Dr. Kami Kandola, the NWT's chief public health officer, is encouraging residents to get vaccinated amid a spike of influenza activity in the territory.
Influenza typically follows two seasonal waves, according to a Feb. 25 news release from the Department of Health and Social Services (HSS), with the influenza A strain peaking in the fall and early winter, and influenza B increasing in the late winter and early spring.
However, influenza A appeared later this season, and influenza B has been detected earlier than usual. This has led to more individuals visiting Stanton Territorial Hospital鈥檚 emergency department with influenza and influenza-like illnesses, according to the release.
Symptoms of respiratory virus include fever, cough, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and feeling generally unwell. Respiratory virus can also lead to secondary illnesses including strep throat, ear infections and pneumonia. This season, HSS has recorded an increase in reported pneumonia deaths.
HSS recommended several ways residents can protect themselves against these risks, the first being vaccination. See the recommendations included in the Feb. 25 news release below:
- Get vaccinated as there is still an opportunity to be protected with this year鈥檚 flu shot;
- Identify symptoms early, seek care if needed and consider the use of antivirals or other medication if appropriate. You can call 811 for more information or, if it's an emergency situation, call 911 if you are experiencing severe symptoms;
- Stay home if you are sick to avoid spreading illness;
- Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing;
- Wash your hands frequently.
As of Feb. 1, 17.8 per cent of eligible NWT residents had received at least one dose of influenza vaccine. 41 per cent of residents aged 65 and older 鈥� one of the most at-risk groups 鈥� have been vaccinated.
