Public health clinics closed due to poor air quality in Mississauga and Brampton

The health unit for Mississauga and Brampton has closed all public health clinics due to poor air quality due to smoke from ongoing wildfires in Ontario.

Shortly before 4 p.m. on Thursday, Peel Region said all public health clinics have been closed temporarily amid air quality warnings issued for the Greater Toronto Area and much of southern Ontario.

Anyone with Peel Public Health appointments scheduled for on Friday are being told to call ahead an confirm in case the closures are extended.

The region’s Adult Day Services have also been suspended.

All outdoor pools have also been shuttered in Mississauga with a pause in place on city-run recreational activities planned for outside. In Brampton, summer camps and programs are being rescheduled, and sports fields and outdoor facility rentals have been cancelled.

Smokey conditions are expected to remain poor through Thursday, with some improvement possible by Friday morning. Environment Canada warns that during periods of heavy wildfire smoke, everyone’s health can be affected regardless of age or overall health status.

Symptoms of smoke exposure range from eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and mild coughing to more serious symptoms like wheezing, chest pain and severe coughing. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms or a medical emergency should seek immediate medical attention.

“Children, older adults and individuals experiencing symptoms such as coughing or throat irritation should take extra precautions and limit outdoor physical exertion,” the City of Mississauga said.

Residents are also being urged to protect indoor air quality by keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible. However, during periods of extreme heat, staying cool should remain a priority.