Flu and RSV Cases Surge in British Columbia, BCCDC Reports
Respiratory illnesses, particularly influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are on the rise across British Columbia, according to the latest data from the B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC). While flu and RSV cases surge, COVID-19 infections continue to decline, marking a shift in the province’s respiratory illness trends.
Flu and RSV on the Rise
The BCCDC’s data reveals that influenza A remains the dominant strain this flu season, with 11.7% of tests returning positive during the week of December 22–28, a 2.5% increase from the previous week. RSV cases have also seen a slight uptick of 0.3% in the same period, primarily affecting pediatric patients.
Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to RSV, which is a leading cause of seasonal hospitalizations for young children in Canada. During the same week, respiratory-related visits accounted for over 37% of pediatric emergency department cases, a notable 5% increase from the prior week. While adult respiratory-related visits have also climbed, the rise has been less pronounced.
COVID-19 Cases Declining
In contrast, COVID-19 positivity rates have been steadily dropping since November. The week of December 22–28 saw a minor 0.3% decline in positive COVID-19 tests. However, hospitalizations due to COVID-19 rose to 128 by December 28, up from 84 earlier in the month.
Health Officials Stress Precautions
Health officials are urging the public, especially vulnerable groups, to remain vigilant as respiratory illnesses continue to spread. Measures such as vaccinations and preventive hygiene practices remain crucial.
As of January 5, over 1.3 million flu vaccines had been administered in British Columbia during the current respiratory illness season. Flu season typically lasts until the end of March, and health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to reduce the risk of severe illness.
Key Takeaways for British Columbians
The data underscores the importance of monitoring respiratory illnesses, particularly as flu and RSV numbers climb. While COVID-19 trends are declining, the ongoing flu season and rising RSV cases highlight the need for continued precautions to protect vulnerable populations, including children and older adults.
Source : Swifteradio.com
