Flu shot urged as New Brunswick sees surge in hospitalizations and outbreaks

New Brunswick health officials report a rapid surge in influenza A (H3N2) cases with higher hospitalizations and outbreaks, and they say the dominant strain is evading some protection from this season's vaccine.

A rapid rise in influenza activity has prompted New Brunswick health officials to report increased hospital pressure and more outbreaks in congregate settings. Officials are urging vaccination and asking people to avoid emergency departments when possible to reduce wait times and transmission. The dominant strain is influenza A (H3N2), which officials say is showing reduced protection from this season's vaccine formula. Health networks report higher patient volumes and longer waits during the recent holiday period. Reported figures: - New Brunswick authorities reported 421 hospitalizations and 25 ICU admissions so far this season, with 11 deaths recorded to date. - Laboratory testing indicates the circulating strain is influenza A (H3N2), including a subclade reported as evading some protection from this year's vaccine. - Health networks noted ER waits of up to 14 hours for some hospitals and reported 43 confirmed flu outbreaks in settings such as long-term care, hospitals, adult residential facilities and shelters. Summary: The reported surge has increased pressure on emergency and acute-care services and corresponded with a rise in congregate-setting outbreaks. Officials have called for vaccination and for non-urgent patients to consider other care options while monitoring continues. Undetermined at this time.