HEATHER BOA Bullet News HURON COUNTY – The number of confirmed cases of influenza has risen to 32 in Huron County in what’s proven to be an early start to the season.
That number doesn’t include sick people who didn’t go to their doctor’s office for a nasal swab that would have been sent to the health unit lab in London or labs in select hospitals for testing. Any positive tests in those labs are reported to local health units.
“We’re really encouraging everyone to get their flu shot,” said RuthAnn Ogilvie, who is a public health nurse.
“It’s a good match this year with the flu vaccine and the circulating strains so hopefully that will encourage people to get their flu shot,” she said. The vaccine is available through appointment at the health unit or health care provider’s office, and at some pharmacies for those over the age of five.
Flu season usually arrives around Christmas, with cases reported into February, but in Huron County and across the province, the season started much earlier this year. Cases began to be reported in November.
The Public Health Agency of Canada reports localized flu in activity in Huron County, while surrounding areas have more serious widespread flu activity, based on the ratio of cases reported compared to population.
“We do have quite a few cases but we’re not considered a widespread outbreak at this point,” Ogilvie said.
The health unit suggests if people feel unwell that they stay at home and avoid visits to long-term homes or hospitals. Washing hands and sneezing or coughing into sleeves will help reduce the spread of flu.
For more information about the flu shot or flu, visit the health unit’s website.
