While flu numbers have remained low for the past two years due to COVID-19, the first cases of the season have been confirmed by Algoma Public Health. With the easing of restrictions in the region, APH expects a return to higher numbers of flu cases. Influenza is spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing and by direct contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. Children may also experience earaches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. To avoid spreading the flu to others, APH recommends staying home if you get sick. Most people will get better after a few days of rest and drinking plenty of fluids. APH recommends that people who meet the criteria for testing and treatment for COVID-19 get tested when they are sick since flu and COVID have similar symptoms. To protect yourself and prevent the spread of flu in your community, APH suggests washing your hands, coughing and sneezing into your sleeve or tissue, getting vaccinated, keeping frequently touched surfaces clean, wear a face covering and respect the space and choices of others and stay home if you get sick. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family from the flu, to avoid missing time from work or school, and to prevent spreading the virus to others,” said Dr. People at risk of getting seriously ill from the flu and those in close contact with them should consider themselves a priority for the flu shot, which is available for anyone six months of age and older at many doctors’ offices, participating pharmacies and community public health clinics. More information about flu clinics can be found here.
