B.C. reports 4th death of child under 10 linked to influenza

Health officials in British Columbia say a fourth child has died due to complications related to influenza.

In its weekly respiratory illness update, the B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) said the death, involving a child under the age of 10, was reported between Jan. 14 and Jan. 20.

Influenza-related deaths refer to fatalities where flu was a contributing factor, but may not be the primary cause of death. Previous flu-related child fatalities have been attributed to secondary bacterial infections related to the virus.

1:56 B.C. reports third child’s death linked to influenza

The BCCDC said influenza test positivity and levels recorded in many wastewater sites have, however, decreased.

RSV test-positivity and wastewater levels remain elevated, with some signs of stabilization, the BCCDC said, while COVID-19 hospital and critical care levels have remained “relatively stable” with some fluctuation in recent weeks.

“The proportion of emergency department and primary care visits for respiratory symptoms have decreased since a peak in late December,” the agency said.

Health officials continue to recommend vaccination for both influenza and COVID-19.

You can find out more about the vaccines and book an immunization at the province’s Get Vaccinated website.

1:47 Latest data shows influenza, COVID-19 virus circulation decreasing across Canada: PHAC