OTTAWA: Health Canada has reported a significant surge in influenza cases across the country, prompting renewed calls for vaccination amidst the typical seasonal increase.
The latest data from the agency indicates that the test positivity rate for flu screenings has climbed to 8.1 percent. A total of 1,394 new flu cases were reported in the last week alone. The agency notes that individuals aged 65 and older are currently the most affected demographic.
Expert Analysis and Circulating Strains
According to Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist, the rising number of infections is typical for this time of year in Canada.
Bogoch confirmed that three strains of the influenza virus are currently circulating:
- Two Influenza A strains: H3N2 and H1N1
- One Influenza B strain
Furthermore, data from the volunteer health surveillance program, FluWatchers, shows that 1.4 percent of the 9,525 participants reported experiencing symptoms such as cough and fever.
Dr. Bogoch strongly recommended that the public get their flu shots as a primary measure to protect against the circulating strains and reduce the severity of illness.
