Health officials on Prince Edward Island have reported the first instances of influenza and RSV in the province. Dr. Heather Morrison, the chief public health officer of P.E.I., stated that these cases appeared earlier than usual but are in line with trends seen in other provinces. She mentioned that the official start of the flu season is still pending on the Island.
Morrison explained that it is not considered the start of the influenza season until there are two consecutive weeks with a positivity rate exceeding five percent. However, with these early cases, she anticipates the season to commence sooner.
Regarding the potential severity of the upcoming flu season, Morrison emphasized that each year varies. She stressed the importance of taking preventive measures to safeguard oneself and the community.
Emphasizing the significance of vaccines in preventing flu and respiratory illnesses like RSV, Morrison highlighted the availability of free protection programs. She pointed out that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe outcomes and hospitalizations.
Looking back at previous years, Morrison noted that unvaccinated individuals constituted the majority of hospital admissions for both COVID and influenza. Last year, the flu season in P.E.I. peaked post-Christmas due to a delayed start.
Influenza vaccines offer around six months of protection, and Morrison advised getting vaccinated before widespread flu activity occurs. It takes approximately two weeks post-vaccination for full immunity to develop. Free flu and COVID-19 vaccines are accessible to all Islanders aged six months and above through various healthcare providers.
Additionally, the RSV vaccine program in the province has been expanded this year, offering free vaccines through public health nursing for infants and seniors aged 75 and above. RSV primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to hospitalization, particularly in vulnerable populations like infants and older adults with underlying health conditions.