Influenza has arrived in Perth County.
The Perth District Health Unit said while there are fewer than five lab-confirmed cases, many people who are sick are not sick enough to be hospitalized and tested.
Therefore, the lab-confirmed cases may only represent a small number of people who have the flu.
Meanwhile, the flu has been listed as a contributing factor in one death in Ottawa. Public Health confirms an unidentified patient over the age of 65 died earlier this month in Ottawa.
That person was one of 13 confirmed cases of influenza since September.
"The flu has been circulating in other parts of the province for the last couple of weeks so we are not surprised to see it here," said Public Health Nurse Jennifer Beaver.
"Staying home will help stop the spread of the flu to people who may be more susceptible to complications," said Beaver.
People who are ill are especially urged to avoid visiting long-term care homes or hospitals until they are well again.
The flu shot is the best protection against the flu.