After a hiatus caused by COVID-19, influenza A has returned to Greater Sudbury, the health department said Monday.
The first confirmed cases of influenza A virus for the season have been reported in the public health service area of Sudbury & Districts, the health unit said in a press release.
It says local cases are in line with the “sharp” increase in flu cases found in Canada in recent weeks.
“Through the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned about simple ways to protect ourselves from respiratory diseases,” Justin Mansurian, a public health nurse, said in a press release.
“This behavior, such as staying home when you are sick, washing your hands, masking and vaccinating, protects us from the flu, as well as COVID-19.
Residents can also get the flu vaccine at local pharmacies, at their doctor’s office or by appointment at the health center.
“This year is unusual because we are seeing a very late start to the flu season, which in Canada usually lasts from November to April,” said Mansurian.
“Our first cases are usually reported in December or January, with the season ending in March or April. The trend towards the late flu season is observed across 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 a flu infection within a week to 10 days, but some are at greater risk of developing more severe complications such as pneumonia.
Children may also have a mild stomach upset due to the flu. The most common symptoms usually include fever, runny nose and cough.
For more information about the flu virus or flu vaccination options, visit the health department’s website or call 705-522-9200 or toll-free 1-866-522-9200.
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