Flu Vaccination and Preventive Steps Encouraged to Protect Community as Influenza Season Begins
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) is urging residents to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses following the season’s first laboratory-confirmed case of Influenza in the City of Kawartha Lakes. Influenza, a respiratory infection, can range from mild to severe and may lead to complications even in healthy individuals.
“The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and the community,” said Marianne Rock, Manager, Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, with the HKPR District Health Unit. “We encourage everyone eligible to get vaccinated this season to help reduce this number and minimize the strain on our healthcare system.”
The flu vaccine is available for free to all eligible Ontarians over six months old, with a focus on protecting seniors, young children, and pregnant individuals who are at higher risk for serious flu complications. The Health Unit also offers flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines for eligible children aged five and under. Residents can get these vaccines at participating pharmacies or from their healthcare providers. Adults 65 and older, and those at higher risk, are encouraged to get vaccinated early to protect themselves and help reduce the spread in the community.
In addition to vaccination, the Health Unit recommends other preventive measures:
• Vaccinate Against Flu, COVID-19, and RSV: When eligible, ensure you’re up to date with vaccinations to protect against these viruses. Both flu, RSV and COVID-19 vaccines are available now.
• Stay Home When Sick: If you feel unwell, remain at home to avoid spreading illness. Once symptoms
begin to ease, consider wearing a mask in public for 10 days.
• Practice Hygiene: Wash hands frequently, clean high-touch surfaces regularly, and use your elbow or
arm to cover coughs and sneezes.
• Stay Informed on COVID-19 Treatments: Know if you’re eligible for COVID-19 treatments and how to
access them.
To further support residents in staying informed and making data-driven health decisions, the HKPR District Health Unit has launched the Infectious Diseases Data Dashboard. This tool provides data on lab-confirmed cases for 75 infectious diseases, as well as information on outbreaks declared in the highest-risk settings within the HKPR district area. Residents are encouraged to explore this dashboard to stay informed and support the health and well-being of our community.
The Government of Canada also launched FluWatch, Canada’s national influenza monitoring program, which provides updates on the spread of flu and similar illnesses across the country. Community members can stay informed through FluWatch’s weekly reports and participate in the program by becoming a FluWatcher.
For more information on flu shots, respiratory illness prevention, and to access the Infectious Diseases Dashboard, visit hkpr.on.ca.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
