Respiratory viruses are on the move this season. Here's what you can do to limit the spread

A St. John's doctor says the number of respiratory viruses circulating are up following the holiday season, and getting vaccinated can help limit that spread.

Dr. Nazlee Ogunyemi, an N.L. Health Services medical officer of health , says the number of cases of COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is increasing.

"That's consistent with trends being experienced across other jurisdictions in the country," Ogunyemi told CBC News on Thursday. "We're also seeing gastrointestinal illnesses. However, it's a bit more difficult to compare exact numbers on that just with the nature of reporting."

Ogunyemi said it's also difficult to compare the increase in COVID-19 cases with previous years due to changes in test reporting, but the province is seeing similar numbers in influenza cases as in recent years.

The circulating viruses have similar symptoms — like a fever, cough, runny nose or congestion — which can make it harder for people to know exactly what they have.

"What we want folks to know is that they can be contagious with mild illness, even. So we're hoping to encourage people to stay at home and call 811 if you have any concerns about whether or not you should be getting medical attention and they'll be able to listen to your symptoms and advise you," she said.

WATCH I Dr. Nazlee Ogunyemi talks about the trifecta of illnesses making the rounds:

Anecdotally, it seems everyone is sick or was sick recently. How is the N.L. health-care system faring?

11 months ago

Duration 2:33

There’s a trifecta of illnesses circulating in Newfoundland and Labrador — though it’s hardly the only province. Respiratory infections, COVID-19 and influenza are making people sick, and it seems like few are escaping unscathed. The CBC’s Peter Cowan talks to Dr. Nazlee Ogunyemi to get the latest.

If someone is sick, Ogunyemi said, it's best to stay at home until 24 hours after symptoms, like a fever, have subsided.

"If there's a gastrointestinal or a stomach illness, what we suggest is 48 hours without vomiting or diarrhea and to feel more confident that we're safe to leave the house."

One way that people can also limit spread is through vaccination.

Ogunyemi said the latest vaccination statistics show 24 per cent of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have received a flu shot this season — down from about 30 per cent this time last year — while just 17 per cent of the population have received the latest COVID-19 vaccine.

She said she understands some residents may be experiencing vaccination fatigue but the shots go a long way in preventing viral spread and severe health consequences.

"When we get vaccinated we protect ourselves and others and make our communities stronger and healthier," Ogunyemi said.

"These viruses are constantly evolving, as far as strains, and the vaccines are constantly being updated to keep up with those. So we really want folks to make sure to get in and update their vaccinations."

Wearing a face mask can also be an important tool to help prevent the spread of viruses like COVID-19. While masking is no longer required in Newfoundland and Labrador, it's strongly recommended in places with poor ventilation and for people who are more at risk for severe health consequences.

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