Huron County, ON – Flu has officially arrived in Huron County. The first laboratory-confirmed case of Influenza A has been reported to the Huron County Health Unit. Everyone who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario should get a free flu shot. Flu shots are available at many pharmacies and health care provider offices across Huron County.
The Health Unit wants to let people know that the flu shot is the best protection against seasonal influenza. Public Health Nurse Susan Hart says, “By getting immunized, you reduce your chances of becoming ill with the flu. If you do get sick, symptoms will be milder.”
Flu is a highly contagious viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It causes sudden fever, sore throat, chills, dry cough, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Most people who get the flu are sick for two to seven days, but can feel tired and weak for up to two weeks. In some cases, the cough can also last for weeks.
In seniors and people with chronic health problems, such as lung or heart disease or diabetes, flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia.
Flu spreads very easily from person to person in tiny droplets from the nose and throat. To reduce the risk, you should:
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and hot water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm.
- Stay home if you’re sick.
- Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces such as keyboards, doorknobs, and countertops.
- Get your flu shot.
For more information about the flu and where to get a flu shot in Huron County, visit www.huronhealthunit.ca or call 1.877.837.6143 x 2329.
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