News from the CIUSSS

Do you have the flu? A cold? Stomach flu?

[Translate to Do you have the flu? A cold? Stomach flu?:] Avez-vous la grippe ? Le rhume ? Ou la gastro ?

Tips from CIUSSS West-Central Montreal to avoid the Emergency Department

Montreal, January 10, 2020 – Home, rather than the Emergency Department, is usually the best place to treat a flu, a cold or gastroenteritis (stomach flu).

If you have serious symptoms of these three illnesses, start by calling Info-Santé 811. You can also make an appointment with your family doctor or visit the walk-in clinic at your local CLSC ( https://www.ciussscentreouest.ca/etablissements-et-ressources/clsc/). Winter clinics have also been set up in Family Medicine Groups ( https://www.ciussscentreouest.ca/programmes-et-services/habitudes-de-vie-et-prevention/cliniques-dhiver/).

Getting a flu shot is another good idea in helping you avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Department.

"The flu shot is an effective way of avoiding the risk of influenza infection," says Dr. Karl Weiss, Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the Jewish General Hospital, a member facility of CIUSSS West-Central Montreal. "The flu shot is offered free of charge to people at risk, so there is no reason to not get it. Also bear in mind that it takes about two weeks for the shot to reach its optimum effect."

Other preventive measures

Here are some other easy, simple steps to take to help prevent the spread of illness:

  • Wash your hands often.
  • Use a hand disinfectant (hydro-alcoholic solution) when a sink is not available.
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow and not into your hand.

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