This flu season has been a brutal one, leaving many Canadians wondering: Why is it hitting us so hard?
While we often associate flu season with the colder months, this year's outbreak arrived with an unexpected ferocity, peaking unusually early in late December. And here's the concerning part: experts warn we're still in the thick of it. As one public health official puts it, we're in the 'heavy, middle part' of this flu season, meaning relief might still be weeks away.
But what makes this year's flu so different? Alanna Smith, in a recent episode of The Decibel podcast, delves into the specifics of the dominant influenza strain circulating this year and its significant impact on Canada's healthcare system.
Listen to the full episode to understand the science behind this year's flu, its unique challenges, and what you can still do to protect yourself and your loved ones. Subscribe to The Decibel on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pocket Casts, or YouTube.
Is this just a particularly bad year, or are we seeing a shift in flu patterns? The severity of this season raises important questions about flu prevention, vaccine effectiveness, and the future of flu seasons in a post-pandemic world. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below or email us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com.
