With confirmation of the first cases of influenza A rolling in, public health is urging all residents to take precautions to prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses this winter season.
Southeast Public Health officials note that influenza can cause mild-to-severe illness and can lead to serious health complications, even in healthy kids and adults. Once again, officials are urging residents throughout the region to roll up their sleeves and get their jabs to protect themselves and the broader community.
“Becoming immunized against influenza every year is an important step in protecting the health of vulnerable members of our community and the capacity of our health-care services and is highly-recommended for anyone who is able to do so,” said Dr. Ethan Toumishey, the health unit’s deputy medical officer.
“Influenza can result in severe outcomes and pose serious health risks to anyone, especially to those who have underlying medical conditions, those over 65 years of age and young children,” reiterated Toumishey.
Public health is reminding residents that the influenza vaccine is available free to everyone six months of age and older, who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario.
In addition to helping under local health-care capacity, the flu shot also reduces the risk of severe illness, added public health officials.
Residents can get their vaccines through health-care providers or at participating pharmacies. Meanwhile, for those under five years of age who can’t get vaccines through health-care providers, the health unit said it is offering clinics.
Officials also continue to encourage people to practise proper hand hygiene, coughing and sneezing into their elbow and regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces to prevent transmission this respiratory illness season, as well as staying home if unwell.
Individuals with influenza may remain infectious for several days after onset of symptoms, added officials. When recovering, people are asked to consider wearing a mask when around others and avoid visiting anyone who is immunocompromised or living in high-risk settings such as a long-term care facility for 10 days after symptom onset.
Earlier this week, Quinte Health, Hastings-Quinte Paramedics and Hastings Prince Edward Ontario Health, alongside Southeast Public Health, also issued a call for all residents to stay up-to-date with all vaccinations, including COVID and RSV vaccines.
The health unit’s website has more information on vaccinations, in addition to the Ministry of Health’s website. Several area health organizations are also hosting COVID, cold, and flu clinics this season for area residents.
Residents looking for additional information can visit the OHT website.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
