Waterloo region flu cases rise earlier and hospitalizations increase

Waterloo region is seeing an earlier-than-usual rise in flu cases and more hospitalizations; 503 cases have been reported this season and a new H3N2 variation may be contributing to the increase.

Waterloo region is reporting an earlier-than-usual increase in influenza cases and a rise in hospital admissions. Health officials have reported a new variation of the H3N2 strain as circulating in the area. This season has had 503 confirmed cases so far, with 156 cases reported in the week ending Dec. 20. Officials say the season is still early and the peak has not been reached. What was reported: - 503 laboratory-confirmed flu cases in the season to date. - 156 cases were reported in the week ending Dec. 20, a large share of the season total. - A variation of the H3N2 influenza strain has been reported as circulating locally. - Test positivity was reported as about 27.8 percent for the week ending Dec. 13. - Hospitalizations are higher than in recent years, though a direct link to the new strain is not yet established. - Most cases so far are among people over 60 and children under 12, and there is noted concern for very young, elderly, and immunocompromised groups. Summary: The earlier rise in cases has led to more hospital visits and is being watched because of the presence of a new H3N2 variation. Officials report the current vaccines are not a perfect match but can still reduce severe outcomes. Undetermined at this time.