FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. | Windsor and Essex County
Windsor‑Essex County (WEC) continues to experience significantly high influenza (flu) activity following the holidays. For the final week of 2025 the region has experienced nearly a six-time increase in the number of cases as compared to the same time period in 2024. The strain seen the most throughout Ontario continues to be Influenza A (H3N2), known for causing more severe illness in young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions.
The health unit and system partners have been monitoring and communicating with the public and with healthcare providers for several weeks about the potential for this to be the worst flu season in years. “We anticipated a more severe H3N2 flu season this year, and that is exactly what we’re seeing,” said Dr. Mehdi Aloosh, Medical Officer of Health at the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU). “The support of each member of this community is essential to limit the ongoing spread of the flu in our region. For those who chose to stay home from events over the holidays due to illness, you helped in limiting the spread. But, with children back in school, we need to continue being diligent to prevent a further rise in cases.”
Local hospital partners have also reported strain in their Emergency Departments due to increased illness rates, and the health unit joins them in encouraging residents to only utilize their services in emergency situations. For non-emergency situations, seeking other medical options such as primary healthcare providers, walk-in clinics, or virtual appointments will help to ensure the most timely and appropriate service for most residents.
Public Health Officials Urge Preventive Actions
The WECHU continues to urge all residents to take proactive steps:
- Stay Home When Sick. If you or your children are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or body aches, please stay home to avoid spreading the virus at work, at school, and in the community at large.
- Get Vaccinated. It is not too late to receive the influenza vaccine. Immunizations are still the most effective defense against serious seasonal respiratory illness. Vaccines are available at local pharmacies and through healthcare providers. To book an appointment at a pharmacy near you, visit www.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations
- Practice Every Day Preventive Measures
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.
- Wear a mask if you’re at higher risk of serious illness, or if you must go out while symptomatic for medical care.
For more information on the flu or on booking an immunization appointment, please visit wechu.org.