Huron Perth Public Health has confirmed several cases of the flu in children under 5.
HPPH says this is noteworthy because influenza testing is very limited, so they don’t usually see this number of lab-confirmed cases of influenza in children this young.
HPPH adds the influenza season started several weeks earlier than usual in Huron Perth. Flu season typically begins in late November.
“Even healthy children can become seriously ill with the flu,” said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen. “Our best defence against flu and its complications is influenza immunization. I encourage all residents aged six months and older to get their flu shot as soon as possible to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Dr. Klassen adds that children under 5 have a higher risk of complications, and even death, from the flu, since their immune systems are still developing.
Flu shots are available to everyone aged six months and older through Primary Care Providers (family doctor or nurse practitioner), pharmacies, and Huron Perth Public Health clinics.