First lab-confirmed case of flu this season reported by Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health

The first lab-confirmed case of the flu of the season has been reported byWellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health officials.

The onset date of this case is estimated to be Sept. 16, the health unit said in an email to CBC News.

Last week, public health officials in Waterloo region confirmed three cases of the flu in the area.

The province has said flu shots will becomeavailable to the general public late next month.

In the meantime, public health is reminding people to stay home if they feel sick.

Other actions people should take if they have symptoms of a respiratory illness:

• Wash hands and use hand sanitizer.
• Cover your mouth when you cough of sneeze.
• Consider wearing a mask in indoor, public settings "especially around anyone at higher risk of infection."
• Avoid visiting people who are at higher risk of complications from respiratory illnesses.

Ontario's chief medical officer of health Dr. Kieran Moore said last weekit is important to stay up to date on vaccinations, noting a recentrise in cases of whooping cough.