Posted by Brant County Health Unit has confirmed its first locally acquired influenza case of the season.
Last flu season, Brantford and Brant County had 177 confirmed influenza cases.
In Canada, seasonal flu activity typically begins as early as October and can continue as late as May.
The symptoms of influenza include sudden high fever, cough muscle, aches, headache, sore throat, tiredness, loss of appetite
Influenza can cause more severe illness than the common cold. The infectious period for influenza can last two to five days after the onset of symptoms (up to seven days in young children).
With the flu vaccine now available for free to the public through pharmacies and family doctors, BCHU urges everyone to get a flu shot. The flu vaccine offers protection from several common strains of the flu virus and is the most effective way of avoiding the flu.
“The flu shot is a quick, simple and safe way to protect yourself, loved ones, coworkers and the community,” s Dr. Elizabeth Urbantke, Medical Officer of Health at BCHU. “The flu can be very serious for infants, older adults and those with chronic diseases. These groups are at much a higher risk for serious complications.”
More information about the flu and the influenza vaccine can be found on the BCHU website.
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