Spread Cheer, Not Germs this Holiday Season

Huron Perth, ON – As the holiday season begins, Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is reminding residents of the actions they can take to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza (“the flu”) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

There have been 13 respiratory illness outbreaks at long-term care and retirement homes in Huron Perth since September, with two of those outbreaks currently open.

“As more get-togethers and events happen heading into the holiday season, it is important to take precautions to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses,” says Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health at HPPH. “The best way to protect yourself, your family and the community is with immunization. In addition, stay home when sick and avoid visiting with those who may be at higher risk of severe illness due to respiratory viruses, including at hospitals and long-term care homes.”

Ways to protect yourself and your family from respiratory illnesses: 

• Stay up to date on immunizations you are eligible for
• Wash hands often
• Stay home when sick 
• Cover coughs and sneezes and mask when needed 
• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces and objects
• Improve indoor ventilation

All Ontario residents aged six months and older are eligible to receive influenza and COVID-19 immunizations. Contact your healthcare provider or local pharmacy to ask about receiving these vaccines.

Select high-risk groups are eligible to receive RSV immunization, including adults aged 75 and older. Eligible adults should contact their primary care provider about getting the vaccine.

Infants and high-risk children can get the RSV monoclonal antibody through hospital maternal child units and primary care providers.

HPPH is continuing to offer COVID-19 and influenza immunizations to children four years of age and younger who do not have a primary care provider. For more information and to make an appointment, contact the immunization team at 1-888-221-2133 ext 3558.

To learn more about how to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including information about immunizations, visit www.hpph.ca/illness.