Public Health confirms that seasonal influenza activity has begun in the Region

August 01, 2025

Influenza activity in Waterloo Region has started. This week, Public Health received its first lab confirmed cases of Influenza. A second case has been confirmed today. Provincially, there have been sporadic reported cases of both Influenza A and B. Influenza activity levels are considered low at this time.

The Region’s Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang encourages people to get immunized. “These first cases are a signal that the flu season has started in Waterloo Region. The best way for people to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu is to get immunized.”

Influenza immunization offers the best protection for persons six months of age and older and is available free of charge to all Ontario residents. Vaccination for the general population is underway through Ontario’s Universal Influenza Immunization Program. Flu vaccine is available through pharmacies, primary health care providers, walk-in clinics and Public Health’s family flu clinics (for families with children 6 months to 5 years old). See website for further details: www.regionofwaterloo.ca/flu

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 and pregnant women), to be immunized.

Symptoms of Influenza include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, stuffy/runny nose, headache and muscle or joint aches. Anyone experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness 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
  • Do not visit persons in hospitals or retirement/long term care homes

To further reduce the risk of developing or transmitting 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

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Media contact:

Julie Kalbfleisch
Manager, Communications
Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services
Ph: 519-575-4400 ext. 2270
Cell: 519-501-0952
email: jkalbfleisch@regionofwaterloo.ca