Influenza confirmed in Public Health Sudbury & Districts’ service area

Public Health Sudbury & Districts is reporting that one case of influenza virus has been confirmed within its service area and is encouraging residents to get their influenza vaccine as soon as they can. Beginning October 31, the influenza vaccine will be available by appointment at select Public Health clinic locations throughout the community.

“We know that influenza activity begins in October and peaks between December and February,” said Dr. Imran Adrian Khan, Public Health Physician at Public Health Sudbury & Districts. “So, as we move through the fall and into the winter period, getting the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as you can is an important and effective measure to protect you and your family,” said Dr. Khan.

Details regarding clinic dates, locations, hours of service and the vaccines being offered at each clinic will be available on Public Health’s website. Opportunities to access the influenza vaccine may differ throughout our service area each week. If you do not find a clinic in your area, please contact Public Health for more information. To book, please call 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200). Local pharmacies and health care providers’ offices also offer the seasonal flu vaccine.

Get your influenza vaccine as soon as you can, as it can take up to two weeks for your body to build immunity. Individuals aged 5 years and older can safely get the influenza vaccine immediately before or after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.

Important infection prevention reminders—influenza and COVID-19

• Get vaccinated. The influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can be safely administered at the same time as now recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
• Wear a well-fitted mask and practise physical distancing.
• Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Stay at home when you’re sick.

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can affect people of all ages. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. Most people will recover from influenza infection within one week to 10 days, but some people are at greater risk of developing severe health complications.

The COVID-19 is Risk Index remains high, and we need to do all we can to stay healthy. To help protect you, your family, and your community, get your influenza and COVID-19 vaccines and continue to follow personal protective measures to prevent spread of the flu and COVID-19 viruses.

For more information about the influenza vaccine, ways to prevent getting sick, as well as how to treat mild symptoms at home, visit www.phsd.ca or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705.522.9200 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).