Public Health Warns of Severe Flu Season as Cases Rise Nationwide
Flu cases are surging across Canada, with Quebec, British Columbia, and the territories experiencing particularly high levels of influenza activity, according to the latest data from the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). The agency reports that 24% of flu tests came back positive during the week ending February 8, up from 21% the previous week, signaling a worsening flu season.
Dr. Jesse Papenburg, an infectious diseases specialist at Montreal Children’s Hospital, cautioned that these figures represent only “the tip of the iceberg,” as not everyone with flu symptoms seeks medical care or gets tested. He noted a significant increase in children visiting emergency departments, with some requiring intensive care. “We are clearly in the thick of a rather intense influenza season,” said Papenburg, who also serves as an assistant professor of pediatrics at McGill University.
Quebec currently has the highest flu positivity rate in the country at 32.1%, followed by the territories at 29.8% and British Columbia at 28%. Ontario’s positivity rate stands at 19.8%. Nationally, the 24.3% positivity rate is double the 12.1% recorded at the same time last year.
This year’s flu season is unusual, according to infectious diseases experts. Typically, one strain of influenza A—either H3N2 or H1N1—dominates each season. However, this year, both strains are circulating simultaneously, leading to what Dr. Allison McGeer of Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto described as “an odd year” for flu. “It’s kind of like there are two outbreaks or two epidemics occurring at the same time,” Papenburg explained.
The influenza B virus, which usually peaks later in the season, is also present at lower levels. Experts warn that its activity could increase in the coming weeks, prolonging the flu season.
High-risk groups, including children under six, seniors, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions, are particularly vulnerable to severe illness or complications from the flu. Papenburg urged those who have not yet received a flu vaccine to get vaccinated, emphasizing that while the shot may not prevent infection entirely, it reduces the risk of severe illness requiring medical attention by about half.
Dr. McGeer also recommended additional protective measures, such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, to curb the spread of the virus.
The flu season, which typically begins in November or early December, got off to a late start this year, with cases surging after the holiday period. As hospitals across the country grapple with increased patient volumes, public health officials are urging Canadians to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves and others.