Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry notes of influenza related deaths in children and youth, announces plans to continue to track future instances

As concerns rise over the recent surge of cases from the 2022 influenza season, the province's Provincial Health Officer has issued a statement that addresses the recent reports of six deaths of children and youth from influenza related conditions.

Dr. Bonnie Henry released the provincial health office's view of the current state of the influenza concerns wither statement issued at 5:55 PM on Thursday.

“The BC Centre for Disease and Control is aware of six reports of influenza-associated deaths among children and youth in B.C. this season, with investigations ongoing. My thoughts are with families and communities impacted by the loss of a loved one. 

Early findings indicate some of the children experienced secondary bacterial infections contributing to severe illness, which can be a complication of influenza. 

It is important to know that death associated with influenza in previously healthy children continues to be rare. Public-health officials are monitoring the situation closely, and we urge everyone to do their part by taking steps to protect yourself, your children and loved ones against the flu."

Doctor Henry noted in her information release of the tragic, but rare instances of death in previously healthy school aged children and teens.

“This is an unusual season with unusual characteristics, including an early and intense surge in cases. With this unusual pattern, enhanced surveillance has been implemented that includes reporting of pediatric influenza-related deaths to public-health officials. As the information is confirmed, updates on pediatric influenza-related deaths will be posted weekly as part of the respiratory surveillance summaries on the BCCDC website."

You can find those updates from this link.

The full statement from Doctor Henry can be reviewed here.

With vaccination rates for children and youth still quite low in the province, the Health Ministry has ramped up its efforts to offer opportunity for both Flu and COVID vaccinations.

As we outlined  yesterday, there are two Drop In clinics scheduled in Prince Rupert this weekend, one today and a second tomorrow, both are taking place at the Prince Rupert Public Health Unit in the Ocean Centre Mall.

As well British Columbians can schedule an appointment at their local pharmacy or health unit through the Get Vaccinated portal.

More notes on Northern Health can be explored here.