Three young children have tragically lost their lives due to complications from influenza A at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in the first half of December.
According to a recent report from the hospital, there has been a notable increase in flu cases and associated complications during this period. The children, aged between five and nine, succumbed to complications linked to the virus within the Ottawa and Eastern Ontario Health Unit.
In a joint statement, Dr. Trevor Arnason, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, and Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, Medical Officer of Health of Eastern Ontario Health Unit, emphasized the severity of the situation. They highlighted the potential for the flu to lead to severe illnesses requiring hospitalization, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by the current flu season.
The medical experts are urging individuals aged six months and older to prioritize getting their flu vaccines promptly, especially to safeguard children against serious health risks.