Area public health officials aren't about to declare victory over the flu yet, but say the situation is improving. More than a dozen people in the London region have died of influenza or complications from it so far this season, mainly in elder-care centres.
"We are certainly in a better position than we were over Christmas. The number of outbreaks has dropped significantly," said Linda Stobo of the Huron County Health Unit.
There remains just one influenza A outbreak in a long-term care home in the county, which has had eight outbreaks this year and four deaths.
"It is a little too soon to say we are in the clear. With school just reconvening, the next two weeks will be a better indication of where we are at," Stobo said.
Dr. Susan Tamblyn, Perth County medical officer of health, said the flu situation there is also starting to ease.
Two hospitals are reporting significantly fewer people with influenza symptoms and there's only one long-term care home with an outbreak.
But Tamblyn said she wants people to remain vigilant and stay home if they're sick.
In Elgin County, only one outbreak remains. Two others in long-term care centres are over.
"I wouldn't want to let my guard down, but things seem to be settling down a little bit," said Laura McLachlin of the Elgin-St. Thomas Health Unit.
On the weekend, Dr. Bryna Warshawsky, associate medical officer of health for the Middlesex-London Health Unit, said the London situation appeared to have turned the corner as well.
At London's Parkwood Hospital, officials say visitors should stay away if they have the flu or even sniffles.
For that matter, health officials urge under-the-weather people to stay away from any place sick or elderly people are apt to be receiving care.
Parkwood recently had a widespread flu outbreak, as 55 patients fell ill with an aggressive strain of the virus. Only four patients are still isolated with symptoms.
Patients are limited to one visitor a day and only from people who have had a flu vaccination.
Outpatients may have an escort to their appointments, but may not travel through other parts of the hospital.
No large patient and resident gatherings will take place until the outbreak is over.
The precautions will stay in place until next Monday.
