Flu season in Alberta has begun with significant challenges. Alberta’s data reports 428 confirmed cases of seasonal influenza and one fatality since the season commenced on August 30. The deceased individual, aged between 70 and 79, resided in Calgary.
Between September 27 and October 3, there were 194 cases of influenza, leading to 21 hospitalizations and two cases requiring intensive care. While the flu vaccine is set to be available on October 19, some vulnerable individuals in congregate care settings have already started receiving the vaccine.
According to Craig Jenne, an infectious diseases professor at the University of Calgary, Australia’s flu season usually foreshadows what may occur in the Northern Hemisphere. Jenne noted that Australia witnessed an early onset of the flu season with many cases, although the flu strains were typical.
Jenne highlighted a concerning trend in Alberta where flu vaccination rates have been decreasing over the past few years. This decline has resulted in a surge in hospitalizations and severe illnesses. Increasing vaccination rates is crucial to maintaining public health and reducing hospital admissions.
Alberta’s Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services stated that they are closely monitoring respiratory virus activity in the region. While influenza activity is higher than usual for this time of year, COVID-19 and RSV activity remains comparatively low.
Dr. Louis Hugo Francescutti, a professor at the University of Alberta School of Public Health and an emergency physician, emphasized the importance of immunization in preventing the spread of influenza, especially among high-risk groups such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Francescutti stressed that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of contracting the flu.
While Francescutti acknowledged that vaccination is a personal choice, he warned that unvaccinated individuals pose risks to themselves and others. He advised non-vaccinated individuals to practice good hygiene, wear masks, and stay home when sick to prevent spreading the virus.