The worst of the influenza season may be over in Central Alberta.
“We do seem to be on a downward trend from Jan. 6,” said Dr. Digby Horne, a chief medical officer of health for Alberta Health Services Central Zone, on Monday.
As of Feb. 2, Central Zone had 225 confirmed cases of influenza A and 35 influenza B cases this season.
Influenza A struck the region hard in December.
Horne said influenza A is thought to be the more serious flu, but influenza B can cause deaths, particularly in children.
During the week of Jan. 6, there were 260 confirmed cases of influenza A across Alberta.
By the week of Jan. 27, there were 90 confirmed cases of influenza A and 21 influenza B.
“We’re still having influenza A cases, but it’s on the decrease. We still have influenza B, but it’s not clear whether it’s going to pick up as it sometimes does or not.”
Horne said this flu season was more obvious than the previous two seasons, but still considered a normal season.
The season should be coming to a close in a few months.
“Although you can’t predict the pattern for each year, usually you’re pretty well finished your influenza season, any influenza, by the end of April.”
But people should still consider immunization if they haven’t been vaccinated, he said.
As of Feb. 2, a total of 841,669 vaccine doses were administered in Alberta.
In the Central Zone, 80,926 doses were administered by all health care providers, including doctors, public health, pharmacy staff, and through workplace programs.
Immunization is available at Red Deer Johnstone Crossing Community Health Centre, 300 Jordan Parkway. For an appointment, call 403-356-6300.
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com