As respiratory virus season approaches, Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority (IERHA) is reminding residents to take simple precautions to protect themselves and others from illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Residents are encouraged to wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer when handwashing is not possible, to help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

Other precautions include getting plenty of rest, drinking enough fluids, covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing, and regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, counters and phones.

People who are sick should stay home when possible and keep their distance from others to reduce the risk of spreading illness.

Residents are also encouraged to stay up to date with their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. Vaccines are available through participating clinics and pharmacies throughout the Interlake-Eastern health region. Most clinics are walk-in based with no appointment required. Beginning September 28, some clinics will have appointments. To make an appointment at a clinic near you, call 1-844-626-8222 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday to Friday or book online at manitoba.ca/protectmb.

Knowing when to stay home

For otherwise healthy people, many common respiratory virus symptoms can typically be managed at home. This can include a sore throat, blocked or runny nose, coughing, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea (without dehydration), and a fever that responds well to medication.

If symptoms are not improving or continue for more than five to seven days, residents should consider seeking non-emergency medical care.

• A primary care provider can assess non-urgent cold and flu symptoms and provide information about vaccinations. Those without a regular primary care provider can contact Manitoba’s Family Doctor Finder at 1-866-690-8260 or visit familydoctorfinder.ca.
• Residents can also seek care at a clinic in their community. IERHA clinics are listed at ierha.ca/find-us.
• Pharmacists can provide flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, prescription refills and quick assessments and advice for minor health issues.
• QDoc provides virtual medical care by connecting people with doctors and nurse practitioners through video calls, phone calls or online messaging. Call 1-833-736-2362 or book online at qdoc.ca.
• In Selkirk, residents can seek a same-day appointment at the QuickCare Clinic by visiting medinav.ca or calling 204-482-4399
• Also in Selkirk, Easton Place Medical Centre (15 Wersch St.) accepts walk-in patients. To minimize your wait time, call ahead at 204-482-4044.

When it’s an emergency

Anyone experiencing a medical emergency that cannot wait should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Examples of symptoms and situations requiring emergency attention include sudden or new chest pain, difficulty breathing, numbness, loss of vision, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, severe injuries, severe back pain, pregnancy complications or suicidal thoughts.

“As we move into respiratory virus season, it is important for all of us to do what we can to prevent the spread of illness and protect ourselves and our loved ones, those who are most vulnerable, as well as our health-care teams,” said Dr. Iraj Ghanbari Miandoab, vice-president of medical services and chief medical officer for Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority.

“This includes rolling up our sleeves to receive flu and COVID vaccines proven to be effective and safe, and choosing the appropriate care options for your situation, helping to keep our communities healthy.

An IERHA nurse administers a vaccine to the upper arm.