Alberta is currently grappling with a significant rise in influenza cases, alongside an alarming decline in immunization uptake. As of January 4, 2024, the province has recorded over 3,000 flu cases this season, with more than 750 hospitalizations attributed to the virus. The flu season commenced roughly four to five weeks later than in previous years, yet the impact has been profound, with 25 fatalities reported so far.
Despite the rising number of cases, Alberta's influenza immunization rate stands at a mere 25 percent. This figure marks the lowest rate in more than 15 years and is a stark contrast to the 37 percent high observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts attribute the surge in flu cases partly to this low vaccination rate. Craig Jenne, a notable researcher in the field, pointed out that last year's immunization uptake was already concerning, stating, "Last year was actually a remarkably low immunization uptake, probably the lowest in about a dozen years… So far this year, we're still under 20 percent."
The current flu vaccine offered in Alberta contains four different flu strains. However, health officials warn that contracting one strain does not confer immunity against others. This year’s vaccination effort is critical as influenza can linger in communities long after peak season. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious diseases expert, noted, "In a bad flu year, 10 percent of the population can get influenza, so there's a lot of people who can get sick… it still is something for people to consider."
As hospitals struggle with occupancy rates exceeding 100 percent in some units, the situation has become increasingly dire. Jenne indicated that healthcare facilities are facing substantial pressure. "I am hearing firsthand from people that are in the hospital system saying that a number of the units are still well over 100 percent occupancy," he remarked. The persistence of respiratory viruses such as RSV and SARS-CoV-2 has only compounded these challenges.
The flu season often extends beyond initial expectations. Saxinger emphasized that while cases rise and fall, communities can experience prolonged effects. "If you look at the shape of those curves, they go up, they come down, so there's usually about as many cases coming down as going up," she explained.
With only a quarter of the population vaccinated against influenza, public health officials are urging residents to consider vaccination seriously. Jenne highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable populations: "We really do need to get those that are most at risk protected, so we can ease that burden on the healthcare system."
It is not too late for residents to receive their flu vaccination, which remains available across Alberta. Health experts encourage individuals to act promptly to safeguard not only their health but also that of their community.
