News Releases

Durham renews residential tree planting program to combat climate change

Whitby, Ontario – Based on the overwhelming success of the 2020/2021 tree planting program, the Region of Durham is pleased to continue to support the LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests) Backyard Tree Planting Program. Residential, multi-unit, or commercial property owners located in the Town of Ajax, City of Oshawa, City of Pickering, Township of Scugog, and the Town of Whitby are encouraged to participate by putting down some roots!

Thanks to the successful partnership between...

Health Department reports first human case of West Nile virus illness this season

WHITBY, ON – Durham Region Health Department has received confirmation of one human case of West Nile virus (WNV) illness. This is the first human case of WNV reported in Durham Region this year.

To date, there have been two human cases of the virus reported in Ontario. In addition, there have been 67 WNV positive groups of mosquitoes identified across the province and a total of eight groups of mosquitoes in the Region have tested positive for the virus.

“While the overall risk of becoming...

Durham Region reminds drivers to slow down in school zones as students head back to school

Whitby, Ontario – As Durham Region students gear up to go back to school next week, the Region of Durham is reminding road users to keep safety top of mind in school zones.

“During the 2020/2021 school year, many students were learning from home so there was a decrease in the number of children walking or riding bikes to school. As in-person learning starts up again, drivers need to slow down, stay focused, and watch for cyclists and pedestrians; and pedestrians must ensure they always cross the...

Participants of two more basketball tournaments held in Oshawa urged to get tested for COVID-19

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department is currently aware of two more basketball tournaments that were held at the Playground Global facility, 1313 Boundary Road, Oshawa, where seven cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed. Anyone who attended basketball tournaments at this facility from Aug. 13 to 15 or Aug. 20 to 23 is urged to get tested as soon as possible.

Individuals who attended the Canadian Youth Basketball League (CYBL) tournament from Aug. 13 to 15 at the Playground Global...

Health Department reports more mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department has received notification of more adult mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). The positive batch of mosquitoes was collected from one of the Health Department’s mosquito trap sites located in Oshawa. Positive confirmation was received on August 26. These are the first mosquitoes in Oshawa to test positive for WNV this season. Mosquitoes identified with WNV have also been identified in Ajax so far this season.

The Health Department...