But while it is capable of infecting humans, there is no imminent risk of a new pandemic, experts say.

Albertans are being reminded that there is typically a spike in influenza and other respiratory viruses in the fall, leading to questions of what this fall could look like with both influenza and COVID-19.

During an emergency debate in the legislature on Wednesday, Kenney referred to the virus as "an influenza" on multiple occasions.

Alberta Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw said the province is starting to test some community influenza samples from its surveillance network.

The current flu season was the most unusual in about five years because of an early spike in influenza B as influenza A was circulating across Canada and the northern hemisphere.

Manitoba hit a new high for flu vaccinations, with nearly 25 per cent of people in the province getting their shot.

The daycare had 20 children out showing signs of respiratory illness.

The principal says the Bridgenorth school's kindergarten classes have been "hit the hardest" with illness this week.

The United States confirmed its first case of the virus in Washington State on Tuesday, but Dr. Deena Hinshaw said the risk to Albertans is very low.

The province said more and more people are choosing to get vaccinated during the flu season in Saskatchewan.