Flu cases expected to peak in Saskatoon during holiday season

The Saskatoon Health Region (SHR) expects flu cases to peak during the holiday season.

SHR officials said there have been 87 influenza cases reported in the region so far this year, nine which required hospitalization.

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Almost half the cases have been reported in the past week and officials expect flu activity to peak in three to four weeks.

“Seasonal influenza poses a serious health risk to many people, including the elderly, young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems or other chronic health conditions, as well as their caregivers,” Dr. Johnmark Opondo, the health region’s deputy medical health officer, said.

During last year’s flu season, 125 people out of 682 reported influenza cases had to be hospitalized.

Officials said many more people visited emergency rooms or had to be hospitalized for influenza-related complications like pneumonia.

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While mass immunization clinics are over, officials are encouraging people to still get immunized.

“Vaccination is the safest and single most effective way to protect yourself and your family from vaccine preventable diseases, including influenza,” Opondo said.

Officials also said hand washing and proper coughing and sneezing techniques can help stop the spread of influenza.

They also recommend people stay home from work or school if they are sick and to disinfect objects and surfaces people may touch, such as door knobs, phones and remotes.