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NORTH BAY, ON - The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit's (Health Unit) region is experiencing double the number of emergency department visits for flu-like and respiratory illnesses, compared to the previous three-year average. This is similar to what is being seen across the province, and emphasizes the need for everyone to use layers of protection to help prevent the spread of these viruses.
The flu causes a wide spectrum of illness, ranging from seven to ten days with mild symptoms, to severe illness requiring hospitalization. Complications of influenza may include worsening of chronic health conditions, pneumonia, and respiratory failure.
Flu-like illnesses can have other negative effects on not only those who are ill, but also their families and friends. This can include missed school, resulting in days off work for parents and caregivers, and possibly a short-term loss of income due to unpaid sick days.
“With COVID-19, influenza A and other respiratory viruses circulating in our region, the risk of becoming ill from a respiratory infection is very high, but there are layers of protection people can use to help prevent themselves and those around them from getting ill,” explains Dr. Jim Chirico, Medical Officer of Health for the Health Unit.
“Layers of protection include staying home when you are sick, receiving both your flu shot and COVID-19 booster – which are safe to receive at the same time – practicing good hand hygiene, and wearing a mask when you are feeling unwell, both at home and when back in public after a recent illness.”
What might be a cold to you could lead to a severe respiratory infection for someone else.
For more information on COVID-19 or the flu, visit myhealthunit.ca.
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Media Inquiries:
Alex McDermid, Public Relations Specialist
P: 705-474-1400, ext. 5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca
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