Commissioner's update for offenders and their families: January 20, 2025

At this time of year, there is an increase in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections in communities and institutions. These infections can cause illnesses such as pneumonia and bronchitis. You are at higher risk of complications from an RSV infection if you:

• are 75 years old or older
• have a chronic heart or lungs health condition
• have a weakened immune system.

To protect yourself from getting seriously ill, you can receive a vaccination. You can even get it at the same time as your flu shot. Don’t hesitate to ask Health Services staff if you are eligible for the RSV vaccine. If you are, I strongly encourage you to get it. This is the best way to protect yourself from the unpleasant symptoms of an infection like fever, chills, cough, headache, and difficulty breathing.

January 24 marks International Day of Education. This day celebrates the power of learning. Whether it’s in a classroom, or a workshop, or a quiet space like a library, learning can happen anywhere. I encourage you to look for ways to improve your education and literacy. You can talk with CSC’s teachers, librarians or CORCAN instructors to find out what is available to you.

I strongly believe that education empowers you and creates opportunities for personal growth. It will help you with your reintegration.

“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” – B.B. King