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  • Canada FluWatch Weekly Reports 2017-2018 Season Week 18

    FluWatch report: December 17, 2017 to December 30, 2017 (weeks 51 & 52)

    Overall Summary

    • Overall, influenza activity continues to increase across Canada. All indicators of influenza activity increased in weeks 51 and 52, but are within the range of expected levels for this time of year.
    • The majority of influenza detections continue to be A(H3N2), although the proportion of detections that are influenza B has been increasing steadily.
    • Influenza B is circulating much earlier than usual this season.The number of influenza B detections remains substantially greater this season compared to previous years.
    • To date this season, the majority of lab confirmations, hospitalizations and deaths have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
    • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

    On this page

    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    In weeks 51 and 52, an increasing number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity. Among the 45 regions for which data was available in week 52, three regions (BC(1), QC(2)) reported widespread activity, and 22 regions (BC(2), SK(2), MB (4), ON(7), QC(2), NB(2), NS(2) and PE(1)) reported localized activity. Sporadic activity was reported across most of the country.



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    (PDF format, 867 KB, 10 pages)
    Organization:
    Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2018-01-05

    Related Topics






    Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2017-52

    Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
    Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In weeks 51 and 52, both influenza A and B detections continued to increase. The proportion of tests positive for influenza increased to 25% in week 51 and 28% in week 52. The proportion of influenza detections that are influenza B has been increasing steadily since week 42. In week 52, 66% of detections were influenza A and 34% influenza B.
    The number (1,968) and percentage (18.7%) of influenza A detections for week 52 are close to the seasonal average for this time of year. The number (994) and percentage of tests (9.4%) positive for influenza B in week 52 are well above expected levels. Influenza B is circulating much earlier than usual this season. Current levels of tests positive for influenza B are not typically seen until March. More than 15 times the number of influenza B detections have been reported this season compared to the same period during the past seven seasons. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
    Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
    Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 11,275 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 74% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 95% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
    Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 10,336 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Among all influenza cases with reported age and type/subtype information, 44% have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older. Among cases of influenza A(H3N2), adults 65 years of age and older represented 51% of cases, compared to 39% and 54% of cases reported in the same period in the 2016-17 and 2014-15 season, respectively. Cases of influenza B this season were distributed more evenly across all age-groups, with 36% of cases in adults 65 years of age and older, 23% of cases in adults 45-64 years of age, and 23% in children and adults under 20 years of age.
    629 40 325 264 140 769 7%
    764 38 387 339 462 1226 12%
    1363 55 676 632 468 1831 18%
    1351 47 682 622 610 1961 19%
    3588 17 2165 1406 961 4549 44%
    7695 197 4235 3263 2641 10336 100%
    Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 52, 4.5% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); an increase compared to the previous week. Since week 49, the weekly proportion of healthcare visits for ILI has been similar to the 5-year average.
    Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 52: 72
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2016-17
    Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
    In week 52, 1,202 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 6% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 10% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 78% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 180 missed days of work or school.
    1202 6% 10% 78% 180
    Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In weeks 51 and 52, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza increased. During this period, 137 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 97 in long-term care facilities, 12 in hospitals, and 28 in other settings. Among the 102 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 27 were associated with influenza B, and 69 were associated with influenza A, of which 21 were influenza A(H3N2) and 48 influenza A(unsubtyped). Six outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B.
    To date this season, 293 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 166 (57%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 239 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 179 were associated with influenza A (of which 99 were A(H3N2)), 51 were associated with influenza B, and nine were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 52 or 53, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been slightly greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
    Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In weeks 51 and 52, 94 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1. However, this is an underrepresentation of the number of hospitalizations for this period, due to gaps in reporting. Retrospective updates will be included in the next FluWatch report.
    To date this season, 1,050 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 87% of which were associated with influenza A, and 710 cases (68%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 93 ICU admissions and 34 deaths have been reported.
    Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
    Return to figure 6 note1referrer

    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In weeks 51 and 52, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network continued to increase. A total of 84 hospitaliations were reported in this two-week period, of which 54 (64%) were due to influenza A. After several weeks above average, the number of hospitalizations reported in week 52 was similar to the seven-season weekly average.
    To date this season, 195 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 144 (74%) of which were associated with influenza A. Thirty-five ICU admissions and fewer than five deaths have been reported. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 52, the number of hospitalizations reported this season have been greater than the 2016-17 season, but below the 2014-15 and 2012-13 seasons.
    Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2017-52

    Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2016-17
    Return to figure 8 note1referrer

    Influenza Strain Characterizations

    During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 273 influenza viruses [190 A(H3N2), 20 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 63 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Antigenic Characterization

    Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
    A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 52 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
    A/Michigan/45/2015-like 20 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
    (Victoria lineage)
    1 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
    B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
    (Victoria lineage)
    5 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
    B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
    (Yamagata lineage)
    57 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

    During the 2017-18 season, 138 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 111 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 27 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    Additionally, of the 52 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 29 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and four viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. Sequencing is pending for the remaining 19 viruses.
    A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

    Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all five viruses had a two amino acids deletion in the HA gene.
    Antiviral Resistance

    During the 2017-18 season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has tested 287 influenza viruses for resistance to oseltamivir, and 226 for resistance to zanamivir. All viruses were sensitive to these neuraminidase inhibitors (Table 4).
    A (H3N2) 206 0 (0%) 168 0 (0%)
    A (H1N1) 20 0 (0%) 12 0 (0%)
    B 61 0 (0%) 46 0 (0%)
    TOTAL 287 0 (0%) 226 0 (0%)
    Note: Since the 2009 pandemic, all circulating influenza A viruses have been resistant to amantadine, and it is therefore not currently recommended for use in the treatment of influenza. During the 2017-18 season, the subset of influenza A viruses that were tested for resistance to amantadine were resistant.
    ...


    "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
    -Nelson Mandela

  • #2
    FluWatch report: December 31, 2017 to January 6, 2018 (week 1)


    Overall Summary

    • Overall, influenza activity in Canada is high and continues to increase. Most indicators of influenza activity increased in week 01, and are in the higher range of expected levels for this time of year.
    • The majority of influenza detections continue to be A(H3N2), although the proportion of detections that are influenza B has been increasing steadily
    • Influenza B is circulating much earlier than usual this season. The number of influenza B detections remains substantially greater this season compared to previous years.
    • To date this season, the majority of lab confirmations, hospitalizations and deaths have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
    • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.


    On this page

    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    In week 01, an increasing number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity; nine regions (BC(2), ON(3), QC(3) and PE(1)) reported widespread activity, and 27 regions (BC(2), AB(4), SK(1), MB (4), ON(4), QC(3), NB(5), NS(3) and NT(1)) reported localized activity.



    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 867 KB, 10 pages)
    Organization:
    Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2018-01-12

    Related Topics






    Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-01

    Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
    Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 01, both influenza A and B detections continued to increase although the rate of increase in influenza A detections was smaller compared to influenza B. The slowing of influenza A detections may indicate that we are approaching the peak of the season for influenza A, at the national level. However, the number of influenza B detections increased 52% compared to the previous week to1,529 in week 01, which is the highest weekly value observed over the past seven seasons.
    The proportion of tests positive for influenza increased slightly from 28% in week 52 to 30% in week 01. The proportion of influenza detections that are influenza B has been increasing steadily since week 42. In week 01, 64% of detections were influenza A and 36% influenza B.
    The number (2,732) and percentage (19.3%) of influenza A detections for week 01 are within the range of expected levels for this time of year. The number (1,529) and percentage of tests (10.8%) positive for influenza B in week 01 continue to be well above expected levels. Influenza B is circulating much earlier than usual this season. Twenty times the number of influenza B detections have been reported this season compared to the same period during the past seven seasons. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
    Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
    Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 15,572 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 71% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 94% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
    Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 14,038 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Among all influenza cases with reported age and type/subtype information, 47% have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older. Among cases of influenza A(H3N2), adults 65 years of age and older represented 52% of cases, compared to 41% and 56% of cases reported in the same period in the 2016-17 and 2014-15 season, respectively. Cases of influenza B this season were distributed more evenly across all age-groups, but the largest proportion of cases was still among adults 65 years of age and older (41%), followed by adults 45-64 years of age (23%).
    842 48 389 405 211 1053 8%
    868 42 429 397 563 1431 10%
    1710 70 809 831 631 2341 17%
    1719 56 826 837 897 2616 19%
    5001 28 2642 2331 1596 6597 47%
    10140 244 5095 4801 3898 14038 100%
    Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 01, 4.7% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); an increase compared to the previous week, and above the 5-year average.
    Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 1: 116
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
    In week 01, 1,406 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 5% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 22% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 84% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 186 missed days of work or school.
    1406 5% 22% 84% 186
    Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 01, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza increased compared to the previous week. In week 01, 148 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 98 in long-term care facilities, 12 in hospitals, and 38 in other settings. Among the 120 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 44 (37%) were associated with influenza B, and 73 were associated with influenza A, of which 20 were influenza A(H3N2) and 53 influenza A(unsubtyped). Three outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B.
    To date this season, 486 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 282 (58%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 403 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 286 were associated with influenza A (of which 153 were A(H3N2), 132 were A(unsubtyped) and one was A(H1N1)pdm09), 101 were associated with influenza B, and 16 were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 01, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
    Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 01, 128 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1. In keeping with the early influenza activity this season, the number of hospitalizations is considerably elevated relative to the same period in the previous two seasons.
    To date this season, 1,850 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 83% of which were associated with influenza A, and 1,254 cases (68%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 162 ICU admissions and 54 deaths have been reported.
    Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
    Return to figure 6 note1referrer

    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 01, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network decreased compared to the previous week. In week 01, 46 hospitaliations were reported, of which 25 (54%) were due to influenza A. The proportion of cases associated with influenza B has been increasing over the past three weeks. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
    To date this season, 253 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 177 (70%) of which were associated with influenza A. Forty-one ICU admissions and fewer than five deaths have been reported. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 01, the cumulative number of hospitalizations reported this season has been greater than the 2016-17 season, but below the 2014-15 and 2012-13 seasons.
    Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-01

    Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
    Return to figure 8 note1referrer

    Influenza Strain Characterizations

    During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 351 influenza viruses [229 A(H3N2), 26 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 96 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Antigenic Characterization

    Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
    A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 54 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
    A/Michigan/45/2015-like 26 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
    (Victoria lineage)
    1 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
    B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere?s trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
    (Victoria lineage)
    5 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
    B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
    (Yamagata lineage)
    90 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

    During the 2017-18 season, 175 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 143 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 31 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and one virus belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
    Additionally, of the 54 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 45 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and eight viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. Sequencing is pending for the remaining one virus.
    A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

    Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all five viruses had a two amino acids deletion in the HA gene.

    ...



    "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
    -Nelson Mandela

    Comment


    • #3
      FluWatch report: January 7, 2018 to January 13, 2018 (week 2)


      Overall Summary

      • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains high.
      • Most indicators have slowed their increase, remained similar, or declined compared to the previous week, suggesting that we may be nearing the peak of the season at the national level.
      • Most indicators remain in the higher range of expected levels for this time of year.
      • The majority of influenza detections continue to be A(H3N2), although 37% of detections were influenza B in week 02.
      • Influenza B began circulating much earlier than usual this season. The number of influenza B detections remains substantially greater this season compared to previous years.
      • To date this season, the majority of lab confirmations, hospitalizations and deaths have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
      • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.


      On this page

      Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

      In week 02, a similar number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity compared to the previous week. Among the 48 regions reporting data for week 02, nine regions (BC(2), ON(5), and QC(2)) reported widespread activity, and 24 regions (BC(1), AB(5), SK(2), ON(2), QC(4), NB(5), NS(1), NL(2), PE(1) and NT(1)) reported localized activity.



      Download the alternative format
      (PDF format, 658 KB, 10 pages)
      Organization:
      Public Health Agency of Canada
      Date published: 2018-01-19

      Related Topics






      Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-02

      Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
      Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

      In week 02, both influenza A and B detections continued to increase although the rate of increase in influenza A detections was smaller compared to influenza B. The slowing of influenza A detections may indicate that we are approaching the peak of the season for influenza A, at the national level. The increase in the number of influenza B detections slowed slightly, increasing 11% compared to the previous week, to1,713 in week 02. Influenza B detections to date are higher than has been observed over the past seven seasons.
      The proportion of tests positive for influenza increased slightly from 29% in week 01 to 30% in week 02. The proportion of influenza detections that are influenza B has been increasing since week 43. In week 02, 63% of detections were influenza A and 37% influenza B.
      The number (2,952) and percentage (19.0%) of influenza A detections for week 02 are within the range of expected levels for this time of year. The number (1,713) and percentage of tests (11.0%) positive for influenza B in week 02 continue to be well above expected levels for this time of year. Influenza B is circulating much earlier than usual this season. Twenty times the number of influenza B detections have been reported this season compared to the average over the same period during the past seven seasons. However, the percentage of tests positive for influenza B at week 02 is within the range of levels usually observed in March-April. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
      Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
      Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 20,349 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 69% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 95% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
      Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 17,495 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Among all influenza cases with reported age and type/subtype information, 49% have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older. Among cases of influenza A(H3N2), adults 65 years of age and older represented 53% of cases, compared to 43% and 58% of cases reported in the same period in the 2016-17and 2014-15 season, respectively. Cases of influenza B this season were distributed more evenly across all age-groups, but the largest proportion of cases was still among adults 65 years of age and older (45%), followed by adults 45-64 years of age (23%).
      1005 59 429 517 291 1296 7%
      953 45 461 447 654 1607 9%
      1983 83 890 1010 784 2767 16%
      2074 66 937 1071 1187 3261 19%
      6214 35 3048 3131 2350 8564 49%
      12229 288 5765 6176 5266 17495 100%
      Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
      Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
      Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

      Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

      In week 02, 3.2% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a decrease compared to the previous week, and slightly above the 5-year average.
      Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 02: 144
      The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
      Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

      FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
      In week 02, 1,443 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 4% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 20% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 74% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 135 missed days of work or school.
      1443 4% 20% 74% 135
      Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

      In week 02, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza increased slightly compared to the previous week. In week 02, 163 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 97 in long-term care facilities, 18 in hospitals, and 48 in other settings. In addition, one ILI outbreak was reported in a school. Among the 149 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 71 (48%) were associated with influenza B, and 73 were associated with influenza A, of which 17 were influenza A(H3N2) and 56 influenza A(unsubtyped). Five outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B.
      To date this season, 663 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 392 (59%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 566 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 364 were associated with influenza A (of which 175 were A(H3N2), 188 were A(unsubtyped) and one was A(H1N1)pdm09), 179 were associated with influenza B, and 23 were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 02, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
      Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

      Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

      In week 02, 133 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1, a similar number compared to the previous week. In keeping with the early influenza activity this season, the number of hospitalizations is considerably elevated relative to the same period in the previous two seasons.
      To date this season, 2,168 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 81% of which were associated with influenza A, and 1,480 cases (68%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 202 ICU admissions and 82 deaths have been reported.
      Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
      Return to figure 6 note1referrer

      Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

      In week 02, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network decreased compared to the previous week. In week 02, 40 hospitaliations were reported, of which 25 (63%) were due to influenza A. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45, but following seasonal patterns.
      To date this season, 303 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 209 (69%) of which were associated with influenza A. Forty-eight ICU admissions and fewer than five deaths have been reported. Compared to the cumulative number of pediatric hospitalizations reported up to week 02 during recent influenza A(H3N2)-dominant seasons, the cumulative number of pediatric hospitalizations reported this season has been greater than the 2016-17 season, but below the 2014-15 and 2012-13 seasons.
      Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-02

      Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
      Return to figure 8 note1referrer

      Influenza Strain Characterizations

      During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 482 influenza viruses [299 A(H3N2), 34 A(H1N1)pdm09and 149 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
      Antigenic Characterization

      Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
      A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 72 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
      Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 1 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
      A/Michigan/45/2015-like 34 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
      B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
      (Victoria lineage)
      1 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
      B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere?s trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
      Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
      (Victoria lineage)
      6 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
      B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
      (Yamagata lineage)
      142 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
      Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

      During the 2017-18 season, 227 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 185 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a,41 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and one virus belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
      Additionally, of the 72 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 57 belonged to genetic group 3C.2aand 10 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The virus that showed reduced titer belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining 5 virus isolates.
      A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
      Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

      Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all six viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene.

      ...



      "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
      -Nelson Mandela

      Comment


      • #4
        FluWatch report: January 14, 2018 to January 20, 2018 (week 3)

        Overall Summary

        • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains high but there is some indication that activity is starting to slow down.
        • Most indicators remain in the higher range of expected levels for this time of year.
        • In week 3, the percentage of laboratory test positive for influenza B continued to increase while the percentage of laboratory test positive for influenza A remained stable.
        • The majority of influenza detections continue to be A(H3N2), although 40% of detections were influenza B in week 03.
        • To date this season, the majority of lab confirmations, hospitalizations and deaths have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
        • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page

        On this page

        Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

        In week 03, a similar number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity compared to the previous week. Among the 53 regions reporting data for week 03, 11 regions (BC(2), ON(4), QC(4), and PE (1)) reported widespread activity, and 23 regions (BC(1), AB(4), SK(2), MB(1), ON(3), QC(2), NB(4), NS(3), NL(2), and NT(1)) reported localized activity.



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        Organization:
        Public Health Agency of Canada
        Date published: 2018-01-26

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        Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-03

        Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
        Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

        In week 03, the percentage of tests positive for influenza increased slightly from 29% in week 02 to 31% in week 03. This increase is mainly driven by influenza B activity: the percentage of test positive for influenza B increased from 11% in week 02 to 13% in week 03. Influenza B detections to date are higher than has been observed over the past seven seasons.
        The percentage of test positive for influenza A remained stable at 18% since week 02. The stablization of influenza A detections over the past two weeks may indicate that the peak of the season for influenza A detections occurred in week 01.
        The number (2,533) and percentage (18%) of influenza A detections for week 03 are within the range of expected levels for this time of year. The number (1,835) and percentage of tests (13%) positive for influenza B in week 03 continue to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report. Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
        Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 24,749 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 67% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 94% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
        Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 21,369 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Among all influenza cases with reported age and type/subtype information, 50% have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older. Among cases of influenza A(H3N2), adults 65 years of age and older represented 53% of cases. Cases of influenza B this season were distributed more evenly across all age-groups, but the largest proportion of cases was still among adults 65 years of age and older (46%), followed by adults 45-64 years of age (22%).
        1208 64 469 675 391 1599 7%
        1117 55 512 550 808 1925 9%
        2323 101 1001 1221 971 3294 15%
        2436 88 1059 1289 1522 3958 19%
        7454 47 3475 3932 3139 10593 50%
        14538 355 6516 7667 6831 21369 100%
        Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
        Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
        Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

        Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

        In week 03, 3% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a decrease compared to the previous week, and slightly above the 5-year average.
        Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 03: 153
        The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
        Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

        FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
        In week 03, 1,469 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 5% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 31% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 90% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 223 missed days of work or school.
        1469 5% 31% 90% 223
        Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

        In week 03, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza decreased compared to the previous week. In week 03, 137 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 78 in long-term care facilities, 14 in hospitals, and 45 in other settings. In addition, one ILI outbreak was reported in a school. Among the 129 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 52 (40%) were associated with influenza B, and 72 were associated with influenza A, of which 22 were influenza A(H3N2) and 50 influenza A(unsubtyped). Five outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B.
        To date this season, 802 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 471 (59%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 696 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 436 were associated with influenza A (of which 197 were A(H3N2), 238 were A(unsubtyped) and one was A(H1N1)pdm09), 232 were associated with influenza B, and 28 were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 03, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
        Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

        Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

        In week 03, 182 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. In keeping with the early influenza activity this season, the number of hospitalizations is considerably elevated relative to the same period in the previous two seasons.
        To date this season, 2,643 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 80% of which were associated with influenza A, and 1,814 cases (69%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 241 ICU admissions and 110 deaths have been reported.
        Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
        Return to figure 6 note1referrer

        Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

        In week 03, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network increased compared to the previous week. In week 03, 49 hospitaliations were reported, of which 40 (82%) were due to influenza A. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45, but following seasonal patterns.
        To date this season, 354 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 250 (71%) of which were associated with influenza A. Fifty-eight ICU admissions and fewer than five deaths have been reported. Compared to the cumulative number of pediatric hospitalizations reported up to week 03 during recent influenza A(H3N2)-dominant seasons, the cumulative number of pediatric hospitalizations reported this season has been greater than the 2016-17 season, but below the 2014-15 and 2012-13 seasons.
        Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-03

        Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
        Return to figure 8 note1referrer

        Influenza Strain Characterizations

        During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 583 influenza viruses [318 A(H3N2), 42 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 223 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
        Antigenic Characterization

        Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
        A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 83 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
        Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 1 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences.
        A/Michigan/45/2015-like 42 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
        B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
        (Victoria lineage)
        5 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
        B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
        Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
        (Victoria lineage)
        6 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
        B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
        (Yamagata lineage)
        212 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
        Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

        During the 2017-18 season, 234 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 191 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 42 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and one virus belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
        Additionally, of the 83 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 60 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 11 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The virus that showed reduced titer belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining 12 virus isolates.
        A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
        Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

        Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all six viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene.
        ...




        "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
        -Nelson Mandela

        Comment


        • #5
          FluWatch report: January 21, 2018 to January 27, 2018 (week 4)


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          Organization:
          Public Health Agency of Canada
          Date published: 2018-02-02

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          Overall Summary

          • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains at peak levels but there are signs that activity is starting to slow down in parts of the country.
          • The majority of influenza detections continue to be A(H3N2), although 40% of detections were influenza B in week 04.
          • To date this season, the majority of lab confirmations, hospitalizations and deaths have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
          • A Canadian study reported a mid-season estimate of influenza vaccine effectiveness of 42% overall. The study confirmed an anticipated low vaccine effectiveness of 17% against the A(H3N2) strain and moderate vaccine effectiveness against influenza B of 55%, which is circulating at high levels in Canada this season.
          • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

          On this page

          Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

          In week 04, a similar number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity compared to the previous week. Among the 53 regions reporting data for week 04, 6 regions (BC(1), ON(2), QC(3)) reported widespread activity, and 21 regions (BC(1), AB(1), MB(1), ON(5), QC(3), NB(4), NS(3), NL(2), and NT(1)) reported localized activity.




          Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-04

          Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
          Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

          In week 04, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza remained similar to the previous week at 31%. Since week 02, the percentage of tests positive for influenza A has remained stable at 18%. This suggests that the peak for influenza A detections occurred in week 01 (19%). The percentage of tests positive for influenza B remained similar to the previous week.
          The percentage of influenza A detections for week 04 is average for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 04 continue to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
          Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
          Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 28,729 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 66% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 94% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
          Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 25,244 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (50%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (54%) and influenza B (46%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 33% of cases overall and 31% of influenza A(H3N2) and 36% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (402), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 33% of cases respectively.
          1461 72 505 884 496 1957 8%
          1302 62 550 690 1038 2340 9%
          2690 114 1093 1483 1175 3865 15%
          2761 100 1156 1505 1813 4574 18%
          8715 54 3839 4822 3793 12508 50%
          16929 402 7143 9384 8315 25244 100%
          Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
          Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
          Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

          Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

          In week 04, 3% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a slight increase compared to the previous week, and slightly above the 5-year average.
          Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 04: 140
          The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
          Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

          FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
          In week 04, 1,479 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 4% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 29% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 73% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 123 missed days of work or school.
          1479 4% 29% 73% 123
          Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

          In week 04, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza decreased compared to the previous week. In week 04, 97 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 60 in long-term care facilities, 13 in hospitals, and 24 in other settings. In addition, six ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 87 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 39 (45%) were associated with influenza B, and 44 were associated with influenza A. Four outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B.
          To date this season, 916 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 542 (59%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 794 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 483 (61%) were associated with influenza A) and 276 (35%) were associated with influenza B, and 34 (4%) were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 04, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
          Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

          Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

          In week 04, 130 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. To date this season, 3,018 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 79% of which were associated with influenza A, and 2,078 cases (69%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 271 ICU admissions and 120 deaths have been reported.
          Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
          Return to figure 6 note1referrer

          Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

          In week 04, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network increased compared to the previous week. In week 04, 88 hospitaliations were reported of which influenza A and B made up almost equal proportion of cases. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
          To date this season, 446 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 299 (67%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A cases (40%) and the smallest propotion of influenza B cases (22%). Among the 147 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (29%).
          Additionally, 71 ICU admissions and five deaths have been reported to date. Seventy percent of ICU cases were due to influenza A. Children aged 0-23 months and 10-16 years each accounted for 31% of ICU cases.
          Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-04

          Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
          Return to figure 8 note1referrer

          Influenza Strain Characterizations

          During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 874 influenza viruses [467 A(H3N2), 51 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 356 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
          Antigenic Characterization

          Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
          A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 118 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
          Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 4 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences.
          A/Michigan/45/2015-like 51 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
          B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
          (Victoria lineage)
          5 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
          B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
          Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
          (Victoria lineage)
          10 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
          B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
          (Yamagata lineage)
          341 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
          Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

          During the 2017-18 season, 349 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 295 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 53 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and one virus belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
          Additionally, of the 118 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 75 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 12 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The four viruses that showed reduced titer belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining 27 virus isolates.
          A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
          Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

          Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all 10 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene.
          ...




          "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
          -Nelson Mandela

          Comment


          • #6
            FluWatch report: January 28, 2018 to February 3, 2018 (week 5)


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            Organization:
            Public Health Agency of Canada
            Date published: 2018-02-09

            Related Topics





            Overall Summary

            • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains at peak levels but there are signs that activity is starting to slow down in parts of the country.
            • In week 05, the total number of detections of influenza B were similar to the total number of detections of influenza A.
            • An increasing proportion of weekly pediatric hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network are due to influenza B. In week 05, influenza A and B accounted for an equal proportion of hospitalizations.
            • To date this season, the majority of lab confirmations, hospitalizations and deaths have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
            • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.


            On this page

            Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

            In week 05, a similar number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity compared to the previous week. Among the 46 regions reporting data for week 05, 7 regions (BC(1), ON(2), QC(3), PE(1)) reported widespread activity, and 25 regions (BC(2), AB(3), SK(1), ON(5), QC(3), NB(4), NS(3), NL(3), and NU(1)) reported localized activity.




            Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-05

            Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
            Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

            In week 05, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 31%. Since week 02, the percentage of tests positive for influenza A has been slowly declining to 16% from the peak in week 01 (19%). The percentage of tests positive for influenza B increased this week to 15%.
            The percentage of influenza A detections for week 05 is average for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 05 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
            Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
            Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 33,095 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 64% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 94% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
            Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 29,037 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (53%) and influenza B (45%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 33% of cases overall and 31% of influenza A(H3N2) and 35% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (445), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 34% of cases respectively.
            1752 85 557 1110 642 2394 8%
            1518 65 607 846 1371 2889 10%
            2967 126 1162 1679 1390 4357 15%
            3091 111 1258 1722 2178 5269 18%
            9595 58 4104 5433 4533 14128 49%
            18923 445 7688 10790 10114 29037 100%
            Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
            Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
            Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

            Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

            In week 05, 4% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a increase compared to the previous week, and above the 5-year average.
            Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 05: 141
            The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
            Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

            FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
            In week 05, 1,491 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 4% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 19% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 77% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 108 missed days of work or school.
            1491 4% 19% 77% 108
            Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

            In week 05, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza decreased compared to the previous week. In week 05, 78 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 50 in long-term care facilities, 9 in hospitals, and 19 in other settings. In addition, seven ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 75 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 33 (44%) were associated with influenza B, 38 (51%) were associated with influenza A and four outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B (5%).
            To date this season, 1,004 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 595 (59%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 872 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 523 (60%) were associated with influenza A) and 310 (36%) were associated with influenza B, and 39 (4%) were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 05, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
            Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

            Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

            In week 05, 84 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. To date this season, 3,108 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 78% of which were associated with influenza A, and 2,139 cases (69%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 285 ICU admissions and 130 deaths have been reported.
            Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
            Return to figure 6 note1referrer

            Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

            In week 05, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network decreased compared to the previous week. In week 05, 57 hospitalizations were reported of which influenza A and B made up almost equal proportion of cases. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
            To date this season, 511 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 334 (65%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (40%). Among the 177 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (31%).
            Additionally, 83 ICU admissions and five deaths have been reported to date. Sixty-six percent of ICU cases were due to influenza A. Children aged 0-23 months and 10-16 years each accounted for 30% of ICU cases.
            Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-05

            Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
            Return to figure 8 note1referrer

            Influenza Strain Characterizations

            During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 1,178 influenza viruses [655 A(H3N2), 58 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 465 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
            Antigenic Characterization

            Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
            A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 134 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
            Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 9 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences.
            A/Michigan/45/2015-like 58 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
            B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
            (Victoria lineage)
            6 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
            B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
            Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
            (Victoria lineage)
            14 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
            B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
            (Yamagata lineage)
            445 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
            Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

            During the 2017-18 season, 512 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 445 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 66 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and one virus belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
            Additionally, of the 143 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 109 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 15 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The nine viruses that showed reduced titer belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining 10 virus isolates.
            A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
            Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

            Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all 14 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene.
            ...




            "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
            -Nelson Mandela

            Comment


            • #7
              FluWatch report: February 4 to February 10, 2018 (week 6)


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              (PDF format, 527 KB, 10 pages)
              Organization:
              Public Health Agency of Canada
              Date published: 2018-02-16

              Related Topics





              Overall Summary

              • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains at peak levels. Activity is starting to slow down in some parts of the country, but at the national level, several indicators of influenza circulation increased in week 06.
              • In week 06, the number of laboratory detections of influenza A and B were similar. Detections of influenza A are within expected levels for this time of year, however, circulation of influenza B is greater than observed during the past seven seasons.
              • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
              • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.


              On this page

              Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

              In week 06, a similar number of regions reported localized or widespread influenza activity compared to the previous week. Among the 51 regions reporting data for week 06, 6 regions (BC(1), ON(2), QC(3)) reported widespread activity, and 25 regions (BC(1), AB(3), SK(2), MB(1), ON(5), QC(3), NB(1), NS(4), NL(3), PE(1) and NU(1)) reported localized activity.




              Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-06

              Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
              Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

              In week 06, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza increased from 31% to 34%. The percentage of tests positive for influenza A had been declining slowly since week 02, but increased in week 06 from 16% to 17%. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B continued to increase to 17% in week 06.
              The percentage of influenza A detections for week 06 is within the expected range for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 06 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
              Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
              Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 38,014 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 62% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 94% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
              Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 33,159 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (54%) and influenza B (45%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 33% of cases overall and 31% of influenza A(H3N2) and 35% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (466), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 54% and 33% of cases respectively.
              2022 86 578 1358 815 2837 9%
              1714 69 626 1019 1682 3396 10%
              3238 134 1209 1895 1633 4871 15%
              3412 117 1318 1977 2573 5985 18%
              10600 60 4332 6208 5470 16070 48%
              20986 466 8063 12457 12173 33159 100%
              Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
              Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
              Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

              Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

              In week 06, 3.6% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a decrease compared to the previous week, and above the 5-year average.
              Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 06: 165
              The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
              Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

              FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
              In week 06, 1,458 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 4% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 18% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 69% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 157 missed days of work or school.
              1458 4% 18% 69% 157
              Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

              In week 06, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza increased compared to the previous week. In week 06, 122 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 75 in long-term care facilities, 10 in hospitals, and 31 in other settings. In addition, six ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 106 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 54 (51%) were associated with influenza B, 45 (43%) were associated with influenza A and seven outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B (7%).
              To date this season, 1,130 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 674 (60%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 982 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 568 (58%) were associated with influenza A and 368 (38%) were associated with influenza B, and 46 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 06, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 and 2012-13 seasons, and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
              Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

              Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

              In week 06, 88 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. To date this season, 3,252 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 78% of which were associated with influenza A, and 2,231 cases (69%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 292 ICU admissions and 142 deaths have been reported.
              Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
              Return to figure 6 note1referrer

              Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

              In week 06, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network increased compared to the previous week. In week 06, 76 hospitalizations were reported of which influenza A and B made up almost equal proportion of cases. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
              To date this season, 594 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 378 (64%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (39%). Among the 216 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (31%).
              Additionally, 97 ICU admissions and five deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for 30% of ICU cases. Among the ICU cases with available information, 66% were due to influenza A and approximately 30% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions.
              Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

              Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
              Return to figure 8 note1referrer

              Influenza Strain Characterizations

              During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 1,443 influenza viruses [810 A(H3N2), 72 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 561 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
              Antigenic Characterization

              Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
              A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 148 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
              Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 15 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences.
              A/Michigan/45/2015-like 72 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
              B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
              (Victoria lineage)
              6 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
              B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
              Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
              (Victoria lineage)
              18 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
              B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
              (Yamagata lineage)
              537 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
              Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

              During the 2017-18 season, 647 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 570 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 75 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
              Additionally, of the 148 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 132 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 15 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 15 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining virus isolate.
              A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
              Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

              Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all 18 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene.
              Antiviral Resistance

              During the 2017-18 season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has tested 736 influenza viruses for resistance to oseltamivir and 732 viruses for resistance to zanamivir. All but one of the A(H1N1) viruses were sensitive to oseltamivir and all but one influenza B viruses were sensitive to zanamivir (Table 4).

              ...



              "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
              -Nelson Mandela

              Comment


              • #8
                FluWatch report: February 11 to February 17, 2018 (week 7)


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                (PDF format, 527 KB, 10 pages)
                Organization:
                Public Health Agency of Canada
                Date published: 2018-02-23

                Related Topics





                Overall Summary

                • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains at peak levels.
                • Influenza activity is decreasing in some parts of the country but at the national level, the decline in activity has been slow.
                • In week 07, detections of influenza B were greater than those of influenza A.
                • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                • The World Health Organization (WHO) has released the recommended composition of the influenza vaccine for use in the 2018-2019 northern hemisphere influenza season. The recommended strain was changed for the A(H3N2) component and one of the influenza B components.
                • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.


                On this page

                Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                In week 07, there was a slight decrease in the number of regions reporting localized or widespread influenza activity compared to the previous week. Among the 53 regions reporting data for week 07, 5 regions (ON(1), QC(4)) reported widespread activity, and 21 regions (BC(2), AB(2), ON(6), QC(1), NB(2), NS(2), NL(3), PE(1) and NU(2)) reported localized activity.




                Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-07

                Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
                Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                In week 07, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 33% The percentage of tests positive for influenza A continued to decline slowly. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B continued to increase to 17% in week 07. For the first time this season, detections of influenza B were greater than those of influenza A.
                The percentage of influenza A detections for week 07 are below average but remain within the expected range for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 07 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see theRespiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report. Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-07

                The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
                Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 42,773 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 60% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 94% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-07

                Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 34,733 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (48%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (54%) and influenza B (44%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 33% of cases overall and 31% of influenza A(H3N2) and 35% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (548), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 34% of cases respectively.
                2073 106 604 1363 877 2950 8%
                1761 82 652 1027 1845 3606 10%
                3318 151 1266 1901 1807 5125 15%
                3537 137 1401 1999 2778 6315 18%
                10953 72 4600 6281 5784 16737 48%
                21642 548 8523 12571 13091 34733 100%
                Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                In week 07, 4.5% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); an increase compared to the previous week, and above the 5-year average.
                Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

                Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 07: 163
                The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
                Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                In week 07, 1,467 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 4% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 20% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 76% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 140 missed days of work or school.
                1467 4% 20% 76% 140
                Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                In week 07, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza decreased compared to the previous week.In week 07, 94 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 55 in long-term care facilities, 11 in hospitals, and 28 in other settings. In addition, four ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 88 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 47 (53%) were associated with influenza B, 33 (38%) were associated with influenza A and eight outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B (9%).
                To date this season, 1,228 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 729 (60%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,070 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 601 (56%) were associated with influenza A and 415 (39%) were associated with influenza B, and 54 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 07, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 season and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
                Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-07

                Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                In week 07, 46 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. To date this season, 3,451 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported, 77% of which were associated with influenza A, and 2,357 cases (68%) were in adults 65 years of age or older. To date, 317 ICU admissions and 163 deaths have been reported.
                Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-07

                Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                In week 07, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network increased compared to the previous week. In week 07, 89 hospitalizations were reported of which 52 (60%) were due to influenza A. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
                To date this season, 686 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 431 (63%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (39%). Among the 255 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (30%).
                Additionally, 114 ICU admissions and six deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months and 10-16 years each accounted for 27% of ICU cases. Among the ICU cases with available information, 65% were due to influenza A and approximately 43% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions.
                Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-07

                Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-07

                Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
                Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                Influenza Strain Characterizations

                During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 1,701 influenza viruses [895 A(H3N2), 86 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 720 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                Antigenic Characterization

                Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 166 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 18 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                A/Michigan/45/2015-like 86 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                B/Brisbane/60/2008-like
                (Victoria lineage)
                7 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                (Victoria lineage)
                24 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                (Yamagata lineage)
                689 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                During the 2017-18 season, 711 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 632 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 77 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                Additionally, of the 184 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 144 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 16 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 18 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the six remaining virus isolates.
                A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all 22 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the two remaining virus isolates.
                ...




                "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                -Nelson Mandela

                Comment


                • #9





                  FluWatch report: February 18 to February 24, 2018 (week 8)


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                  Organization:
                  Public Health Agency of Canada
                  Date published: 2018-03-02

                  Related Topics




                  Overall Summary

                  • Overall, influenza activity in Canada remains at peak levels.
                  • Influenza activity is slowly decreasing in many parts of the country.
                  • Detections of influenza B were greater than those of influenza A.
                  • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                  • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                  On this page

                  Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                  In week 08, three regions (BC(1), ON(1), and QC(1)) reported widespread activity, and 25 regions (BC(1), AB(2), SK(1), MB(1), ON(6), QC(5), NB(3), NS(3), and NL(3) reported localized activity.




                  Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-08

                  Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
                  Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                  In week 08, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 31%, a small decrease from the previous week. The percentage of tests positive for influenza A continues to decline slowly to 14% in week 08. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B was similar to the previous week (17%). Similar to the previous week, detections of influenza B were greater than those of influenza A.
                  The percentage of influenza A detections for week 08 are below average but remain within the expected range for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 08 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see theRespiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report. Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-08

                  The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
                  Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 44,497 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 59% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 93% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                  Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-08

                  Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 38,578 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (57%) and influenza B (46%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 30% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (555), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 54% and 32% of cases respectively.
                  2351 99 488 1764 1059 3410 9%
                  1819 79 488 1252 1974 3793 10%
                  3394 157 1061 2176 2000 5394 14%
                  3724 143 1251 2330 3252 6976 18%
                  11828 77 4413 7338 7177 19005 49%
                  23116 555 7701 14860 15462 38578 100%
                  Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                  Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                  Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                  Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                  In week 08, 3.0% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); an increase compared to the previous week, and above the 5-year average.
                  Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-06

                  Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 08: 164
                  The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
                  Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                  FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                  In week 08, 1,419 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 4% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 30% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 78% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 112 missed days of work or school.
                  1419 4% 30% 78% 112
                  Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                  In week 08, the number of reported laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza decreased compared to the previous week. In week 08, 86 new influenza outbreaks were reported: 56 in long-term care facilities, eight in hospitals, and 22 in other settings. In addition, three ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 75 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 35 (47%) were associated with influenza B, 34 (45%) were associated with influenza A and six outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B (8%).
                  To date this season, 1,317 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 785 (60%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,145 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 635 (55%) were associated with influenza A and 450 (39%) were associated with influenza B, and 60 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B. Compared to recent influenza A(H3N2) seasons at week 08, the number of cumulative outbreaks reported this season has been greater than during the 2016-17 season and lower compared to the 2014-15 season.
                  Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-08

                  Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                  Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                  To date this season, 3,584 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. Among the hospitalizations, 2,702 (75%) were associated with influenza A, and 2,434 cases (68%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                  Additionally, 339 ICU admissions and 170 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (43%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (41%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (82%).
                  Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-08

                  Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                  Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                  Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                  In week 08, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network decreased compared to the previous week. In week 08, 68 hospitalizations were reported of which 48 (70%) were due to influenza A. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
                  To date this season, 756 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 481 (64%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (39%). Among the 275 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (30%).
                  Additionally, 126 ICU admissions and eight deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (29%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 66% were due to influenza A and approximately 43% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                  Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-08

                  Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-08

                  Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
                  Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                  Influenza Strain Characterizations

                  During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 1,917 influenza viruses [981 A(H3N2), 98 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 838 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                  Antigenic Characterization

                  Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                  A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 189 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                  Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 29 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                  A/Michigan/45/2015-like 98 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                  B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 8 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                  B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                  Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                  (Victoria lineage)
                  28 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                  B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                  (Yamagata lineage)
                  802 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                  Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                  During the 2017-18 season, 763 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 679 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 82 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                  Additionally, of the 218 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 153 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 17 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 29 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the 19 remaining virus isolates.
                  A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                  Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                  Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that all 28 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the two remaining virus isolates.
                  ...




                  "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                  -Nelson Mandela

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    FluWatch report: February 25 to March 3, 2018 (week 9)


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                    (PDF format, 539 KB, 10 pages)
                    Organization:
                    Public Health Agency of Canada
                    Date published: 2018-03-09

                    Related Topics




                    Overall Summary

                    • Laboratory data suggests that the influenza season peaked in week 07 but influenza activity in Canada remains high .
                    • Influenza activity is slowly decreasing in many parts of the country.
                    • Detections of influenza B continue to be greater than those of influenza A.
                    • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                    • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                    On this page

                    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                    In week 09, seven regions (BC(2), ON(1), and QC(4)) reported widespread activity, and 22 regions (BC(1), AB(1), MB(2), ON(5), QC(2), NB(3), NS(4), NL(3), and PE(1)) reported localized activity.




                    Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-09

                    Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
                    Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                    In week 09, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 30%. For the past two weeks, the percentage of tests positive for influenza B has decreased. This indicates that the peak for influenza B detections occurred in week 07. This also suggests that the peak for the influenza season occurred week 07.
                    The percentage of influenza A detections for week 09 are below average but remain within the expected range for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 09 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                    Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
                    Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 50,912 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 58% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 93% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                    Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 41,767 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (58%) and influenza B (47%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 30% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (596), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 54% and 32% of cases respectively.
                    2569 106 507 1956 1159 3728 9%
                    1971 87 499 1385 2135 4106 10%
                    3610 170 1086 2354 2229 5839 14%
                    3926 150 1286 2490 3596 7522 18%
                    12593 83 4615 7895 7979 20572 49%
                    24669 596 7993 16080 17098 41767 100%
                    Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                    Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                    In week 09, 3.2% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); similar to the previous week, and above the 5-year average.
                    Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 09: 177
                    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
                    Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                    FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                    In week 09, 1,419 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 3% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 14% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 69% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 90 missed days of work or school.
                    1419 3% 14% 69% 90
                    Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                    In week 09, 103 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza were reported, an increase compared to the previous week. Among the reported influenza outbreaks, 79 were reported in long-term care facilities, eight in hospitals, and 16 in other settings. In addition, seven ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 87 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 48 (55%) were associated with influenza B, 37 (43%) were associated with influenza A and two outbreaks were associated with a mix of influenza A and B (2%).
                    To date this season, 1,428 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 865 (61%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,232 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 672 (54%) were associated with influenza A and 498 (40%) were associated with influenza B, and 62 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B.
                    Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                    To date this season, 3,892 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories1. Among the hospitalizations, 2,861 (74%) were associated with influenza A, and 2,629 cases (68%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                    Additionally, 377 ICU admissions and 189 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (43%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (42%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (84%).
                    Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                    Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                    In week 09, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network decreased compared to the previous week. In week 09, 58 hospitalizations were reported of which 36 (62%) were due to influenza A. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
                    To date this season, 811 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 516 (64%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (39%). Among the 295 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (30%).
                    Additionally, 135 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (28%), followed closely by children aged 10-16 years (27%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 65% were due to influenza A and approximately 43% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                    Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-09

                    Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
                    Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                    Influenza Strain Characterizations

                    During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 2,085 influenza viruses [1,040 A(H3N2), 123 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 922 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                    Antigenic Characterization

                    Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                    A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 207 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                    Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 30 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                    A/Michigan/45/2015-like 123 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                    B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 8 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                    B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                    Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                    (Victoria lineage)
                    36 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                    B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                    (Yamagata lineage)
                    878 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                    Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                    During the 2017-18 season, 803 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 719 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 82 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                    Additionally, of the 237 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 176 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 21 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 30 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the 10 remaining virus isolates.
                    A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                    Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                    Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that 28 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the eight remaining virus isolates.
                    ...



                    "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                    -Nelson Mandela

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      FluWatch report: March 4, 2018 to March 10, 2018 (week 10)


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                      (PDF format, 539 KB, 10 pages)
                      Organization:
                      Public Health Agency of Canada
                      Date published: 2018-03-16

                      Related Topics




                      Overall Summary

                      • All indicators of influenza activity decreased from the previous week.
                      • Influenza activity remains elevated in many parts of the country.
                      • Detections of influenza B continue to be greater than those of influenza A.
                      • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                      • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                      On this page

                      Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                      In week 10, two regions (BC(1), and QC(1)) reported widespread activity, and 24 regions (BC(2), AB(2), ON(6), QC(4), NB(2), NS(4), NL(3), and NT(1)) reported localized activity.




                      Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-10

                      Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.
                      Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                      In week 10, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 27%. The overall percentage of tests positive for influenza has been slowly decreasing from the peak in week 07. Detections of influenza B continue to be greater than those of influenza A. Influenza B accounted for 55% of influenza detections in week 10.
                      The percentage of influenza A detections for week 10 are below average but remain within the expected range for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 10 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                      Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.
                      Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 53,898 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 57% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 93% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                      Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 44,153 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (58%) and influenza B (47%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 29% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (659), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 54% and 32% of cases respectively.
                      2741 118 524 2099 1252 3993 9%
                      2068 93 512 1463 2259 4327 10%
                      3760 188 1110 2462 2351 6111 14%
                      4093 167 1322 2604 3883 7976 18%
                      13092 93 4792 8207 8654 21746 49%
                      25754 659 8260 16835 18399 44153 100%
                      Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                      Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                      Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                      Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                      In week 10, 1.8% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a decrease from the previous week.
                      Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 10: 170
                      The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2017-18
                      Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                      FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                      In week 10, 1,385 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 3% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 22% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 73% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 74 missed days of work or school.
                      1385 3% 22% 73% 74
                      Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                      In week 10, 64 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza were reported, a sharp decrease compared to the previous week. Among the reported influenza outbreaks, 42 were reported in long-term care facilities(LTC), 12 in hospitals, and 10 in other settings. In addition, six ILI outbreaks were reported schools. Among the 52 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 29 (56%) were associated with influenza A, 23 (44%) were associated with influenza B.
                      To date this season, 1,508 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 917 (61%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,294 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 678 (52%) were associated with influenza A and 500 (39%) were associated with influenza B, and 64 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B.
                      Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                      Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                      To date this season, 4,086 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territories. Among the hospitalizations, 2,936 (72%) were associated with influenza A, and 2,750 cases (67%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                      Additionally, 394 ICU admissions and 201 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (43%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (41%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (84%).
                      Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                      Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                      Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                      In week 10, the number of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network decreased compared to the previous week. In week 10, 57 hospitalizations were reported of which 33 (58%) were due to influenza A. Pediatric hospitalizations have been decreasing since week 07. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average since week 45.
                      To date this season, 882 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 555 (63%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (40%). Among the 327 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (31%).
                      Additionally, 139 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (28%), followed closely by children aged 10-16 years (27%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 65% were due to influenza A and approximately 42% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                      Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-10

                      Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2017-18
                      Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                      Influenza Strain Characterizations

                      During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 2,367 influenza viruses [1,139 A(H3N2), 155 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 1,073 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                      Antigenic Characterization

                      Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                      A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 226 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                      Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 45 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                      A/Michigan/45/2015-like 155 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                      B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 10 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                      B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                      Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                      (Victoria lineage)
                      37 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                      B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                      (Yamagata lineage)
                      1026 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                      Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                      During the 2017-18 season, 868 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 779 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 87 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                      Additionally, of the 271 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 196 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 21 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 45 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the nine remaining virus isolates.
                      A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                      Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                      Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that 36 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the one remaining virus isolate.

                      ...




                      "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                      -Nelson Mandela

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        FluWatch report: March 11 to March 17, 2018 (week 11)


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                        Organization:
                        Public Health Agency of Canada
                        Date published: 2018-03-23

                        Related Topics




                        Overall Summary

                        • All indicators of influenza activity have either decreased or remained similar to the previous week.
                        • The influenza season peaked in mid-February, but influenza activity remains elevated in many parts of the country.
                        • Detections of influenza B continue to be greater than those of influenza A.
                        • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                        • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                        On this page

                        Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                        In week 11, two regions in QC reported widespread activity, and 24 regions (BC(2), AB(1), SK(1), MB(1), ON(7), QC(4), NB(3), NS(2), and NL(3)) reported localized activity.




                        Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-11

                        Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.

                        Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                        In week 11, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 24%, a decrease from the previous week. The overall percentage of tests positive for influenza has been slowly decreasing from the peak in week 07. Detections of influenza B continue to be greater than those of influenza A. Influenza B accounted for 55% of influenza detections in week 11.
                        The percentage of influenza A detections for week 11 are around the average for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 11 continues to be well above expected levels for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                        Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11

                        The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.

                        Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 56,284 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 57% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 92% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                        Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11


                        Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 46,154 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (58%) and influenza B (47%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 29% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (720), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 32% of cases respectively.
                        2854 126 530 2198 1327 4181 9%
                        2139 106 520 1513 2358 4497 10%
                        3889 203 1126 2560 2472 6361 14%
                        4234 180 1345 2709 4118 8352 18%
                        13524 105 4898 8521 9239 22763 49%
                        26640 720 8419 17501 19514 46154 100%
                        Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                        Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                        Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                        Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                        In week 11, 1.4% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a decrease from the previous week.
                        Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11

                        Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 11: 167
                        The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2016-17

                        Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                        FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                        In week 11, 1,394 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 2% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 42% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 69% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 57 missed days of work or school.
                        1394 2% 42% 69% 57
                        Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                        In week 11, 57 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza were reported, a decrease compared to the previous week. Among the reported influenza outbreaks, 43 were reported in long-term care facilities (LTC), 2 in hospitals, and 12 in other settings. Among the 53 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 26 (49%) were associated with influenza A, 26 (49%) were associated with influenza B and one outbreak was associated with a mix of influenza A and B (2%).
                        To date this season, 1,570 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 965 (61%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,352 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 736 (54%) were associated with influenza A and 551 (41%) were associated with influenza B, and 65 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B.
                        Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11


                        Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                        Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                        To date this season, 4,220 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1. Among the hospitalizations, 2,986 (71%) were associated with influenza A, and 2,883 cases (67%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                        Additionally, 412 ICU admissions and 207 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (43%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (40%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (84%).
                        Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11


                        Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                        Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                        Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                        In week 11, 57 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations were reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Influenza A accounted for 57% of the hospitalizations. Pediatric hospitalizations have been on a general decline since week 07. The number of weekly hospitalizations has been above the seven-season average for the majority of the season.
                        To date this season, 936 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 582 (62%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (39%). Among the 354 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (30%).
                        Additionally, 149 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (30%), followed by children aged 10-16 years (26%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 62% were due to influenza A and approximately 43% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                        Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11


                        Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-11


                        Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2016-17
                        Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                        Influenza Strain Characterizations

                        During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 2,514 influenza viruses [1,190 A(H3N2), 164 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 1,160 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                        Antigenic Characterization

                        Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                        A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 243 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                        Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 53 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                        A/Michigan/45/2015-like 164 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                        B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 10 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                        B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                        Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                        (Victoria lineage)
                        40 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                        B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                        (Yamagata lineage)
                        1,110 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                        Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                        During the 2017-18 season, 894 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 799 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 93 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                        Additionally, of the 296 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 210 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 22 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 53 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the 11 remaining virus isolates.
                        A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                        Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                        Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that 37 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the three remaining virus isolates.

                        ...



                        "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                        -Nelson Mandela

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          FluWatch report: March 18 to March 24, 2018 (week 12)


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                          (PDF format, 889 KB, 10 pages)
                          Organization:
                          Public Health Agency of Canada
                          Date published: 2018-03-29

                          Related Topics




                          Overall Summary

                          • Due to the shortened reporting week, not all data providers were able to report their data.
                          • The influenza season peaked in mid-February, but influenza activity remains elevated in many parts of the country.
                          • Overall, laboratory detections of influenza are steadily decreasing.
                          • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                          • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                          On this page

                          Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                          In week 12, 13 regions (BC(2), AB(1), ON(7), NB(1) and NS(2)) reported localized activity.




                          Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-12

                          Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.

                          Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                          In week 12, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 20%, a decrease from the previous week. Overall, laboratory detections of influenza are steadily decreasing. Influenza B accounted for 53% of influenza detections in week 12.
                          The percentage of influenza A detections for week 12 is around the average for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 12 is above average but within the expected range for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                          Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12

                          The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.

                          Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 58,317 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 56% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 92% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                          Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12


                          Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 47,533 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (58%) and influenza B (47%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 29% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (789), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 32% of cases respectively.
                          2935 133 537 2265 1379 4314 9%
                          2189 120 526 1543 2425 4614 10%
                          3992 221 1147 2624 2555 6547 14%
                          4346 198 1367 2781 4286 8632 18%
                          13831 117 5012 8702 9595 23426 49%
                          27293 789 8589 17915 20240 47533 100%
                          Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                          Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                          Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                          Healthcare Practitioners Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                          In week 12, 1.5% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a slight increase from the previous week.
                          Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12

                          Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 12: 166
                          The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2016-17

                          Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                          FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                          In week 12, 1,345 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 3% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 23% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 72% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 63 missed days of work or school.
                          1345 3% 23% 72% 63
                          Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                          In week 12, 41 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza were reported. Among the reported influenza outbreaks, 23 were reported in long-term care facilities (LTC), eight in hospitals, and 10 in other settings. Among the 35 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 22 (63%) were associated with influenza A, 12 (34%) were associated with influenza B and one outbreak was associated with a mix of influenza A and B (2%).
                          To date this season, 1,611 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 988 (61%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,387 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 758 (55%) were associated with influenza A and 563 (41%) were associated with influenza B, and 66 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B.
                          Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12


                          Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                          Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                          To date this season, 4,376 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1. Among the hospitalizations, 3,067 (70%) were associated with influenza A, and 2,929 cases (67%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                          Additionally, 429 ICU admissions and 218 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (43%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (40%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (84%).
                          Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12


                          Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                          Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                          Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                          In the preliminary data for week 12, 27 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations were reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Influenza A accounted for 63% of the hospitalizations. Pediatric hospitalizations have been on a general decline since week 07.
                          To date this season, 964 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 601 (62%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (40%). Among the 363 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (31%).
                          Additionally, 151 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (29%), followed by children aged 10-16 years (26%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 63% were due to influenza A and approximately 48% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                          Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12


                          Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-12


                          Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2016-17
                          Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                          Influenza Strain Characterizations

                          During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 2,710 influenza viruses [1,203 A(H3N2), 182 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 1,325 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                          Antigenic Characterization

                          Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                          A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 256 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                          Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 53 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                          A/Michigan/45/2015-like 182 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                          B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 14 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                          B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                          Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                          (Victoria lineage)
                          42 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                          B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                          (Yamagata lineage)
                          1269 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                          Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                          During the 2017-18 season, 894 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 799 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 93 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                          Additionally, of the 309 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 210 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 22 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 53 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the 24 remaining virus isolates.
                          A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                          Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                          Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that 37 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the five remaining virus isolates.

                          ...



                          "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                          -Nelson Mandela

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            FluWatch report: March 25 to March 31, 2018 (week 13)


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                            Organization:
                            Public Health Agency of Canada
                            Date published: 2018-04-06

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                            Overall Summary

                            • The influenza season peaked in mid-February, but influenza activity remains elevated in many parts of the country.
                            • Laboratory detections of influenza are steadily decreasing.
                            • Weekly pediatric hospitalizations have been on a general decline since mid-February.
                            • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                            • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                            On this page

                            Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                            In week 13, two regions (BC(1) and QC(1)) reported widespread activity and 23 regions (BC(2), SK(1), ON(7), QC(3), NB(3), NL(2), PE(1) and NS(4)) reported localized activity.




                            Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-13

                            Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.

                            Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                            In week 13, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 19%, a decrease from the previous week. Overall, laboratory detections of influenza are steadily decreasing. Influenza B accounted for 54% of influenza detections in week 13.
                            The percentage of influenza A detections for week 13 is around the average for this time of year. The percentage of tests positive for influenza B in week 13 is above average but within the expected range for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                            Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13

                            The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.

                            Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 59,699 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 56% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 91% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                            Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13


                            Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 48,582 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (49%), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (59%) and influenza B (48%). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 29% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (814), the majority of influenza A(H1N1) cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 32% of cases respectively.
                            2991 136 544 2311 1406 4397 9%
                            2216 121 532 1563 2474 4690 10%
                            4048 227 1164 2657 2613 6661 14%
                            4426 207 1395 2824 4413 8839 18%
                            14100 123 5135 8842 9895 23995 49%
                            27781 814 8770 18197 20801 48582 100%
                            Table 1 Footnote 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available.
                            Return to table 1 footnote1referrer
                            Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                            Healthcare Practitioners Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                            In week 13, 1.8% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); an increase from the previous week.
                            Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13

                            Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 13: 172
                            The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2016-17

                            Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                            FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                            In week 13, 1,287 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 2% reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 16% of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 76% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 44 missed days of work or school.
                            1287 2% 16% 76% 44
                            Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                            In week 13, 42 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza were reported. Among the reported influenza outbreaks, 29 were reported in long-term care facilities (LTC), five in hospitals, and eight in other settings. Among the 32 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 18 (56%) were associated with influenza A, 13 (41%) were associated with influenza B and one outbreak was associated with a mix of influenza A and B (3%).
                            To date this season, 1,663 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 1,025 (62%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,427 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 781 (55%) were associated with influenza A and 579 (41%) were associated with influenza B, and 67 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B.
                            Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13


                            Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                            Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                            To date this season, 4,500 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1. Among the hospitalizations, 3,116 (69%) were associated with influenza A, and 2,990 cases (66%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                            Additionally, 439 ICU admissions and 230 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (44%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (40%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (83%).
                            Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13


                            Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                            Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                            Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                            In week 13, 26 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations were reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Influenza A accounted for 62% of the hospitalizations. Pediatric hospitalizations have been on a general decline since week 07.
                            To date this season, 995 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 619 (62%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (41%). Among the 376 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (31%).
                            Additionally, 159 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (28%), followed by children aged 10-16 years (26%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 64% were due to influenza A and approximately 48% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All but one reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                            Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13


                            Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-13


                            Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2016-17
                            Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                            Influenza Strain Characterizations

                            During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 2,856 influenza viruses [1,287 A(H3N2), 200 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 1,369 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                            Antigenic Characterization

                            Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                            A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 256 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                            Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 65 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                            A/Michigan/45/2015-like 200 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                            B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 14 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                            B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                            Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                            (Victoria lineage)
                            43 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                            B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                            (Yamagata lineage)
                            1312 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                            Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                            During the 2017-18 season, 965 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 862 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 101 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                            Additionally, of the 322 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 232 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 24 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 65 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining one isolate.
                            A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                            Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                            Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that 43 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the remaining virus isolate.

                            ...



                            "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                            -Nelson Mandela

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              FluWatch report: April 1, 2018 to April 7, 2018 (Week 14)


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                              Organization:
                              Public Health Agency of Canada
                              Date published: 2018-04-13

                              Related Topics




                              Overall Summary

                              • Influenza activity in Canada continued to decrease, but many parts of the country are still reporting localized activity.
                              • All indicators of influenza activity decreased from the previous week.
                              • Detections of influenza B are similar to those of influenza A.
                              • To date this season, the majority of laboratory-confirmed cases, hospitalizations and deaths with influenza have been among adults 65 years of age and older.
                              • For more information on the flu, see our Flu(influenza) web page.

                              On this page

                              Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

                              In week 14, 20 regions ( SK(1), ON(7), QC(3), NB(4 ), NL(2), NS(2 ) and NT(1)) reported localized activity.




                              Figure 1 - Map of overall influenza/ILI activity level by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-14

                              Note: Influenza/ILI activity levels, as represented on this map, are assigned and reported by Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Health, based on laboratory confirmations, sentinel ILI rates and reported outbreaks. Please refer to detailed definitions at the end of the report. Maps from previous weeks, including any retrospective updates, are available in the mapping feature found in the Weekly Influenza Reports.

                              Figure 1 - Text Description Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Detections

                              In week 14, the overall percentage of tests positive for influenza was 17%, a decrease from the previous week. Overall, laboratory detections of influenza are steadily decreasing. Influenza B accounted for 51% of influenza detections in week 14.
                              The percentage of tests positive for influenza A and influenza B detections are both around the average for this time of year. For data on other respiratory virus detections, see the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                              Figure 2 - Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14

                              The shaded area indicates weeks where the positivity rate was at least 5% and a minimum of 15 positive tests were observed, signalling the period of seasonal influenza activity.

                              Figure 2 - Text Description To date this season, 61,061 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported, of which 56% have been influenza A. Influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype detected this season, representing 91% of subtyped influenza A detections. For more detailed weekly and cumulative influenza data, see the text descriptions for Figures 2 and 3 or the Respiratory Virus Detections in Canada Report.
                              Figure 3 - Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14


                              Figure 3 - Text Description To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 49 ,497 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1). Adults 65 years of age and older represent the largest proportion of cases overall (50 %), and among cases of influenza A(H3N2) (59%) and influenza B (48 %). Adults aged 20-64 represent 32% of cases overall and 29% of influenza A(H3N2) and 34% of influenza B cases. Although much smaller in numbers (848 ), the majority of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 cases are among adults less than 65 years of age, with adults aged 20-64 and children 0-19 years accounting for 53% and 31 % of cases respectively.
                              0-4 3049 140 547 2362 1432 4481 9%
                              5-19 2238 126 533 1579 2506 4744 10%
                              20-44 4105 236 1170 2699 2669 6774 14%
                              45-64 4493 214 1403 2876 4502 8995 18%
                              65+ 14381 132 5210 9039 10122 24503 50%
                              Total 28266 848 8863 18555 21231 49497 100%
                              Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

                              Healthcare Practitioners Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

                              In week 14, 1.0% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI); a decrease from the previous week.
                              Figure 4 - Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14

                              Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 14: 178
                              The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2012-13 to 2016-17

                              Figure 4 - Text Description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

                              FluWatchers is a participatory ILI surveillance system that relies on weekly voluntary submissions of syndromic information from Canadians across Canada.
                              In week 14 , 1,373 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 3 % reported symptoms of cough and fever, and 23 % of these consulted a healthcare professional. Among participants who reported cough and fever, 60 % reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 57 missed days of work or school.
                              1373 3% 23% 60% 57
                              Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

                              In week 14, 35 laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza were reported. Among the reported influenza outbreaks, 18 were reported in long-term care facilities (LTC), nine in hospitals, and eight in other settings. Among the 31 outbreaks with influenza type/subtype reported, 20 (65%) were associated with influenza A and 11 (35%) were associated with influenza B.
                              To date this season, 1,705 influenza/ILI outbreaks have been reported, of which 1,050 (62%) occurred in LTC facilities. Among the 1,465 outbreaks for which the influenza type/subtype was reported, 803 (55%) were associated with influenza A and 594(41%) were associated with influenza B, and 68 (5%) were associated with a mix of A and B.
                              Figure 5 - Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14


                              Figure 5 - Text Description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

                              Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                              To date this season, 4,664 influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1. Among the hospitalizations, 3,195 (69%) were associated with influenza A, and 3,096 cases (66%) were in adults 65 years of age or older.
                              Additionally, 469 ICU admissions and 248 deaths have been reported to date. Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (43%), followed closely by adults aged 20-64 (40%). Adults aged 65 years of age or older accounted the majority of deaths (84%).
                              Figure 6 - Cumulative numbers of hospitalizations by age-group reported by participating provinces and territoriesfigure 6 note1, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14


                              Figure 6 - Text Description Figure 6 note 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by NL, PE, NS, NB, MB, AB, YT and NT. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by SK.
                              Return to figure 6 note1referrer

                              Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

                              In week 14, 27 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations were reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Influenza A accounted for 67% of the hospitalizations. Pediatric hospitalizations have been on a general decline since week 07. The number of weekly reported hospitalizations has finally fallen to levels that are near the seven-season average.
                              To date this season, 1,021 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported by the IMPACT network, 636 (62%) of which were associated with influenza A. Children 0-23 months accounted for the largest proportion of influenza A hospitalizations (40%). Among the 385 hospitalizations due to influenza B, children 5-9 years accounted for the largest proportion of cases (31%).
                              Additionally, 164 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported to date. Children aged 0-23 months accounted for the greatest proportion of ICU cases (28%), followed by children aged 10-16 years (26%). Among the ICU cases with available information, 63% were due to influenza A and approximately 47% had no reported previous or concurrent medical conditions. All but one reported deaths were among children over the age of two.
                              Figure 7 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by type and age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14


                              Figure 7 - Text Description Figure 8 - Number of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2017-35 to 2018-14


                              Figure 8 - Text Description Figure 8 Footnote 1 The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum number of cases reported by week from seasons 2010-11 to 2016-17
                              Return to figure 8 note1referrer

                              Influenza Strain Characterizations

                              During the 2017-18 influenza season, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 3,006 influenza viruses [1,343 A(H3N2), 217 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 1,446 B viruses] that were received from Canadian laboratories.
                              Antigenic Characterization

                              Among influenza viruses characterized by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay during the 2017-18 season, most viruses were antigenically similar to the cell-culture propagated reference strains recommended by WHO.
                              A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like 273 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, the A(H3N2) component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent vaccine.
                              Reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 69 These A(H3N2) viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, suggesting some antigenic differences
                              A/Michigan/45/2015-like 217 Viruses antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, the A(H1N1)pdm09 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                              B/Brisbane/60/2008-like (Victoria lineage) 16 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Brisbane/60/2008.
                              B/Brisbane/60/2008 is the influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere's trivalent and quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                              Reduced titer to B/Brisbane/60/2008
                              (Victoria lineage)
                              47 These B/Victoria lineage viruses reacted poorly with antisera raised against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, suggesting some antigenic differences.
                              B/Phuket/3073/2013-like
                              (Yamagata lineage)
                              1,383 Viruses antigenically similar to B/Phuket/3073/2013, the additional influenza B component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
                              Genetic Characterization of A(H3N2) viruses

                              During the 2017-18 season, 1,001 A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient titers for antigenic characterization by HI assay. Therefore, genetic characterization was performed to determine to which genetic group they belong. Sequence analysis showed that 894 A(H3N2) viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a, 105 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1 and two viruses belonged to the clade 3C.3a.
                              Additionally, of the 342 influenza A(H3N2) viruses that were characterized antigenically as similar to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, 241 belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and 25 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1. The 69 viruses that showed reduced titer to A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 belonged to genetic clade 3C.3a. Sequencing is pending for the remaining seven isolates.
                              A/Hong Kong/4801/2014-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a and is the influenza A/H3N2 component of the 2017-18 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
                              Genetic Characterization of Influenza B viruses

                              Among the viruses characterized antigenically as having reduced titer to ferret antisera produced against cell-propagated B/Brisbane/60/2008, sequence analysis showed that 43 viruses had a two amino acid deletion in the HA gene. Sequencing is pending for the remaining four virus isolates.

                              ...



                              "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                              -Nelson Mandela

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