Manitoba Update on Seasonal Influenza

Manitoba Health advises that seasonal influenza continues to circulate throughout the province at a higher level than what is usually seen at this time of year. People at highest risk from seasonal flu include children under the age of five, people aged 65 and older, and people of any age with underlying medical conditions.

Seven Manitobans have died from the flu this year. The most recent data available show a total of 105 people have been admitted to hospital with influenza including six to intensive care. There has also been a significant increase in the percentage of people seeking care from their physician with influenza-like symptoms.

The seasonal flu vaccine is available across Manitoba, at vaccine clinics, medical clinics and pharmacies. It is safe and effective, and approved for children aged six months and older. Only about 10 per cent of all children aged 17 and under have received a flu vaccine this year. Public health officials recommend the flu vaccine for all people, especially those at higher risk of serious outcomes, including children. People aged 65 and older are eligible to receive a high-dose flu vaccine, which provides stronger protection.

To help reduce the spread of the flu, as well as other illnesses like COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Manitobans are encouraged to:

• get all eligible vaccinations;
• stay home when sick, even with minor symptoms;
• cover coughs or sneezes;
• wash hands regularly; and
• consider wearing a mask when in indoor spaces, particularly if it is crowded.

The Manitoba government and Shared Health have developed a resource for parents and caregivers on how to care for a child during respiratory virus season. It is available at www.manitoba.ca/health/publichealth/factsheets/kidcare.pdf.

An ad campaign is also running over the next few weeks to help connect parents with information and resources available at https://kidcaremb.ca/.