Early Start to Influenza Season in Waterloo Region

Waterloo Region has seen an early start to the 2012/2013 influenza season. The first two confirmed cases of Influenza A have been reported. In addition, these cases represent the first influenza institutional outbreak. As of September 15, 2012 there have been seven confirmed influenza cases in Ontario.

Influenza immunization offers the best protection for persons six months of age and older and is available free of charge to all residents. Public Health encourages everyone, particularly those at highest risk of complications related to influenza, (anyone with chronic health conditions, persons over 65 years of age, all children under five years of age, pregnant women, Aboriginal people) be immunized .

To further reduce the risk of developing Influenza:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm running water – especially before eating, preparing food and after blowing noses or using the washroom
• Use alcohol-based hand rub/sanitizer (either gel or wipes) when soap and water are not available

The distribution of Influenza vaccine has started and will continue throughout the month of October. Influenza vaccination is also available through family physicians, urgent care clinics and some local pharmacies.

In response to the early start of this year’s flu season, Public Health community clinics will begin November 5th. Seven additional on-site flu clinics have been added and will be available, by appointment only, beginning October 15th. Additional information pertaining to Public Health flu clinics can be found at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/seasonalinfluenza or by calling 519-883-2324.

Symptoms of Influenza include the sudden onset of fever (accompanied by chills), cough, sore throat and muscle or joint aches. If a person experiences the symptoms of any respiratory illness they should:

• Stay home until the symptoms begin to lessen
• Cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing
• If tissues are not available – cough or sneeze into the upper sleeve or elbow of clothing (the “Sleeve Sneeze”). The fabric helps to trap the droplets instead of having them sneezed or coughed into hands where they can be easily passed on to others or to surfaces
• Do not visit persons in hospitals or retirement/long term care homes

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Media contact: Vicki Ulman, Marketing and Communications, 519-883-2000 ext 5608.