Protect Yourself and Others this Respiratory Illness Season

Timmins, Ontario — Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Respiratory illness season is upon us. The Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) is reporting that influenza is circulating in the region along with COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). 

The Health Unit encourages everyone to use layers of protection during this respiratory illness season. This includes:

• Get vaccinated. The strongest layer of protection is to get your COVID-19 and flu vaccines.To book your appointment, visit the PHU website, phu.fyi/flu-shot or call your local PHU office.
• If you’re sick, stay home. For at least 24 hours after the symptoms go away — 48 hours if you have nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea.
• Wash your hands well (for 15 seconds) and often.
• Cover up! Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. And when indoors, consider wearing a mask. 

According to Chantal Porter, coordinator of the Infectious Diseases program at the PHU, these illnesses frequently spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes, or talks. That's why it's important to stay home. She says, "If you have cold or flu symptoms, wait until your symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours."

"If you have symptoms," she adds, "get tested for COVID-19, especially if you are at high risk. Free rapid antigen kits are available at the PHU. Contact your primary care provider or pharmacist as you may be eligible for treatment."

Finally, Porter says, the best thing you can do to stop from getting seriously ill is to get vaccinated. “Even if you’re healthy, you could transmit the infection to someone who is at higher risk of complications, such as the elderly, young children, or individuals who are immunocompromised.”

The COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available at PHU clinics. To book your appointment, visit the PHU website, phu.fyi/flu-shot or call your local PHU office.