As the holiday season gets underway, Huron Perth Public Health is reminding people to take simple steps to help stop the spread of respiratory illnesses. COVID-19, the flu, and RSV continue to circulate in the community, and health officials say prevention is especially important as families begin gathering for events and celebrations.
Since September, long-term care and retirement homes in Huron Perth have reported 13 outbreaks of respiratory illness, with two of those outbreaks still active.
Health officials continue to encourage people to wash their hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, clean high-touch surfaces, improve indoor ventilation, and use a mask when needed.
Everyone in Ontario who is six months of age or older can receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines. These are available through healthcare providers and local pharmacies. Some high-risk groups, including adults aged 75 and older, may also be eligible for the RSV vaccine and should speak with their primary care provider. Infants and high-risk children can get RSV protection through local hospital maternal child units and primary care offices.
Huron Perth Public Health is also offering COVID-19 and flu vaccines for young children under four who do not have a primary care provider. More information on preventing respiratory illness is available at hpph.ca/illness.