Influenza A has arrived in Haldimand Norfolk – Stratford Beacon-Herald

The first confirmed case of Influenza A for this season was reported by the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit on November 1.

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I would encourage everyone to get their flu shot to protect themselves and their loved ones against influenza, said Dr. Joyce Lock, acting medical officer of health, said in a release. Anyone can get the flu, but it is particularly dangerous for the elderly, children, and those with compromised immune systems.

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Commonly called the flu, influenza symptoms include fever, body aches, cough, and extreme exhaustion.

Transmission is most common through sneezing and coughing. The virus can live for several hours on hard surfaces such as door knobs and toys.

Washing your hands frequently, staying home when you or your child is ill, and coughing or sneezing into your upper arm sleeve are additional ways to reduce the risk of influenza infection.

Flu shots are available at health care provider offices and participating pharmacies throughout Ontario.

The health unit recommends people get the flu shot as soon as it becomes available because the vaccine can take up to two weeks to become effective.

Lock also recommends people get the COVID-19 booster if their previous vaccine or COVID infection was six months ago or more.

Additional information on the flu shot and influenza virus can be found online at hnhu.org/fall.

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Influenza A has arrived in Haldimand Norfolk - Stratford Beacon-Herald