🚨 Stay Home, Stay Safe: A Holiday Message 🚨
The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it's also a time when many of us visit loved ones, including those in hospitals and long-term care facilities. This year, more than ever, it's crucial to prioritize the health and safety of those around us. Here's why, and what you can do to help.
A Public Health Advisory
The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) has issued a Public Health Advisory due to increased influenza activity in the region. The message is clear: if you're feeling unwell, please stay home. It's not just about avoiding the spread of illness; it's about protecting those who are most vulnerable.
Why Stay Home?
Even mild symptoms can pose a significant risk to people in hospitals and long-term care facilities. These environments are often crowded and shared, making it easier for illnesses to spread. By staying home when you're sick, you're not just looking after yourself; you're also helping to prevent the spread of disease to those who are already at higher risk.
What Can You Do?
Here are some simple yet effective steps you can take to help keep everyone safe this holiday season:
- Plan Ahead: If you want to visit a loved one in a long-term care or extended care facility, call the facility ahead of time. Ask about any protocols they have in place to ensure safe visiting practices. Being prepared can make all the difference.
- Get Vaccinated: It's not too late to get your flu shot. Visit nthssa.ca/flu for more information. This simple step can help protect you and those around you.
- Practice Healthy Habits:
- Wash your hands often.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean surfaces you touch frequently.
- Consider Wearing a Mask: In crowded spaces, especially if you're at higher risk, wearing a mask can help reduce the spread of illness.
- Boost Your Immune System: Eat healthily, exercise, sleep well, reduce stress, and cut down on substance use. A strong immune system is your best defense against illness.
The Gift of Safety
The best gift you can give this holiday season is staying home when you're sick. It's a simple act of kindness that can help keep others safe. Remember, even mild symptoms can have a significant impact on vulnerable people and healthcare professionals. So, let's do our part to keep everyone healthy and happy this holiday season.
For media requests, please contact:
NTHSSA Communications
nthssacomms@gov.nt.ca
