News Releases

May is Rabies Awareness Month

All animal bites, scratches must be reported to Health Department

Whitby, Ontario – May is Rabies Awareness Month, and Durham Region Health Department is reminding educators, health care providers, veterinarians, police services and all residents to report any animal bites or scratches involving humans to the Health Department. Rabies is most commonly found in bats, foxes, skunks and raccoons; therefore, avoiding contact with these animals is essential. The rabies virus can be transmitted...

Celebrating community and connection during Asian Heritage Month

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“May marks Asian Heritage Month—an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Asian communities across Durham Region.

From families who have called Durham home for generations to newcomers helping to shape our future, residents of Asian descent play an important role in making our region inclusive,...

Emergency Preparedness Week is May 3 to 9 – Prepared Together

Whitby, ON – While emergencies are rare, being prepared helps turn uncertainty into confidence. This Emergency Preparedness Week (May 3 to 9, 2026), the Region of Durham is reminding residents that a little planning can make a big difference. We are encouraging residents to take small, manageable steps now, so they are ready when it counts.

Throughout the week, the Region will be sharing practical tips and reminders to help households across Durham build resilience—whether it’s updating an...

Count your business in: The annual Business Count returns this spring

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham is gathering employment statistics to inform how to support building a stronger local economy – one business at a time. From May to August, the Region’s Business Count team will be visiting businesses across the region. Surveyors, wearing navy blue Durham Region shirts and official photo ID cards, will conduct brief surveys to collect information about business operations, including employment, growth plans, and floor space. Your participation helps...

Region of Durham to establish Durham Reception Centre in Pickering

Whitby, Ontario – The federal government has provided funding for the Region of Durham to purchase a former hotel in Pickering. This space will be used to establish the Durham Reception Centre—a space providing temporary accommodation and support for asylum claimants arriving through the Durham Humanitarian Response Program (DHRP). 

Located at 533 Kingston Road, the purchase of this 2.84-acre site, and some of its future operating costs, were made possible with funding from the federal Interim...