News Releases

Region of Durham strives to protect older adults from abuse

Whitby, Ontario – Anxious, confused, lonely, sad, scared and worthless are some of the many emotions felt by older adults across Ontario who are suffering from abuse. In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, the Region of Durham reaffirms its commitment to offering help, direction and support to older adults in our communities.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including financial abuse, neglect, verbal and emotional abuse, physical and sexual abuse, as well as ageism. To help...

New evidence-based website now available to support breastfeeding families and health-care providers

Collaboration with Ontario Tech, Durham Region Health Department and Lakeridge Health provides a valuable resource for the community

Parents worldwide now have access to a new digital tool that makes it easier to understand, plan for and navigate breastfeeding, thanks to an Ontario Tech University researcher using technology to support infant health and community well-being.

Dr. Jennifer Abbass Dick, Associate Professor in the university’s Faculty of Health Sciences, has partnered with Lakeridge...

Weekly beach test results now available online through Check&Go! Durham

Whitby, Ontario – Starting with the 2025 Beach Monitoring season, Durham Region Health Department will now post test results for all inspected local public beaches on the Health Department’s disclosure portal, Check&Go! Durham. This online access will provide area residents with real-time weekly inspection results.

When test results are available on Check&Go! Durham, social media reminders will also be posted every Friday to check the portal on x.com/DurhamHealth, instagram.com/DurhamRegionHealth and

Health Department releases report on climate change and vector-borne diseases in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Climate change is expected to increase the spread and incidence of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) among residents of Durham Region and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and other Indigenous Peoples with whom we share these lands.

To help learn about, prepare for, and act against climate change, Durham Region Health Department has released the report, Assessing the Impact of Vector-borne Disease, available at durham.ca/ClimateAndHealth. Part of the series Climate Change...

Durham Region Health Department advising of potential exposure to confirmed measles case

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department is notifying the public of two measles exposure locations related to a confirmed measles case. The case is from outside of Durham Region but visited local venues while contagious.

There have been no cases of measles reported in Durham Region so far for 2025.

The Health Department advises anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the measles virus at the above locations to do the following:

• Confirm you and your family members have two doses...