Announcement

Collapse
No announcement yet.

Canada FluWatch Weekly Reports 2018-2019 Season Week 20

Collapse
This is a sticky topic.
X
X
 
  • Filter
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts

  • Pathfinder
    replied
    FluWatch report: January 6, 2019 to January 12, 2019 (week 02)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, # MB, # pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2019-01-18

    Related Topics




    Overall Summary

    • In week 02, laboratory detections continued to decline sharply from the previous week confirming that the influenza season reached peak levels in the last week of December (week 52).
    • Overall, the Central and Eastern regions are reporting higher levels of influenza activity than the rest of the country.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The majority of lab confirmations and hospitalizations have been among individuals under the age of 65.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 02, the following influenza activity levels were reported (Figure 1):
    • 2 regions reported widespread activity: in Que.(2)
    • 17 regions reported localized activity: in Ont.(6), Que.(2), N.L.(3) N.S.(2) and N.B.(4)
    • 32 regions reported sporadic activity: in B.C.(5), Alta.(5), Sask.(3), Man.(5), Ont.(1), Que.(2), N.B.(3), N.S.(2), N.L.(1), P.E.I.(1), Nvt.(1), N.W.T.(2) and Yt.(1).
    • 2 regions reported no activity: in Nvt.(2)




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2019-02

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 02, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza decreased to 20.5% in week 02.
    • A total 2,486 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 98% were influenza A.
    To date this season 20,494 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported:
    • 99% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 7,523 influenza A viruses subtyped, 94% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • Provincial and territorial differences in influenza type/subtype distribution are observed (Figure 3).
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 17,295 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 86% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 65 years of age.
    • 63% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-02

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-02

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 3679 1351 18 2310 28 3707 21%
    5-19 2698 1168 17 1513 29 2727 16%
    20-44 3676 1412 62 2202 24 3700 21%
    45-64 3601 1253 76 2272 29 3630 21%
    65+ 3464 816 294 2354 67 3531 20%
    Total 17118 6000 467 10651 177 17295 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 02, 2.5% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). The percentage of visits for ILI is within expected levels.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-02

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 02: 97
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 02, 2,259 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 64 (2.8%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 64 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 19% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 72% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 142 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2019-02

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 02: 2,259
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 02, 33 new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported: long-term care facilities (LTCF) (21), acute care facilities (4), and other settings (8). Two new ILI outbreaks in schools were also reported in week 02.
    To date this season, 206 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 116 outbreaks were in LTCF, 22 were in schools, 26 in acute care facilities, and 42 were in other settings.
    • All of the 194 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 93 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 80% (74) were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • 20% (19) were associated with A(H3N2),
    To date this season, 44 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 32 occurred in LTCF, nine in schools, and three in acute care facilities.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-02

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, 1,518 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99.6% (1,512) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rate of hospitalization is among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 227 ICU admissions and 47 deaths have been reported.
      • 42% (97) of reported ICU admissions were in adults aged 45-64 years.
      • All reported deaths were associated with influenza A.
    0-4 252 2 53,36
    5-19 152 0 10,95
    20-44 213 0 7,49
    45-64 413 0 18,98
    65+ 482 4 39,95
    Total 1512 6 -
    99.6% 0.4% -
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 02, 57 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 603 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 8):
    • 99% (598) of cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 240 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 234 (98%) were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 98 ICU admissions, and seven deaths have been reported.
    • 85% (84) of ICU admissions were in children 6 months to 9 years of age
    • 99% (97) of ICU admissions have been associated with influenza A.
    • All deaths occurred in children under the age of 10
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-02

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-02

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 278 hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 9):
    • 262 (94%) were associated with influenza A.
    • The distribution of cases among adults <65 years of age is similar to adults ≥65 years of age
    • The most commonly reported comorbidity among hospitalized cases was endocrine disorders, which were reported in 70% of hospitalized cases.
    Figure 9 - Cumulative numbers of adult hospitalizations (>20 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by CIRN, Canada, 2018-19, weeks 2018-44 to 2019-02

    Figure 9 - Text description Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 571 influenza viruses (49 A(H3N2), 506 A(H1N1) and 16 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A(H3N2):

    39 influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • Six viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • 32 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    • One isolate could not be sequenced.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A (H3N2):
    • 17 influenza A(H3N2) viruses were antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • 13 influenza A (H3N2) viruses characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1. Two viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a and two to 3C.3a.
    Influenza A(H1N1):
    • 495 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • 11 viruses showed reduced titer with ferret antisera raised against cell culture-propagated A/Michigan/45/2015
    Influenza B:
    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • Two influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Colorado/06/2017, which belong to the Victoria lineage and are included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine
    • 14 influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...y-12-2019.html


    Leave a comment:


  • Pathfinder
    replied
    FluWatch report: December 30, 2018 to January 5, 2019 (Week 1)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 1.2 MB, 9 pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2019-01-11

    Related Topics




    Overall Summary

    • In week 01, laboratory detections declined from the previous week suggesting that nationally the influenza season may have reached peak levels in the last week of December.
    • Overall, influenza activity remains high in Canada.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The majority of lab confirmations and hospitalizations have been among individuals under the age of 65.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 01, all regions reported some level of influenza activity (Figure 1):
    • 1 region reported widespread activity: in Que.(1)
    • 15 regions reported localized activity: in Alta.(2), Sask.(1), Ont.(6), Que.(2), N.L.(1) and N.B.(3)
    • 31 regions reported sporadic activity: in B.C.(5), Alta.(3), Sask.(2), Man.(5), Ont.(1), Que.(3), N.B.(4), N.S.(4), N.L.(3), P.E.I.(1), Nvt.(3), N.W.T.(2) and Yt.(1).




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2019-01

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 01, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza decreased to 25.6% in week 01.
    • A total 3,153 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 99% were influenza A.
    To date this season 17,743 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported:
    • 99% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 6,775 influenza A viruses subtyped, 94% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • Provincial and territorial differences in influenza type/subtype distribution are observed (Figure 3).
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 14,897 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 68% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 45 years of age.
    • 61% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-01

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-01

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 3175 1239 15 1921 24 3199 21%
    5-19 2498 1108 15 1375 26 2524 17%
    20-44 3277 1294 55 1928 20 3297 22%
    45-64 3020 1077 70 1873 22 3042 20%
    65+ 2792 673 246 1873 43 2835 19%
    Total 14762 5391 401 8970 135 14897 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 1, 3.9% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). The percentage of visits for ILI is within expected levels.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-01

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 01: 77
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 01, 2,240 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 77 (3.4%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 77 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 13% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 77% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 159 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2019-01

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 01: 2,240
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 01, 37 new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported: long-term care facilities (LTCF) (24), acute care facilities (4), and other settings (9). One new ILI outbreak in a LTCF was also reported reported in week 01.
    To date this season, 152 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 79 outbreaks were in LTCF, 22 were in schools, 21 in acute care facilities, and 30 were in other settings.
    • All of the 119 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 76 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 86% (65) were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • 14% (11) were associated with A(H3N2),
    To date this season, 39 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 29 occurred in LTCF, seven in schools, and three in acute care facilities.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-01

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, 1348 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99.6% (1342) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rate of hospitalization is among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 196 ICU admissions and 37 deaths have been reported.
      • 41% (80) of reported ICU admissions were in adults aged 45-64 years.
      • All reported deaths were associated with influenza A.
    0-4 225 2 47.69
    5-19 139 0 10.02
    20-44 194 0 6.82
    45-64 360 0 16.54
    65+ 424 4 35.18
    Total 1342 6 -
    % 94.6% 0.4% -
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 01, 87 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 540 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 8):
    • 99% (535) of cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 228 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 222 (97%) were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 95 ICU admissions, and six deaths have been reported.
    • 88% (83) of ICU admissions were in children under the age of 10
    • 99% (93) of ICU admissions have been associated with influenza A.
    • All deaths occurred in children under the age of 10
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-01

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2019-01

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 223 hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 9):
    • 212 (95%) were associated with influenza A.
    • The distribution of cases among adults <65 years of age is similar to adults ≥65 years of age
    • The most commonly reported comorbidity among hospitalized cases was endocrine disorders, which were reported in 70% of hospitalized cases.
    Figure 9 - Cumulative numbers of adult hospitalizations (>20 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by CIRN, Canada, 2018-19, weeks 2018-44 to 2019-01

    Figure 9 - Text description Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 481 influenza viruses (45 A(H3N2), 420 A(H1N1) and 16 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A(H3N2):

    33 influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • Five viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • 27 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A (H3N2):
    • 12 influenza A(H3N2) virus was antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • Four influenza A (H3N2) viruses characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1. Sequencing is pending for the remaining three viruses.
    Influenza A(H1N1):
    • 415 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • Five viruses showed reduced titer with ferret antisera raised against cell culture-propagated A/Michigan/45/2015
    Influenza B:
    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • Two influenza B virus was characterized as B/Colorado/06/2017, which belongs to the Victoria lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine
    • 14 influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...ry-5-2019.html


    Leave a comment:


  • Pathfinder
    replied
    FluWatch report: December 16, 2018 to December 29, 2018 (Week 51-52)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 1.2 MB, 9 pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2019-01-04

    Related Topics




    Overall Summary

    • Overall, influenza activity in Canada continued to increase in weeks 51 and 52.
    • All indicators have increased or remained similar compared to the previous week.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The majority of lab confirmations and hospitalizations have been among individuals under the age of 65.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 52, influenza activity levels continued to increase (Figure 1):
    • 7 regions reported localized activity: in Alta.(1), Ont.(4), B.C.(1), and N.B.(1)
    • Sporadic activity was reported by 31 regions: in B.C.(4), Alta.(4), Sask.(3), Man.(5), Ont.(2), N.B.(6), N.S.(3), N.L.(2), P.E.I.(1), and Yt.(1).
    • No activity was reported by 3 regions.
    • No data was reported by 12 regions.




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-52

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In weeks 51 and 52, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza continued to increase from 25.1% in week 51 to 29.4% in week 52.
    • A total 3,387 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 99% were influenza A.
    To date this season 13,796 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported (Figure 3):
    • 99% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 6,007 influenza A viruses subtyped, 94% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • Provincial and territorial differences in influenza type/subtype distribution are observed.
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 11,531 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 68% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 45 years of age.
    • 63% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-52

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-52

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 2512 1058 12 1442 18 2530 22%
    5-19 2149 968 9 1172 23 2172 19%
    20-44 2634 1118 46 1470 16 2650 23%
    45-64 2302 935 60 1307 18 2320 20%
    65+ 1830 568 214 1048 29 1859 16%
    Total 11427 4647 341 6439 104 11531 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 50, 1.6% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). In weeks 51 and 52, an insufficient number of sentinels reported ILI activity. Data will be updated in the report for week 01.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 50: 115
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 52, 1,947 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 70 (4%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 70 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 27% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 63% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 150 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2018-52

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 52: 1,947
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In weeks 51 and 52, 15 new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported: long-term care facilities (LTCF) (4), acute care facilities (6), schools (1), and other settings (4).
    To date this season, 86 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 37 outbreaks were in LTCF, 17 were in schools, 14 in acute care facilities, and 18 were in other settings.
    • All of the 73 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 50 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 82% (41) were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • 18% (9) were associated with A(H3N2),
    To date this season, 38 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 28 occurred in LTCF, seven in schools, and three in acute care facilities.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-52

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, 1046 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99.6% (1042) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rate of hospitalization is among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 119 ICU admissions and 24 deaths have been reported.
      • 44% (52) of reported ICU admissions were in adults aged 45-64 years.
      • All reported deaths were associated with influenza A.
    Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to footnote1referrer
    0-4 179 1 37.82
    5-19 124 0 8.94
    20-44 164 0 5.76
    45-64 272 0 12.50
    65+ 303 3 25.15
    Total 1042 4
    % 99.6 0.4
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In weeks 51 and 52, 133 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 414 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 8):
    • 99% (408) of cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 203 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 199 (98%) were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 71 ICU admissions, and less than five deaths have been reported.
    • 85% (60) of ICU admissions were in children under the age of 10
    • 99% (69) of ICU admissions have been associated with influenza A.
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-52

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-52

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 115 hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 9):
    • 108 (94%) were associated with influenza A.
    • 58 cases (50%) were adults 65 years of age and older.
    • The most commonly reported comorbidity among hospitalized cases was endocrine disorders, which were reported in 84% of hospitalized cases.
    Figure 9 - Cumulative numbers of adult hospitalizations (>20 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by CIRN, Canada, 2018-19, weeks 2018-44 to 2018-52

    Figure 9 - Text description Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 395 influenza viruses (30 A(H3N2), 350 A(H1N1) and 15 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A (H3N2):

    24 influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • Three viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • 21 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A(H3N2):

    • Six influenza A(H3N2) virus was antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • Four influenza A (H3N2) viruses characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1. Sequencing is pending for the remaining three viruses.
    Influenza A(H1N1):

    • 345 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • Five viruses showed reduced titer with ferret antisera raised against cell culture-propagated A/Michigan/45/2015
    Influenza B:

    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • One influenza B virus was characterized as B/Colorado/06/2017, which belongs to the Victoria lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine
    • 14 influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...r-29-2018.html


    Leave a comment:


  • Pathfinder
    replied
    FluWatch report: December 9, 2018 to December 15, 2018 (Week 50)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 1.2 MB, 9 pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2018-12-21

    Related Topics




    Overall Summary

    • Overall, influenza activity in Canada continued to increase in week 50.
    • All indicators have increased or remained similar compared to the previous week.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The majority of lab confirmations and hospitalizations have been among individuals under the age of 65.
    • This is the last FluWatch report for the 2018 calendar year. The next report will be published on Friday, January 4, 2019 and will contain data for weeks 51 and 52.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 50, influenza activity levels continued to increase (Figure 1):
    • 13 regions reported localized activity: in Alta.(2), Sask.(2), Ont.(3), Que.(2), N.B.(2), N.S.(1), and N.W.T(1)
    • Sporadic activity was reported by 34 regions: in B.C.(5), Alta.(4), Sask.(1), Man.(5), Ont.(4), Que.(4), N.B.(5), N.L.(2), P.E.I.(1), N.W.T(1), Nvt.(1) and Yt.(1).
    • No activity was reported by 6 regions.




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-50

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 50, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza continued to increase to 22.8%.
    • 1,869 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 99% were influenza A.
    To date this season 8,245 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported (Figure 3):
    • 99% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 4,024 influenza A viruses subtyped, 94% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • Provincial and territorial differences in influenza type/subtype distribution are observed.
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 7,914 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 70% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 45 years of age.
    • 66% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 1695 865 5 825 10 1705 22%
    5-19 1629 818 6 805 19 1648 21%
    20-44 1903 898 34 971 13 1916 24%
    45-64 1543 726 49 768 11 1554 20%
    65+ 1071 414 181 476 20 1091 14%
    Total 7841 3721 275 3845 73 7914 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 50, 1.5% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). The percentage of visits for ILI is within expected levels.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 50: 103
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 50, 2,210 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 82 (3.7%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 82 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 15% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 74% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 180 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2018-50

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 50: 2,210
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 50, 13 new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported: long-term care facilities (LTCF) (4), acute care facilities (3), schools (1), and other settings (5). One new ILI outbreak was also reported in week 50.
    To date this season, 67 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 30 outbreaks were in LTCF, 13 were in schools, 10 in acute care facilities, and 14 were in other settings.
    • All of the 55 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 41 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 80% (33) were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • 20% (8) were associated with A(H3N2),
    To date this season, 36 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 26 occurred in LTCF, seven in schools, and three in acute care facilities.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, 864 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99% (861) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rate of hospitalization is among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 118 ICU admissions and 22 deaths have been reported.
      • 41% (48) of reported ICU admissions were in adults aged 45-64 years.
      • All reported deaths were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09.
    Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to footnote1referrer
    0-4 153 0 32.14
    5-19 108 0 7.78
    20-44 135 0 4.75
    45-64 228 0 10.48
    65+ 237 3 19.73
    Total 861 3
    % 100% 0%
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 50, 45 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 281 pediatric hospitalizations have been (Figure 8):
    • 99% (278) of cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 174 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 172 (98.9%) were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 47 ICU admissions, and less than five deaths have been reported.
    • 90% (41) of ICU admissions were in children under the age of 10
    • 98% (46) of ICU admissions have been associated with influenza A.
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-50

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 55 hospitalizations have been reported:
    • 49 (89%) were associated with influenza A.
    • 29 cases (53%) were adults 65 years of age and older.
    • The most commonly reported comorbidity among hospitalized cases was endocrine disorders, which were reported in 67.2% of hospitalized cases.
    Figure 9 - Cumulative numbers of adult hospitalizations (>20 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by CIRN, Canada, 2018-19, weeks 2018-44 to 2018-50

    Figure 9 - Text description Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 264 influenza viruses (29 A(H3N2), 221 A(H1N1) and 14 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A (H3N2):

    24 influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • Three viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • 21 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A(H3N2):

    • Five influenza A(H3N2) virus was antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • Two influenza A (H3N2) viruses characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1. Sequencing is pending for the remaining three viruses.
    Influenza A(H1N1):

    • 221 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Influenza B:

    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • 14 influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...r-15-2018.html


    Leave a comment:


  • Pathfinder
    replied
    FluWatch report: December 2, 2018 to December 8, 2018 (Week 49)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 1.2 MB, 9 pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2018-12-14

    Related Topics




    Overall Summary

    • Influenza activity continued to increase in week 49.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The majority of lab confirmations and hospitalizations have been among individuals under the age of 65.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 49, influenza activity levels continued to increase (Figure 1):
    • Eight regions reported localized activity: in B.C.(1), Alta.(1), Sask.(1), Man.(1), Ont.(2), Que.(1), and N.B.(1)
    • Sporadic activity was reported by 34 regions: in B.C.(4), Alta.(4), Sask.(2), Man.(5), Ont.(4), Que.(5), N.B.(3), N.L.(2), P.E.I.(1), N.W.T(2), Nvt.(1) and Yt.(1).
    • No activity was reported by 12 regions.




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-49

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 49, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza continued to 19.3%.
    • 1,500 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 99% were influenza A.
    To date this season 6,158 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported (Figure 3):
    • 99% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 3,209 influenza A viruses subtyped, 94% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • Provincial and territorial differences in influenza type/subtype distribution are observed.
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 6,024 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 70% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 45 years of age.
    • 68% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-49

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-49

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 1277 698 4 575 10 1287 21%
    5-19 1247 637 5 605 15 1262 21%
    20-44 1490 724 27 739 13 1503 25%
    45-64 1131 555 43 533 9 1140 19%
    65+ 813 331 167 315 19 832 14%
    Total 5958 2945 246 2767 66 6024 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 49, 2.1% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). The percentage of visits for ILI is within expected levels.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-49

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 49: 102
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 49, 2,218 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 44 (2.0%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 53 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 27% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 80% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 118 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2018-49

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 49: 2,218
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 49, five new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported in long-term care (2), acute care facilities (1) and other settings (2). Four new ILI outbreaks were also reported in week 49.
    To date this season, 52 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 25 outbreaks were in LTCF, 11 were in schools, seven in acute care facilities, and eight were in other settings.
    • All of the 36 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 33 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 25 were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • 8 were associated with A(H3N2),
    To date this season, 35 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 26 occurred in LTCF, six in schools, and three in acute care facilities.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-49

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, 705 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99% (702) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rate of hospitalization is among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 90 ICU admissions and 16 deaths have been reported.
    Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to footnote1referrer
    0-4 131 0 27.5223961
    5-19 88 0 6.3418807
    20-44 115 0 4.0420613
    45-64 182 0 8.3629752
    65+ 186 3 15.5342679
    Total 702 3
    % 100% 0%
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 49, 37 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Pediatric hospitalizations reported by IMPACT are at levels not normally seen until late December (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 228 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 8):
    • All but three cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 154 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 152 (98.7%) were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 33 ICU admissions, and no deaths have been reported.
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-49

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-49

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 38 hospitalizations have been reported:
    • 33 (87%) were associated with influenza A and 5 with influenza B.
    • 20 of the 38 cases (53%) were adults 65 years of age and older.
    Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 182 influenza viruses (25 A(H3N2), 144 A(H1N1) and 13 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A (H3N2):

    23 influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • Three viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • 20 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A(H3N2):

    • Two influenza A(H3N2) virus was antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • The two influenza A (H3N2) viruses characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1.
    Influenza A(H1N1):

    • 144 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Influenza B:

    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • 13 influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...er-8-2018.html


    Leave a comment:


  • Pathfinder
    replied
    FluWatch report: November 25, 2018 to December 1, 2018 (Week 48)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 1.2 MB, 9 pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2018-12-07

    Related Topics




    Overall Summary

    • Influenza activity continued to increase in week 48.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The number of influenza-associated hospitalizations continued to increase in week 48. In particular, the number of pediatric hospitalizations is significantly higher than in recent years.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 48, influenza activity levels continued to increase (Figure 1):
    • Nine regions reported localized activity: in Alta.(2), Sask.(1), Man.(1), Ont.(2), Que.(1), N.B.(1) and N.S.(1).
    • Sporadic activity was reported by 29 regions in Alta.(3), Sask.(2), Man.(4), Ont.(5), Que.(5), N.B.(3), N.S.(1), N.L.(2), N.W.T(2), Nvt.(1) and Yt.(1).
    • No activity was reported by 10 regions.




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-48

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 48, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza continued to increase to 18.1% of tests positive.
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza A is higher for this time of year compared to the same period during the previous eight seasons.
    • In week 48, 1,301 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 99% were influenza A.
    To date this season 4,485 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported (Figure 3):
    • 99% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 2,384 influenza A viruses subtyped, 93% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 4,409 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 70% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 45 years of age.
    • 70% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-48

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-48

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 908 517 3 388 6 914 21%
    5-19 925 467 5 453 13 938 21%
    20-44 1100 551 17 532 12 1112 25%
    45-64 816 392 38 386 9 825 19%
    65+ 604 259 149 196 16 620 14%
    Total 4353 2186 212 1955 56 4409 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 48, 2.3% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). The percentage of visits for ILI is slightly above expected levels.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-48

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 48: 86
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 48, 2,226 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 53 (2.3%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 53 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 21% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 64% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 89 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2018-48

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 48: 2,226
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 48, seven new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported in long-term care (4), acute care facilities (2) and other settings (1).
    To date this season, 44 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 23 outbreaks were in LTCF, nine were in schools, six in acute care facilities, and six were in other settings.
    • All of the 36 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 27 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 21 were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • 6 were associated with A(H3N2),
    Three new ILI outbreaks were reported in week 48.
    To date this season, 31 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 25 occurred in LTCF, three in schools, and three in acute care facilities.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-48

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, more than 588 influenza-assocaited hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99% (588) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rate of hospitalization is among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 65 ICU admissions and 9 deaths have been reported.
    Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to footnote1referrer
    0-4 108 0 22.69
    5-19 75 0 5.41
    20-44 91 0 3.20
    45-64 149 0 6.85
    65+ 165 <5 13.81
    Total 588 <5
    % 99% 1%
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 48, 44 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Pediatric hospitalizations reported by IMPACT are at levels not normally seen until late December (approximately 4 weeks earlier than in recent seasons) (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 189 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 8):
    • All but three cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 132 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 130 (98.5%) were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 28 ICU admissions, and no deaths have been reported.
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-48

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-48

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 23 hospitalizations have been reported:
    • 20 (87%) were associated with influenza A and 3 with influenza B.
    • 11 of the 23 cases (48%) were adults 65 years of age and older.
    Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 142 influenza viruses (20 A(H3N2), 112 A(H1N1) and 10 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A (H3N2):

    19 influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • Two viruses belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • 17 viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A(H3N2):

    • One influenza A(H3N2) virus was antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • The influenza A (H3N2) virus characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1.
    Influenza A(H1N1):

    • 112 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Influenza B:

    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • Ten influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...er-1-2018.html


    Leave a comment:


  • Pathfinder
    started a topic Canada FluWatch Weekly Reports 2018-2019 Season Week 20

    Canada FluWatch Weekly Reports 2018-2019 Season Week 20

    FluWatch report: November 18, 2018 to November 24, 2018 (Week 47)


    Download the alternative format
    (PDF format, 909 KB, 9 pages)
    Organization: Public Health Agency of Canada
    Date published: 2018-11-30

    Related Topics






    Overall Summary

    • Influenza activity continued to increase in week 47.
    • Influenza A is the most common influenza virus circulating in Canada, and the majority of these viruses are A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • The number of influenza-associated hospitalizations continued to increase in week 47. In particular, the number of pediatric hospitalizations is significantly higher than in recent years.



    On this page


    Influenza/Influenza-like Illness Activity (geographic spread)

    During week 47, influenza activity levels increased slightly compared to the previous week (Figure 1):
    • One region reported widespread activity: in Que.(1),
    • Four regions reported localized activity: in Alta.(1), Ont.(2), and N.B.(1),
    • Sporadic activity was reported by 32 regions, in B.C.(5), Alta.(4), Sask.(3), Man.(3), Ont.(3), Que.(5), N.B.(2), N.S.(1), P.E.I.(1), N.L.(2), N.W.T(2) and Nvt.(1).
    • No activity was reported by 16 regions.




    Figure 1 ? Map of overall influenza/ILI activity by province and territory, Canada, week 2018-47

    Figure 1 - Text description Laboratory Confirmed Influenza Detections

    In week 47, the following results were reported from sentinel laboratories across Canada (Figure 2):
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza continued to increase to 15.3% of tests positive.
    • The percentage of tests positive for influenza A is higher for this time of year compared to the same period during the previous eight seasons.
    • In week 47, 950 laboratory detections of influenza were reported, of which 99% were influenza A.
    To date this season 3,176 laboratory-confirmed influenza detections have been reported (Figure 3):
    • 92% have been influenza A.
    • Among the 1,760 influenza A viruses subtyped, 82% have been A(H1N1)pdm09.
    • Provincial and territorial differences in influenza type/subtype distribution are observed (Figure 3).
    To date this season, detailed information on age and type/subtype has been received for 3,155 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases (Table 1):
    • 69% of all influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 detections have been reported in individuals younger than 45 years of age.
    • 70% of all influenza A(H3N2) detections have been reported in adults 65 years of age and older.
    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 2 ? Number of positive influenza tests and percentage of tests positive, by type, subtype and report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-47

    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 Figure 3 ? Cumulative numbers of positive influenza specimens by type/subtype and province/territory, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-47

    Figure 3 - Text description
    0-4 632 377 3 252 5 637 20%
    5-19 650 334 5 311 11 661 21%
    20-44 797 399 15 383 9 806 26%
    45-64 565 285 32 248 7 572 18
    65+ 465 206 131 128 14 479 15%
    Total 3109 1601 186 1322 46 3155 100%
    Table 1 - Note 1 UnS: unsubtyped: The specimen was typed as influenza A, but no result for subtyping was available;
    Return to Table 1 - Note1
    Syndromic/Influenza-like Illness Surveillance

    Healthcare Professionals Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 47, 1.9% of visits to healthcare professionals were due to influenza-like illness (ILI) (Figure 4). The percentage of visits for ILI is within expected levels.
    Figure 4 ? Percentage of visits for ILI reported by sentinels by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-47

    Number of Sentinels Reporting in Week 47: 84
    The shaded area represents the maximum and minimum percentage of visits for ILI reported by week from seasons 2013-14 to 2017-18
    Figure 4 - Text description Participatory Syndromic Surveillance

    In week 47, 2,182 participants reported to FluWatchers, of which 29 (1.3%) reported symptoms of cough and fever (Figure 5).
    Among the 29 participants who reported fever and cough:
    • 28% consulted a healthcare professional;
    • 83% reported days missed from work or school, resulting in a combined total of 66 missed days of work or school.
    Figure 5 ? Percentage of participants reporting cough and fever, Canada, weeks 2018-40 to 2018-47

    Number of Participants Reporting in Week 47: 2,182
    Figure 5 - Text description Influenza Outbreak Surveillance

    In week 47, five new laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks were reported in long-term care (3) and acute care (2) facilities.
    To date this season, 36 laboratory-confirmed influenza outbreaks have been reported (Figure 6):
    • 19 outbreaks were in LTCF, eight were in schools, and five were in other settings.
    • All of the 30 outbreaks for which the influenza type was available were associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 21 outbreaks for which the influenza A subtype was available:
      • 17 were associated with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09;
      • Four were associated with A(H3N2);
    One new ILI outbreak in a LTCF was reported in week 47.
    To date this season, 25 ILI outbreaks have been reported; 23 occurred in LTCF, one in a school, and one in an acute care facility.
    Figure 6 ? Number of new outbreaks of laboratory-confirmed influenza by report week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-47

    Figure 6 - Text description Severe Outcomes Influenza Surveillance

    Provincial/Territorial Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    To date this season, more than 471 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported by participating provinces and territoriesFootnote1.
    Hospitalizations (Table 2):
    • 99% (471) were associated with influenza A
    • The highest estimated rates of hospitalization are among children under 5 years of age.
    Intensive Care Unit (ICU) cases and deaths:
    • To date this season 49 ICU admissions and nine deaths have been reported.
    Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to footnote1referrer
    0-4 95 0 7.77
    5-19 64 0 2.31
    20-44 72 0 1.20
    45-64 115 0 2.39
    65+ 125 <5 5.18
    Total 471 <5
    % 99% 1%
    Table 2 - Footnote 1 Influenza-associated hospitalizations are reported by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Yukon. Only hospitalizations that require intensive medical care are reported by Saskatchewan. The cumulative rate of hospitalizations is calculated using the total population by age-group in participating provinces and territories.
    Return to Table 2 - Footnote1referrer
    Pediatric Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    In week 47, 34 pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations with influenza have been reported by the Immunization Monitoring Program Active (IMPACT) network. Pediatric hospitalizations reported by IMPACT are at levels not normally seen until late December (4-6 weeks earlier than in recent seasons) (Figure 7).
    To date this season, 145 pediatric hospitalizations have been reported (Figure 8):
    • All but two cases have been associated with influenza A.
    • Among the 109 cases for which the influenza subtype was available, 108 were associated with A(H1N1)pdm09.
    To date this season, 18 ICU admissions, and no deaths have been reported.
    Figure 7 ? Number of pediatric (≤16 years of age) hospitalizations reported by the IMPACT network, by week, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-47

    Figure 7 - Text description Figure 8 - Cumulative numbers of pediatric hospitalizations (≤16 years of age) with influenza by age-group reported by the IMPACT network, Canada, weeks 2018-35 to 2018-47

    Figure 8 - Text description Adult Influenza Hospitalizations and Deaths

    Surveillance of laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated adult (≥16 years of age) hospitalizations by the Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network began on November 1st for the 2018-19 season.
    To date this season, 17 hospitalizations have been reported, of which 15 were associated with influenza A and 2 with influenza B.
    Influenza Strain Characterizations

    Since September 1, 2018, the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) has characterized 101 influenza viruses (11 A(H3N2), 80 A(H1N1) and 10 B) that were received from Canadian laboratories.
    Genetic Characterization of Influenza A (H3N2):

    Ten influenza A(H3N2) viruses did not grow to sufficient hemagglutination titer for antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay. Therefore, NML has performed genetic characterization to determine the genetic group identity of these viruses.
    Sequence analysis of the HA gene of the viruses showed that:
    • One virus belonged to genetic group 3C.2a.
    • Nine viruses belonged to subclade 3C.2a1.
    A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus belongs to genetic group 3C.2a1 and is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine
    Antigenic Characterization:

    Influenza A(H3N2):

    • One influenza A(H3N2) virus was antigenically characterized as A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like by HI testing using antiserum raised against egg-propagated A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016.
    • A/Singapore/INFIMH-16-0019/2016-like virus is the influenza A(H3N2) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    • The influenza A (H3N2) virus characterized belonged to genetic group 3C.2a1.
    Influenza A(H1N1):

    • 80 A(H1N1) viruses characterized were antigenically similar to A/Michigan/45/2015, which is the influenza A(H1N1) component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine.
    Influenza B:

    Influenza B viruses can be divided into two antigenically distinct lineages represented by B/Yamagata/16/88 and B/Victoria/2/87 viruses. The recommended influenza B components for the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere influenza vaccine are B/Colorado/06/2017 (Victoria lineage) and B/Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage).
    • Ten influenza B viruses were characterized as B/Phuket/3073/2013-like, which belongs to the Yamagata lineage and is included as an influenza B component of the 2018-19 Northern Hemisphere quadrivalent influenza vaccine.
    • ...
    https://www.canada.ca/en/public-heal...r-24-2018.html


Working...
X