Navigating respiratory illness season

As the leaves turn golden and frosty mornings arrive, we enter the season when respiratory illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can pose a significant health threat to you,  your loved ones, and the community.

At Oak Valley Health, keeping patients, staff, and the community safe is a top priority as they prepare for the challenges of the colder months. Earlier this fall, Oak Valley Health launched its annual flu vaccination campaign, encouraging all staff, volunteers, and community members to get their flu shot – a crucial step in reducing the spread.

Charge nurse Irina Motskin emphasises why it’s more important than ever to get the flu shot.

“Everyone six months and older should get a flu shot every year — unless they have a medical reason not to. It’s the best way to stop the spread of influenza and to protect ourselves, our family, patients, and the community,” Motskin says.

“Even if you’re healthy or ‘never sick,’ getting your annual vaccine helps protect you and the people around you, especially those more vulnerable to severe illness, like those who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or our elderly population. It’s a simple action that makes a big difference every flu season.”

Flu shots are just one piece of the puzzle. COVID-19 and RSV pose a risk and continue to circulate, creating a “triple threat” that can strain health care systems. COVID-19 continues to evolve and result in variants that can spread more easily, cause different severity of illness, or evade the immune system. This applies for RSV, known for causing severe respiratory infections, especially in young children and older adults.

The flu, COVID-19, and RSV all spread through respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, as well as contact with contaminated surfaces.

In addition to getting vaccinated, Motskin shares additional ways to stay healthy this season: wash your hands often and use soap and water or hand sanitizer; cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze; stay at home when you’re sick, as viruses spread more easily in group settings; and clean and disinfect surfaces and shared items.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available to the community through a primary care provider, some local public health units, or participating pharmacies. RSV vaccinations are available for newborns and babies under 24 months old at Markham Stouffville Hospital and the CHC Stouffville. Starting this fall, seniors 75 or older are eligible for a free RSV vaccine, visit york.ca for more information.

By staying informed, vaccinated, and practicing good hygiene, we can all contribute to a healthier season ahead.

Photo: Irinia Motskin, charge nurse at Oak Valley Health.

*Story submitted by Alysia Burdi