Dr. Bonnie Henry says the province will now release weekly updates on the number of children dying from the flu.
The provincial health officer’s move comes after confirmation that six children have died from the flu so far this fall.
BC typically sees two or three childhood flu deaths in an entire season.
Henry admits that this is an unusual flu season, with a dramatic increase in cases among young people.
But she is not convinced that there is a need to return to mask mandates.
Henry again urges parents to vaccinate their children and says people should wear face masks in closed public spaces.
What’s more, Canada’s doctors say Canadians will continue to suffer if steps are not taken to slow the spread of the respiratory viruses that are overwhelming our health care system.
The Canadian Medical Association notes that the current wave of flu, RSV and COVID-19 is particularly affecting children…and there are fears that older adults could be affected.
The Association wants governments to address the lack of personnel in the medical field.
It also says individual Canadians need to help themselves by getting vaccinated, staying home if they’re sick and wearing a face mask in indoor public spaces.
– with Vista Radio news channel archives