Close X
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
ADVT 
National

Tam warns of flu upswing, COVID variant 'growth'

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 10 Nov, 2022 10:55 AM
  • Tam warns of flu upswing, COVID variant 'growth'

OTTAWA — Canada’s top doctor is warning of "increased growth" in new COVID-19 variants and an upswing in seasonal influenza cases, just as a surge of respiratory syncytial virus inundates hospitals.

Chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said Thursday in a virtual update that the triple threat of all three viruses is posing a challenge for the health system in several parts of the country and points to the need for "stepped up precautions."

"Although public health measures, including our individual prevention practices kept COVID-19 and seasonal respiratory viruses at bay for the past two-plus years, this third winter of COVID-19 comes with some cautions," said Tam, stopping short of a call for mask mandates but recommended people wear them indoors.

"I know we're all tired and we know only too well the long list of good habits that can help keep us and others healthier."

Although a recent surge of COVID-19 cases seem to have “plateaued,” Tam says emerging Omicron variants BQ.1.1 and BF.7 are on the rise.

Meanwhile, above-seasonal numbers of RSV cases are inundating hospitals with young patients sick with the common childhood illness.

Tam also noted influenza cases have "increased steeply" and are accelerating, with more than half of detected cases involving children and teens.

The most recent figures from public health show the flu positivity rate in mid-October was five per cent. Tam said that's approaching the seasonal threshold for an influenza epidemic.

Tam said the resumption of school, work and indoor gatherings has invited more viral circulation, and she stressed the importance of personal protective measures including an Omicron-targeting booster shot if it's been six months since the last vaccine dose; getting a flu shot; and wearing good quality, well-fitted face masks when indoors.

She refrained from recommending a return to indoor mask mandates or other restrictions, saying that decision remains with provincial authorities.

Still, Tam acknowledged that a dismal rate of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among kids younger than age 5 "can certainly be improved." The national rate of babies and young kids with at least one dose hovers at 6.5 per cent, while just one per cent have completed their primary two-dose series.

It's especially important for children with an underlying medical condition and the immunocompromised to get their shots, she said.

Families with older children who are due for a COVID-19 shot can use the opportunity to get a simultaneous dose of the flu vaccine, she added.

Deputy chief public health officer Howard Njoo acknowledged pandemic fatigue has likely set in among many Canadians, but said it was important for all to remain cautious.

"Everyone's fed up. It's been two-and-a-half years. Everybody wants to resume social activities, travel, take vacations, go back to work in person and in school," said Njoo.

"It's important for our society but I think we have to strike a balance here. We know what the good habits are."

MORE National ARTICLES

Surrey RCMP need the public's help in identifying 2 South Asian males who violated the justice system

Surrey RCMP need the public's help in identifying 2 South Asian males who violated the justice system
On September 11, 2022, a Surrey RCMP officer was surrounded by a group of males in the parking lot of the Strawberry Hill business complex, after he served a violation ticket to one of the individuals. Earlier this week on October 4, 2022, a 22 year-old man was arrested for intimidation of the justice system participant and obstruction of a peace officer,. 

Surrey RCMP need the public's help in identifying 2 South Asian males who violated the justice system

One in custody after police standoff in Vancouver

One in custody after police standoff in Vancouver
Police say around 5:30 p.m. Thursday, staff at a bank near Main Street and East Pender Street called 911 to report a robbery. When officers arrived, they spotted the suspect attempting to take off in a cab.

One in custody after police standoff in Vancouver

B.C. in climate pact with U.S. West Coast states

B.C. in climate pact with U.S. West Coast states
The statement of co-operation also aims to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and to protect communities from climate disasters including droughts, wildfires and heat waves. The four jurisdictions have differing climate agendas but share the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions at least 80 per cent by 2050.

B.C. in climate pact with U.S. West Coast states

Wildfire in Metro Vancouver park now under control

Wildfire in Metro Vancouver park now under control
A statement from the district says a 50-person firefighting crew has established a 15-metre "wet line" around the perimeter of the fire in Coquitlam's Minnekhada Regional Park, preventing any further spread. It says ground crews are now focused on dousing remaining hot spots.  

Wildfire in Metro Vancouver park now under control

Opposition BC Liberals call for MLA pay freeze

Opposition BC Liberals call for MLA pay freeze
The Opposition BC Liberals are calling for an all-party pay freeze as a show of solidarity with people struggling to make ends meet during inflationary times. Liberal house leader Todd Stone says members of the legislature could be in line for a salary increase in April of 10 per cent or more, amounting to raises of at least $10,000.

Opposition BC Liberals call for MLA pay freeze

B.C. pharmacists welcome new prescription powers

B.C. pharmacists welcome new prescription powers
As the changes are rolled out, B.C. pharmacists said the smoothness of the transition will depend on the reimbursement model, staffing supports and whether there's an added administrative burden. Like many health professionals, pharmacists have faced burnout and labour shortages since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

B.C. pharmacists welcome new prescription powers