Spike in flu cases often follows holiday season, health officials warn
NANAIMO — Crowded stores, houses full of family and friends — it’s a good way to catch the flu over the holidays.
Gianni Del Negro, a pharmacist with London Drugs, says with so many people around, the virus can spread more easily. However he says there’s still time to take precautions, starting with a flu shot.
“Not only are you protecting yourself but through the herd immunity you’re also protecting others as well,” said Del Negro. “There’s a number of things you can do to try to hopefully prevent yourself from getting the flu in terms of washing your hands frequently. Try not to touch your nose or your mouth because you can spread the virus that way. If you’re coughing, try to cough into your elbow. ”
There had been concerns earlier that this year’s strain may cause more fatalities but Del Negro says the vaccine helped counter the effects.