The IWK is advising individuals in the Maritimes to receive the flu vaccine following a significant rise in the number of children visiting emergency departments with symptoms resembling the flu.
In a recent social media update, IWK Health highlighted that the flu has arrived in the Maritimes. While most children can manage the flu at home, those under five years old and individuals with underlying health conditions face a higher risk of severe illness.
The IWK recommends seeking emergency care if:
– Your child experiences difficulty breathing, such as rapid breathing, paleness, bluish lips, continuous coughing, or irregular breathing.
– An infant under three months old has a fever exceeding 38°C or 100.4°F.
– Your child has a fever above 38°C or 100.4°F persisting for 5-7 consecutive days.
– Your child is feverish, lethargic, and challenging to awaken.
– Your child exhibits vomiting, diarrhea, lack of tears, extreme mouth dryness, or reduced urination frequency.
The organization emphasized the importance of getting the flu vaccine to safeguard community health. Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer, previously warned that the flu season’s peak, typically occurring in late December and early January, was anticipated earlier this year.
Nationwide, hospitals are taking precautions to manage the increasing flu cases. Dr. Strang noted that early data indicates the prevalent flu strain is influenza A (H3N2). Although the current flu vaccine may not perfectly match this strain, it still offers some protection. Extra precautions such as wearing masks indoors, regular handwashing, and staying home when ill are strongly recommended for this season.
