7 Lab Confirmed Cases of Influenza Identified in Region

Update from the Medical Officer of Health

Media Release

December 5, 2023

Seven Lab Confirmed Cases of Influenza Identified in the Southwestern Public Health Region

Over the past week, Southwestern Public Health has received notification of seven lab-confirmed cases of influenza A – the first cases of the 2023/24 season. One case was in a resident of a local Long-Term Care Home. The remaining cases were in individuals living in the community.

These confirmed cases are an indication that influenza is circulating within our community. Surrounding health units are also experiencing influenza activity.

“The influenza vaccine is widely available. Now is the time to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from this respiratory virus by adding a flu shot to your regular habits of handwashing, staying home when unwell, and covering your coughs and sneezes,” says Dr. Ninh Tran, Medical Officer of Health for Southwestern Public Health.

“Anyone 6 months and older can receive both a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. Save time and protect yourself from both viruses by booking at a pharmacy that can offer both flu and COVID-19 vaccination. Or, for the month of December, come to our COVID-19 clinics on Buller Street in Woodstock or Talbot Street in St. Thomas for a COVID-19 vaccine and ask to be vaccinated against the flu at the same time.” Appointments can be booked online at www.ontario.ca/book-vaccine or 1-833-943-3900. Pharmacies are unable to vaccinate children under the age of 2, however public health offers special clinics for this age group.

According to Health Canada, influenza and pneumonia are ranked among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada. Each year there are approximately 12,200 hospitalizations and 3,500 deaths from influenza. Common symptoms include fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, muscle or body aches, weakness, and fatigue.

For more local information about influenza, go to www.swpublichealth.ca/flu. To track flu across Ontario, go to https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/Data-and-Analysis/Infectious-Disease/Respiratory-Virus-Tool