General News

Health unit recommends using layers of protection against respiratory illness

December 1, 2022   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is reporting a higher number, and earlier than normal rates of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza within the district.

This is in addition to the ongoing spread of COVID-19.

“Young children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions are at increased risk of serious illness from these respiratory viruses, and we are already seeing the impact on the health system with more medical visits and hospitalizations, particularly for young children throughout the province including in Simcoe and Muskoka,” said Dr. Charles Gardner, SMDHU’s medical officer of health. “These trends are expected to continue as more time is spent indoors. By wearing a mask indoors and layering protective measures, we can help prevent viral spread and lower the risk of illness impacting our schools, workplaces, and local health care system.”

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit strongly recommends that people wear masks in all indoor public settings, including schools and childcare settings. Mask use, combined with other protective measures, can help to reduce the risk of becoming ill.

Layers of protection include knowing your risk by checking the SMDHU community risk level and wearing a mask in indoor public settings. This recommendation includes children from two to five years of age if they can tolerate a mask.

It is also recommended you get the annual flu shot.

It is important to stay home when sick and keep children at home from school or child care if they become ill.

Other precautions include washing your hands regularly and cleaning high-touch surfaces on a regular basis.

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