As vaccine clinics open up in Thunder Bay, experts urge vigilance heading into cold and flu season – CBC
City could be in for a tough winter as COVID, flu, and other illnesses increase
Oct 13, 2023
As COVID-19 and the influenza vaccines start to become available in Thunder Bay, the city’s medical officer of health is already warning local hospitals could soon be under strain.
“We’re seeing more of a increase in COVID-19 right now compared to even last year at this time,” said Dr. Janet DeMille. “So that does concern me, especially if it dovetails with influenza.”
DeMille said this uptick in respiratory viruses has also caused an increase in emergency department visits in Thunder Bay over the past four weeks.
Young children and older adults are most likely to see the biggest effects, DeMille said, with people over 60 or under two years old most at-risk. People with underlying health conditions, including people who may be immunocompromised, are also urged to be careful.
“Right now, it’s a great time to get the vaccines,” said DeMille. Clinics, pharmacies and health care providers throughout the city will be offering both COVID and flu vaccines.
