News

Increase in invasive meningococcal disease activity in the KFL&A area

KFL&A Public Health is issuing an advisory regarding an increase in invasive meningococcal disease (type B) activity in the KFL&A area. In recent months, the region has experienced three confirmed cases of this serious bacterial infection, with no identifiable link between them. This count is above the KFL&A region’s historical average.

Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a rare, but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection. It can infect the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), and...

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KFL&A Public Health reminds residents to ensure up-to-date measles immunizations

KFL&A Public Health is encouraging all residents to ensure they are up-to-date on their measles immunizations, following an increase in measles cases globally.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection with symptoms including red rash, fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and fatigue. It spreads through the air and close contact, such as breathing, coughing or sneezing. Vaccines are highly effective in preventing the spread of measles.

“Most people in the KFL&A region are immune to measles as...

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KFL&A Public Health releases the Cost of Eating Healthy report

KFL&A Public Health announces the release of the 2023 Cost of Eating Healthy report. KFL&A Public Health monitors local food affordability and found that in 2023, the cost to eat healthy for a family of four (two adults, two children) in the KFL&A region was approximately $1,207 per month.

“Our findings consistently highlight the challenges faced by low-income households, to balance the costs of rent, healthy food, and managing other essential living expenses,” said Rachael Mather, public health...

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Avian influenza confirmed in wild birds in Kingston

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has been confirmed in deceased Canada geese that were found along the Lake Ontario Park waterfront. Avian influenza infects wild birds such as geese, ducks, and shore birds, and can infect domestic poultry.

The risk of transmission to humans is low as the virus does not typically pass from birds to humans. All residents are reminded to avoid contact with sick or dead wild or domestic birds.

Protect yourself, your pets, and domestic birds:

• Do not handle or...

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Rise in drug poisonings in the KFL&A area - February 2, 2024

KFL&A Public Health is issuing an alert to warn residents about a recent rise in drug-involved poisonings and associated symptoms within the KFL&A region.

Consumption and Treatment Services in Kingston is reporting a 15 per cent increase in apparent drug poisonings over the past week, along with an increase in clients experiencing very prolonged deep sedation and hallucinations. Additional community partner data supports a concerning increase in apparent drug poisonings this week.

These...

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Local health units remind you to protect yourself and others from respiratory illnesses this season

Kingston - This time of year is well known for holiday parties and gatherings to celebrate the season. These gatherings are important to foster a sense of belonging, improve our mental health and bring our community closer. Respiratory viruses can spread easily when people gather (especially over holidays and in winter months). Respiratory illnesses can have a significant impact on overall well-being. We urge individuals and communities to consider ways to reduce the spread of respiratory...

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Local Boards of Health give support to investigate a merger with neighbouring public health agencies

Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) Board of Health, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District (LGLD) Board of Health, and the Hastings Prince Edward (HPE) Board of Health endorsed investigating the feasibility of a potential merger between these local public health agencies (LPHAs).

This consideration has been brought forward in response to the Ontario Ministry of Health’s announcement in August 2023 to strengthen the public health sector. This announcement also included one-time...

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KFL&A Public Health and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit urges influenza vaccination

As influenza has been detected in the region, KFL&A Public Health and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit strongly advises getting vaccinated against the flu, with a particular emphasis on individuals under the age of five.

The flu is more than just cold-like symptoms. It can cause absences at school, work, and other gatherings. Children five years of age and under are under-recognized as a group with greater risk of sever outcomes, and it is important for parents to get their kids...

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22nd Annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk or Wheel

Kingston – More than 16,000 students and staff from 53 schools in Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) will take part in the 22nd annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk or Wheel. Students will be donating a non-perishable food in exchange for a jingle bell and participating in a 1 km festive fit break where they will walk, run, wheel or skip around their school or community “with bells on”. This is a partnership between KFL&A Public Health, local school boards, and local food banks to help...

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Alarming increase in tooth decay among school-aged children in the KFL&A region

Kingston – Recent data shows a concerning increase in tooth decay among school-aged children. KFL&A Public Health’s school dental screening results from last year show that 40 per cent of children in senior kindergarten have experienced tooth decay. This is an increase of 60 per cent since 2019.

“Local dentists are seeing first-hand the dramatic increase in severe tooth decay among children and youth,” said Dr. Jennifer Archibald, pediatric dentist in Kingston. “Untreated tooth decay can...

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