Advertisement

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

Click to play video: 'Health authorities report 4th death of child linked to influenza'
Health authorities report 4th death of child linked to influenza
With respiratory illness season in full swing in B.C., health authorities are reporting another child has died from flu-related complications. Emily Lazatin reports – Jan 26, 2024

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.

Click to play video: 'B.C. reports third child’s death linked to influenza'
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.

Story continues below advertisement

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.

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.

Get weekly health news

Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

“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.

Click to play video: 'Latest data shows influenza, COVID-19 virus circulation decreasing across Canada: PHAC'
Latest data shows influenza, COVID-19 virus circulation decreasing across Canada: PHAC

Sponsored content

AdChoices