In December, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit stated that flu season arrived early this year and the number of people sick increased in Ontario and Simcoe Muskoka. The SMDHU reports that as of early December 2025, the number of cases reported was more than 4 times the number of cases reported for the same time period in the last two flu seasons.
Last week, Ontario’s health minister says a “particularly challenging” flu season appears to have peaked over the holidays. Sylvia Jones said the number of cases strained the province’s health-care system.
Seniors (65+) are at much higher risk for severe flu complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, and death because their immune systems weaken with age, making it harder to fight the virus.
Here are some simple steps that you can take:
- Wash your hands often. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public spaces.
- Be mindful of the items you carry with you. Phones, keys, wallets and reusable shopping bags all have the potential to carry germs—wipe them down regularly.
- Avoid peak hours in crowded indoor places like stores or pharmacies. If you can’t avoid crowds, wear a well-fitted mask.
- Consider getting vaccinated. There are preventive options, including vaccination that can help protect you during respiratory virus season.
While the flu and common cold often get the most attention, another virus is also circulating: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It’s a common contagious virus affecting the lungs and breathing passages and can be serious for children as well as adults.
RSV can lead to serious complications for those over the age of 50 and those with chronic health conditions. For higher-risk individuals, an infection can result in hospitalization and long-term impacts.
It is important to prevent illness by staying home when you are sick or have symptoms of respiratory illness. Children who are sick should also be kept home from school or child care until they are well. Washing your hands and disinfecting surfaces that are touched often, such as door handles and light switches, can reduce the spread of germs. Wearing a well-fitted mask in indoor public places is another way to protect yourself and others, especially if you are at higher risk of serious infection. For more information contact the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit’s website.
Sources:
News Canada
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
