Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has announced the appointment of Dr. Jason Malenfant as the region’s new Medical Officer of Health, effective July 10, 2025.
A physician with extensive experience in public health, infectious diseases, and preventive medicine, Dr. Malenfant brings a global perspective and a strong commitment to health equity.
Born and raised in Oakville, Ontario, he has served in clinical, academic, and emergency response roles across North America and abroad.
Dr. Malenfant most recently held the position of assistant professor of infectious diseases at Marshall University in West Virginia.
Prior to that, he was an epidemic intelligence service (EIS) officer with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he worked in the Division of High-Consequence Pathogens.
In that role, he supported outbreak response efforts in multiple countries and provided clinical guidance to health departments across the United States.
His academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Western Ontario, a Doctor of Medicine from St. George’s University, and a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from UCLA.
He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Dartmouth College, followed by fellowships in Infectious Diseases and Preventive Medicine at UCLA Medical Center.
“I’m really excited to be joining Grand Erie Public Health at such an important time for the organization,” said Dr. Malenfant in a statement.
“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”, he added.
Amy Martin, Chair of the Grand Erie Board of Health, welcomed the appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Jason Malenfant to Grand Erie. His expertise, collaborative spirit, and passion for advancing public health will be invaluable as we continue to build healthier communities.”
The appointment comes as Grand Erie Public Health, which was formed in January 2025 through the merger of the Haldimand-Norfolk and Brant County Health Units, continues to expand its leadership team. Recruitment is ongoing for a part-time Associate Medical Officer of Health to support additional capacity.
The current Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Rebecca Comley, will conclude her tenure on June 27, 2025.
Martin thanked Dr. Comley for her “leadership and dedication during a critical period of transition.”
For more information about Grand Erie Public Health, visit www.geph.ca.
