Monitor children with the flu closely: public health

WATERLOO REGION — Influenza is a commonplace illness, making it easy to underestimate the risk.

“I think people often forget the flu is a very serious illness,” Kristy Wright, manager of infectious disease for Region of Waterloo Public Health, said Monday. “The flu can impact healthy people.”

Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health confirmed last week that two children in the Guelph area died of influenza B. There is no evidence the cases are related.

“We have had similar cases in the past,” Wright said.

Influenza poses a higher risk of complications for those with underlying conditions, along with the very young and very old.

However, Wright cautioned, “none of us are completely immune.”

As of Friday, there were 14 influenza-related deaths in Waterloo Region this season, all among people 65 and older.

Wright said public health officials are saddened by any flurelated deaths, and can under-

stand why the deaths of two young children would be a shock to the public. “It is scary for parents,” she said.

The health unit’s advice to parents doesn’t change. If a child is sick with flu symptoms — including fever, new cough and congestion — keep a close watch on their health. If concerned, go to the family doctor or emergency department.

“You always want to take that seriously,” Wright said. “Monitor your children carefully.”

And always remember the importance of prevention during the flu season. Get a flu shot, practice good hand hygiene and stay home when sick.

Public health doesn’t plan on hosting any extra flu shot clinics in the region because the shots are widely available in the community at pharmacies, walk-in clinics and doctor’s offices. Guelph held two extra community flu shot clinics on Sunday and Monday.