Alberta has reported its first flu-related death for the current flu season, following a particularly severe flu season in the previous year. The province’s respiratory virus dashboard indicates that a person in their 60s from the central zone succumbed to influenza. Last year, there were 237 flu-related deaths in Alberta, with over 3,700 hospitalizations.
Dr. James Talbot, Alberta’s former chief medical officer of health, mentioned that the timing of the first influenza death aligns with typical patterns seen in previous years. Over 100 individuals in Alberta have been hospitalized with influenza this season, including eight patients in intensive care.
Experts are warning of a potentially challenging flu season due to an evolving strain of H3N2 that may not perfectly match this year’s flu vaccine. Dr. Joan Robinson from Stollery Children’s Hospital emphasized the importance of still getting the flu shot, as it can provide some level of protection against severe illness.
Despite concerns about the flu, COVID-19 remains a significant worry due to its higher risks of hospitalization and death. Alberta has recorded 36 COVID-19 deaths this season, with two in the latest reporting week from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1. Most Albertans are now required to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine, except for certain groups like health-care workers and individuals with specific medical conditions.
Dr. Talbot emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated against both the flu and COVID-19, noting the value of the protection these vaccines offer. He urged individuals to consider the potential consequences of not being vaccinated and recommended getting immunized promptly to build immunity against these viruses.