FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
Thursday, November 20, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. | Windsor and Essex County

Early indications are calling for an elevated risk of flu activity this season relative to previous years. The cause of this is a new strain referred to as H3N2, a type of Influenza A known to cause more severe illness in young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

“The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit monitors influenza activity throughout the year and to a greater extent during the expected respiratory season. Early indications of activity in other parts of the world have led us to the conclusion that this may be a particularly intense year in Ontario”, according to the region’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Mehdi Aloosh.

The influenza virus can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell. The WECHU is encouraging residents to get all respiratory vaccines they are eligible for as soon as possible, including the influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness from respiratory viruses.

In addition to getting their vaccinations, the health unit reminds residents to:

• Stay home when feeling sick.
• Wear a mask in crowded or indoor spaces, particularly if you are at higher risk of complications.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or a tissue.
• Regularly clean and disinfect areas that are often touched by others (e.g., door knobs).  

Residents are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about getting vaccinated, or to find a local pharmacy offering flu and/or COVID-19 vaccines by visiting www.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations  

For more information on vaccination and ways to reduce your risk of illness, visit wechu.org