarbonizing Healthcare
Last week we wrote about the environmental disaster of plastics choking the world’s oceans and the consequences for human health through the food chain. This week let’s look through a different lens at another environmental disaster of our own making – the carbon footprint of healthcare itself. Here’s something you […]
WECHU COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics at St. John de Brebeuf on March 3
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will hold COVID-19 vaccination clinics at St. John de Brebeuf Catholic Elementary School on March 3 from 3:45 – 6 p.m. Anyone from the community who is eligible to be vaccinated is welcome to attend. St. John de Brebeuf Catholic Elementary School 43 Spruce Street […]
Common Sense Health: Plastic Soup a Disastrous Meal
Why is humankind so bent on destruction? Why so apathetic in the face of annihilating warfare, repeated massive oil spills and choking urban smog? Equally awful is the “Plastic Soup” in our oceans. A picture of a Hawaiian beach reveals the folly of humans. It shows a huge amount of […]
Message from Global Affairs Canada to Travellers Returning to Canada
The message below was provided to Canadians registered on Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA). ROCA is a free service that allows the Government of Canada to notify Canadians in case of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home. The service also enables Canadians to receive important information before […]
Rescinding Local Letter of Instruction for Sport and Recreational Fitness Facilities
With recent announcements and pending changes to vaccination verification and letters of instruction related to the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act (ROA) the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is rescinding the Letter of Instruction for Sport and Recreational Fitness Facilities issued in November 2021. The Health Unit is not issuing any additional […]
Update on Hospital Policies on Visitor Vaccinations
WINDSOR and LEAMINGTON, ON. _ The frontline workforce of our Windsor-Essex hospitals, just like their family, friends and neighbours in the communities they serve, look forward to the next phase of Ontario’s reopening plan which reduces certain restrictions effective March 1st, 2022. After two years of working in some of […]
Main Street Pharmacy Booking COVID Vaccines Starting February 28
We at Main Street Pharmacy are currently booking COVID vaccine appointments for the following vaccines, dates and times: Comirnaty Pediatric (Pfizer for ages 5 – 11) Tuesday March 1st – 2:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Thursday March 3rd – 3:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Friday March 4th – 2:00 p.m. […]
Erie Shores HealthCare Lab Joined Windsor and London in New Platform
A day five years in the making happened on February 23, 2022 as the laboratory at Erie Shores HealthCare joined colleagues in Windsor and London launching a new integrated lab testing platform. It means faster and more standardized results for patients across the region. The new equipment in the Erie […]
Common Sense Health: Why Wouldn’t You Take Care of Your Heart?
Diana Gifford-Jones: You are starting your 99th year. To what do you attribute your good health? Gifford-Jones, MD: I’ve been fortunate, but it nearly didn’t happen. I suffered a major heart attack when I was 74. My cardiologists insisted on cholesterol-lowering drugs to fight heart disease. But I knew of two-time Nobel […]
Scheduled Maintenance for Health Unit Website to Take Place on Feb. 24
Scheduled Maintenance Our network will be undergoing scheduled maintenance Thursday, February 24 at 4:30 p.m. which will include wechu.org. All network resources should be back up and running at 5 p.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Pop-Up Clinic at Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre on Feb. 23 and March 1
Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre Vaccination Clinic Extended Hours Dates: Wednesday, Feb. 23 Tuesday March 1 Location: 103 Park Street Kingsville Hours: 11:30 am to 6:15 pm For a current list of Pop-Up Vaccination Clinics open for walk-ins happening the week of February 21, 2022, visit https://www.wechu.org/cv/clinics#pop-up.
Changes to Mass Vaccination Clinics, Boosters Available for Ages 12-17
Upcoming Changes to Mass Vaccination Clinics Grovedale Arts and Cultural Centre (Kingsville) and Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare clinic to close over the coming weeks. Devonshire Mall clinic to expand as a “catch up” vaccination clinic for children. As the province prepares to further ease public health restrictions, residents are reminded that […]
Today Ontario Begins Easing of Capacity Limits
Capacity limits will be lifted in most indoor public settings where proof of vaccination is required, including restaurants and bars, gyms, meeting and event spaces, and more. As part of Ontario’s cautious and gradual approach, starting today, indoor social gathering limits increase to 50 people. Outdoor social gathering limits increase […]
Common Sense Health: Do You Have an Inflammatory Lifestyle?
Chronic inflammation is unlike what happens with a cut or an invading germ when the immune system mounts a fight and then stands down. In such cases, inflammation is part of the healing response. But when lifestyle issues have the immune system active all the time, there may be no […]
Youth Ages 12-17 Can Book COVID Booster Appointments as of Feb. 18
Starting Feb 18 at 8 a.m., youth 12-17 will be able to book their booster dose appointment: * at Ontario.ca/bookvaccine * by calling 1-833-943-3900 * at select pharmacies administering the Pfizer vaccine Appointments will be 6 months after a second dose. https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1001600/ontario-moving-to-next-phase-of-reopening-on-february-17 Visit the COVID-19 Information Center for vaccine resources.
Ontario Moving to Next Phase of Reopening on February 17
Improvements in key indicators allowing province to safely ease public health measures sooner TORONTO — With key public health and health system indicators continuing to improve, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is cautiously and gradually easing public health measures sooner, with the next […]
Province Announces New Ontario Health Team in Windsor-Essex
The provincial government is partnering with Ontario Health to create a new Ontario Health Team in Windsor-Essex and providing up to $1.1 million to help it “seamlessly integrate health care services for patients and support the region’s continued response to COVID-19.” The Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team “will break down […]
Ontario Health Cards Can Be Renewed Until September 30
Ontario Is Extending Health Card Renewal Requirement To ensure all individuals can continue to access health care services, Ontario is extending the requirement to renew health cards until September 30. Ontarians will continue to be able to use their expired health card, including a red and white health card, to […]
Rapid Tests at Main Street Pharmacy While Supplies Last
You can pick up a COVID-19 rapid test for your household from the Main Street Pharmacy while supplies last. They are first come first served and will be limited to one kit per household. From the Ontario Ministry of Health: To further support the province’s cautious easing of public health […]
Common Sense Health: A Wave of Heart Disease Among Healthcare Workers?
There has always been a lot of heart in the practice of medicine – literally and figuratively. Typically, the focus is on the beating heart of the patient. But has the pandemic, unlike any challenge to the medical profession before, impacted the hearts of front-line healthcare workers themselves? Medicine is […]
Comirnaty (Pfizer) Vaccines at Main Street Pharmacy From Feb. 9
We are currently booking appointments at Main Street Pharmacy for Comirnaty (Pfizer) vaccines. Adult Comirnaty (Pfizer) vaccines are available Feb. 9 – 12 and Feb. 14th: This is for first, second, third and booster doses. Pediatric Comirnaty (Pfizer) vaccines are available Feb. 10 – 12, Feb.14 and 15th: This is […]
Kingsville’s Grovedale Serves as New Mass Vaccination Site
The Windsor Essex County Health Unit and its partners are relocating the mass vaccination site at Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre in Leamington to the Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre, 103 Park Street in Kingsville, effective Tuesday, February 8, 2022. The clinic will operate Tuesday to Saturday each week, from 9 am […]
New Location Announced for County-Based Mass Vaccination Clinic
The health unit and partners are relocating the mass vaccination site currently located at Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre in Leamington with the final doses being administered at this site on Saturday, February 5th. The location reopened its doors on January 5th to enhance access to booster doses in response to […]
Transportation, Childcare & Accessibility Supports for COVID Vaccinations
Some individuals may experience greater difficulty in attending their COVID-19 vaccination appointment due to potential barriers, including a lack of safe transportation, childcare services, or other accessibility concerns. There is a variety of local supports available to reduce these barriers and help residents who have appointments attend the vaccination sites. […]
Common Sense Health: Grandma Took the Wrong Pill
Unintentional poisonings are on the rise. Deaths from poisoning occur at double the rate of motor vehicle deaths. It’s a heartbreaking fact that many deaths and injuries are completely avoidable, especially when young children are the victims. Yet, it may be surprising to know this: while children under age 5 […]
Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Supply Increases and Walk-ins Accepted
On December 18, 2021, the Ontario Ministry of Health put in place recommendations to preserve the limited availability of the Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) vaccine to only those who were identified for a preferential dose of the vaccine (i.e., those between 12-29 years of age). Due to a currently stable supply of […]
Common Sense Health: Stand Up To Read This Week’s Column
Get up on your feet. Seriously. It will be good for you. Sitting is something we have all become accustomed to doing a lot more of lately. Just prior to the pandemic, studies showed that the average adult spent about 6.5 hours a day sitting – an hour longer than […]
Main Street Pharmacy Has SpikeVax (Moderna) Vaccine Jan. 25-28
We have SpikeVax (Moderna) appointments available at Main Street Pharmacy from Tuesday, Jan. 25 to Friday, Jan. 28. Check out our COVID Vaccine Eligibility Checker page to see if you’re eligible for a vaccine. Call 519-712-8800 to book an appointment. Location: 103 – 200 Main Street East Kingsville, Ont. Phone: (519) 712-8800 […]