The first confirmed cases of the season A flu virus have been reported in the Sudbury & Districts Public Health Service area, the health unit said in a press release. He said local cases were in line with the “sharp” rise in flu cases found across Canada in recent weeks. “Through the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned about simple ways to protect ourselves from respiratory illness,” Justeen Mansourian, a public health nurse, told a news release. “These behaviors, such as staying home when sick, washing hands, masking and vaccinating, protect us from the flu as well as COVID-19.” Residents can also get a flu shot at local pharmacies, at their doctor’s office or by appointment at the health unit. “This year is unusual, as we are seeing a very late start to the flu season, which, in Canada, usually lasts from November to April,” Mansurian said. “Our first cases usually occur in December or January with the period ending in March or April. The flu season at the end of the season appears throughout Canada, with flu activity rising in April and approaching seasonal levels in some parts of the country. “ Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause fever, cough, muscle aches and fatigue. Most people will recover from the flu within a week to 10 days, but some are at greater risk of developing more serious complications such as pneumonia. Children may also have mild stomach upsets due to the flu. The most common symptoms usually include fever, runny nose and cough. For more information on the flu virus or flu vaccination opportunities, visit the health unit website or call 705-522-9200 or 1-866-522-9200 toll free.
