The flu is back in Waterloo Region. Public health officials say they have received reports of the first locally acquired cases this year.
Region of Waterloo Public Health is urging those who are most susceptible to flu to take precautions – and that most often means getting a shot.
Officials say immunization offers the best protection against the flu for children and adults. It’s also free.
“Vaccine will be available this week for family physicians’ offices and also to long-term care homes,” said Kristy Wright, manager of infectious disease with the region. “Then vaccine will be widely available when the province launches its universal immunization influenza program in mid-October.”
Just about anyone can get the vaccine at pharmacies, as well as from primary health care providers and clinics.
Waterloo Region is not alone. Two cases have been reported here, but influenza has also popped up in other parts of Ontario.
Flu season here can begin as early as October and continue into late May.
Symptoms include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and muscle or joint pain.
Adult patients can be infectious for two to five days after the onset of symptoms. Young children can spread the bug for up to seven days.
With reporting by Carina Sledz
