Alberta’s top health official stated that while the flu season is not yet over, the province seems to have passed the peak of a particularly severe flu season. The surge was caused by an early and unusually large wave of influenza, primarily the H3N2 strain. Dr. Vivien Suttorp, Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, emphasized that this strain tends to affect the elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic conditions the most severely.
During a press conference in Calgary, Suttorp noted that influenza A activity has likely reached its highest point, with decreasing test positivity rates and a decline in case counts. Hospitalizations for respiratory viruses peaked on December 31, with 995 Albertans hospitalized, including 700 for influenza, 195 for COVID-19, and 100 for RSV. Currently, there are 706 hospitalized individuals, with 513 for influenza, 118 for COVID-19, and 85 for RSV.
Suttorp cautioned that while progress is being made, the flu season is not over, and vigilance is still necessary due to potential delayed complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Influenza B cases are now increasing, and RSV activity is on the rise, with expectations of continued growth until the end of January.
The health system in Alberta has been under immense pressure, with emergency departments facing overcrowding and long wait times. The Opposition NDP has been advocating for additional measures to address the crisis. Hospital and Surgical Health Services Minister Matt Jones announced an upcoming update on hospital capacity with various health organizations.
Suttorp highlighted that a majority of hospitalized flu cases were in unvaccinated individuals and stressed the importance of vaccination, regular handwashing, and staying home when sick. Despite concerns about vaccine effectiveness against the circulating H3N2 strain, Suttorp emphasized that vaccination still offers protection and helps reduce severe outcomes. Data shows that only 19% of Albertans have been vaccinated against the flu this season.