Your Guide to Keeping Yourself and Your Family Safe This Season

As we navigate through the season, it’s important to take proactive steps to keep yourself and your family healthy. Here are some recommended actions:

  • Wash hands regularly to reduce the spread of germs.
  • Stay home when sick to prevent others from getting ill.
  • Stay up to date on vaccinations to protect against serious infections.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes and wear a mask when necessary to limit the spread of viruses.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces frequently touched in your home.
  • Improve indoor ventilation by opening windows or using air filters to reduce the concentration of airborne viruses.

For detailed guidance on these actions, please visit Huron Perth Public Health’s guide on illness prevention and for the latest vaccination opportunities, visit Get Vaccinated.

Managing Illness at Home

Most respiratory illnesses in children, including colds, influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and COVID-19, can often be managed at home. However, it’s crucial to seek medical care when necessary. For tips on caring for children with respiratory symptoms, refer to the Ontario College of Family Physicians’ handout: Family Doctor Tips on Caring for Children with Respiratory Symptoms (PDF).

Accessing Virtual Care

Health811 offers easy access to care, helping you avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency room. Connect with a registered nurse any day of the week, day or night, via online chat at Health811 or by calling 811 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007). You can also use 811’s online symptom checker to determine if you need to contact your primary care provider. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.

Urgent Care Ontario: For situations requiring prompt medical attention that fall between primary care and emergency services, Urgent Care Ontario provides virtual urgent care appointments. Visit www.urgentcareontario.ca to book a virtual care appointment.

Wishing you and your family a healthy season,
Huron Perth & Area Ontario Health Team

Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory illness, particularly affecting infants, young children, and older adults. Learn more about the signs and symptoms, care options, and available vaccinations on the Huron Perth Public Health RSV Updates webpage, which will also contain the latest updates from Ontario Health.

Additional Resources