 By Gazette Staff
November 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
This is not something Canada should be proud of.
 The measles outbreak in Canada and how we reacted to it has resulted in the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) advising the The Public Health Agency of Canada that it has lost its measles elimination status — a designation it has held since 1998.
PHAC said it is collaborating with the PAHO and working with the federal, provincial, territorial and community partners to implement co-ordinated actions. These include focusing on “improving vaccination coverage, strengthening data sharing, enabling better overall surveillance efforts, and providing evidence-based guidance,” the statement said.
 A severe case of measles. Canada has recorded more than 5,100 measles cases this year, the majority tied to the multi-province outbreak, according to the most recent federal data.
 By Pepper Parr
October 1st, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There will soon be more older people than young people in the city.
And many of those older people are going to need levels of care that are not normally provided.
 University Professor Tim O’Connell, Chair of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Brock University explains that: “As society increasingly embraces a holistic approach to health, recreation has emerged at the critical intersection of personal wellness and community well-being.
To meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in recreation fields, Brock University and Mohawk College have signed two transfer pathway agreements to deliver flexible options for students to pursue either a Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation or Bachelor of Recreation and Leisure Studies.
The articulation agreements set students on a direct track from Mohawk College’s two-year Recreation Therapy and 16-month Accelerated stream programs to either Brock program. Eligible students will receive a block of seven transfer credits, fast-tracking them toward their 20-credit degree.
By embedding courses such as Leisure Education in Therapeutic Recreation in a broader recreation and leisure studies framework, Brock’s programs equip graduates with in-demand skills, professional experience and industry-recognized credentials. Career paths range from clinical practice in hospitals and long-term care facilities to community-based roles where recreation and leisure contribute to physical, social and emotional well-being.
 The Therapeutic Recreation program also qualifies students to participate in the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. “The pathways are a game-changer for students,” says Connell. “They not only gain advanced standing in their degree but increase their career readiness by graduating with an essential credential employers are looking for in hospitals, long-term care facilities and treatment centres.”
In addition to clinical practice, students complete a 560-hour supervised internship, benefit from access to an extensive alumni network and have options to pursue an honours thesis.
The Therapeutic Recreation program also qualifies students to participate in the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) exam, a credential increasingly sought by employers across Canada and the United States.
 By Gazette Staff
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Region issued a report yesterday on problems at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic located at 2951 Walkers Line where needles were improperly used on occasions where a local freezing was being applied.
The original report said:
Following an investigation, Halton Region Public Health identified improper infection prevention and control practices involving the use of an unsterile needle with a multidose vial of local anesthetic medication (freezing) between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025. This practice may pose a risk of cross-contamination and transmission of infections. The investigation determined this was likely not an isolated incident, meaning it may have occurred previously during the identified time period between 2019 and 2025. This IPAC Lapse only includes the walk-in clinic during the specified time period and does not include procedures or care received at the family practice physician offices associated with the Halton Family Health Centre clinic.
Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic has taken immediate corrective measures to ensure all necessary infection control measures are being met. Public health continues to monitor the situation to ensure compliance and patient safety. There are no risks to the patients at this time, and the clinic is open.
The Region has since updated the report to say:
 This public notice has been updated to provide clarity and ensure an accurate understanding of the infection prevention and control lapse. It is important to note that the same needle was not used continuously throughout the period, rather appropriate infection prevention and control measures were not followed when using multi does vials over the time period identified.
While the risk remains low, Halton Region Public Health continues to encourage anyone who visited the walk-in clinic during the specific timeframe and received a needle for the purposes of “freezing”, to seek precautionary testing and speak with their healthcare provider.
 By Gazette Staff
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Public Notice: Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Lapse at Walk-In Clinic in Burlington
Halton Region Public Health is notifying the public of an infection prevention and control (IPAC) lapse at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic located at 2951 Walkers Line in Burlington (corner of Walkers Line and Dundas Street).
Halton Region Public Health investigation
Following an investigation, Halton Region Public Health identified improper infection prevention and control practices involving the use of an unsterile needle with a multidose vial of local anesthetic medication (freezing) between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025. This practice may pose a risk of cross-contamination and transmission of infections. The investigation determined this was likely not an isolated incident, meaning it may have occurred previously during the identified time period between 2019 and 2025. This IPAC Lapse only includes the walk-in clinic during the specified time period and does not include procedures or care received at the family practice physician offices associated with the Halton Family Health Centre clinic.
Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic has taken immediate corrective measures to ensure all necessary infection control measures are being met. Public health continues to monitor the situation to ensure compliance and patient safety. There are no risks to the patients at this time, and the clinic is open.
Important instructions for patients of the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic
Patients who visited the Halton Family Centre Walk-in Clinic between January 1, 2019 and July 17, 2025, and received a treatment requiring local anesthetic by injection (freezing) may have been exposed to blood and blood-borne infections. Examples of procedures that may require local anesthetics include but are not limited to:
- laceration repairs (stitches for cuts or tears of the skin)
- intrauterine Device (IUD) insertions
- endometrial biopsies
- skin biopsies
- removal of lumps and bumps
- partial or complete nail removal
- joint injections or aspirations
Although the risk of infection is low, Halton Region Public Health is advising patients who received a procedure that may require local anesthetic by injection (freezing) at the Halton Family Health Centre Walk-in Clinic between January 1, 2019, and July 17, 2025 to:
- speak with their healthcare provider or visit a walk-in clinic to discuss testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV
- download and print a copy of the laboratory requisition and physician letter to bring to the healthcare provider
- not visit a hospital emergency department, as it is not necessary
“Protecting the health and safety of the public and patients is a top priority. Our Public Health team continues to actively monitor the situation and ensure compliance is maintained,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region. “While the risk of transmission is low, we are ensuring impacted individuals have the information they need to complete precautionary testing.”
To learn more about this IPAC lapse, please visit the IPAC Lapse Disclosure webpage.
Patients of the clinic who have specific questions about the lapse are asked to call Halton Region Public Health at 311, 905-825-6000 or toll-free 1-866-442-5866
By Diana Kharchenko
September 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Researchers in multiple countries are advancing stem cell trial research aimed at repairing the inner ear to restore hearing in people with tinnitus and neural hearing loss. The initial research investigations aim to determine if cochlear hair cells, which transform sound into brain signals, can be regenerated.
The 2022 JAMA Neurology review established that tinnitus impacts 14.4% of adults worldwide, resulting in more than 740 million cases, while severe tinnitus affects 2.3% of the population (JAMA Neurology). The available treatments, including hearing aids and cochlear implants, and sound therapy, provide symptom relief, but they cannot restore typical hearing function.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School’s Mass Eye and Ear used a drug-like cocktail to stimulate hair cell regeneration in mice, which shows promise for human clinical applications.
Dr. Zheng-Yi Chen from Harvard Medical School’s Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery department described hair cell regeneration in the inner ear as the ultimate goal of hearing research. The research shows that clinical applications are possible for the future (Harvard Medical School).
Advances in Regenerative Research
Tinnitus and many forms of neural hearing loss result from damage to cochlear hair cells or their neural connections. The therapy with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) works to establish a supportive environment for the body’s repair mechanisms by delivering growth factors and enhancing immune responses and microcirculation.
Traditional treatments, including hearing aids and cochlear implants, and medications, help millions of people, but they cannot fix the complete damage to the ear.
Dr. Chris Cunningham from the University of Pittsburgh (Eye & Ear Foundation) explained that these devices bring revolutionary life-changing benefits, yet they cannot restore normal hearing completely.
Many stem cell trial programs now focus on MSCs, adult multipotent stromal cells sourced from a patient’s tissue or donated placental and umbilical cord tissue. MSCs avoid the ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells and have a lower risk of immune rejection.
According to reviews in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience (Warnecke et al., 2021) and Molecular Biology Reports (2020), MSCs have been shown to reduce inflammation, protect nerve cells, repair synaptic connections, and promote new blood vessel growth to improve circulation.
Global and Clinical Perspectives
 Scientists throughout the world continue to study cell-based hearing loss treatments in laboratories and clinics because they share a common goal of developing treatments that surpass symptom relief. Beyond university laboratories, some private clinics are also exploring regenerative approaches for tinnitus and neural hearing loss. The European clinic Swiss Medica operates among multiple facilities that provide stem cell therapy for tinnitus through MSCs. The clinic explains that these treatments work to decrease inflammation while defending auditory nerve structures and promoting tissue regeneration.
The U.S. medical institution AdventHealth initiated a Phase I/II clinical trial to evaluate autologous umbilical cord blood infusion for treating acquired hearing loss in children while focusing on safety and practicality. The MHRA granted approval to Rinri Therapeutics in 2025 for starting human trials of Rincell-1, which functions as a regenerative cell therapy to fix damaged auditory nerves.
Scientists throughout the world continue to study cell-based hearing loss treatments in laboratories and clinics because they share a common goal of developing treatments that surpass symptom relief.
Future Outlook
While early results are encouraging, experts emphasise that stem cell therapies for hearing disorders remain experimental.
According to a systematic review in the International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery (Ganchi, 2025), stem cell therapy shows promise for potentially curing congenital hearing loss via cochlear regeneration. However, significant hurdles in protocol development, long-term efficacy, and safety must still be addressed.
Conclusion
Recent developments in stem cell trials are shifting the treatment of tinnitus and neural hearing loss toward addressing the underlying damage rather than just managing symptoms. While still in trials, these regenerative therapies could significantly change the landscape of hearing restoration.
 By Gazette Staff
September 15th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Five Halton residents have tested positive for West Nile virus. These are the first human cases for Halton this year.
“Halton Region Public Health works to reduce the risk of West Nile virus in our community through both education and preventative programs such as larviciding.
Until the fall frost, Halton residents should continue to protect themselves and their families against mosquito bites and remove mosquito breeding sites,” said Dr. Patrick Galange, Halton Region Associate Medical Officer of Health. “About 80 per cent of individuals infected with West Nile virus will have no symptoms, while some may develop fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. About one in a hundred people infected with West Nile virus may develop a severe illness affecting the central nervous system. This may present as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).”
 Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by:
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Covering up when going outside between the hours of dusk and dawn (when most mosquitoes feed), and at any time in shady, wooded areas. Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants with tightly-woven fabric.
Using an approved insect repellent, such as one containing DEET or Icaridin.
Reducing mosquito-breeding sites around your home by getting rid of all water-filled containers and objects, where possible. Change the water in bird baths at least once per week.
Making sure your window and door screens are tight and without holes, cuts or other openings.
To learn more about personal protection and Halton Region’s surveillance and control efforts, visit the West Nile Virus page on halton.ca. To report standing water on public property, call 311.
 By Gazette Staff
August 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The Ontario Health Coalition has been fighting the good fight to keep the health service public and not something that drifts into the hands of the private sector.
They have been demonstrating across the province and documenting the number of emergency rooms that are closed and small communities that find they no longer have access to the health services.
They are circulating a petition to collect signatures from people who want to see a stop to the closings that are taking place.
The group continues to tell the story of what is taking place.
Public hospitals’ operating rooms idle while patients wait
Our public hospitals’ operating rooms are closed evenings, weekends– some even permanently. They aren’t given enough funding to run full time, which would reduce waitlists.
Record emergency department closures
Ontario had more than 1,100 emergency department closures last year. Local hospitals, in existence for 100 years, are now at risk of permanent closures. If the Ford government chose, they could restore services by funding & staffing our public hospitals.
Lowest public hospital funding while $ billions shifted to private health care
Ontario funds our public hospitals at the lowest rate of any province. At the same time, the Ford government is redirecting more than a billion dollars per year from our public taxes to fund private for-profit clinics & staffing corporations.
For-profit clinics charge patients $$ thousands in illegal (& unethical) user fees for surgeries & tests
Maureen needed eye surgery for macular degeneration so she wouldn’t lose her vision. A private clinic charged her $7,000. She told us, “Being a senior on a fixed income, I’m still trying to catch up with my bills from the surgery.”
This should NEVER happen. The Ontario government is responsible for enforcing our medicare laws to protect patients like Maureen from extra-billing & user fees. Medically needed surgeries & tests must be covered by OHIP. That’s the law.
Last spring, we made a complaint to the Ford government from 50 patients – including Maureen – who were charged or manipulated into paying for medically unnecessary add ons in private clinics. The patients should be reimbursed & the clinics should be stopped.
We’re making another complaint this fall to push the Ford government to stop them. If you’ve been charged for your surgery, please contact us.
Ontario has downsized our hospitals to an extreme extent.
We are last in Canada & third from the bottom among developed nations.
 In 1990, Ontario had 50,000 hospital beds for 10.3 million people. Today, we only have 35,000 for 16.2 million people.
According to data from the OECD, only Chile & Mexico have fewer hospital beds per person than Ontario.
Why? Because everything they cut from public hospitals is privatized.
NOTE: A “hospital bed” means a bed that is funded with nurses, doctors & other staff providing care. When they close down “beds” it means they cut staff & the care they provide. Patients are backlogged in emergency departments because they are waiting for a funded bed to open up for them inside the hospital, while thousands of beds have been closed down & could be reopened.
Please send a message to Doug Ford: You can’t say you stand up for Canada while privatizing our health care
The United States has the most privatized health care in the developed world. Americans pay almost double our costs for care.
The Ford government is privatizing more & more of our long-term care and hospital surgeries & diagnostics. They’re giving primary care to for-profit chains, privatizing Public Health services like COVID testing, vaccines & more. They’re allowing private clinics to bill OHIP & charge patients on top. They’re moving toward U.S.-style for-profit health care.
U.S. for-profit hospitals charge exorbitant prices. Businesses face high insurance costs for employees. On top, employees pay co-payments every paycheque plus they have to pay deductibles before coverage kicks in…IF they are covered. Insurance companies make profits by denying coverage.
Medical costs are the top reason for bankruptcy: 56 million Americans struggle with medical debt: more than Canada’s entire population.
Every one of us can make a difference
By Gazette Staff
August 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATE from the Ministry of Health: Following regulatory amendments made under the Pharmacy Act, pharmacy professionals are now authorized to administer the RSV vaccine.
While pharmacists are authorized to administer the adult RSV vaccine in Ontario, pharmacists do not have direct access to the publicly funded RSV vaccine supply.
The Ontario government is expanding the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) prevention program to include all individuals aged 75 years and older, helping to protect those most vulnerable during the upcoming respiratory illness season.
The media release did not say how the immunization would be delivered – we are following up on that.
 RSV prevention program to include all individuals aged 75 years and older, helping to protect those most vulnerable during the upcoming respiratory illness season. “Our government is ensuring the most vulnerable have access to the tools they need to protect themselves and their family during respiratory illness season,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “We’re once again expanding RSV immunization which will now include everyone 75 years of age and older so we can help protect more seniors and reduce unnecessary hospitalizations this fall and winter.”
Starting this fall, RSV immunization will now be available through Ontario’s publicly funded RSV immunization programs to all individuals aged 75 and older, building on last year’s expansion of the programs that also includes:
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Certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74, such as residents of long-term care homes or retirement homes
Infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season
High-risk children up to 24 months of age in their second season
Pregnant women will have the option to receive the RSV vaccine Abrysvo®, which can help provide protection to infants at birth, while eligible newborns, infants and high-risk children can receive the Beyfortus® immunization. More details on where families will be able to access RSV immunization will be provided in the coming weeks.
“As we prepare for the upcoming respiratory illness season, it’s essential that we take proactive steps to protect those most at risk and reduce pressure on our health-care system,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health. “Ontario’s RSV immunization programs for infants, high-risk children, high-risk adults over 60 and everyone aged 75 and older is a critical part of our strategy to prevent severe illness, hospitalizations, and complications, especially among those most vulnerable to respiratory infections.”
 Routine and recommended immunizations help prevent the spread of serious diseases throughout communities. Routine and recommended immunizations help prevent the spread of serious diseases throughout communities, reduce medical visits and keep people out of the hospital. Everyone is strongly encouraged to stay up to date on their immunizations, especially children returning to school who may have missed routine vaccines.
Through Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government is providing people with the tools they need to connect to the care they need to keep themselves and their loved ones safe and healthy.
Quick Facts
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Information about recommended immunizations for the upcoming respiratory illness season, including when to get your flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine, will be available closer to the fall.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Infection is most severe in young babies and older adults and can cause serious lung infections that may require hospitalization. RSV infection can also make chronic health problems worse.
Pregnant women should consult with their health-care provider before receiving Abrysvo®.
Every time your child gets a routine immunization, report it to your local public health unit to ensure their records for the ISPA are up to date. Health-care providers do not report these records for you.
Under Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA), students must provide proof of immunization against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella and whooping cough to attend school.
Talk to a health-care provider or public health unit if you are unsure if your child has missed routine immunizations or if you are unsure about which immunizations they have received.
Visit Health811 online or call 811 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007 toll free) for health advice and information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
By Gazette Staff
August 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
What if a simple heartbeat measurement could help predict a person’s risk of dementia?
A Brock-led international research team has found that including an additional metric — resting heart rate — to an established dementia risk prediction model can make its results more accurate across most racial groups, says Professor of Health Sciences Newman Sze.
The Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Incidence of Dementia (CAIDE) international assessment tool uses several physiological and social measurements to evaluate a patient’s vulnerability to developing dementia in the future.
But the current model doesn’t capture a patient’s full health picture, particularly across diverse racial groups in the U.S., says Sze, the Canada Research Chair in Mechanisms of Health and Disease.
After obesity and hypertension, Sze says resting heart rate is one of the most important risk factors for dementia, a feature not captured in the current model.
“If the resting heart rate is too low or too fast due to heart muscle failure, there’s not enough blood being pumped to the brain,” says Sze. “The brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which leads to brain degeneration.”
Sze and his eight-member research team tested the impacts of including resting heart rate (RHR) in the CAIDE model to see if adding that measurement would improve the model as a whole and increase equitable access to dementia prediction.
Resting heart rate, or pulse rate, refers to the number of beats per minute when the body is inactive and calm.
 The research team analyzed data from 44,467 U.S. participants aged 18 and older, including those aged 65 and above. The data, collected by the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC), spanned from 2005 to 2023 and included information from interviews, physical examinations and cognitive tests.
The team divided participants in the NACC database into self-reported racial groups: two American Indigenous populations, Asian, Black African, Hispanic and White.
The team ran each group through the current CAIDE model, which is comprised of age, sex, body mass index, hypercholesteremia, level of education and hypertension measurements.
They then repeated the procedure with a CAIDE-RHR model that included resting heart rate.
“This adjustment significantly improved dementia risk prediction across most racial groups, offering a more inclusive and accessible way to identify at-risk individuals,” says Sze.
As resting heart rate is easy to measure, more people can be screened and monitored, which makes the model more inclusive, says the study’s lead author, PhD student Shakiru Alaka.
He says other researchers have previously attempted to improve the CAIDE model’s accuracy by introducing expensive and time-consuming lab analysis to detect dementia biomarkers in blood samples.
But this addition may reduce access for multi-racial, underserved populations, especially in the U.S., says Alaka.
“In contrast, resting heart rate can be measured with a simple blood pressure cuff or by placing fingers on the wrist — methods that are quick, non-invasive and widely available, even in underserved community settings,” he says.
The team found the CAIDE-RHR model significantly improved the accuracy of dementia risk prediction for all racial groups in the study except the American Indigenous populations, although Sze says the low number of participants may have affected the model’s accuracy for that group.
“This finding highlights the important connection between heart health and brain health,” says Sze. “It’s a step toward addressing systemic gaps in how we assess dementia risk across diverse populations.”
 Newman Sze and PhD student Shakiru Alaka checking data at Brock University Although the study was conducted with U.S. participants, the findings have important implications for Canada, where dementia-related mortality has increased by 59 per cent over the past 10 years, says Sze.
“The CAIDE-RHR model offers a low-cost, non-invasive tool that could be integrated into routine care, including in rural and underserved communities, to help identify those at risk earlier and more equitably,” he says.
The study, “Enhancing the Validity of CAIDE Dementia Risk Scores with Heart Rate and Machine Learning: An Analysis from National Alzheimer Coordinating Centre Across All Races/Ethnicity,” was published Friday, Aug. 8 in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
In addition to Sze and Alaka, the research team includes Brock University Professor of Health Sciences Brent Faught, Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology Panagiota Klentrou, Associate Professor of Health Sciences Rebecca MacPherson, Assistant Professor of Health Sciences Mostafa Shokoohi, Research Associate So-Fong Cam Ngan and researchers from the U.K.’s Newcastle University and the National University Health System in Singapore.
 By Gazette Staff
April 10th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Halton Region Public Health has issued an Extended Heat Warning starting August 11, 2025 for Halton Region as a result of Environment Canada continuing its Heat Warning. An Extended Heat Warning is issued when the daytime temperatures are expected to reach at least 31 degrees Celsius with overnight temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius for three or more days, or when the humidex is expected to reach 40 for three or more days.
 Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Exposure to these weather conditions can cause serious health problems those especially at risk include: older adults, infants and young children, people who work and exercise in the heat, people without adequate housing and those without air conditioning. People who have breathing difficulties, heart problems, kidney problems or are taking medication that affect their sensitivity to heat are also especially at risk of preventable heat illness. This warning is intended to inform the general public and community agencies, to keep residents safe and healthy during the heat and to recommend that precautions are taken when temperatures are high.
As the climate changes, heat events are expected to become more frequent, longer and hotter in Halton Region and other parts of Ontario.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating. Cool the person as best you can while waiting for medical attention to arrive.
You can prevent heat-related illnesses by avoiding strenuous outdoor activities; seeking shade from the sun; spending time in air-conditioned places, such as shopping malls and community centres; and staying hydrated. Call or visit friends and neighbours who may be at risk and never leave people or pets in your care unattended in a car.
Weather and heat information are available on local radio and television stations and the Environment Canada Weather Conditions and Forecast webpage. Also, check the Air Quality Health Index, air pollution tends to be higher during very hot days. For information and tips on how to protect your health during heat warnings, including information on cooling centres, please visit our Preparing for Heat Events webpage at halton.ca or call 311.
 By Aria Wilson
July 31st, 2025
BURLINGTON ON
Our world is a changing place. With the introduction of mental health destigmatization comes tough realities. This is one of many stories of a family changed by the devastating impacts of negative mental health. This is the story of my family.
It was the end of the school year in 2020. I thought that I was just going to get a two-week break from school. While I enjoyed the time spent online, playing games with my friends, it never occurred to me that the adults and loved ones in my life were slowly beginning to feel more alone, more isolated from the world around them. With the virtual shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic came job losses and a decline in communication with people who you loved. Sometimes a difference of opinion was enough to tear people apart at such a troubling time.
I often come back to the pandemic when I think of the causes of the uptick in mental health problems lately, especially in more mature demographics. According to the World Health Organization, global levels of anxiety and depression increased twenty-five per cent in the first year of the pandemic. I wonder if perhaps the lack of in-person interaction was enough to cause some of the cases. I know that this certainly contributed to my story.
 It wasn’t until a couple of years later that the problems for my family came to the surface. At this time, a member of my family had already been struggling with his physical health for several years. He had slipped a disc in his spine, a painful and debilitating injury. Through countless doctor’s visits, several neurology appointments, and seemingly endless surgeon consults, nothing had been done to change the situation this individual faced.
Due to hospital systems being overworked and overbooked, surgery continuously got pushed further. The longer we waited, the more it started to feel like we would never get the chance to see change. I think this is when my family member’s mental health began to dwindle.
Losing hope by the minute, there seemed to be very little that could be done for our family. Other than occasional spinal injections that do little but numb the spine, mobility became even more of a challenge and limited this individual’s connection to the world.
 Left: Eric Vandewall, president and CEO of Joseph Brant Hospital; Michael Paletta; launched the For All Minds campaign with a $5-million donation from Michael and Laura Paletta towards a $20-million community fundraising goal. It all came to a head when my family member was admitted to the hospital in the Inpatient Mental Health Unit. With all the physical strain that had not been resolved, a mental toll had ultimately overtaken the problems plaguing my family member.
The first time we admitted him to the hospital, he only spent a night before he came home. I believe this was a mistake, as he had to return to the hospital no more than a week later.
While the programs available in the hospital were helpful during his stay, we found little communication and follow-up after his visits, leading to a cycle of short stays at home, followed by the necessity to return to the hospital.
We have finally, after more than five stays in the mental health unit, found a day program to assist the family member’s mental health. And still, to this day, he has not received any notice of available surgery for mobility complications.
I do not place blame on the hospital systems; I know that staff have truly cared for my family and want to see my family member get better.
If nothing, let my story serve as a reminder to spend time with your family, teach them new ways to interact with each other and stay active, and certainly don’t take any of your time together for granted.
 Aria Wilson will return to Carlton University in September to begin her second year as a journalism student
By Pepper Parr
July 30, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
There is an organization that spends all its time educating the people of Ontario about the government’s failures in the public health sector. It is The Ontario Health Coalition (OHC) , a network of more than 500 grassroots community organizations representing virtually all areas of Ontario.
 The Coalition has begun to make a difference. They have been working for a number of years on a massive community outreach. They found that their efforts a couple of years ago to reach more than a million people with leaflets made a very significant difference. They explained why privatization is the destruction of our public health care and highlighted what the Ford government is doing. It took literally thousands of volunteers across the province to make this happen and you can see the results in the polls.
All across Canada, people oppose health care privatization but in Ontario the polls show that the support for public health care and opposition to its privatization are the highest in the country – by a significant margin. This is our collective effort and it is the most powerful bulwark against the erosion of our public health care that we can levy.
During the past year the OHC challenged themselves to set a goal of reaching two million Ontarians directly with leaflets opposing health care privatization. They managed to reach more than 900,000 last spring and more than 140,000 during the election period. They are continuing this effort by launching a petition campaign this summer calling on the Government of Canada to uphold and enforce the Canada Health Act and to stop the Ford government from violating it in the private clinics.
In the fall, they will issue a new leaflet with a goal of reaching every doctor, nurse, health professional and health care worker in Ontario. We will also have one for the general public. We know that the more people understand what is happening, the more they support the fightback.
As you know, this has been a tough government. They do what they can get away with. It is our job to create a political context such that it is impossible for them to dismantle and privatize our public health care. Now, with a new term and a majority government, that task is much more difficult. However, nothing is impossible.
The OHC held a Day of Action at the Legislature in May for those communities with small and rural hospitals at risk and demanded the government stop the closures of emergency departments and vital hospital service closures. We had more than 150 people filedl the Public Galleries at the Legislature, held meetings with politicians and joined a press conference. The Minister of Health was forced to answer non-stop questions in the Legislature, demanding that she take action on this issue.
 The people of Ontario want to keep their public health care system – they need some help. In June we got a major front-page media story in the Toronto Star featuring patients who have been extra-billed in private clinics illegally. We followed this with formal complaints from 50 patients, complete with receipts and proof of payment, to the federal and provincial government to get them to enforce the Canada Health Act in Ontario. We called on the Ontario government to reimburse patients charged for medically necessary services at the private clinics and we called on the federal government to uphold the Canada Health Act and enforce it against the Ford government. We will be following up on that work in the fall.
This is just a sample of what the OHC has done and will continue to do to ensure that this government is held accountable and feels the pressure to improve their record.
They are now asking people to consider making an automatic donation monthly. It doesn’t have to be a lot, everything makes a big difference. The OHC can only do what they can afford to do and that depends entirely on donations and memberships.
This is where you give your financial support;
By Gazette Staff
July 29th, 2025
BURLINGTON,
Canadian Blood Services is calling on all donors with O-negative type blood to donate as soon as they can. O-negative blood is vital in emergency care, because it is compatible with all blood types, and can be given to any patient. When seconds count, and there is no time to check blood types, hospital patients receive O-negative blood – the universal blood type.
 Only 7 per cent of people in Canada have O-negative blood. This is a small percentage with a huge impact. That’s why it is so important that people with O-negative blood donate regularly, if they can.
If you know that your blood is O-negative, Canadian Blood Services is asking you to book an appointment or come to a donor centre today. It’s likely that someone in your family also has O-negative blood, so you can double your impact by inviting them to join you.
Hospitals have the blood they need today, but that could change if appointments aren’t filled. Demand is high for O-negative blood this summer, so O-negative donations are needed right away to keep the supply strong. Come to a donor centre today or book an appointment at your earliest opportunity. If you’ve already booked your appointment, please honour it, or rebook if your schedule changes.
While O-negative donors are especially needed right away, donors of all types are encouraged to make a plan to donate this summer. You will find out what your blood type is after your first donation.
Visit blood.ca or download the GiveBlood app to find a location near you. If you’ve never donated before, there is no better time to discover the profound sense of purpose and connection you feel when you donate blood.
Be part of something that matters and experience what you get when you give. Book now on blood.ca, use the GiveBlood app or call 1 888 2 DONATE (1-888-236-6283).
 By Gazette Staff
July 14th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Alberta has surpassed the United States in confirmed measles cases, after 30 new cases were diagnosed over the weekend.
 Measles is an exceptionally contagious disease, and can cause death. The province reported Monday that it has seen 1,314 cases since the beginning of March.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 1,288 cases so far this year across 39 states, though case numbers are updated weekly with the next update expected on Wednesday.
The outbreak of the highly contagious disease hasn’t led to any deaths so far in Alberta, but three people, including two children, have died in the United States.
The U.S. has also seen more hospitalizations, with the CDC reporting 162 people, or 13 per cent of all cases, being hospitalized compared to 102 Albertans as of earlier this month.
Alberta’s measles dashboard says two people are currently in hospital, including one person receiving intensive care.
Dr. Craig Jenne, an immunology and infectious disease professor at the University of Calgary, says once measles started spreading at the community level, Alberta’s low vaccination rate meant it was only a matter of time before the province surpassed the U.S. in cases.
“This was largely predictable,” he said in an interview.
“It was pretty clear we were going to see growth, unfortunately, for several weeks to months.”
Region of Halton reported a case of measles on June 16, 2025.
 By Andrew Sniderman
July 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Why doesn’t equalization apply to Indian reserves? It’s right there in the Constitution: the commitment to providing essential public services of reasonable quality to all Canadians.
And yet, we take for granted that schools and hospitals in places like Fredericton, Whitehorse, and Charlottetown are decently funded.
This is the magic of “equalization,” which helps ensure comparable public services in parts of Canada that couldn’t otherwise afford them thanks to federal transfers to poorer provinces and territories. Equalization is the “improbable glue that holds a nation together,” as author Mary Janigan puts it.
But did you know that Indian reserves are excluded from equalization?
About 330,000 people live on reserves. That is more than the population of Prince Edward Island (157,000). And it’s more than the number of people who live in the three territories — Yukon (45,000), Northwest Territories (45,000), and Nunavut (39,000).
And yet, unlike provinces and territories, Indian reserves do not receive a legal commitment to comparable public services from the federal government.
Not coincidentally, basic services on reserves are subpar and underfunded by any provincial or territorial measure. The problem extends to policing, education, child welfare, access to clean water, fire services, and more.
The exclusion of reserves from equalization is a legal omission, all too often overlooked, that has enabled a policy problem to fester.
A little-known section of the Constitution
If you’re Canadian, you’ve heard of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which is part of the Constitution Act, 1982. The Charter has 34 sections.
If you’re a lawyer, you’ve probably heard of Section 35, which comes right after the Charter and addresses “Aboriginal rights.”
Lawyer or not, you’ve almost certainly never heard of Section 36. This is the part that mentions equalization: “Parliament and the government of Canada are committed to the principle of making equalization payments to ensure that provincial governments have sufficient revenues to provide reasonably comparable levels of public services at reasonably comparable levels of taxation.”
The federal government distributes billions of tax dollars to deliver on this commitment. In 2024-25, poorer provinces received over $25 billion in unconditional transfers. For example, Manitoba received $4.4 billion (or 18 per cent of its total budget), and New Brunswick received $2.9 billion (or 23 per cent of its total provincial budget). Meanwhile, Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia received nothing.
Like Indian reserves, the territories aren’t explicitly mentioned in Section 36, either. But they nonetheless receive annual transfers to ensure comparable services thanks to a federal law that makes them mandatory. Payments go to each territorial government under a program called Territorial Formula Financing.
So: equalization is the law, supreme or otherwise, for provinces and territories. But not for Indian reserves. They remain separate and unequal.
 Siksika First Nation, east of Calgary near Gleichen, Alta., in June 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh Law versus policy
Surely this is too bad to be true, you might wonder. As a matter of policy, the federal government is often committed to comparable public services on reserves.
For example, federal policy about education on reserves includes an aim that “First Nations students on reserve achieve levels of secondary education comparable to non-Indigenous students in Canada.”
Similarly, federal cabinet and Treasury Board guidelines aim for comparable water services for on-reserve communities.
This seems comforting. But lately the federal government has made a point of distinguishing between its policy commitments and its legal duties, a distinction that confirms the seriousness of the problem.
In a current lawsuit over unsafe drinking water on reserves, the federal legal argument says that “Canada supports First Nations in providing safe drinking water to First Nations members on reserve as a matter of good governance rather than as a result of a legal duty.”
The government adds: “Canada’s spending on First Nations’ water must obviously compete with the rest of its budget allocations.”
Such claims suggest that the federal government will continue to defend its wide discretion in funding services on reserves. This includes the discretion to do more. Or less.
Taxation is a red herring
You might also be wondering why Section 36 talks about comparable public services at comparable levels of taxation. How significant are these last four words, given that status Indians on reserves sometimes pay lower taxes on income and consumption than other jurisdictions?
Canadians generally overestimate the scope of these tax exemptions, as Chelsea Vowel has written. However, to the extent the exemptions exist, they could imply that worse services are consistent with less taxation.
But equalization is based on the capacity of a province or territory to generate revenue at hypothetical levels of taxation. So the question becomes: how much revenue would reserves generate with standard taxation? Usually, not much.
A federal equalization program that includes First Nations
A grand notion
First Nations water problems a crisis of Canada’s own making
New models of shared rule can secure better infrastructure in Indigenous communities
Most of these communities live below the poverty line. The difference between the tax revenue a community would raise with or without existing tax exemptions would usually be modest, if not negligible.
So differences in taxation on reserves cannot serve as an excuse to avoid comparable services.
A promise to “every citizen”
There’s another part of Section 36 that few people ever talk about. It says: “Parliament and the legislatures, together with the government of Canada and the provincial governments, are committed to…providing essential public services of reasonable quality to all Canadians.”
Throughout the years of negotiations that led to the final wording of Section 36, the federal government argued in favour of using the federal spending power to ensure comparable public services across Canada.
As prime minister, Pierre Elliott Trudeau emphasized our interdependence. If a particular part of Canada were to do a particularly poor job of educating students or promoting health, for example, it would invariably affect other provinces as Canadians moved around freely.
Economists have long argued that it’s more efficient for Canadians to move for economic opportunity rather than for access to better public services.
Trudeau also argued that it is essential to develop a national sense of community to bind Canadians together. One way to do so was to ensure “the provision to every citizen, wherever he lives, of adequate levels of public services — in particular of health, welfare and education services.”
Are Canadians living on reserves not included in that promise?
If our Constitution cares about inequality between provinces, surely it must have something to say about people on reserves living in those very provinces. What is true for the parts of the whole should also be true for parts of the parts.
This article is adapted from material in “Constitutional silence, Section 36 and public services on Indian reserves” recently published in the University of Toronto Law Journal.
Andrew Stobo Sniderman is a doctoral candidate at Harvard Law School and co-author of the bestselling book Valley of the Birdtail: An Indian Reserve, a White Town, and the Road to Reconciliation.
By Staff
June 18, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Halton Region Public Health was made aware of a confirmed case of measles that has led to a potential exposure in Halton on June 12.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air.
Individuals may have been exposed to the measles virus at the following location on the date listed below:
3075 Hospital Gate – Medical Building, Oakville (whole building) on Thursday June 12 from 2:10 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
 Extremely contagious – get vaccinated! Visitors to this location between the times noted should:
- Check your immunization records to make sure you and any people who accompanied you have up to date measles vaccinations (two doses are recommended for anyone born on or after January 1, 1970). Your immunization record (yellow card) or your doctor can provide you with this information. If you are not immune and were potentially exposed, please contact Halton Region Public Health as you may benefit from post-exposure prophylaxis.
- Infants under one year of age, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems can get very ill with measles and should contact Halton Region Public Health or their health care professional immediately for further assessment.
- If you think you may have measles and need to see a doctor, you must call ahead to the doctor’s office, walk-in clinic or emergency department. This will allow health care staff to take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of infection and protect others visiting the office, clinic or hospital.
- Watch for symptoms of measles until 21 days after exposure.
Symptoms can appear 7 to 21 days after contact with someone with the measles virus. Measles symptoms may include:
- fever
- cough
- runny nose
- red eyes
- sleepiness
- irritability
- small, white spots on the inside of the mouth (Koplik Spots)
- a red blotchy rash that first starts on the face and spreads down the body, arms, and legs (this rash can last 4 to 7 days)
“Measles is a serious disease that can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. I encourage everyone to ensure their immunizations, including for measles, are up to date, particularly children who may have missed their routine shots during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Deepika Lobo, Medical Officer of Health for Halton Region.
By Staff
June 13th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
An alarming number of Canadians — over 414 — are diagnosed each day with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
By 2050, this could add up to more than 1.7 million cases, translating to 685 new diagnoses every day or 29 every hour.
That’s why reimagining Alzheimer’s care in Canada is not just important for the system — it is imperative for all Canadians.
 The data comes from the Alzheimer Society of Ontario.
It’s going to take more than reimagining? Families are going to have to learn how to care for people who will be close to or at the point where they cannot care for themselves.
 By Staff
June 2nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Eagles Nest: that group of people who work out of a church on the border between Burlington and Waterdown announced today that they were able to raise $10,527. in the auction they held.
 An item that drew well above the asking bid. Tickets to a Jays game. “Local businesses donated items; the response to the auction was great. People were bidding on items right until it closed.
“These funds will be used to provide affordable mental health services such as therapy, coaching and support programs to adults, youth and children.
The support for local, accessible mental health services is incredibly encouraging.
The Pearle Hotel and Spa hospitality gift card and the tickets to a Blue Jays up against the New York Yankees were top draws.
Reaching these people is an email away: info@eaglesnestwaterdown.ca
 By Yanis Temby
May 27th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 The supplement business is much more than steroids. It is a well established part of the health sector. Supplements are one of the most talked-about — and misunderstood — parts of the fitness world. From protein powders to muscle builders, opinions range from “life-changing” to “dangerous.”
The truth? Most of these opinions are based on myths, not facts.
In this article, we’ll break down five of the biggest supplement myths and show you how modern, science-backed products can support your fitness goals when used responsibly.
Myth #1: All Supplements Are Just Steroids in Disguise
 There are many different types of supplements. One of the biggest misconceptions is that any product designed to build muscle or improve recovery is automatically a steroid.
The Truth:
There are many different types of supplements — protein, creatine, amino acids, and more advanced options like SARMs or hormone regulators. Most of these do not function like steroids.
Some newer compounds, such as growth hormone secretagogues, support your body’s natural hormone production rather than replacing it. For example, MK-677 is a compound used to increase growth hormone levels naturally, without testosterone suppression or major side effects. It’s become a popular choice for improving sleep, boosting recovery, and supporting lean muscle development.
 You don’t need to be a pro bodybuilder or a competitive athlete to benefit from supplements. Myth #2: Supplements Are Only for Professional Athletes
You don’t need to be a pro bodybuilder or a competitive athlete to benefit from supplements.
The Truth:
Most people using supplements today are regular gym-goers who want to feel stronger, lose fat, or improve energy. Some supplements may be especially helpful as you get older, when natural hormone levels begin to decline.
With the right support — combined with solid training and nutrition — even beginners can see better, faster results. Many modern options are accessible, easy to use, and backed by clear guidance and quality control.
Myth #3: All Supplements Are Unsafe or Unregulated
Some people avoid supplements altogether because they worry about side effects or unsafe ingredients.
The Truth:
Quality varies — but that’s true of any industry. There are trusted brands that provide lab-tested, clean, and well-documented products. Look for supplements that use transparent labeling, organic carriers (like MCT oil), and published purity testing.
For example, SARM Canada is one company that emphasizes product purity, accurate dosing, and safe usage guidelines. Their products are formulated with high standards and are trusted by users across North America.
 A strong foundation in nutrition and exercise is essential. But even with perfect consistency, your body eventually reaches a limit. Myth #4: You Can Get the Same Results From Diet and Training Alone
A strong foundation in nutrition and exercise is essential. But even with perfect consistency, your body eventually reaches a limit.
The Truth:
Once progress slows, smart supplementation can help. Certain compounds improve recovery, stimulate muscle repair, and promote fat metabolism in ways that training alone cannot. For example, MK-677 — mentioned earlier — is often used to support deep sleep, better recovery, and improved muscle fullness, especially in experienced lifters or during calorie deficits.
When paired with a solid plan, these tools can help you train harder, recover faster, and see results more quickly.
Myth #5: Muscle-Building Supplements Are Addictive or Dangerous
The fear around supplements often stems from extreme cases involving unregulated or misused products.
The Truth:
Responsible use, correct dosing, and cycling make all the difference. Many well-researched compounds do not cause addiction or hormonal crashes when used as recommended. Most users follow a short cycle and then take a break to let the body reset.
Choosing products that include usage instructions and safety information helps users stay on track and make informed choices.
 Gender and age are not factors that keep people away from muscle building. Final Thoughts
Supplements are not a replacement for effort — they’re a way to get more out of the work you already do.
The key is education and quality. Look for clean, trusted options that support muscle growth, fat loss, recovery, and overall well-being.
Forget the myths. Trust the science. And make sure you’re choosing supplements that support your goals without compromising your health.
 By Sidsel Nørgaard
May 9th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Across Burlington, the movement towards tobacco-free alternatives is reshaping community health initiatives. Residents are increasingly exploring options like nicotine pouches, aligning with local regulations that support public well-being. This shift highlights both the evolving preferences of individuals and the community’s commitment to healthier living.
The preference for tobacco-free products is gaining momentum, driven by awareness of health benefits and regulatory changes. As residents seek out alternatives to traditional smoking, platforms like gotpouches.com offer access to nicotine pouches and other tobacco-free options. These changes are impacting personal choices and contributing to broader public health goals within the community.
Local regulations and tobacco-free products
Municipal bylaws are playing a crucial role in shaping the availability and use of tobacco-free products within the community. These regulations encourage healthier lifestyles by limiting the use of traditional tobacco products, thus promoting alternatives that pose fewer health risks. Understanding these bylaws is essential for residents who wish to transition away from smoking towards safer options.
The enforcement of these regulations has facilitated an environment where tobacco-free choices are more accessible than ever before. This accessibility ensures that individuals seeking to quit smoking can easily find suitable alternatives that comply with local laws. Moreover, it underscores the importance of being informed about these regulations to make educated decisions about personal health.
For those interested in exploring these alternatives, it is important to recognize how these policies reflect a broader commitment to public health. By reducing barriers to access and promoting awareness, local authorities are actively supporting the community in making healthier lifestyle choices. This dynamic illustrates a proactive approach to reducing smoking-related health issues.
Impact on community health
 Decreasing secondhand smoke exposure a major social benefit. The rise in popularity of tobacco-free products aligns with ongoing community health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking rates and improving public well-being. Nicotine pouches, for instance, present a viable alternative for those looking to reduce their dependence on traditional cigarettes. They offer a smokeless option that mitigates exposure to harmful substances typically associated with tobacco smoke.
This transition is beneficial not only for individual users but also for the larger community by decreasing secondhand smoke exposure. As more residents opt for these alternatives, there is potential for significant improvements in overall public health outcomes. The shift towards nicotine pouches and similar products represents a collective step forward in achieving healthier communities.
The benefits extend beyond physical health, as they contribute to economic advantages by potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with treating smoking-related illnesses. Embracing these alternatives supports a healthier population, which is an essential component of sustainable community development strategies.
Accessing resources
Accessing reliable sources for tobacco-free products is paramount for those considering a switch from traditional smoking methods. Online retailers play a significant role in this regard, offering convenient access to nicotine pouches and other alternatives. By ensuring that residents have easy access to these resources, communities can better support individuals’ efforts to make healthier choices.
Platforms such as gotpouches.com provide an array of options tailored to varying preferences, helping residents navigate their journey towards a tobacco-free lifestyle without compromising on quality or selection. These resources empower individuals with the information needed to make informed decisions about their health while adhering to local regulations.
As you explore these options, it is crucial to rely on trustworthy platforms that prioritize consumer safety and product integrity. This approach not only facilitates personal well-being but also reinforces communal efforts aimed at reducing tobacco use across the board.
Educational content
Understanding how nicotine pouches function is key for anyone curious about making the switch from traditional smoking. These pouches deliver nicotine without combustion, thereby eliminating harmful smoke inhalation risks. This feature makes them an attractive option for those seeking a safer way to satisfy nicotine cravings.
For individuals contemplating this transition, guidance on choosing suitable products can be invaluable. Information available through reputable websites aids consumers in making decisions that align with their specific needs and preferences. By doing so, you ensure that your journey towards a smoke-free life is both informed and effective.
The availability of educational resources enhances your ability to discern which products best suit your lifestyle and health goals. Leveraging such information promotes informed decision-making while supporting broader public health objectives within your community.
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