Southwestern Public Health is urging residents across St. Thomas, Elgin and Oxford counties to take extra precautions as Ontario heads into what’s expected to be the peak of flu season over the holidays.
Provincial modelling shows influenza activity has been climbing steadily since mid-October, with the most recent data from Public Health Ontario reporting an 18.3 per cent test positivity rate for the week ending November 29. Officials expect flu activity to continue rising through early January.
Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health for the region, says residents can help minimize the impact of respiratory viruses by focusing on three key public-health principles: protection, prevention and promotion.
For protection, the health unit is encouraging people to get vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19, which are circulating locally. Eligible individuals—particularly children aged five and under and their families—can book appointments directly through Southwestern Public Health. Others are urged to speak with their health-care provider or a participating pharmacy about vaccine availability. RSV vaccination is also recommended for those who qualify.
Preventing the spread of respiratory illness remains critical, Dr. Tran notes. That includes regular handwashing, staying home when sick, cleaning high-touch surfaces, and covering coughs and sneezes. Masking is also advised when around crowds if you have symptoms, or when visiting vulnerable people such as infants and older adults.
Residents are also being reminded to promote healthy habits throughout the season by eating well, staying active, keeping hydrated, and increasing ventilation indoors by bringing fresh air into their homes.
More information on local respiratory activity, vaccination options, and prevention resources is available at swpublichealth.ca.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
