Ottawa Public Health’s respiratory virus snapshot shows respiratory virus levels remain high in Ottawa two weeks before Christmas, and COVID-19 levels are “increasing after weeks of decline.” Public health says that with COVID-19 and respiratory viruses circulating in the community, protective layers like masks and vaccinations are “still useful” to keep you and your loved ones healthy. “With the holidays fast approaching, let’s all remember… as much as we look forward to seeing friends and family, we need to stay home when we’re sick,” Ottawa Public Health said on Twitter. “Show people you care about them by not exposing them to a virus.” OPH data shows flu and RSV levels are “very high” in Ottawa this month. CHEO is seeing an “unprecedented level” of patients with respiratory viruses this fall, forcing the children’s hospital to open a second pediatric intensive care unit, cancel non-emergency surgeries and call in the Canadian Red Cross to provide clinical support. Two weeks before Christmas Eve, Ottawa Public Health says it’s your last chance to get a flu shot to provide protection during the holidays. “It takes 2 weeks for a flu shot to take effect. So to get the best possible protection this holiday season, this week is the best time to get your flu shot,” said Ottawa Public Health on Twitter this week. Eastern Ontario’s medical officer of health says there is a risk of COVID-19, influenza and RSV in the community. “The best we can do is continue to use public health measures: wash your hands, disinfect surfaces, wash your hands often, don’t go out when you’re sick, wear masks in crowded indoor spaces. said Dr. Pavlos Roumeliotis in his weekly update on COVID-19. Dr. Roumeliotis “strongly recommends” everyone get the flu shot, especially children. “The more people get vaccinated against the flu, the sooner we can deal with this recession.”
