With the holiday season approaching, Grey Bruce Public Health is urging residents to take steps to protect their health and reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.

This reminder comes as influenza activity in Ontario continues to rise – with flu cases expected to peak in late December or early January – and as many people prepare to attend or host indoor gatherings to celebrate the holidays.

“The festive season is typically a time when people attend larger indoor events and celebrations and visit with loved ones, including more vulnerable family members. Unfortunately, these types of settings make it easier for respiratory viruses, such as the flu and COVID-19, to spread,” says GBPH Physician Consultant Dr. Brittany Graham.

“Getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 is an effective defence against these viruses and helps to reduce the risk of developing severe illness, hospitalization, and potentially serious complications, especially for people who are at high-risk.”

Respiratory illness season usually begins in the fall and continues through the winter. Common respiratory viruses include the flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

While COVID-19 and RSV activity remain low in Ontario, flu activity has been steadily increasing since October. The percent positivity rate – the share of tests that come back positive – for Influenza A is considered high. COVID-19 activity is expected to remain stable over the next two weeks, while flu and RSV activity is expected to continue to increase.

In Grey-Bruce, there are currently eight active outbreaks in long-term care/retirement homes, with most relating to a respiratory virus.

This season’s COVID-19 and influenza vaccines are available from primary care providers and at participating pharmacies. Both vaccines are publicly funded and can be given at the same appointment.

All adults and children six months of age and older should get the updated flu vaccine each fall. The flu shot takes about two weeks to take full effect. Individuals at higher risk of developing a severe illness from the flu should also talk with their healthcare provider to plan for testing and treatment.

The COVID-19 vaccine is also available to anyone aged six months and older. The vaccine is recommended for individuals with a higher risk of COVID-19 or severe COVID-19 disease, including adults aged 65 and older, residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings, and people with underlying medical conditions.

The publicly funded RSV vaccine is available to seniors aged 75 and older and certain high-risk adults aged 60 to 74 who meet eligibility criteria established by the Ministry of Health. Eligible adults should contact their primary care provider about getting the vaccine.

Infants, high-risk children, and pregnant people may also be eligible for protection against RSV.

GBPH can assist individuals who are unable to receive an influenza, COVID-19, or RSV vaccine at a primary care provider’s office or local pharmacy. Call 519-376-9420 and select Option 2 to connect with a member of the Vaccine Preventable Diseases Team.

Along with vaccination, everyday actions can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:

• Washing hands often
• Staying home when sick
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces and objects
• Improving indoor ventilation.