Heat waves can develop quickly. Preparing before the first local heat warning can help protect you and the people you care about. Heat can affect anyone, but babies and young children, older adults, pregnant people, outdoor workers, people who live alone, and people with conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, or dementia are at greater risk. Check your local weather forecast and...

Wildfire smoke can travel many kilometres from a fire and affect communities far away. Even if you cannot see smoke or smell it, tiny particles may still be in the air. Anyone can develop symptoms when air quality is poor, but children, older adults, pregnant people, and people with heart or lung disease are at greater risk. Check your local Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)...

The holidays can bring happiness, but they can also bring stress, loneliness, grief, family conflict, or money worries. Many people experience several of these feelings at the same time. Whatever you are feeling, you are not alone. One of the best ways to care for your mental health is to keep a simple daily routine. Try to go to bed and wake up at about...

Measles is a highly contagious infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. It usually causes fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. In some people, especially babies, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or swelling of the brain. The best way to protect yourself...

Sexual health is part of your overall health. Your primary care provider can help with questions about sex, relationships, birth control, pregnancy planning, pain during sex, changes in sexual desire, erections, vaginal dryness, menopause, fertility, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These are common health concerns, and everyone deserves respectful care, regardless of age, relationship status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Many people feel uncomfortable talking...

Cervical screening helps prevent cervical cancer by finding changes early, before cancer develops. If you have a cervix, regular screening is important even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms. Who should be screened, which test is used, and how often screening is done depend on your province or territory. Some provinces and territories are also changing the type of test used for cervical...

Constipation is common in children 6 months and older. Children have different normal bowel patterns. Constipation is based more on hard, dry, or painful stools than on how often your child has a bowel movement. Healthy daily habits can help prevent and treat constipation. Continue breastfeeding when possible. Prepare infant formula exactly as directed on the label. For babies over 6 months, offer small amounts...

Summer is a great time to become more active. Moving your body regularly helps keep your heart, muscles, bones, and brain healthy. It can improve your mood, help you sleep better, give you more energy, and lower your risk of many long-term health problems. You do not need long or hard workouts to benefit. Every bit of movement counts. For most adults, at least 150...

Cooler weather is a great time to stay active. Regular physical activity helps keep your heart, muscles, bones, and mind healthy. It can improve your mood, help you sleep better, lower stress, and give you more energy. Every bit of movement counts, even if you begin with just 10 minutes. Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week,...

Winter weather can increase the risk of falls for older adults, but it does not have to stop you from staying active. A few simple habits can help you move safely, maintain your strength, and stay independent throughout the winter. When going outside, check the weather and walking conditions before you leave. If sidewalks are icy or have not been cleared, consider choosing a cleared...