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The Latest
We're wrapping this live page on influenza.
The latest PHAC data released today suggests it's going to be a bad winter for flu infections across Canada, with strong ripple effects for a health-care system that's already under strain.
The message from health officials is clear: it's still very much worthwhile getting vaccinated to protect yourself — or at least stave off the worst effects of the H3N2 strain — and to prevent hospitals from filling even further.
Thanks for all your questions today. Please continue to send your queries and concerns around this influenza season to ask@cbc.ca.
The Latest
- Data from the Public Health Agency of Canada released today shows the number of flu outbreaks across the country is still rising, and hospitalizations due to the virus are set to surge in the coming weeks.
- Health officials across the country are reporting a surge in cases of influenza this month, especially among children and youth.
- There's particular concern about low vaccination uptake this winter, with many provinces reporting only around 20 per cent of eligible residents have received the flu vaccine.
- This year's available vaccine isn't a good match for the current predominant strain, H3N2 — but doctors are urging people to get their shots regardless.
- Got a question about flu season? Send it to ask@cbc.ca.
We're wrapping this live page on influenza.
The latest PHAC data released today suggests it's going to be a bad winter for flu infections across Canada, with strong ripple effects for a health-care system that's already under strain.
The message from health officials is clear: it's still very much worthwhile getting vaccinated to protect yourself — or at least stave off the worst effects of the H3N2 strain — and to prevent hospitals from filling even further.
Thanks for all your questions today. Please continue to send your queries and concerns around this influenza season to ask@cbc.ca.