The first lab confirmed case of influenza has arrived in Huron Perth.
Huron Perth Public Health is urging residents to protect themselves against various viruses circulating in the region.
COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and mycoplasma pneumoniae continue to circulate in Huron and Perth counties.
Public Health officials remind people to use multiple layers of protection to reduce the risk of spreading or developing respiratory illnesses.
Respiratory illness is spread from respiratory droplets that come out of your nose and mouth when you cough, sneeze, breathe or talk. Close contact with someone who is sick, or touching a surface or object with a virus or bacteria on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes, increases your risk of illness.
The best way to stop the spread includes washing and sanitizing your hands often, and covering coughs and sneezes with your arm or a tissue. Other ways to ward off viruses include wearing a mask in indoor public settings or in crowded spaces, and practicing physical distancing. People should stay home when sick, and wait until symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours before going out in public.
People can get vaccinated agains the flu or COVID-19. There are also antiviral medications for those with chronic health conditions which leave them at higher risk for complications and hospitalization.
"Common seasonal respiratory viruses may not require medical assessment or specific treatments like antibiotics," stated a media release from Huron Perth Public Health. "However, those with pre-existing chronic health conditions may be at higher risk of more severe disease. Seek medical care if you or your child has severe, persistent, or worsening symptoms, especially if you or they might be at higher risk of developing severe disease."
