COVID-19 is an infections disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which can cause respiratory illness in humans, and was the cause of the recent pandemic.

COVID-19 symptoms can vary from person to person and may be different depending on the variant circulating at that time. Common symptoms of COVID-19 include;

• sore throat
• runny nose
• sneezing
• new or worsening cough
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• temperature equal to or more than 38°C
• feeling feverish
• chills
• fatigue or weakness
• muscle or body aches
• new loss of smell or taste
• headache
• abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting
• feeling very unwell

Some people infected with COVID-19 may also be asymptomatic (show no symptoms).

If you are experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or loss of consciousness call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.  

COVID-19 is spread mainly from person to person through close contact, for example, in a household, workplace or health care centre.

COVID-19 spreads from an infected person to others through respiratory droplets and aerosols (smaller droplets) created when an infected person: talks, sings, shouts, coughs, or sneezes.

COVID-19 can also spread by touching something that has the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes with unwashed hands. People can transmit COVID-19 before they start showing symptoms or without ever developing symptoms.

Antiviral treatments are available for free by prescription to individuals with COVID-19 who are at a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization. These treatments are taken by mouth and must be taken within the first few days of your symptoms starting (must be taken within 5-7 days depending on the antiviral prescribed). 

For more information on COVID-19 treatment, visit COVID‑19 testing and treatment | ontario.ca

Staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine can help to prevent COVID-19 infection and reduce severity of illness if you do become infected.

Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will be arriving to at pharmacies and to primary care providers in early October, at which time, individuals identified as high risk will be eligible to receive these vaccines.

To receive a COVID-19 or Influenza vaccine, please contact your local pharmacy or healthcare provider. For those who are unable to access their immunizations through these providers, please contact us.

The general population can expect to receive influenza and COVID-19 vaccines starting October 28, 2024.

In November, Grey Bruce Public Health will be holding Influenza and COVID-19  clinics for children (11 years of age and younger). Appointments will be required and can be made starting in late October.

To book an immunization appointment at Grey Bruce Public Health, call 519-376-9420, ext 2.

Additional information on the COVID-19 vaccine is available at COVID‑19 vaccines | ontario.ca