Data from Health Canada shows that flu season has arrived early this year, with British Columbia leading the way in infections across the country.
The organization shows that flu activity in B.C. is in the moderate level, the highest of all the provinces.
According to Health Canada, the dominant strain is influenza A, accounting for over 4,700 cases across Canada since the end of August.
The largest population affected by the flu is 65 and older, but statistics gathered by Health Canada show that influenza B has been affecting the 20 to 44-year-old population.
Aidan Moghaddas, a pharmacist with Shoppers Drug Mart in Surrey, says that the best way to protect yourself from the flu is by getting the yearly flu vaccine.
“It’s so easy to get the flu shot. The dominant strain is influenza A, which is making up over 80 per cent of the cases [so far],” said Moghaddas. “We always encourage patients to book their vaccination and get it as soon as possible because it takes two weeks for the body to get protection against the strains.”
Other preventative measures include hand washing, staying hydrated, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting exercise.
Moghaddas reminds people that the flu virus can make its way into your home via surfaces so cleaning can also help prevent infection and transmission.
“The flu virus can survive on surfaces, like plastic and wood, for up to 48 hours,” he says.
But Moghaddas stresses the importance of preventative measures being the best protection against the flu.
“Prevention is always better than treatment. You can book your appointment online or walk-in to a pharmacy,” he said. “It’s highly recommended to take that one step and be responsible for our health but also other people, our loved ones. Those who are in more danger, more vulnerable, like patients with chronic conditions, in order to protect everyone and also reduce the workload on the healthcare system.”
The flu shot is recommended for those six months and older.
