Alberta's chief medical officer of health says flu season likely easing

Dr. Vivien Suttorp said hospitalizations for respiratory viruses peaked on Dec. 31 at 700 influenza patients and have since fallen to 513; she told reporters the worst of the season is likely over.

Alberta's chief medical officer of health said the worst of the province's flu season is likely over. Dr. Vivien Suttorp reported that hospitalizations for respiratory viruses peaked on Dec. 31, when there were 700 influenza patients, and that number has since dropped to 513. The comment came as the province continues to manage a hospital system under strain from the seasonal surge. When asked about hospital management and policy, Suttorp directed reporters to Acute Care Alberta, which is expected to give an update with the responsible ministry later this week. Key points: - Dr. Vivien Suttorp said respiratory virus hospitalizations peaked on Dec. 31 at 700 influenza patients and have since fallen to 513. - The chief medical officer described the worst of the flu season as likely over. - Some physicians have called for emergency measures to address long wait times and overcrowding in emergency departments. - The Alberta Medical Association reports hospitals have been operating at over 110 per cent capacity for more than a year. - Suttorp referred questions about hospital management to Acute Care Alberta, which with the ministry is expected to provide an update later this week. Summary: Officials say the recent decline in influenza hospitalizations reduces immediate pressure from the seasonal surge, though the broader hospital system remains strained. Acute Care Alberta and the ministry in charge are expected to deliver further details later this week.