London, ON – Several respiratory viruses, like rhinovirus, influenza and pertussis, and other infections, such as norovirus and chickenpox usually circulate at this time of year; and can spread even more easily when people gather for Holiday celebrations. The Middlesex-London Health Unit is reminding residents to take the necessary steps to stay healthy during this festive season.

"Events where people are in close contact can provide the kind of environment where these viruses can be spread easily,” says Dr. Gayane Hovhannisyan, Associate Medical Officer of Health with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “As these viruses can spread in settings where Holiday and social gatherings are held, such as schools, workplaces, hospitals, long-term care facilities and child care centres, we’re asking people to stay home and get well if they are feeling sick.”

To prevent further spread of these viruses, the Health Unit is reminding those who are ill to take the following steps:

• Stay home if you are sick.
• Use proper cough and sneeze etiquette: sneeze or cough into your upper sleeve instead of your hands or the air.
• Clean hands frequently using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Hands should be cleaned after using the washroom, after changing diapers, after shaking hands and before preparing and eating food.
• Get yourself or family members vaccinated against influenza.
• If you have diarrhea or vomiting, wait at least 48 hours from your last episode before preparing food for other people.
• Clean frequently-touched surfaces often using a bleach solution or appropriate cleaning product.

For advice on managing seasonal illnesses, consult your healthcare provider or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000, or visit www.healthunit.com/preventing-infections.

Media Contact:

Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-663-5317 ext. 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)

Spokesperson:

Dr. Gayane Hovhannisyan, Associate Medical Officer of Health, Middlesex-London Health Unit