Dec. 29 Announcement from the BCCDC on Influenza and RSV Activity

Posted on: January 3, 2024

As we continue to navigate respiratory season, please remind your patients and clients that getting immunized ​is the best way to prevent serious illness. Immunization is particularly important for those at high risk of severe outcomes.
 

The BC Centre for Disease and Control (BCCDC) announced December 29: ​

"B.C. is experiencing elevated influenza and RSV activity, similar to levels experienced before the COVID-19 pandemic. In children, influenza activity is at the highest levels since the start of this respiratory season, serving as a reminder for families to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of serious illness.

The BC Centre for Disease and Control (BCCDC) has received two reports of influenza-associated deaths among children (under the age of 19) in British Columbia (B.C.). These deaths occurred in the past two weeks and are the only influenza-related deaths in children that BCCDC is aware of to date during this respiratory season. 

This year’s influenza vaccine appears to be well matched to the influenza viruses circulating in B.C. Getting immunized is the best way to prevent serious illness. Vaccination is particularly important for children at highest risk of severe outcomes including: ​

  • Children with chronic medical conditions such as: heart or lung disorders that require regular medical care, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or cystic fibrosis.  

  • Children with kidney disease, chronic liver disease such as hepatitis, diabetes, cancer, anemia or weakened immune system.  

  • Children with health conditions causing difficulty breathing, swallowing or a risk of choking on food or fluids, such as people with severe brain damage, spinal cord injury, seizures or neuromuscular disorders. 

  • Children and teenagers required to take Aspirin® or ASA for long periods of time due to a medical condition. 

  • Children who are very overweight 

  • Infants and toddlers 

There are a number of steps families can take to reduce their risk of serious infection from respiratory viruses and to prevent others from becoming ill. ​

  • Get immunized – this is the best way to prevent serious illness

    • Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are available to all children aged 6 months and older. Everyone registered with the Get Vaccinated system will receive an invitation to book an appointment to get immunized.

Most children with influenza and other respiratory viruses recover safely at home without the need for medical intervention. For children at high risk of severe complications, parents should consider talking to their care provider about early access to an influenza anti-viral drug called oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which is most effective against influenza if started within 12 hours, and ideally not later than 48 hours after illness onset.​"

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