Health

Influenza cases exceptionally low in comparison to past seasons, FluWatch report finds

The results are noted to be low in comparison to previous seasons

By Anastasia Andric

February 8, 2021
at 8:03 AM

The Government of Canada released its FluWatch report last month and it found that influenza activity is “exceptionally low for this time of year”.

The report says that there is currently “no evidence of community circulation of influenza”, stating that influenza testing will continue at seasonal levels.

While Canada continues to monitor the virus, the report says that “influenza activity remains below the threshold required to declare the start of the 2020-21 influenza season”.

The report also suggests that “no laboratory-confirmed outbreaks of influenza have been reported to date this season”, while two “influenza-like” outbreaks were reported in some schools and daycares.

12,484 people participated in the FluWatchers report with 14 participants reporting cough and fever. The results are noted to be low in comparison to previous seasons.

The report also states that influenza surveillance indicators have been influenced by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has altered the “healthcare-seeking behaviour” of some.

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Anastasia Andric

Anastasia is a curious and enthusiastic storyteller, with a degree in Journalism from Ryerson University. She has a love for the news and is passionate about reporting on issues that matter. She is dedicated to informing the public with accurate, timely, and relevant news. She is not afraid to dig deep and ask the tough questions to get to the real story.