Please note that, while the flu shot will not protect you against COVID-19, getting a flu vaccine this year is more important than ever. The flu weakens the immune system and the combination of flu with COVID-19 may lead to a more serious illness than either condition alone.
Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. The flu is different from a cold and usually comes on suddenly. Common signs and symptoms of the flu include cough, fever, sneezing, runny nose, chills, muscle aches, headaches and sore throat.
Patients with flu-like symptoms are required to wear a mask in the hospital and practice good hand hygiene. Visitors with flu-like symptoms should refrain from visiting the hospital until they have recuperated.
Each year, flu viruses cause thousands of illnesses in Canadians. It some cases, it can lead to hospital stays and even death. Getting the annual flu vaccine is the first and best available way to protect yourself, your family and others from the flu and its potentially serious complications. The flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctor visits, and missed work/school due to the flu and prevent flu-related hospitalizations.
For more information, visit the flu facts page on the Ontario Government’s website.