Current Articles

If you plan to travel south to escape the chilly Canadian winter, bear in mind that many tropical / holiday destinations have a higher risk of some infectious diseases that are less common at home.

Mosquito-borne viruses

Mosquito-borne viruses Chikungunya (CHIKV), Japanese Encephalitis, and Yellow Fever are a concern in many tropical destinations. We now have vaccine protection for all three, since Health Canada recently approved a single-dose vaccine for the prevention of CHIKV in individuals 18 years of age and older ...  Read more

When you step outside, enjoy breathing in the fresh fall air – and be aware of germs that indoor spaces can harbour. Respiratory infections tend to be more common in the fall and winter, just as we prepare for seasonal gatherings with family, friends, and coworkers.

Airborne illnesses such as COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whooping cough (pertussis), and pneumonia are spread by small droplets that linger in the air and on surfaces when someone with the infection talks, coughs, or sneezes.

Symptoms tend to be mild to moderate, ranging from ...  Read more

As we approach another flu season, respiratory illness is a growing concern. Last year saw a significant increase in hospitalizations due to respiratory illnesses including flu, especially among people younger than 18.¹

The flu isn't a serious illness. 

FALSE. While mild cases of seasonal influenza may cause cold-like symptoms that last for about a week, the flu can cause serious illness. Especially at-risk are young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. When severe, influenza can lead to complications including pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, and worsening of ...  Read more