Several infectious viruses contained by Ontario’s pandemic-related public health measures over the past two years are making an unsurprising comeback in Huron-Perth, local officials say.
Influenza A, adenovirus, human metapneumovirus, enterovirus, rhinovirus, and parainfluenza are all circulating in the region, Huron Perth public health reported Tuesday.
There have also been reports of hand, foot, and mouth disease in young children and an increase in norovirus outbreaks in childcare and long-term care settings, according to public health officials.
“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,” Dr Miriam Klassen, Huron-Perth’s medical officer of health, said in a press release. “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.”
Symptoms of the circulating respiratory viruses can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and/or muscle aches. Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis in people, an illness that usually includes diarrhea and/or vomiting and is easily spread in group settings where people are in close contact.
Ontario ended mask mandates in most public spaces two weeks ago, with the exception of public transit and health-care settings such as hospitals and long-term care homes. With COVID-19 hospitalizations in Ontario up roughly 30 per cent compared to a week ago, Klassen has continued to “strongly” recommend mask-wearing indoors.
“Although many of us wish otherwise, COVID-19 continues to circulate and risk remains as we navigate this transitional period,” she said. “Remaining mask-friendly is important; face coverings are a safe, effective tool to limit the spread of COVID-19.”
It is not too late to get a flu shot at a local pharmacy or primary care provider, the health unit said Tuesday. COVID-19 vaccinations are still available through health unit clinics and select pharmacies.
Actions to prevent illness-causing germs
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use alcohol-based hand rub. Handwashing is especially important after using a tissue, before and after preparing or handling food, after using the washroom, after changing diapers or toileting a child.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact, such as kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils, with people who are sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or shirt sleeve, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, light switches and cell phones, especially if someone is sick.
• Stay home when you are sick and keep sick children out of school and childcare.
(Source: Huron Perth public health)