The William Osler Health System is reporting a noticeable increase in patients presenting with respiratory illnesses, signaling the start of this year’s flu and cold season across Brampton and the surrounding region.
Dr. Shira Brown, Corporate Chief and Medical Director of Emergency Services at Osler, says the annual rise in cases typically coincides with the holiday season, when gatherings increase and viruses spread more easily.
“As people come together to share lots of love and joy, they also end up sharing viruses,” Dr. Brown said in a November 11 interview. “People should start taking precautions for themselves as early as now,” she added, emphasizing the importance of flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, frequent handwashing, and avoiding contact with others who are unwell.
While acknowledging the uptick in cases, Dr. Brown said it is still too early to predict the severity of this year’s flu season. “We’re seeing just a usual rise in respiratory viruses,” she said, noting that early forecasts based on Australia’s season do not always reflect local outcomes.
Peel Region’s Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Monica Hau, confirmed that public health teams are closely tracking global respiratory trends with support from Public Health Ontario. “This year, Peel anticipates a respiratory season with multiple viruses circulating, including influenza, COVID-19 and RSV,” she said. Free flu and COVID vaccines continue to be available through pharmacies, physicians, nurse practitioners, and Peel Public Health clinics. RSV immunization is also being offered for infants and adults over 75.
Osler, which includes Brampton Civic Hospital, Etobicoke General Hospital, and the Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness, sees approximately 310,000 patient visits each year. Dr. Brown stressed the importance of residents choosing the appropriate level of care to help hospitals manage patient flow effectively.
She encouraged residents to use family doctors, nurse practitioners, or walk-in clinics for mild cold, flu, or COVID symptoms. Osler’s urgent care centre is best suited for non-life-threatening issues such as sprains, minor fractures, allergic reactions, and rashes. Emergency departments should be reserved for serious medical concerns including chest pain, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, or illnesses involving infants.
“Young children can become sicker faster than adults,” Brown noted. “But they also recover very quickly when they receive the right type of care.”
She added that choosing the right place to seek medical help allows Osler hospitals to provide timely, efficient care to the community. “Please come to our emergency departments if you are very sick. Go to our urgent care department if you’re less sick, and visit our website for more information on where to receive care across the community.”
While the severity of this year’s flu season remains uncertain, the season typically lasts until mid-to-late January.