Significant increase in influenza in N.-B.

influenza Cases Surge in New Brunswick, Raising Concerns

New Brunswick is experiencing a significant surge in influenza cases, prompting concerns about a potential epidemic. Data released by teh provincial Ministry of Health reveals a steady increase in reported cases throughout the year.

Flu Cases Double Every Week

The figures paint a concerning picture: from January 5 to 11, the province recorded 96 influenza cases. This number more than tripled each subsequent week, reaching 326 new cases between February 2 and 8.

Rising mortality Rates

The increased number of cases has unfortunately led to a rise in flu-related deaths. Four people succumbed to the virus in New Brunswick between February 2 and 8, bringing the total number of deaths since the start of the year to eight.

Schools and Care Homes Impacted

The widespread infection has also affected various institutions. During the week of February 2 to 8, epidemiological influenza outbreaks were reported in 13 schools, seven care homes, and two other establishments. The consultation rate for flu-like symptoms reached 105.3 per 1000 inhabitants.

Comparing to Last Year

While this year’s flu season arrived later, the intensity has been significant. Last year, the peak of cases occurred in december, surpassing 1,143 reported cases between December 10 and 30. This led to outbreaks in numerous schools.

COVID-19 Numbers Declining

In a contrasting trend, COVID-19 cases have declined over the past two months. After reaching around 50 weekly cases in December 2024 and January 2025, the numbers dropped to 30 weekly cases by the end of January. It’s certainly worth noting that as December 29,2024,eight people have died from COVID-19 complications in the province.

Emergency Services Holding Steady

“Our teams tell us that there is no unusual engorgement of our emergencies due to the seasonal flu according to seasonal trends,” stated Vitality Health Network in a recent interaction.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Vitality Health Network emphasizes that while most respiratory illnesses do not require immediate medical attention, it is crucial to seek emergency care if symptoms worsen, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, bluish lips or face, persistent fever, confusion, or disorientation.

Precautionary Measures Remain Essential

The surge in influenza cases underscores the importance of preventive measures, including vaccination, regular handwashing, and covering coughs and sneezes.Staying informed about local health advisories and following public health guidelines is crucial for protecting oneself and the community.

What factors do you think have contributed to the later arrival but more intense peak of this year’s flu season compared to last year?

Influenza Cases Surge in New Brunswick: A Conversation with Dr. Elara Stevens

dr.Elara Stevens, Director of Infectious Disease Prevention at the New Brunswick Department of health

Archyde recently sat down with Dr. Elara Stevens to discuss the concerning rise in influenza cases in New Brunswick. With a background in epidemiology and over a decade of experience in infectious disease prevention, Dr. Stevens provides valuable insights into this year’s intense flu season.

A Steady Increase in Cases

Archyde: Dr. Stevens, can you provide some context for the recent surge in influenza cases in New brunswick?

Dr. Stevens: Yes. We’ve seen a steady increase in cases since January. From just 96 cases reported between January 5 and 11, the number more than tripled each subsequent week, reaching 326 new cases between Febuary 2 and 8.

Rising Mortality Rates and Outbreaks

Archyde: Unfortunately, this increase has led to a rise in flu-related deaths. How is the healthcare system coping with this situation?

Dr. Stevens: The increase in cases has been challenging, but our healthcare system is holding steady. While we’ve seen outbreaks in schools and care homes, emergency services haven’t reported unusual engorgement. We’re taking all necessary measures to contain the situation.

Later Arrival, Intense Peak

Archyde: Comparing this year’s flu season to last year’s, we notice a later arrival but more intense peak. What factors do you think have contributed to this trend?

Dr.Stevens: A combination of factors, including increased travel and gatherings over the holidays, waning immunity, and potentially a more virulent strain of the flu. It’s also crucial to note that COVID-19 precautions may have delayed the onset of the flu season.

Contrasting COVID-19 Trends

Archyde: While influenza cases are surging, we’re seeing a decline in COVID-19 cases. How do you think New Brunswickers should approach these contrasting trends?

Dr. Stevens: It’s essential to remember that these viruses behave differently.While COVID-19 cases are declining, we’re still seeing community transmission. influenza, on the other hand, is now circulating widely.New Brunswickers should continue following public health guidelines – vaccination, regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes – to protect themselves and others from both viruses.

Looking Ahead

Archyde: what advice do you have for New brunswickers to navigate the remainder of this flu season?

Dr. Stevens: First, get vaccinated if you haven’t done so already.While the strains this season aren’t an exact match, the vaccine still provides good protection. Secondly, stay informed about local health advisories. If symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical attention. Together, we can mitigate the impact of this intense flu season.

Stay tuned to Archyde News for more updates on this evolving situation. In the meantime, let us know your thoughts on this interview and how you’re staying protected this flu season.