The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has confirmed the first Influenza A case of the year.
Health officials do not typically release information where the cases are found but are using the discovery to remind residents to get their flu shot.
The vaccine is free and is available at over 90 local pharmacies in the region and doctors' offices.
Last year, there were 157 lab-confirmed cases, but the actual rate of infection is not known since most people do not report it.
Influenza causes an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily spread through the air when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes, and it can also live on surfaces for several hours.
Anyone can contract the virus, but some are more prone to serious complications including babies under six months old, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with a chronic health condition.
The health unit provides some tips to avoid the spread of the flu, including washing your hands frequently, coughing or sneezing into the crook of your elbow, cleaning common surface areas, and staying home if you are sick.
