News

First confirmed case of flu in Huron Perth; multiple viruses circulating

Huron Perth, ON - Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has received confirmation of the first case of influenza (flu) in a Huron County resident. The lab-confirmed result means that flu is circulating in Huron Perth.

“We can all expect this respiratory illness season to be more complicated with influenza, COVID-19, and other viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) circulating at the same time,” says Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth. “I encourage all residents aged...

Prevent the spread of respiratory illness at Thanksgiving

Huron Perth, ON – While many people prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving this weekend, Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) encourages residents to use layers of protection to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.

Huron Perth COVID-19 data from October 5, 2022 show that there are three new deaths, 11 active outbreaks and seven hospitalizations since our last weekly report. Individuals may be at higher risk of severe illness if they:

• are an older adult (risk increases with each...

Adults 18+ can now receive bivalent booster at HPPH clinics

Huron Perth, ON – As of today, September 26, 2022, all individuals aged 18 and over can receive the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster at HPPH clinics. For the last two weeks, health care workers and populations most vulnerable to severe COVID-19 illness were prioritized to receive this vaccine.

The bivalent vaccine targets both the original COVID-19 virus and the Omicron BA.1 subvariant, and also generates a good immune response against the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.

“As we head into fall and winter,...

Bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster available to adults 18+

Huron Perth, ON – On September 12, 2022, the Ontario government announced that the new bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster will be available to all individuals aged 18 and over, beginning with the most vulnerable populations.

Health Canada authorized this vaccine on September 1, 2022. The bivalent vaccine targets both the original COVID-19 virus and the Omicron BA.1 subvariant, and also generates a good immune response against the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.

“Staying up-to-date with vaccination maintains...

Five to 11 year olds now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine booster

Huron Perth, ON – On August 31, 2022, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Moore, announced that children aged five to 11 will be eligible for a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Parents and caregivers are able to book an appointment for their child as of September 1, 2022.

Eligible children can receive their first booster dose at a recommended interval of at least six months following their most recent dose.

“A booster helps to restore protection against COVID-19 that may have decreased...