By Emily Keller

Influenza

More B strain of influenza showing up across in Alberta

Jan 16, 2020 | 5:30 AM

Alberta has seen nine fatal cases of influenza this season, with the North Zone seeing a total of 361 confirmed cases of influenza and one confirmed death.

Dr. Kristen Klein, a medical officer of health with Alberta Health Services in the North Zone, says influenza viruses are categorized as different strains.

“The vaccine that we give in Alberta protects against four of the strains, so two of the As and two of the Bs, and every year there’s different amounts of people that get different types of infections, and this year we’re seeing a lot of that B strain infection in the population here.”

In total, there have been 175 confirmed cases of the Influenza B strain in the North Zone, and 1,691 in Alberta.

Klein says while this flu season seems to be on par with the past overall, the ‘B’ strain can become more serious in children.

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Klein says that the tricky thing about influenza is that the virus changes every year and recommends the vaccine as the most effective way to prevent the flu.

“The number one that I’d like to advocate for is (to) get the vaccine. It’s still available across the province for free for any Albertan at both public health clinics and pharmacies. So, that’s a good way people can protect themselves, their families, their loved ones and community.”

She adds that staying home when sick and frequent hand washing are key to keeping healthy.