First Local Influenza Case of the Season Reported
Written by Communications, December 3, 2018
Free Flu Shots Still Available Throughout the Community
Today Peterborough Public Health reported the first local lab-confirmed case of seasonal influenza in our area.
“The case is lab-confirmed for influenza, and we now know that seasonal influenza is circulating in our community,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Usually there are more cases of influenza in the community than are reported by the lab, so we strongly encourage residents to get their flu shot to protect themselves and others as it’s still early in the season.”
Dr. Salvaterra noted that this year’s first lab-confirmed case is the influenza A strain. The flu shot protects against several types of both influenza A and B strains.
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 widely available at many local pharmacies, from physician offices, and local walk-in clinics. Peterborough Public Health is also holding flu shot clinics for those without a healthcare provider on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 and Wednesday, January 23, 2019 for children who require a second dose. To book an appointment, please call 705-743-1000, ext. 349. For a listing of pharmacies offering free flu shots, visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/flu.
Dr. Salvaterra advised that in addition to getting the flu shot people take the following precautions to reduce the spread of infection:
- Stay home if feeling unwell
- Wash your hands frequently
- Clean and sanitize commonly-used surfaces frequently
- Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue and washing hands afterwards
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For further information, please contact:
Dawn Hanes, RN
Public Health Nurse
705-743-1000, ext. 289