Flu cases double in Windsor-Essex: WECHU

Flu cases have doubled in Windsor-Essex this season, according to the Windsor Essex County Health Unit.

Officials with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit said there has been a significant increase in cases of influenza reported within the region.

So far in 2025, the health unit received more than double the number of reported cases of influenza compared to this time last year.

WECHU is reminding residents that respiratory illness season is ongoing and there is still time to protect yourselves and those around you.

The health unit is working closely with local hospitals who have seen a significant rise in Emergency Department visits for respiratory illnesses.

Hospitals are also reminding residents with non-emergency concerns to consider whether the ER is the best option for them. Other options such as Health811, virtual care clinics, or walk-in clinics may be able to provide the appropriate level of care without the need to access the ER.

More information on these options can be found on the Windsor Regional Hospital and Erie Shores HealthCare websites.WECHU said getting vaccinated for flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the best ways to prevent serious illness and avoid hospital visits. In Ontario, the flu vaccine is free for people who live, work, or study in the province.

Residents are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local pharmacy about getting the flu shot if they have not been vaccinated. In addition, publicly funded doses of COVID-19 & RSV vaccines are also available to eligible individuals.

The health unit is also reminding residents to stay home when they are feeling unwell and to wear a mask until 10 days from symptom onset, to wear a mask in crowded or indoor places especially if you are at higher risk of infection, to wash hands frequently, to cover coughs and sneezes, and regularly clean high touch surfaces.