Residents can do their part to spread cheer, not germs.
That’s the message from Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH), as they remind residents during the holiday season how they can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza (“the flu”) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Public health are reporting 13 respiratory illness outbreaks at long-term care and retirement homes in the counties since September.
Two of the outbreaks are ongoing.
Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health at HPPH, said it is important to take precautions to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, as people spend more time together during the holidays.
Immunization if the best way to protect yourself, while staying home when sick and avoiding visiting with those who may be at higher risk of severe illness due to respiratory viruses, including at hospitals and long-term care homes.
The best way to protect yourself, your family and the community is with immunization. In addition, you should stay home when sick and avoid visiting people at higher risk of severe illness due to respiratory viruses, including at hospitals and long-term care homes.
HPPH recommends contacting your healthcare provider or local pharmacy to ask about receiving vaccines.
HPPH is continuing to offer COVID-19 and influenza immunizations to children four years of age and younger who do not have a primary care provider. For more information and to make an appointment, contact the immunization team at 1-888-221-2133, ext. 3558.
To learn more about how to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including information about immunizations, visit www.hpph.ca/illness.
