HURON-PERTH – Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is aware of several infectious viruses circulating locally; in addition, a sixth wave of COVID-19 is underway. Please take action to protect yourself and your loved ones from these illnesses.
The following respiratory viruses are circulating in Huron Perth:
- Influenza A
- Adenovirus
- Human metapneumovirus
- Enterovirus/rhinovirus
- Parainfluenza
Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and/or muscle aches. While anyone can contract these viruses, they are most common in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. There have also been cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in young children, and an increase in Norovirus activity in Huron Perth, with Norovirus outbreaks in childcare and long-term care. Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis in people, an illness that usually includes diarrhea and/or vomiting. The illness is easily spread in group settings where people are in close contact, like schools, hospitals, childcare facilities, and nursing homes.
“Many of the public health measures that have been in place over the past two years, such as masking, physical distancing, frequent cleaning and disinfecting, and limiting close contacts helped to prevent not only COVID, but also other viruses from spreading,” says Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth. “With most measures lifted and people having more contact with others, it is not surprising that we are seeing the return of other viruses. If you are sick, please stay home to avoid spreading illness to others.” Stay home when ill and get vaccinated against COVID, flu if eligible. HPPH reminds people that if they have symptoms of COVID-19 or test positive for the virus, they are required to isolate. If you think you may have COVID-19, or were exposed to the virus, visit Ontario.ca/exposed to learn what to do. You can also call the toll-free provincial testing and isolation information line at 1-888-777-0730 for answers about COVID-19 testing and isolation guidance.
