Your Community Guide to Staying Healthy Over the Holidays

Dr. Dan Ricciuto, Medical Director Infection Prevention and Control and Quality and Person-Centred Care Lakeridge Health.

As we immerse ourselves in the festivities of the winter holidays, it is vital to prioritize our health and well-being. So, in this season of joy and celebration, I would like to share some proactive steps you can take to ensure you and your family are safe and healthy over the winter months.

Embrace the power of vaccines

Rates of COVID-19 transmission in the community and associated hospitalizations are as high as ever. In addition, rates of influenza and other respiratory illnesses are also increasing. The COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines play a key role in reducing the risk of infection and severe illness and help to protect you and those around you from these viruses.

It is most important to receive these vaccines if you have risk factors for developing severe illness. For example, if you are older than 60 years of age or are six months to four years of age, have medical illnesses including heart, lung, and kidney disease, have a weakened immune system, or are pregnant or live in a congregate care setting.

A COVID-19 vaccination is recommended if it has been more than six months since your last dose or COVID-19 infection. For the both the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines, it takes approximately 10 to 14 days to develop an immune response, so the best time to receive the COVID-19 and flu shot is now. You can receive the COVID-19 and influenza vaccines from your local pharmacy. And it is safe to receive both vaccines at the same time. For more information on where to get your COVID-19 and flu shot, visit the Province of Ontario’s website.

This year, Ontario has introduced its first publicly funded high risk older adult RSV vaccine for people aged 60 years and older. Through this program, the Ministry of Health covers the full cost of the vaccine for eligible adults living in long-term care homes, elder care lodges, and retirement homes licensed to provide dementia care services. For other individuals 60 years and older, speak to your primary care practitioner about whether the vaccine is right for you. For more information about this new Health Canada approved vaccine, please visit the province of Ontario’s website.

Layer on Protection against Respiratory Viruses and other Infections

Simple acts such as washing and sanitizing your hands often can go a long way in preventing the spread of germs. Wearing a tight-fitting, well-constructed mask in indoor public settings for anyone at a high risk of severe infection or in health-care facilities with mask policies can help prevent acquiring and spreading infection. If you are sick, stay at home until you feel better, wear a mask until day 10 after the onset of symptoms, and cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, then clean your hands after.

Knowledge and information are one of our greatest allies in the fight against infectious diseases. Stay informed about the latest health guidelines provided by Durham Region Public Health.

Know your community care options

If you are at high risk for severe illness due to COVID-19 and influenza and you have symptoms, contact a health-care provider as you may be eligible for treatment early in the course of illness. If your situation is less serious, please consider your community care options:

• Call 811 or visit Health811.ontario.ca to connect with a registered nurse 24/7 and find an urgent care clinic near you.
• Visit the East Regional Virtual Care Clinic at VirtualCareOntario.ca or call 1-888-684-1999.
• Call your family physician.
• Call or visit your local pharmacist.

If you think you have COVID-19, find out more about COVID-19 testing locations and clinical assessment centres here.

If your condition requires immediate medical help, and you or a loved one is in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or visit any one of the Lakeridge Health’s four emergency departments located at the Ajax-Pickering, Oshawa, Bowmanville or Port Perry Hospitals. To find out about our hospitals’ wait times, visit our online ED Wait Times Tracker.

Prioritize Mental Health

The holidays can be a challenging time for people experiencing mental health illnesses for various reasons, including societal pressures, loneliness, or financial stress. Encourage open conversation, seek support when needed, and prioritize activities that bring joy and relaxation. If you or a loved one is experiencing a crisis, please call Durham Mental Health Services’ CALL line at 905-666-0483 or toll-free at 1-800-742-1890. Help is also available by calling 988 or visiting 988.ca.

Once again, if you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency department. Other publicly available supports are also listed on our website at lh.ca.

This winter break let’s come together as a community to prioritize health and well-being. By taking collective action and making responsible decisions, we can foster a safe and joyful holiday for all. May this season bring warmth, connection, and good health for you and your loved ones.