British Columbia prepares to deal with a strain of flu virus that is particularly aggressive. Health officials are urging people to get immunized. The government said that Influenza H3N2, which is more deadly than the H1N1 strain and has caused more hospitalizations, already caused several outbreaks.
"We've seen five to six outbreaks at residential care facilities, and it is a strain that is more dangerous for older people," Health Minister Terry Lake said.
Dr. Danuta Skowronski, an epidemiologist with the B.C. Centre for Disease Control said "H3N2 viruses are associated with the greatest disease burden - more intense, severe epidemics, more hospitalizations and deaths. A number of us are concerned that it's H3N2 we're likely facing this year. We are already picking up care facility outbreaks due to H3N2 viruses. That is very early."
Children and people with immune system issues face higher risk but if everyone in the province reach what is known as herd immunity, people can be better protected. An estimated 3,500 people die from influenza every year across Canada.
According to Provincial Health Officer Dr. Perry Kendall, flu virus kills more people that all the other vaccine-preventable diseases combined. He also said that the public should get a shot early since flu vaccine takes up to two weeks to fully take effect. "By getting immunized prior to the start of the flu season, you can avoid any unpleasant fall surprises," Kendall said.
This year, the number of people getting a flu shot went down after it peaked to around 40% last year due to problems with vaccine composition which poorly matched the prevalent virus. It is recommended that anyone older than six months should be vaccinated. Flu shot costs about $20 to $30, but free vaccines are given to people who are considered high risk. This includes seniors, children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.
