As fall unfolds in Windsor and Essex County, we look forward to festive activities. However, the changing weather brings respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Flu to our community. The good news is that we have safe and effective vaccines for these illnesses. I recommend everyone talk to their healthcare provider and get the first available vaccines they’re eligible for.
What’s New This Season?
We are learning that infants, particularly those under six months, are highly vulnerable to COVID-19 as they cannot yet receive the vaccine. To reduce the risk of hospitalization for this group, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, family members, caregivers, and siblings need to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Also, Ontario has prioritized protecting infants and eligible children under two years of age from RSV. Pregnant women can receive the RSV vaccine to help create antibodies to protect their babies.
The seasonal flu poses significant risks for younger children, older adults, and those with underlying diseases. Those at higher risk should get their flu shot as soon as it’s available. Given that bird migration has started, those exposed to sick animals are also at an increased risk of avian flu and have been prioritized for the flu vaccine this season.
At the health unit, we continuously monitor respiratory viruses. We will keep our community updated on disease activity and vaccine availability. For more information, visit the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit’s website at www.wechu.org.
We can all take action now to help protect the health of our community. Vaccination, staying home when unwell, practicing good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and wearing masks in indoor public spaces when necessary are crucial steps to protect us and our loved ones from respiratory illnesses.
Stay safe and healthy.
Dr. Mehdi Aloosh, Medical Officer of Health Windsor-Essex County Health Unit