Flu Positivity Rates Rises to 23.9 Percent in Alberta with Hospitalizations and Deaths Also Rising
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 04, 2025 3 hours, 19 minutes ago
Medical News: Flu Cases in Alberta Continue to Climb
Influenza continues to spread aggressively across the Alberta province in Canada, with more people falling sick and a concerning rise in hospitalizations and deaths. Recent statistics reveal that flu positivity rates have soared to 23.9 percent, an alarming increase that signals the severity of this season’s outbreak. Health officials warn that the flu season is far from over, and more cases are expected in the coming weeks.
Flu Positivity Rates Rises to 23.9 Percent in Alberta with Hospitalizations and Deaths Also Rising
Data from February 16th to 22nd indicates that the number of new lab-confirmed flu cases has exceeded previous peaks reported in late December and early January. The latest figures from the provincial Respiratory Virus Dashboard show that flu cases in Alberta surged by 809 within a single week, climbing from 722 the previous week. This
Medical News report highlights that the total number of flu cases recorded in Alberta so far this season has reached 7,584, including 671 cases in the Central Zone.
Hospitalizations and Deaths on the Rise
The number of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths has also increased significantly. Current reports show that flu hospitalizations have risen to 1,803 from 1,614, while ICU admissions have climbed from 131 to 148. Additionally, flu-related deaths have increased from 76 to 97 across the province. In Central Alberta, hospitalizations have jumped to 195 from 165, ICU admissions have gone up to 19 from 16, and flu-related deaths have now reached nine.
Unlike the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 cases have been declining in Alberta. However, COVID-19 remains a serious concern, with 10,271 lab-confirmed cases this season, 2,795 hospitalizations, 178 ICU admissions, and 344 deaths. In Central Alberta alone, COVID-19 cases have reached 1,598, with 434 hospitalizations, 21 ICU admissions, and 49 deaths. RSV cases have totaled 5,000 in the province, leading to 2,020 hospitalizations, 178 ICU admissions, and 59 deaths, with Central Alberta accounting for 550 cases, 195 hospitalizations, 13 ICU admissions, and eight deaths.
A Struggle Against Low Vaccination Rates
Health experts express concern that lower flu vaccination rates could be contributing to the increase in infections. Data shows that just over one million Albertans received their flu vaccines this season, translating to a 20.5 percent vaccination rate. This is a drop from last year’s coverage of 24 percent, when nearly 1.15 million people were vaccinated.
Several factors could be at play in this decline. Some experts suggest that “vaccine fatigue” may be causing people to overlook flu shots. Others believe that many individuals still intend to get vaccinated but have not prioritized it. Regardless of the reasons, the lower vaccination rate has likely contributed to the higher flu case numbers this season.
Flu Season May Extend into May
Wastewater surveillance data suggests that influenza remains widespread across Alberta, further reinforcing concerns that the province may see continued spikes in flu cases over the coming months. In previous years, flu seasons have extended into May, with smaller waves occurring late in the season. Experts caution that Alberta is “not out of the woods” yet, and additional surges are possible.
To reduce the spread of infections, health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures. Regular hand washing, staying home when feeling unwell, and minimizing contact with others if experiencing flu symptoms can all help curb transmission. Vaccination remains a crucial tool in preventing severe illness, and those who have yet to get their flu shot are encouraged to do so.
Conclusion
The rising flu positivity rate in Alberta, coupled with increasing hospitalizations and deaths, highlights the seriousness of this season’s outbreak. While COVID-19 and RSV cases appear to be declining, influenza remains a significant threat. With low vaccination rates and ongoing transmission, health experts warn that the flu season could last several more months, with additional spikes still possible. The province’s healthcare system continues to face pressure as hospital admissions rise. In response, Albertans are advised to take precautions such as vaccination, hand hygiene, and staying home when sick to help mitigate the spread. The situation remains fluid, and staying informed is crucial.
The Alberta’s Respiratory Virus dashboard can be found here:
https://www.alberta.ca/stats/dashboard/respiratory-virus-dashboard.htm
For the latest flu and outbreak news, keep on logging to Thailand
Medical News.
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