Saskatchewan Reports Stable Influenza Positivity but Rising Hospitalizations and ICU Admissions

According to the latest Community Respiratory Illness Surveillance Program (CRISP) report from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, influenza positivity rates have remained consistent, but there has been a concerning rise in hospitalizations and ICU admissions.

Steady Influenza Positivity Rates in Saskatchewan

The report covers the period from January 26 to February 8. During the week of February 2 to 8, 292 influenza tests came back positive, resulting in a 17.7% positivity rate. This is a slight increase from the previous week, which saw 318 positive tests at a 17.4% positivity rate.

National Influenza Trends Show an Increase

Nationally, the Public Health Agency of Canada has reported that influenza positivity has risen to 24% during the week ending February 8, up from 21% the week prior. British Columbia and Ontario have recorded the highest rates of influenza positivity.

Year-to-Date Influenza Cases in Saskatchewan

Since August 25, 2024, Saskatchewan has logged 1,589 positive influenza tests, with 1,479 diagnosed with Influenza A and 110 with Influenza B. This data underscores the ongoing prevalence of influenza in the province.

Respiratory Virus Outbreaks in High-Risk Settings

The report indicates 21 respiratory virus outbreaks in high-risk facilities, including long-term care homes, personal care homes, and group homes. These outbreaks were caused by various viruses: eight due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), six by influenza, six by other respiratory viruses, and one by COVID-19.

Increased Severity of Influenza Cases

More alarmingly, the severity of influenza cases is on the rise. Hospitalizations increased from 51 to 93, while ICU admissions climbed from three to 14 during the reporting period. Tragically, two flu-associated deaths were recorded.

COVID-19 Update

COVID-19 cases also saw a decrease in the past week, with 49 positive tests compared to 59 the previous week. The majority of COVID-19 cases were among individuals aged 65 and older.

Wastewater Surveillance for COVID-19

Out of the ten major cities providing wastewater data for COVID-19 activity, nine reported low levels or no detections. North Battleford was the only city to report medium-high activity levels for COVID-19.

Conclusion

While influenza positivity rates remain stable, the increase in hospitalizations and ICU admissions, along with flu-associated deaths, highlights the severity of the current influenza season. The ongoing respiratory virus outbreaks in high-risk settings, particularly those involving RSV, influenza, and other respiratory viruses, underscores the importance of continued vigilance and preventive measures.

As we move forward, it is crucial to monitor these trends closely and take appropriate actions to protect public health. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow health authorities’ guidelines to mitigate the spread of these illnesses.

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