Effective steps to protect yourself and those around you during flu season, from health experts

Canada’s respiratory virus season. (Pexels)

Flu season is upon us, and cases of common colds, seasonal influenza, and other respiratory viruses are beginning to rise, the local health unit says.

“Young children, older adults, and those with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk of serious illness from these respiratory viruses,” stated the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) in a Monday release.

Here are several effective steps you can take to protect yourself and those around you during flu season, according to local health experts:

Stay inside if you’re feeling unwell and are showing any signs of a respiratory illness. SMDHU says to keep children home from school or child care if they’re sick.

Avoid non-essential visits to hospitals, long-term care homes, or retirement residences.

Wash your hands frequently and clean high-touch surfaces regularly.

Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

Consider wearing a well-fitted medical mask in indoor public spaces, especially if you’re at higher risk of severe illness.

If you are feeling unwell, wear a mask in all public settings for 10 days after your symptoms begin. Note: The health unit advises against the use of masks for children under the age of two.

SMDHU says the respiratory syncytial virus vaccine is also available for adults 75 years and older and some people 60 through 74 years of age who meet specific high-risk criteria and have not received the vaccine before.

For more information about respiratory illnesses, you can click this link.