Respiratory illness season has arrived in Huron Perth, with COVID-19, the flu, RSV, and other viruses spreading in the community. Since the end of August, there have been five respiratory illness outbreaks at long-term care homes in the region.
In Ontario, everyone aged six months and older can get a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine. Some high-risk groups can also get the RSV vaccine.
The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out in phases. The first groups to receive them include hospitalized patients, healthcare workers, people aged 65 and older, and residents of long-term care and other congregate settings. Vaccines will be available to the general public at the end of October. People are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local pharmacy to book their shots.
Adults aged 75 and older can receive the RSV vaccine through their primary care provider. This program is not available at pharmacies this year. Infants and high-risk children can receive the RSV monoclonal antibody through birthing centres and healthcare providers.
HPPH will hold fall immunization clinics for infants and young children who do not have a healthcare provider. These clinics will offer the RSV monoclonal antibody for eligible infants and COVID-19 and flu shots for children aged four and under.
Other ways to protect yourself and your family during respiratory illness season include washing your hands often, staying home when sick, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing a mask when needed, cleaning high-touch surfaces, and improving indoor ventilation.
