“Nationally, flu activity is skyrocketing,” according to Canada FluWatch report for the week ending October 29. Influenza activity has crossed an epidemic threshold, with 5% of all respiratory virus tests coming back positive. If it remains above that level and meets other criteria, the agency said it will declare a nationwide flu outbreak — which usually happens in mid-November. Separately on Friday, Public Health OntarioHis weekly report said seasonal flu activity has begun in that province. Parts of New Brunswick also have localized cases of the flu, one step below the highest widespread level. Flu has also been detected in areas in New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario and Saskatchewan and Alberta, according to the federal report. of Alberta The weekly respiratory virus report showed a class of common cold virus, rhino-enterovirus, making up the lion’s share of positive lab tests most recently. Provinces and territories reported two flu-related hospitalizations and eight ICU admissions for the week. Visits to healthcare professionals for flu-like symptoms were above average but within typical levels for this time of year. Symptoms may be due to other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. WATCHES | More children come to the ER with respiratory illnesses:
New data reveals extent of ER growth at children’s hospital
Children’s hospitals in parts of Canada continue to face an unprecedented increase in ER visits and admissions due to the huge increase in respiratory illnesses among children. In Ontario, children aged five to 17 go to the ER with respiratory problems at more than three times the seasonal average. About 54 percent of flu illnesses so far have been in children and teenagers. The increase in flu cases in both Canada and USA it comes as RSV and COVID-19 infections add pressure on hospitals in parts of both countries. “There’s no question we’re going to face some challenges this winter,” US Department of Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O’Connell told reporters. The U.S. flu season appears to be earlier than normal, but not more severe so far, he said.
