Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) is urging residents to take extra precautions against respiratory illnesses as the holiday season approaches and social gatherings and travel increase across the region.
The reminder comes as influenza activity remains elevated throughout the GEPH area, with flu test positivity rates closely matching provincial levels, signalling that the virus continues to circulate widely in the community.
Public health officials note that influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all contagious respiratory illnesses that can lead to more serious health outcomes than the common cold.
These viruses pose a higher risk for young children, pregnant individuals, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions, particularly during periods of increased indoor contact and travel.
To reduce the spread of illness during the holidays, GEPH is encouraging residents to take a layered approach to protection.
This includes staying up to date on vaccinations for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, when eligible.
Residents are also advised to stay home when sick, keep children home if they are unwell, and wear a well-fitting mask if experiencing symptoms or spending time around others who may be ill.
Additional preventive measures include frequent handwashing, avoiding touching the face, covering coughs and sneezes, and regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces at home and in workplaces.
When planning holiday gatherings, public health officials recommend choosing well-ventilated spaces, keeping gatherings smaller when possible, and asking guests to stay home if they are feeling unwell.
These steps can help reduce transmission while still allowing families and friends to enjoy time together.
Vaccination remains the most effective defence against severe illness, hospitalization, and complications from influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.
GEPH notes that even when the influenza vaccine is not a perfect match to circulating strains, it still provides strong protection and is strongly recommended.
Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can also be administered during the same appointment, making it easier for residents to stay protected.
Pharmacies offering flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be found through Ontario.ca/vaccine-locations, while information on RSV eligibility is available through health care providers and online resources.
Residents can also stay informed about local respiratory virus trends by visiting GEPH’s Seasonal Respiratory Surveillance Dashboard for the 2025–26 season.