Increase in suspected overdose-related deaths in Ottawa
The Ottawa Overdose Prevention and Response Task Force (Task Force) is warning residents about an increase in suspected overdose-related deaths in Ottawa. The week previous to this Ottawa Police patrol officers and Ottawa Paramedics responded to at least 22 calls for service about suspected overdoses, including five suspected overdose-related deaths.
For more information on signs of an overdose and where to find help, please see our recent PSA.
Monkeypox
Vaccines are currently being offered to eligible individuals by OPH’s Sexual Health Clinic and community partners. There are vaccine appointment clinics for those who are eligible and can be accessed on the OPH website or by calling 613-580-6744. More information on Monkeypox and vaccine clinic details are available at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/monkeypox.
Weekly Snapshot of the COVID-19 Situation in Ottawa
In addition to updating the COVID-19 Dashboard twice weekly (Tuesday and Friday), Ottawa Public Health continues to release weekly animated presentations of key COVID-19 data and messages providing guidance to the public. These weekly snapshots are shared through OPH’s Facebook and Twitter channels and posted on our main COVID-19 website at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/coronavirus.
Their indicators are showing that our community is in a new wave of COVID-19 infections. What we do now will make a difference in the weeks to come.
While our vaccine coverage for 12 years and older is more than 90% for 1st and 2nd doses, the numbers are much lower for people eligible for booster doses. To help curb the spread and impact of COVID-19 related illness, it is important that everyone stays up to date with all the doses they are eligible for. Even if you have had COVID-19, a booster dose can help protect you from future infections. Talk to loved ones who may not be up to date on their vaccinations and encourage them to get theirs now! More info at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine
OPH strongly recommends wearing a mask in indoor public spaces and crowded outdoor gatherings. If you are attending summer events or festivals this weekend, please wear a mask if cannot maintain physical distancing and use your layers of protection. More info at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Risk Reduction
After many gathered to celebrate over the long weekend, it is important to be especially mindful of any symptoms of COVID-19 in yourself and those around you. Don’t wait to take steps to protect others if you have symptoms. Visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Isolation Instructions for guidance. We need to continue to work together to keep each other healthy and safe from contracting COVID.