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As the holiday season approaches, influenza activity is increasing across Canada, with federal health officials reporting a sharp increase in the number of influenza A-related identifications, outbreaks and hospitalizations.
Latest updates from the Government of CanadaData released on December 5 and covering data up to November 29 (surveillance week 48) showed that 13 percent of influenza tests were positive, reflecting an increasing trend across the country. Of the 3,655 laboratory-confirmed tests that week, 99 percent were influenza A, with the A(H3N2) subtype dominating.
Officials say all indicators of influenza activity are rising, with the number of outbreaks and hospitalizations rising as families prepare for holiday gatherings. Health officials are urging Canadians to remain vigilant, especially seniors and children, who are most affected by the current strain.
key findings
- trace: At week 48, 3,655 cases were reported, of which 3,618 were identified as influenza A.
- Subtype: 80 percent of influenza A subtype cases were A(H3N2).
- age groups: Overall, the highest number of cases were found in people over the age of 65, while children and young people (over 19 years of age) had the highest proportion of A(H3N2) cases (47 percent).
- Outbreak: 38 outbreaks were confirmed in week 48, with the number continuing to rise.
- admitted to hospital: With a continued upward trend, the weekly rate reached 1.9 per 100,000 population.
Influenza activity was reported in 48 areas in 12 provinces and territories. Widespread activity was recorded in British Columbia and Quebec, with local activity recorded in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
Data shows sporadic influenza activity in the Northwest Territories, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island and other areas. No influenza activity was found in Yukon, some Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Since August 24, more than 10,000 cases of influenza have been identified across the country, 98 percent of which have been identified as influenza A. Of subtype cases, A (H3N2) accounted for 63 percent.