Three flu-related deaths in Alberta already this season

Two patients from Edmonton and one from southern Alberta died from the flu in the three months leading up to the season.

Statistics released on Thursday by Alberta Health Services also show 30 Albertans were hospitalized for influenza in the last three months, including 17 from Edmonton.

It’s not clear whether the deaths were the result of influenza, AHS said. If the deceased had other underlying health problems, the virus could have worsened their conditions, but not been the direct cause of death. There is also the possibility that the influenza did not have anything to do with the deaths at all.

“Sometimes it’s really hard to tell,” said Dr. Judy MacDonald, medical officer of AHS Calgary Zone. “People that have conditions like asthma or chronic disease, if they are immune compromised, then they may not do so well if they get influenza.”

Due to privacy policies, no information about the patients’ health can be released. Since Aug. 24, Alberta has had 30 lab confirmed influenza cases, three of which are from Calgary.

MacDonald said there are simple ways to avoid the virus, the most important being to get vaccinated.

“That needs to be number one, but there are other ways,” said MacDonald.

She suggests washing your hands frequently during the day, staying home if you’re sick, and covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your sleeve.

Agencies/Canadajournal