December 19, 2025 l Dalena Reporters
Canada is facing a rapidly intensifying influenza season with the number of hospitalizations nearly doubling compared to the previous week, according to the latest national health data, as the H3N2 influenza strain spreads widely across the country and drives increased infection rates and outbreaks. Health authorities warn that influenza activity has escalated sharply in recent days, exerting pressure on hospital systems and raising concerns for vulnerable populations.
For the week ending December 13, 2025, Canada recorded 11,646 new flu cases, with 27.7 percent of all tests conducted nationwide returning positive for influenza an almost 71 percent increase in new cases over the prior reporting period.
The rate of hospitalization from influenza rose significantly, climbing to 6.2 hospitalizations per 100,000 people, up from 3.6 per 100,000 the previous week, illustrating the growing severity of the current flu season.
Health Canada reported that widespread influenza activity was observed in 44 regions across 11 provinces and territories, with the youngest and oldest Canadians being hit hardest. The highest weekly hospitalization rates were in adults 65 years and older and children four years old and younger, demographic groups traditionally at greater risk of serious influenza complications.
A surge in influenza outbreaks reflects the early onset and intensity of this season, driven predominantly by the influenza A(H3N2) virus and its subvariants. This strain has emerged as the dominant circulating virus across Canada and the United States, contributing to climbing case counts and hospital admissions.
Public health officials are urging Canadians to take influenza seriously, noting that widespread transmission can translate into increased demand on emergency departments and hospital resources, especially during the peak winter months. Influenza can result in severe respiratory illness, hospitalizations and even death, particularly among high-risk groups such as young children, seniors, pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions.
Despite influenza vaccination being the most effective preventive measure, vaccine uptake is uneven, and scientists continue to monitor how well current vaccines match the circulating H3N2 variants. According to the World Health Organization, early increases in seasonal influenza activity especially driven by rapid expansion of H3N2 subclade K—have been observed globally, coinciding with northern hemisphere winter. Vaccination remains recommended because it still offers significant protection against severe disease and hospitalization, even if strain match is imperfect.
The evolving influenza situation has prompted health authorities in multiple countries to advise enhanced vigilance, particularly as the holiday season increases travel and social gatherings that can accelerate transmission. Canadians are encouraged to get vaccinated if they have not yet done so, practice good respiratory hygiene, stay home when ill, and seek medical attention if severe symptoms develop.
As influenza activity continues to rise, hospitals across the country are bracing for additional strain, with local health systems urging preparedness, particularly in pediatric and geriatric care settings where demand is climbing alongside infections.