Fresh statistics released by Health Canada indicate an unusually prompt start to the influenza season in B.C., with the province currently at the forefront nationwide. More than five per cent of tests detected influenza in the week of Oct. 4.
Early Influenza Detection Rates Across British Columbia
Health officials track the start of respiratory virus season using a strict positivity metric. Dr. Brian Conway, the medical director of the Vancouver Infectious Disease Centre and the Vancouver Urban Health Centre, noted that exceeding a five-per-cent positivity rate triggers the official start of the season. Rates reached 14 per cent by the end of September.
Influenza A(H1N1) accounts for 98.4 per cent of all positive detections. Older adults aged 65 and older represent the population most affected by these early infections.
Dr. Bonnie Henry launches early immunization program
Dr. Bonnie Henry announced the annual immunization program roughly a week to 10 days earlier than she usually does in response to the early transmission. Health authorities are rolling out free vaccines covering influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease.
Booking notifications began on Oct. 5 for high-risk residents, with clinical appointments opening on Tuesday, Oct. 13. The Get Vaccinated registration system is expanding notifications to the general population through early November 2026. Residents not yet in the system can register online or call 1-833-838-2323.
Health providers target high-risk population vaccination rates
Health providers aim to vaccinate 50 per cent of the general population and 80 per cent of the high-risk population.
“Vaccines have side effects. I will not dispute that,” Conway said, advising patients to manage minor discomfort with ibuprofen or acetaminophen. High-risk groups eligible for priority immunization include infants and children under five, pregnant people, people living in long-term care, Indigenous people, and those with chronic conditions. Healthcare personnel face heavy encouragement to receive both the influenza and COVID-19 inoculations.
Common Questions About the British Columbia Respiratory Virus Season
When did British Columbia officially record the start of flu season?
Health Canada data shows that provincial test positivity surpassed the five per cent threshold during the week of Oct. 4, following late-September rates exceeding 14 per cent.
Which demographic group is most affected by the current outbreak?
Residents aged 65 years and older make up the population most affected by circulating strains, predominantly Influenza A(H1N1).
How can residents book an immunization appointment?
Eligible individuals receive booking notifications through the Get Vaccinated registration system, while unregistered residents can book by visiting the online portal or calling 1-833-838-2323.
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