Influenza cases in Canada have surged past last year’s peak, with positivity rates for flu testing reaching 21.2% last week, exceeding the 2023-24 season high of 18.7%, according to the latest national data from Health Infobase.
The federal government’s Health Infobase dashboard reported 8,586 new influenza detections for the week of February 1, with the majority of cases affecting Canadians aged 65 and older. The data also indicates that influenza A remains the dominant strain, accounting for nearly 95% of detected cases this season.
Health officials have classified flu activity as “widespread” in multiple regions, including:
- Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area
- Vancouver Island, Vancouver Coastal, and Fraser regions in British Columbia
- Western and Central Quebec
- Québec et Chaudières-Appalaches region
Public health authorities have also reported 63 new influenza-related outbreaks, alongside a weekly hospitalization rate of 2.4 per 100,000 population. While both metrics have remained “generally stable” in recent weeks, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Unlike previous years, the 2024-25 influenza season has seen a later peak in flu activity.
Health Infobase data from past seasons shows that:
- The 2023-24 flu season peaked in the week of December 28.
- The 2022-23 flu season peaked even earlier, around November 23, with a higher positivity rate of 24.3%.
The delay in peak flu activity this season raises concerns for continued high transmission levels in the coming weeks, particularly as winter conditions persist across Canada.
Health officials are urging Canadians—especially seniors, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions—to take extra precautions, including:
✔ Getting a flu shot if they have not already done so.
✔ Wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces to reduce transmission.
✔ Practicing regular handwashing and respiratory hygiene.
✔ Seeking medical attention if experiencing severe flu symptoms.
With flu cases still on the rise, health authorities will continue monitoring trends to determine whether additional public health measures are needed. Experts advise that while flu season may begin declining in the coming weeks, hospitalization risks remain high for vulnerable populations.
For more information and updates on flu activity, visit Canada’s Health Infobase or contact your local public health unit.