Please note that ALL PHU offices will be closed on Monday, October 2, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Health Canada has approved a new vaccine targeting XBB.1 COVID-19 variants. The Porcupine Health Unit is waiting for further guidance from the Ministry of Health regarding these vaccines. Flu and RSV vaccines will also be available to ensure Ontarians are protected this fall.
For more information, read the provincial announcement.
The Porcupine Health Unit has received reports from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, of a possible blue-green algae bloom at
Big Water, Timmins (September 25, 2023)
Remi Lake (Fauquier Township), Moonbeam (September 21, 2023)
Lake Ste. Therese (Casgrain Township), Hearst (September 18, 2023)
Watersnake Lake (Shackleton Township), Fauquier-Strickland) (September 16, 2023)
Driftwood River (Stock Township), Shillington (August 31, 2023)
Nellie Lake, Iroquois Falls (August 17, 2023)
Horwood Lake (Penhorwood Township), Sudbury District (July 14, 2023)
Star Lake, west of the City of Timmins (June 19, 2023)
The Porcupine Health Unit advises people using lakes and rivers at these and any location to be on the lookout for algal blooms. If you see green water or scum near your property or water intake line, take precautions.
Due to the potential job action affecting water operation, the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) may issue a boil water advisory, at any time, for the Town of Cochrane. For information about using water safely during a Boil Water Advisory, visit phu.fyi/bwa.
CURRENT WATER ADVISORIES
For further information, visit our Water Advisories page.
There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. Travellers should contact the Porcupine Health Unit well in advance to inquire about whether or not Yellow Fever vaccine is required. The Porcupine Health Unit will then be able to advise you on your options including possibly travelling out of town to receive the yellow fever vaccine.
Wearing a properly-fitted helmet while cycling can significantly reduce your risk of sustaining a severe head injury.
A boil water advisory is issued when harmful germs may be in a drinking water supply. A drinking water advisory is issued when harmful chemical contaminants may be in a drinking water supply. Follow these general recommendations on how to use the water if a water advisory has been issued in your community.
Wildfires are often large, and can sometimes lead to widespread impacts on the land, and on the well-being of the population.
The Porcupine Health Unit works to protect your health and prevent illness. Environmental Health ensures owners and operators understand and comply with Ontario regulations. The public can visit our website at any time and view the most recent inspection reports for premises, including food premises, pools, hot tubs, personal service settings, licensed child care settings, children’s recreational camps, small drinking water systems and tanning facilities.
Local news, information and updates on COVID-19. Updated once a week.