General News

Cases of influenza rising rapidly in the region

January 22, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is warning the public that flu cases in the region are rising, and it’s advising residents to take necessary precautions.

Since the beginning of the 2023-24 flu season in December, there have been 387 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza in the region, with 137 of those cases occurring during the week of Jan. 1, 2024.

This number is higher than during the same week last year. It is anticipated that the number of cases of influenza will continue to increase until it peaks in the next two to four weeks.

Additionally, the COVID-19 community risk level remains at the “high”‘ level, where it has been since Nov. 23.

This year’s influenza vaccine appears to be a good match to the circulating influenza A strains, and there is still time to get immunized.

Vaccination against seasonal influenza remains the most effective way to prevent or reduce the severity and duration of the disease and reduce the risk of needing medical attention or hospitalization due to flu-related complications, according to the health unit. 

Individuals two years of age and older can receive their flu vaccine at participating local pharmacies and some health care providers.

Children aged six months to two years may receive the flu vaccine from a doctor, nurse, or health unit clinic by appointment.

In addition to influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continue to circulate.

The Health Unit recommends that individuals be aware of the COVID-19 Community Risk Level and Weekly Respiratory Virus Update to assess their own personal circumstances that could put them at higher risk and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others against transmission and severe illness.

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