Be Ready for Respiratory Illness Season

Respiratory illness season is around the corner. 

Historically in Ontario, seasonal pathogens like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) circulate most between November and April. In recent years, COVID-19 has posed an added threat. 

As of the beginning of October, updated COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots are available for high-risk and priority populations, including people who work in long-term care homes and other congregate living settings.  

Healthcare workers can also receive their updated COVID-19 vaccine now.

Members of the general public will be able to get both vaccines starting October 28. 

Ontario physiotherapists have played an essential role in curbing the spread of COVID-19 and saving lives.

As we head into another respiratory virus season, here are some resources to help keep yourself, your co-workers, and your patients safe:

• The College’s Infection Control and Equipment Maintenance Standard provides guidance and minimum expectations for physiotherapists regarding infection control. It’s important to make sure you’re familiar with it.
• The Ministry of Health’s Seasonal Respiratory Pathogens Guide sets expectations and accountabilities for health system partners to support readiness and response. It also includes the ministry’s risk outlook for the 2024-2025 season. 
• Use the province’s COVID-19 self-assessment tool if you feel sick.
• Public Health Ontario has an extensive Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) resource library including:
  • Checklist for Clinical Office Practice
  • Fact Sheet: How to Protect Yourself and others from Respiratory Viruses
  • Best practices for healthcare settings
• You can also visit the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website for a list of COVID-19 resources for the healthcare sector
• Refer to your local Public Health Unit for additional important guidance.