News

HPV Vaccination: Key Points for Healthcare Providers

Although cervical cancer rates in Ontario have declined slightly over the past two decades—largely because of effective screening programs that detect and treat precancerous changes—the incidence of other HPV-related cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers, has been rising. This trend underscores the importance of HPV vaccination as a critical tool in cancer prevention.

Estimates for 2024 indicated that 669 Ontarians would be diagnosed with cervical cancer, with 159 deaths projected....

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Celebrating Physicians on National Physicians' Day: A Thank You from Ottawa Public Health

A Message from Interim Deputy Medical Officer of Health (DMOH), Dr. Laura Bourns

As we approach National Physicians’ Day on May 1, I want to recognize and say thank you to all the physicians in our community. On behalf of Ottawa Public Health (OPH), I want to thank you for work you do for your patients and the community. Your dedication is integral to improving population health and health equity.

As the interim Deputy Medical Officer of Health (DMOH) for OPH, I would also like to recognize the...

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Individuals with Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage eligible for HPV testing

Individuals covered under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) in Ontario are now eligible for HPV-based cervical screening. The recent transition from cytology to HPV based cervical screening is a major step towards the eradication of cervical cancer. 

Cervical cancer is almost entirely preventable with the combination of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and screening. Many refugees may not have had access to cervical screening in their country of origin and have lower cervical...

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Professional Development Opportunities and Resources

1. HeatSMART Study: Join a research study assessing a new tool for physicians to protect at-risk groups from extreme heat. This is a Health Canada funded trial led by Drs. Bill Hogg and Sharon Johnston with the Canadian Primary Care Information Network (CPIN) in conjunction with Ottawa Public Health. For physicians who are interested in joining the HeatSMART study or want to learn more, please contact: info@cpin-rcip.com
   
   
2. LifTING & Sepsis Canada Health Research Training Platform: trainee application open...
   
   

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Measles: epidemiology, suspect cases, and vaccination

Public Health Alert

To: Ottawa Physicians and Nurse Practitioners

Date: April 28, 2025

From: Dr. Michelle Foote, Associate Medical Officer of Health

Subject: Measles updates and reminders: epidemiology, suspect cases, and vaccination

Dear Colleagues,

Measles outbreak activity continues in some regions of Ontario. This alert provides an update on the current epidemiology of the outbreak, an overview of steps to take if you suspect measles in a patient, and a summary of provincial vaccine...

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