52 flu-related deaths in Alberta so far this season
More people have died of the flu in Alberta so far this season compared to last year.
Dr. James Talbot, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health said 52 people who have tested positive for the influenza virus have died. Last year, the virus led to 30 deaths.
“We have seen more deaths this season than last, however we can’t fairly compare season to season until this current season is complete,” he said.
Three quarters of those who died were over the age of 80.
Research shows that this year’s flu vaccine offers little or no protection against the predominant flu strain currently circulating in the province.
“In Canada the vaccine is not effective,” said Talbot referencing data collected in four provinces, including Alberta.
“Usually the vaccine provides a much higher rate of effectiveness and has not done so this year because the virus has mutated since the data was collected.”
Talbot said this year’s flu vaccine is offering protection against other strains of the flu, including H1N1 and influenza B.
To date 1.2 million Albertans have been immunized and 1,100 people hospitalized because of the flu.
