Health unit implements programs

The Northwestern Health Unit has implemented several public health programs and services for the Emo and area.
They include health promotion activities and resources, chronic disease prevention, including heart health and sun safety, injury and substance abuse prevention, and referrals to other health unit programs.
The public health nurse is Sonia Jackson, whose hours are every Tuesday from 9:15 a.m.-4 p.m. To book an appointment, call 274-9827 (drop-ins are welcome, but you may wait).
Her services include immunization, ’flu clinics, sexual health, communicable disease control, fluoride varnish, and referrals to other health unit programs.
Services offered by public health nurse Ann Marie Vanderaa include “Healthy Babies, Healthy Children,” home visiting, and pre-natal classes.
Again, call 274-9827 for an appointment or referral.
The health unit’s office hours are Monday-Friday from 1-4:30 p.m. The on-site staff member is health education Joni MacGibbon.
The public health inspectors are Dave Coats and Brian Norris, whose visits are made as required. To book an appointment or for inquiries, call 274-9827.
Their services include water sampling. Samples may be dropped off Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. only.
The dental hygienist is Andrea Blakie, whose services include dental screening at the schools and referral of children in need of treatment, prevention programs, and fluoride varnish.
Jacqueline Cawston, the health educator in Fort Frances, provides education at the schools on oral health.
The speech and language pathologist is Lonna Oster, who is available every Thursday at the United Church. Her services include pre-school speech and language screening as well as programming infant hearing assessments.
For referrals, call Central Intake and speak with Kathy at 1-877-553-7122.
And the communications assistant is Marty Nelson, who is available Thursday and Friday. His services include a community-based language program for pre-schoolers.
Public health nurse Gaylene Jasper provides “Healthy Babies, Healthy Children” and pre-natal classes for residents in the Barwick and Stratton areas.
For after-hours public health emergencies, call 1-807-468-7190.
As is the past, in the event of a public health crisis or disease outbreak, additional staff would be dispatched to Emo and area under the direction of the medical officer of health and/or management.
Information in pamphlet or fact sheet form is available at all of the Northwestern Health Unit offices, or visit www.nwhu.on.ca