Even as COVID-19 begins to surge again in much of Canada, the science remains clear. Climate health specialists are recommending that the public—particularly the most vulnerable—continue to stay safe and take preventative measures. Dr. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious disease expert, calls on those who are sick to stay home. This simple precaution will go a long way to prevent the spread of the virus.
According to recent wastewater data, viral activity is surging, suggesting the return of increased COVID-19 infections. Today, bimodal XFG, the current Omicron subvariant is producing mostly mild to moderate acute illnesses. It has proven to be extremely dangerous to some demographics, particularly those 65 years and older and those with underlying health conditions.
Current COVID-19 Landscape
In Canada the proportion of positive COVID-19 tests among ED visits with acute respiratory symptoms is 8.5 percent. Wastewater surveillance estimates show that viral activity remains moderate throughout the country. Cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montreal South and Prince Edward Island have higher completion rates.
Dr. Saxinger explains that the variants we’re seeing today are all offshoots of the Omicron variant. As she notes, it’s possible that cases could increase again later this summer. If so, that would mean an even larger fall and winter surge.
“It’s all kind of going in the same direction, suggesting that we might end up with kind of that late-summer increase followed by fall/winter surge, although of course it remains unpredictable.” – Dr. Lynora Saxinger
Recommendations for Vulnerable Populations
Health experts have warned that vulnerable populations should be especially careful to avoid exposure. This includes residents of long-term care homes as well as individuals with certain underlying medical conditions. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist at Toronto General Hospital wants people to be on their toes. As such, they are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 complications.
Antiviral medications are now widely accessible for people at high risk, which offer patients and providers even more protection. Dr. Saxinger wants to remind everyone that vaccinations are one of the most effective preventive measures we have.
“There are categories of people who ‘should’ get the vaccine and then everyone else is really in the ‘may get’ the vaccine.” – Dr. Isaac Bogoch
Dr. Lawrence Goodridge, a microbiology professor at the University of Guelph, supports this sentiment, noting that the vaccines expected to roll out this fall should provide adequate protection against the current strains.
“The current vaccines that are in production and will be available in the fall should provide protection.” – Dr. Lawrence Goodridge
Importance of Public Health Measures
To mitigate the risk of transmission, Dr. Saxinger recommends Canadians adopt basic health protocols such as vaccination, maintaining proper hand hygiene, and staying home when feeling ill. By taking these steps, the public can play an active role in keeping themselves and others safe during this time of Community Spread.
UI health experts encourage everyone to make sure they are educated about the changing situation. If you have questions about the vaccine or your symptoms, speak to your health care provider.
“The key thing here is if anyone has any questions, they really should be speaking with the health-care provider.” – Dr. Isaac Bogoch
