Flu shot: is it too late this season?

Officials say the H3N2-driven flu season has been heavier than recent years and has strained hospitals, especially for older adults and young children. Health experts also report it is not too late in the season for people to receive a flu vaccine.

This flu season has been heavier than expected in parts of Canada, driven largely by a mutated H3N2 strain. Hospitals have reported pressure on capacity, with older adults and children accounting for many severe cases. Reported test-positivity reached about 33.3 per cent in late December and declined somewhat in early January, but officials say activity remains substantial. Public health authorities note a possible later increase in Influenza B that could continue into late March or early April. Key points: - Health officials describe the current wave as H3N2-driven and relatively severe compared with recent seasons. - Some hospitals have reported operating at or near capacity; in one hospital, patients over 65 made up 72 per cent of influenza admissions. - National testing showed a peak test-positivity of about 33.3 per cent for the week ending Dec. 27 and a decline to about 27.1 per cent for the week ending Jan. 3. - Experts say it is not too late in the season to receive a flu vaccine and that vaccination can still provide protection against circulating strains. Summary: The H3N2 wave has elevated illness and placed strain on health services, and officials report influenza activity remains notable as the season continues. A later rise in Influenza B is reported as possible into late March or early April; the longer-term course beyond the coming weeks is undetermined at this time.