Four actions to take to try to slow down the spread of respiratory viruses

The national director of public health warned on Monday that December will be a difficult month, with flu and COVID-19 infections rapidly rising. Overview of actions that can be taken to try to slow the spread of these viruses.

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Wear a mask in public

While not mandatory, wearing a mask, especially indoors, is strongly recommended and encouraged.

“Wearing a mask helps protect you and helps reduce the transmission of viruses. […] It’s not just a matter of COVID, but also of the flu. It is a matter of civility, to allow you to avoid taking it, but also to give it to others ”, said Dr. Luc Boileau.

To get vaccinated

In addition to being vaccinated against COVID-19, Quebecers were able to receive free flu shots for two weeks. However, early data show that the vaccine effectiveness rate appears to be around 50%, an enviable result for the flu vaccine, whose effectiveness varies widely from year to year.

“It’s not necessary for everyone to get the flu shot […]. These are really the groups that we have targeted. We have seen an increase in flu vaccination for higher risk groups,” noted Dr. Boileau, referring to the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, health personnel and pregnant women.

Stay home if you are sick

To the extent possible, Quebecers with flu-like illnesses, whether or not related to COVID-19, are best advised to stay home to avoid passing their virus on to others.

Those who cannot avoid going to work or school are strongly encouraged to wear a mask to avoid contaminating their peers.

Avoid contact

Also, amid celebrations and office parties, sick people should stay quietly at home, Dr. Boileau proposed, stressing, however, that he does not recommend canceling the celebrations.

This recommendation is particularly valid for parents of children under six months.

“Now is not the time to unnecessarily expose children. There is concern about reducing contact with people who do not live under the same roof. Now is not the time to show your baby. We have to protect them, ”said the doctor.