In a concerning turn of events, Alberta has witnessed a dramatic rise in influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, particularly during the first week of December. As health officials warn about the increased cases, the province has also reported the unfortunate first death due to RSV this season in the Edmonton area.

Provincial health data reveals a staggering 56% jump in lab-confirmed flu cases—from 514 as of November 30 to a shocking 806 by December 7. Similarly, RSV cases have surged by 48%, rising from 662 to 981. Central Alberta is experiencing an even steeper rise, with flu cases increasing from 18 to 32—equating to a 77% spike—and RSV infections soaring from 12 to 25, marking an alarming 108% increase.

Health Minister Adriana LaGrange's office emphasized that these respiratory illnesses remain under close surveillance, noting that the current situation is actually more favorable compared to the previous year. “This season’s influenza-related cases and the severity of illnesses have shown better indicators than last year,” the statement highlighted.

However, with the respiratory virus season well underway, Albertans are strongly urged to consider vaccination. Available through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System, local pharmacies, and Alberta Health Services (AHS) clinics, immunization is crucial in combating this surge of infections.

The hospitalizations for RSV have also spiked by 45%, reaching 424 this season, with Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admissions increasing by 15% to 45. In Central Alberta alone, hospitalizations rose modestly from five to seven, with no reported ICU admissions to date.

Meanwhile, flu-related hospitalizations across Alberta have climbed from 123 to 197, and flu-related deaths have jumped from three to seven. In Central Alberta, the increase has been from six hospitalizations to eight, with no associated deaths or ICU admissions reported thus far in the region.

Interestingly, while flu and RSV infections are surging, COVID-19 cases are on a downward trend. However, this season still witnessed a heartbreaking 235 COVID-related deaths across Alberta, with Central Alberta reporting 35, including one in the first week of December.

Currently, Alberta has recorded 7,609 COVID cases, with 2,057 hospitalizations and 117 in ICUs, whereas Central Alberta has 1,233 cases, 311 hospitalizations, and 10 ICU admissions.

As vaccination efforts ramp up, only 12.5% of Albertans and 9.9% in Central Alberta have received their COVID-19 vaccinations this season. In contrast, flu immunization stands at 18.5% for the province, with 15% in Central Alberta—a stark decline from the previous season's 25% coverage for flu shots.

As we head further into winter, it’s imperative for individuals and families to consult with their primary care providers regarding the best immunization options available. Will these rising infection rates prompt a renewed interest in vaccinations? Stay tuned as the situation continues to evolve.