With the fall season in full swing, Hamilton Public Health Services is urging residents to take precautions against common respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), according to a news release.
“With the spread of respiratory illnesses expected to rise as residents spend more time indoors, a multi-layered approach to prevention and care can help to keep the community healthy and reduce strain on local healthcare systems,” read the release.
Some protections outlined in the release included washing hands, covering mouths when coughing or sneezing, staying home when sick, and getting vaccinated.
The city highlighted that anyone six months or older can get flu and updated COVID-19 vaccines, while some adults 60 and up are eligible for RSV vaccines.
The province of Ontario’s website has a list of pharmacies offering COVID-19 and influenza vaccines.
“It is both safe and recommended to receive these respiratory vaccines at the same time,” read the release.
Other protections recommended by public health included getting antiviral treatment for COVID-19 or influenza for those eligible and wearing “a tight-fitting, well-constructed masks,” when in indoor public spaces.
“By combining key preventive measures, residents can help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses and protect the community — particularly those most vulnerable,” read the release.