Grand Erie Public Health welcomes new medical officer of health

A doctor holds files in this undated stock photo.

Grand Erie Public Health has announced the hiring of a new medical officer of health.

Dr. Jason Malenfant will step into the position on July 10 following the passing of Grand Erie’s former medical officer of health, Dr. Malcolm Lock, in February.

Malenfant was born and raised in Oakville and has multiple board certifications, as well as expertise in infectious diseases, epidemiology, preventative medicine and health systems change.

In the past, he served as the epidemic intelligence service officer with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He was also deployed to multiple countries to support their emergency and outbreak responses.

Most recently, Malenfant was the assistant professor of infectious diseases at Marshall University in West Virginia.

“I’m really excited to be joining Grand Erie Public Health at such an important time for the organization,” Malenfant said in a release. “It’s a great opportunity to help lead this next chapter for the communities we serve. I’m looking forward to working closely with community members, partners and local leaders across Brantford, Brant, Haldimand and Norfolk to protect and promote the health and well-being of everyone who lives here. I’m looking forward to building strong relationships and making a real difference—together.”

Dr. Rebecca Comley had been filling in as the health unit’s acting medical officer of health. Her last day in the role will be June 27.

Meanwhile, the recruitment process continues for a part-time associate medical officer of health.