Alberta COVID-19 spread stable as seasonal flu on the rise

Alberta’s Health Minister and Chief Medical Officer of Health updated the province on the state of COVID-19 and other health matters earlier Wednesday afternoon.

These numbers make a compelling case for getting every dose you’re eligible for to avoid the worst outcomes of this disease. No matter what dose you’re receiving, vaccines continue to be available across the province by appointment or by walking in. https://t.co/kBA7RefTZP (7/8)

— Alberta Chief Medical Officer of Health (@CMOH_Alberta) May 11, 2022

Unlike most health updates over the past two years, Wednesday’s announcement focused on the flu.

According to officials, Influenza infections are on the rise as COVID-19 indicators continue to decline.

Estimated COVID-19 case numbers provided by the province on May 9 show 1,225 people were in the hospital with the virus. The update also showed there were 820 active new cases in Alberta, and 37 people in the ICU.

Despite the drop in cases, the Health Minister says Calgary and Edmonton hospitals continue to be over 100 per cent capacity.

Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw says there have been reported flu deaths and adds infections are on the rise.

“I can report that one individual has been treated, discharged from hospital, and is doing well. And one remains in hospital undergoing treatment it is important to remember that the definition for possible cases is very broad,” said Hinshaw.

She says the influenza season is later than usual which she attributes to COVID-19 protective measures.

“The timing of the influenza season is later than normal. Likely because the protective measures that were in place for COVID throughout the winter were extremely effective in stopping the spread of influenza,” said Hinshaw.

Read More:

• Alberta COVID-19 BA.2 variant cases starting to wind down in the province

• COVID-19 related deaths slowly rising in Alberta, expert says

• Alberta COVID numbers remain steady

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In the meantime, the province is expanding eligibility for the COVID-19 drug, Paxlovid.

Alberta Health Minister Jason Copping reminds everyone that this drug is not for everyone, and recommends you consult with your doctor.

–With files from Craig Lester