Lakelands public health suffers cyber hack

Photo by Dan Jones, CFWN, LJI

Lakelands Public health is addressing a cybersecurity hack. The incident was discovered on January 29, affecting some of its internal systems. A leading cybersecurity firm has been engaged to support the investigation, containment, and recovery efforts, and are working closely with experts to restore systems safely and efficiently.

Some programs and services may experience temporary disruptions as restoration work continues. Where impacts occur, affected individuals and partners will be contacted directly. Based on what we know to date the systems that house data for infectious disease and clinical appointments (immunization, sexual health, etc.) have not been impacted.

The investigation remains ongoing, and Lakelands Public Health is doing everything we can to protect personal information and restore public health services. In the event the investigation determines that any personal or personal health information has been impacted, any affected parties will be contacted accordingly.

“Our priority response to this event is protecting the information entrusted to us and maintaining continuity of critical public health services,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer for Lakelands Public Health. “By taking a proactive approach and engaging specialized expertise, we are working diligently to restore systems and keep our community informed.”