Grey Bruce Public Health is encouraging people to protect themselves against rising flu cases.
Public health says influenza activity in Ontario continues to climb and flu cases are expected to peak in late December or early January.
To combat the flu season, Public Health Physician Consultant Dr. Brittany Graham says getting vaccinated against the flu and Covid is an effective defence against these viruses and helps reduce the risk of developing a severe illness, hospitalization and potentially serious complications, especially for those who are at high risk.
“The festive season is typically a time when people attend larger indoor events and celebrations and visit loved ones, including more vulnerable family members. Unfortunately, these types of settings make it easier for respiratory viruses, such as the flu and Covid to spread,” says Dr. Graham.
Public health says while Covid and respiratory syncytial virus activity remain low in Ontario, the flu has been steadily increasing since October.
Vaccines for both Covid and influenza are available from primary care providers as well as at participating pharmacies.
Public health recommends adults and children six months and older to get an updated flu vaccine each fall.
In addition to getting the vaccine, public health also advises washing your hands often, staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning and disinfecting high-touch areas, and improving indoor ventilation.