Vulnerable Populations at Risk

Young children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly susceptible to severe illness from these viruses. It’s vital for everyone—especially those who are at higher risk—to adopt some simple but effective precautions. Here’s how you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones:

1. Stay Home if You’re Sick

If you exhibit any symptoms of a respiratory illness, please remain at home. Similarly, keep children home from school or daycare if they are unwell.

2. Limit Visits to Vulnerable Settings

Avoid non-essential visits to hospitals, long-term care, or retirement homes if you are feeling under the weather.

3. Vaccination is Key

Get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, if eligible. Vaccines for these illnesses will be made available starting October 28, 2023, and can be obtained free of charge from local pharmacies and healthcare providers.

4. Practice Hand Hygiene

Regularly wash your hands and disinfect high-touch surfaces to mitigate the spread of germs.

5. Cover Up

Utilize tissues or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent spreading droplets.

6. Consider Masks

If you are in high-risk groups or in crowded indoor public settings, wearing a tight-fitting, medical mask is recommended. If you are symptomatic, continue to wear a mask in public until 10 days after symptoms begin.

Stay Informed with Weekly Updates

To keep the community aware of current respiratory virus trends, the SMDHU has introduced a Weekly Respiratory Virus Update. This interactive dashboard, which will be updated weekly starting September 1, 2024, will summarize the latest influenza, COVID-19, and RSV activity in the Simcoe Muskoka area.

Don't Let Your Guard Down!

As respiratory illnesses surge this autumn, personal responsibility and community awareness are essential to protect not just yourself but also those around you. Stay safe, informed, and healthy this flu season!