Grey Bruce Public Health (GBPH) has reported the first lab-confirmed case of influenza this season.
It said a Grey County resident tested positive for Influenza A. It's suspected it was contracted while travelling out of province.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, this would be an earlier than normal start to the season, but in 2022, the first case was reported in late September.
"To help spread the curb of the flu, and to protect our most vulnerable, GBPH strongly urges people to stay home when sick and get the influenza vaccine as soon as possible," said Dr. Rim Zayed, GBPH's health physician consultant. "These two measures, coupled with infection control strategies, such as washing hands often, coughing etiquette, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, are our best defense against flu and other respiratory illnesses."
He added flu activity in Grey-Bruce typically increases in October and peaks in the winter months, between December and February.
Influenza vaccines are expected to be available through primary care providers and participating pharmacies at the end of October. GBPH will also hold vaccine clinics for high-risk people and those facing barriers accessing vaccines.
