The Chief Provincial Public Health Officer advises that the province, like other jurisdictions in Canada, is experiencing an increase in cases of seasonal influenza in Manitoba.
As of today, there have been 480 reported cases of lab-confirmed influenza and nine lab-confirmed influenza-related deaths this season.
Demand for health services has also increased. Regional health authorities are taking appropriate steps to manage resources and address issues to support ongoing services.
While it is too early to predict how this flu season will compare to other years, initial observations are that Manitoba will have normal to above average case numbers this year.
Public health officials note the number of requests for laboratory tests have increased, which will lead to additional lab-confirmed flu cases being identified.
Lab-confirmed cases do not reflect the actual number of people infected with the virus, and the numbers do not indicate the seriousness of illness any individual may experience. Many Manitobans become ill with the flu but manage their symptoms and recover at home without lab tests to confirm the infection.
Public health officials estimate between 10 and 20 per cent of Manitobans may be infected with one of the seasonal influenza viruses every year. It is also estimated there are approximately 400 hospitalizations and approximately 120 deaths due to the flu each year.
The flu is an infection caused by a virus. It can spread easily from one person to another through coughing, sneezing or sharing food or drinks. People can also get the flu by touching objects contaminated with flu virus and then touching their mouths, eyes or noses.
Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include cough and a fever, sore throat, muscle aches, joint pain and exhaustion.
Public health officials say the elderly and very young, along with people with chronic conditions, could be most affected this year. Manitobans can take steps to reduce the risk of the flu or spreading it to others by:
- washing their hands regularly;
- practicing good cough and sneeze etiquette by coughing or sneezing into an elbow, sleeve or tissue;
- contacting their health-care provider or community public health clinic to get a flu shot; and
- staying home if sick.
For information on how to care for someone who has flu symptoms and when to seek medical attention, go online or contact your health care provider or call Health Links-Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257.
Statistical information on flu in Manitoba is updated each Friday and reported on the province’s website.
