ALBERTA INFLUENZA UPDATE In a follow-up to the announcement from Dr. Braden Manns on behalf of Dr. Francois Belanger, Associate Chief Medical Officer regarding the recent spike of Influenza cases, here is additional information and resources on behalf of Alberta Health Services (AHS). While there were no reported influenza cases in Alberta in all of the 2020-21 season, and there have been only sporadic cases of influenza reported in the province since December 2021, we have seen a sudden spike in the past two weeks. The number of confirmed seasonal influenza cases has grown from 17 on March 13 to 124 since March 24, including two Influenza A outbreaks reported this week. Both outbreaks reported are in continuing care sites; one is in South Zone (Lethbridge) and the other is in Calgary Zone (Calgary). So far this season, 9 hospitalizations have been reported and no deaths. It is uncertain as to whether we are starting to see widespread community transmission in Alberta. Physicians will need to use judgement concerning the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) based on the likelihood of influenza transmission in your local area. Alberta Health provides regularly updated information on influenza cases and outbreaks.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Please consider the following information in your differential diagnosis of patients with influenza-like illness (ILI): Influenza anti-viral treatment needs to be started within 48 hours of symptom onset. COVID-19 outpatient treatment need to be started within five days of symptom onset.

ACUTE CARE SITES Influenza testing must be requested in ADDITION to COVID-19 testing. Influenza and RSV are tested together. Influenza testing is included for all swabs submitted for residents in continuing care settings except for group homes and shelters. The respiratory pathogen panel (RPP) is included for swabs from continuing care sites only until the respiratory pathogen responsible for the outbreak is identified. PRIMARY CARE SITES Primary care physicians should still consider sending patients eligible for COVID-19 outpatient therapy for COVID-19 testing. Learn more about COVID-19 PCR Eligibility and Immunization Booking. Locate Pharmacies Providing Free COVID Rapid Antigen Tests.

Note: Influenza testing is NOT available at COVID-19 assessment centres.

Alberta College of Family Physicians | www.acfp.ca

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