Public Health Sudbury & Districts say the first laboratory confirmed case of the influenza A virus has been reported in the area.
It is reminding residents that it is not too late to get a flu shot.
There have been 769 cases of influenza confirmed in Ontario since December 15th, mostly caused by the influenza A virus.
“Getting your flu shot is the most effective way to reduce the spread of influenza in our community, it protects you and others around you.” said Kim Presta, manager in Public Health Sudbury & Districts’ Clinical Services Division.
If you haven’t received the influenza vaccine yet, it is available at local pharmacies and through health care providers.
“It can take up to two weeks after being vaccinated to develop ideal protection against influenza, and that’s why getting your flu shot early is so important.” said Presta.
Most flu vaccines being offered this year protect against two strains of influenza A and two strains of influenza B, rather than just one influenza B strain.
For children and youth ages two to 17, there is a painless nasal spray alternative to the shot.
Because the flu is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause fever, cough, muscle aches and fatigue, people who are ill should stay home to avoid infecting others.
An influenza infection can last a week to 10 days, but can cause more severe symptoms such as pneumonia.
Frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes can help reduce the spread of the flu.
For more information about the influenza vaccine, ways to prevent getting sick, as well as how to treat mild symptoms at home, visit phsd.ca or call 705.522.9200, ext. 301 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).
