Flu & Respiratory Illness – What You Need to Know
Flu and other respiratory viruses are common at this time of year. Most people will recover at home, but knowing what to do and when to seek care helps keep everyone safe.
Help Prevent the Spread
- Get your flu shot if you are able
- Wash your hands often
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay home if you are sick
- Clean shared surfaces regularly
What Should I Do If I Feel Sick?
🔴 Stay Home - You can usually stay home if symptoms are mild, such as:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Mild cough or sore throat
- Low fever
- Body aches or tiredness
Rest, drink fluids, and stay home until you feel better.
🔴 Call the Clinic - Please call the clinic before coming in if:
- Symptoms last more than 3–5 days
- Fever lasts more than 3 days
- Symptoms are getting worse
- You are pregnant, over 65, have a chronic illness, or a weakened immune system
- Your child is not drinking fluids or seems very tired
Calling ahead helps us keep everyone safe. If you are a registered patient and have questions after 4pm pls reach out to our on-call services by calling 613-239-4006 and after after 8pm, please contact Health811 at 811 (TTY: 1-866-797-0007) for advice from a registered nurse.
🔴 Go to Emergency or Call 911 - Get urgent help right away if you or your child has:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Confusion or extreme sleepiness
- Blue or grey lips or skin
- Severe weakness or dizziness
- Signs of dehydration
- High fever that does not improve
- Symptoms that suddenly get much worse
If You Need to Come to the Clinic
- Please call ahead
- Please wear a mask to the clinic or a mask will be provided – this will help keep others, including our staff, safe!)
- Clean your hands when you arrive
Thank you in advance for your consideration.
Sandy Hill Community Health Centre
For more information, pls visit the following sites:
