Flu cases on the rise in Ontario, says health unit

The number of flu cases in Ontario are on the rise, says the Sudbury and District Health Unit.

The health unit encourages everyone to get the flu shot, since it is the safest way to protect oneself and others – especially the elderly and people with compromised immune systems – from the spread of influenza.

It is still early in the annual flu season, but the influenza A subtype H3N2 is being reported more frequently than other types.

The H3N2 subtype typically causes more serious illness than other flu virus subtypes. The annual flu vaccine contains protection against three subtypes of flu virus, including two influenza A (H3N2 and H1N1) and influenza B.

“Although testing so far this year has shown that the vaccine is not optimally matched to the H3N2 virus, the flu shot remains the best way to protect against the flu,” said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, the Sudbury and district medical officer of health, in a press release.

“The vaccine will provide some protection against the H3N2 strain and also against the other two flu strains that are circulating in Ontario.”

Sutcliffe said the health unit expects to see the start of influenza activity across the district soon.

“Seniors, those age 65 and older, are usually the most affected by the H3N2 flu type. That is why it is very important for seniors and those around them to get their flu shot,” she said.

While everyone is at risk of the flu and its complications, seniors, very young children and people with chronic medical conditions can experience more severe illness and hospitalizations. To date, the majority of cases reported in Canada have been among seniors over the age of 65.

Symptoms of influenza may include fever, runny eyes, headache, sore throat, extreme weakness, chills, cough, stuffy nose, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Free flu shots are available by appointment at all health unit locations, with drop-in services possible at the main Sudbury office at 1300 Paris St. The free flu shot is also available at participating pharmacies, walk-in clinics, community health centres, and your health care provider.