Alberta reports respiratory illness numbers, teases new tracking dashboard
Posted September 29, 2023 12:02 pm.
Alberta says a new dashboard tracking respiratory illness in the province is nearing a launch, ahead of the fall sickness season.
In an update Thursday, Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange said the new reporting method will put the province into line with other places like B.C., Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia when it comes to COVID-19 reporting.
Since Sept. 3, Alberta has seen 52 recorded cases of RSV and 52 cases of influenza.
Ten people were admitted to hospital with influenza, though no admissions to intensive care units or deaths were recorded.
LaGrange said this is “consistent activity for this time of year.”
From Sept. 3 to Sept. 23, there were a total of 1,470 cases of COVID-19, resulting in 286 hospitalizations, with 13 ICU admissions.
During that same period, 20 Albertans died of COVID-19.
The province launched its vaccine campaign Thursday.
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Albertans will be able to book an appointment for the last COVID-19 vaccine or flu shot starting on Oct. 10.
People can get the shots at an Alberta Health Services (AHS) clinic or pharmacy through the government’s vaccine booking system, by directly contacting community health clinics, or by calling 811.
In her update, LaGrange encouraged Albertans to “work together to create a healthier environment” for everyone.
She said this included practicing proper hygiene like handwashing, staying home when sick and disinfecting common surfaces around your home.
The health minister also said Albertans can choose to wear a well-fitting mask in crowded areas to help reduce the risk of getting sick.
LaGrange also encouraged people to talk to their regular doctor about what is best for them when it comes to vaccination.
