Hamilton Seeing Increase in Flu Activity
Hamilton, ON – December 7, 2016 –City of Hamilton Public Health Services advises residents that we are seeing increased flu activity within the City of Hamilton, signalling the start of the flu season.
“The peak of flu season is expected to occur by late December or early January, which means it is still a good time to get the flu shot and take action to fight the flu” says Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, City of Hamilton Medical Officer of Health.
Hamilton Public Health Services routinely monitors flu activity in the city. Hamilton is beginning to see evidence of increased influenza activity in the community and institutional settings. Hamilton is also seeing an increase in school absenteeism and a slight increase in emergency department visits for influenza-like illness.
The flu is a serious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It starts suddenly and often lasts longer than a cold. Symptoms are fever, headache, body aches, tiredness, weakness, sore throat, cough, runny eyes and stuffy nose. Children and healthy pregnant women in the second half of their pregnancy are at greater risk of being hospitalized following infection with influenza virus.
Vaccination is the best way to prevent flu. Ontarians six months of age and older can get flu shot from their doctor, pharmacist or at a clinic. Anyone five years of age and older can also get their flu shot from a pharmacist.
A list of locations in Hamilton where you can get your flu shot.
How to prevent the flu
- Get the flu shot
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand rub if there is no soap and water
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Clean shared objects and surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches or keys often.
- Stay home when you are sick
- Do not share food, drinks or personal items like toothbrushes
- Rest, sleep, exercise and eat nutritious food
In response to the volume pressure being faced by Hamilton emergency departments in recent weeks, Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, City of Hamilton Public Health and the Hamilton-Niagara-Haldimand-Brant Community Care Access Centre have launched a public information campaign regarding influenza. To learn more, visit www.beaflufighter.ca.