The local health unit has been sending out notices to parents and guardians who haven’t yet had their children vaccinated against a series of diseases. Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act students attending Ontario schools must be vaccinated against tetanus polio measles mumps diphtheria rubella whooping cough chickenpox and meningococcal disease. According to a press release from the health unit students can be suspended from school if their health records aren’t updated with the health unit.

First flu case reported
There have been fewer cases of influenza in the health unit region this year than last with the health unit reporting its first locally acquired case in the first week of January. “Flu season is starting a bit later this winter” Dr. Lynn Noseworthy medical officer of health for the Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit said during the board meeting on Jan. 21.

Health unit wants stronger tattoo inspection rules
The board of health says it wants “stronger inspection rules and regulations for tattoo parlours and other similar ‘invasive’ services” a press release from the health unit reads.
The board endorsed a motion to the provincial government asking for laws to set “minimum requirements for infection control practices and operator responsibilities.” They noted that there are more tattoo parlours in the region now and that while the owners of the businesses want to comply with rules there need to be more clear regulations in place.
The letter was sent to the Ontario government as well as the Association of Local Public Health Agencies for endorsement.