The Medical Officer of Health for Windsor-Essex has encouraged anyone who has yet to receive a flu or COVID-19 vaccine to get one.
With the lead-up to the holiday season underway, the number of seasonal respiratory illness cases is down, but Dr. Mehdi Aloosh said that doesn't mean it will be a slow season for them.
"Flu season hasn't started yet, but we expect that to start sooner or later," said Aloosh. "This is a great opportunity for the population to get the vaccines out there, especially children under the age of five and the elderly."
The health unit also urges pregnant women to get a flu vaccine, to help protect their baby during the first six months of life. After that, the infant may receive one of their own.
Aloosh added that COVID-19 is currently declining, but is expected to rebound once the holiday season happens.
"We've seen a steadily, slight decrease in the number of cases since September," said Aloosh. "The number of outbreaks is coming down."
Although COVID-19 is no longer a top health priority, Aloosh has reminded people that it is still around and won't go away anytime soon.
Flu and COVID vaccines are now available to the general public and can be obtained at doctor's offices, participating pharmacies, or health unit clinics.
Complete information on seasonal illnesses can be found by contacting your healthcare provider or visiting the health unit's official website.