COVID-19 Cases Decline

In a recent respiratory illness surveillance report, it has been revealed that COVID-19 cases are on a decline in the province, while influenza activity is showing a notable increase. The period analyzed in the report spans from December 1 to December 14, with the next report set to be released on January 10, 2025, due to the upcoming holiday season.

The data indicates a decrease in positive COVID-19 tests and test positivity rates. In the week ending December 7, there were 151 tests conducted, with a positivity rate of 9.5%. This dropped to just 107 tests and a positivity rate of 7.2% in the week ending December 14. Alarmingly, most of the recent COVID-19 cases have been among individuals aged 65 and older.

Wastewater Monitoring Transition

2023 marked a significant transition as the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) assumed control over wastewater monitoring from the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina. Most municipalities that participate in sampling programs are reporting low to moderate levels of COVID-19, though some areas indicate medium to high levels of activity in their wastewater.

Regional Test Positivity Rates

In the North Central region, the test positivity for COVID-19 remains concerning at 11.8%, whereas influenza test positivity has slightly varied, showing a dramatic zero percent positivity, which highlights the need for further monitoring, particularly with rising flu cases.

Exclusion of Rapid Tests and Fatalities

This report only includes lab-confirmed cases, omitting rapid antigen test results. In terms of fatalities, there have been no reported COVID-19 related deaths in the last three weeks; however, the number of deaths in North Central during this timeframe remains unclear.

Current Hospitalization Statistics

Currently, the health system is dealing with 23 COVID-19 hospital admissions, alongside five in intensive care units (ICUs). While COVID-19 hospital admissions decreased from 151 to 107, cases related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have surged from 11 to 42.

Outbreaks and School Absenteeism

The report highlighted the troubling rise of COVID-19 outbreaks in high-risk settings, with four occurring within the past two weeks. School absenteeism due to illness remains relatively stable; however, there was a slight decrease from 11.4% to 10.4% in the latest reporting period.

Vaccination Rates Concerns

A concerning statistic revealed that less than 20% of the population is vaccinated against COVID-19 and influenza, with just 12.4% vaccinated for COVID-19 and 18% for the flu.

Community Respiratory Illness Surveillance Program (CRISP)

Established in October 2022, the Ministry of Health's community respiratory illness surveillance program (CRISP) aims to streamline the surveillance and reporting of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and influenza, using standardized epidemiological information for effective risk management. As the respiratory illness season continues, the bi-weekly issuance of this report remains critical.

Health Officials Urge Vigilance

With the holiday season approaching, health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and consider vaccination as a means of protecting themselves against both COVID-19 and influenza.

Conclusion

Stay informed, stay safe, and remember: Protect your community this flu season!