P.E.I., Alberta, B.C. see early start
Health authorities across Canada are reporting an earlier-than-usual start to the respiratory virus season, including influenza, COVID-19, and RSV. Experts are urging high-risk groups, particularly seniors, to prioritize vaccinations as cases begin to rise in several provinces.
Why it matters
Early detection and vaccination campaigns are critical for managing public health burdens and protecting vulnerable populations during the winter season.
CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. – Sniffles, coughs and an early start to flu season are showing up in several parts of the country.
While respiratory illnesses typically ramp up in the fall, particularly in October, health authorities on P.E.I. are already reporting confirmed cases and hospitalizations. Alberta , B.C . and southwestern Ontario are also reporting an earlier-than-usual rise in illnesses, with increases beginning as early as September. Farther west, Yukon’s chief medical officer said lab-confirmed cases of influenza A have been identified since mid-August.
“This is the beginning of the beginning of the respiratory virus season,” said infectious diseases specialist Dr. Isaac Bogoch.
Nationally, circulation of COVID-19, influenza and RSV has been low , Bogoch said, though there is a slight uptick in the surveillance data. An official Canadian respiratory virus surveillance report update is set for Friday.
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