First Influenza Outbreak Confirmed in Local Long Term Care Home
Written by Communications, January 3, 2020
Flu Shot Still Widely Available in the Community
Peterborough Public Health is reporting the season’s first influenza outbreak at a local long term care home.
“Residents of the facility have tested positive for Influenza A, which is one of the many strains contained in this year’s flu vaccine,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Long term care residents are particularly susceptible to complications from the flu, which is why we strongly encourage healthcare workers and all local residents to get the flu shot.”
Dr. Salvaterra noted this outbreak serves as a good reminder to get vaccinated for those who have yet to receive their flu shot because it’s not too late to protect yourself and others.
The flu shot is free and recommended for everyone over six months of age. It is especially important for people with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, young children, the elderly and anyone who takes care of people in these groups.
Flu shots are available at many local pharmacies, physician offices, and walk-in clinics. Peterborough Public Health is also holding a flu shot clinic for children under five years of age without a healthcare provider on Thursday, January 16, 2019 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. To book an appointment, please call 705-743-1000, ext. 349. For a listing of pharmacies offering free flu shots, click here or visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/flu.
In addition to getting the flu shot, Dr. Salvaterra recommended that those who are feeling unwell stay home to prevent the spread of the infection, practice proper handwashing, clean and sanitize commonly-used surfaces frequently, and cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue and washing hands afterwards.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 391