Flu could be harder on kids this year
Getting a flu shot is best way to avoid virus: MD
This flu season could be particularly hard on children.
So far there are just five reported cases of the flu in Nova Scotia, however, two of those are influenza B, a strain that tends to affect young children. Both of the influenza B cases – one involving a child under age four and another between five and 19 – were in the Nova Scotia Health Authority’s eastern zone, which includes Cape Breton Island as well as Guysborough and Antigonish counties. The three influenza A cases were adults over age 65 in the central zone, which is made up of the Halifax area, Eastern Shore and West Hants.
Dr. Daniela Kempkens, the medical officer of health for the eastern zone, said while it’s too early to draw conclusions in Nova Scotia, the early trend is in line with what’s happening in other regions of Canada and the U.S.
“What we’re seeing in Canada right now is the percentage of when we test for influenza, the tests that are positive for influenza B across the country right now are a little bit higher than the average that we would expect for this time of year,” she said. “Usually we would not expect to see the level of influenza B activity until January or February and we’re seeing it in mid-december right now. For Nova Scotia we can’t make those comments yet because in Nova Scotia we’ve only had five cases so far and three of them were influenza A and two of them were influenza B, so really with those small numbers we can’t talk about a pattern now.”
Kempkens said the flu vaccine guards against both strains so going to a doctor, clinic or pharmacy to get a shot is the best way to avoid getting sick.
“It is our most effective tool in our tool kit, especially for older adults over 65, babies and children between six months and five years, pregnant women and anybody with a chronic condition like heart disease and asthma,” she said, adding that basic general hygiene is important.
“So washing your hands frequently with soap and water. If you are experiencing coughing or sneezing, do it into a tissue or into your elbow so you don’t spread your germs. Limit the contact with other people when you are sick, so be smart and stay at home – don’t go to work. Limit touching your eyes, nose and mouth because that is how we pick up viruses. And don’t share any drinking glasses, utensils and bottles, stuff like that. You can also disinfect surfaces like taps or doorknobs or countertops to help prevent the spread of the flu virus.”
Each year, more than 3,000 Canadians die as a result of the flu, so if you do get sick, it’s important to get medical attention.
“You need to seek healthcare attention if you are sick,” said Kempkens. “You can also call 811 to speak to a registered nurse who can help you manage the symptoms that you have and give you advice on if you need to seek additional care. It’s important also not to take it lightly because the flu can be really serious, so make sure you seek the attention you need when you are sick.”