The situation is serious enough that some hospitals are taking extra precautions to prevent strain on the system and to curb flu transmission within their facilities. "But I think when we're looking at the data in hindsight, there probably will be more hospitalizations related to the flu this year compared to a regular flu season." Hospitals plan for surging casesDoctors, epidemiologists and other health officials have all warned that the strain of flu hitting Canada is more severe. WATCH | Health officials warn parents to avoid bringing kids to ERs unless necessary: Uptick in child flu cases putting pressure on Quebec pediatric hospitals | Duration 2:01 Flu season hit the province early and it’s expected to peak around the holidays. RSV is also affecting a higher number of seniors, but the most confirmed cases are in children one and under.

Source: Punch December 23, 2025 16:30 UTC