Alberta has recorded its first flu-related death of the current flu season, following a severe flu season last year. The respiratory virus dashboard for the province indicates that a person in their 60s residing in the central zone succumbed to influenza. In the previous flu season of 2024-2025, 237 individuals in Alberta lost their lives due to the flu, with over 3,700 individuals requiring hospitalization.
Dr. James Talbot, former chief medical officer of health in Alberta, noted that the timing of the first flu-related death this year aligns with typical patterns seen in previous years. Over 100 individuals have been hospitalized with influenza in Alberta this season, including eight patients in intensive care. Some countries have reported an early onset of the flu season, with increased cases, like the U.K., where the National Health Service warned of significantly higher case numbers compared to the previous year.
Infectious disease specialists are cautioning about a potentially challenging flu season due to an evolving strain of H3N2 that may not be well-matched with this year’s flu vaccine. Despite potential mismatches, Dr. Joan Robinson from Stollery Children’s Hospital advises getting the flu shot as it can still reduce the likelihood of severe illness. Robinson emphasized that flu vaccinations are important for everyone, not just seniors or those with underlying health conditions.
Approximately half a million Albertans have received flu shots this season, representing over 10% of the population, which is halfway to last year’s total vaccine uptake. Alberta’s current influenza positivity rate is higher than the national average, indicating more testing for flu in the province.
While flu remains a concern, COVID-19 poses higher risks of hospitalization and mortality. Alberta has reported 36 COVID-19 deaths this season, with two in the latest reporting week. Most Albertans are charged for the COVID-19 vaccine, except for specific groups, with a $100 cost for others. Dr. Talbot emphasizes the importance of both COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, despite the added cost for the COVID-19 vaccine this year, as a crucial measure for protection and public health.
In conclusion, health officials urge individuals to consider the benefits of vaccination against both influenza and COVID-19 to safeguard against severe illness and potential strain on the healthcare system.
