While the number of cases of influenza across B.C. has spiked in the past week, there have been no outbreaks in Richmond -- so far.
“It is lighter in our region, and the good news is that none of our facilities in Richmond have outbreaks,” said Tiffany Akins of the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority. Still, she recommends people get the flu shot, as “historically, the peak time will be in the next few weeks.”
“Keep in mind that it takes two weeks for the flu shot to kick in. After getting the shot, people should still wash their hands regularly, ” Tiffany added.
The Public Health Agency of Canada estimates that in a given year there is an average of 12,200 hospitalizations related to influenza and approximately 3,500 deaths attributable to influenza.
“In the last week, we have noticed a significant increase in influenza outbreaks across B.C.”, said Medical Health Officer Dr. Martin Lavoie in a press release.
“The spike in influenza activity that we’re experiencing now is not unusual,” Dr. Danuta Skowronski of the BC Centre for Disease Control told News 1130. “In fact, such a sharp increase in activity is a signature feature of influenza that distinguishes it from other respiratory viruses that have a more prolonged, grumbling activity through the winter period.”
Influenza is spread through close contact with an infected individual. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, runny nose, sore throat, extreme tiredness, and cough. Children may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Check this link to find a flu clinic near you.
