Grey Bruce Public Health is reminding residents to get their flu shot, as Influenza A activity has been on the rise in the region.
The Health Unit says there is still time to protect ones self from the respiratory virus by getting this year’s publicly funded flu vaccine.
Surveillance data shows an increase in influenza activity with over 130 confirmed cases since the start of the respiratory illness season in September. Nearly 70% of those cases were reported in the past two weeks, including 40 cases reported in the past week alone.
Two Influenza A outbreaks have also been declared at local long-term care and retirement homes in recent weeks. One of those outbreaks has been declared over.
Public Health Ontario (PHO) is currently reporting a “moderate” test positivity rate in the province for influenza, which is based on the most recent data from the week ending Dec. 30, 2023. They anticipate that influenza activity will continue to increase over the short term.
In addition to influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are actively circulating in the community. Public Health Ontario says COVID-19 activity – now considered high – is expected to remain stable, and RSV activity is projected to decrease.
GBPH advises a multi-layered approach of protection to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including vaccination, staying home when sick, cleaning hands and disinfecting high-touch surfaces frequently, and practicing coughing and sneezing etiquette.
The vaccine is available at numerous participating pharmacies and through primary care providers in Grey-Bruce.
You can find a link to map of participating pharmacies here.
