Alberta has recorded its first influenza-related death of the current flu season following a severe flu season last year. According to the province’s respiratory virus dashboard, a person in their 60s from the central zone succumbed to the flu. Last season, 237 Albertans lost their lives to influenza, with over 3,700 individuals hospitalized.
Dr. James Talbot, Alberta’s former chief medical officer of health, mentioned that the timing of this year’s first flu death aligns with previous seasons. Over 100 people in Alberta have been hospitalized for influenza this season, with eight patients requiring intensive care.
Concerns are rising as some countries are experiencing an early flu season with higher caseloads. Dr. Talbot anticipates a challenging flu season in Canada, similar to the Southern Hemisphere’s recent tough flu season. He emphasized the strain that a severe influenza season could put on the healthcare system.
Infectious disease specialists are cautioning about a potentially tough flu season due to an evolving strain of H3N2 that may not match this year’s flu vaccine. Despite potential mismatches, Dr. Joan Robinson recommends getting the flu shot as it can still reduce the risk of contracting influenza and lessen the severity of the illness.
Approximately half a million Albertans have received the flu shot this season, representing over 10% of the province’s population. Alberta’s influenza positivity rate is higher than the national average, indicating a higher testing rate for flu-like symptoms in the province.
Dr. Talbot highlighted that COVID-19 remains a significant concern due to its associated risks of hospitalization and mortality. The province has reported 36 COVID-19 deaths this season, with ongoing vaccination efforts.
Most Albertans are required to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine this year, except for specific groups. Despite the cost, Dr. Talbot emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu for protection against severe illness and potential disruptions.