NWHU urges following virus control measures over the holiday period

Stay at home if you’re unwell.

That’s the message from Northwestern Health Unit Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kit Young Hoon as we
move into a busy holiday season.

Young Hoon encourages everyone to continue following virus control measures over the holiday period.
In a public statement Young Hoon said “we continue to see moderate to high rates of viral respiratory
illness throughout our region caused by several viruses including influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.”

In Ontario, pediatric ICUs continue to be over capacity and are also dealing with chronic staff shortages.
Prevention of severe illness is ideal.
Here’s a checklist to follow if you or those in your household are unwell:
• Stay home when first sick with a fever or body aches
• Get your flu shot and COVID-19 booster shot if you have not yet done so. Vaccination helps prevent
serious illness
• Take the provincial on-line self-assessment if you have any symptoms of illness or tested positive for
COVID-19
• If you test positive for COVID-19 you might be eligible for anti-viral medication. Check online at
https://www.ontario.ca/covid-treatment-screener
Some links to guide self-care and family care:
• 811 Health Care Connect Ontario (formerly Telehealth)
• Health conditions and treatments | Caring for kids (cps.ca)