Public Health Reports Community-wide Influenza Activity
Written by admin, December 14, 2012
December 14, 2012 – Flu Shot Advised for All Community Members
The Peterborough Public Health is reporting widespread influenza activity throughout the community and advising all residents to get their flu shot.
“With further confirmation of influenza activity in the city and county we strongly advise all local residents to get their flu shot to protect themselves and others before the holidays” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra. “Seniors and young infants are considered particularly high risk so now is the time to prevent spreading it to our most vulnerable populations.”
Dr. Salvaterra noted that the good news is that this year’s flu shot is a good match to the strains that are currently circulating in the community. The flu shot is 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.
She said it can take up to two weeks for the flu shot to take effect, so in the meantime the following precautions are strongly advised 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
The Public Health is issuing this advisory based on the recent increase in lab-confirmed influenza cases, outbreaks at local facilities, and emergency room visits due to influenza-like illness.
Vaccine is available at from healthcare providers, some local pharmacies, or by appointment at Public Health for those who do not have a healthcare provider.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence, Communications Supervisor
705-743-1000, ext. 391