Covid-19 deaths in Canada surpass the 50,000 mark
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has reported a total of 4,536,383 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country since the first cases were detected in the spring of 2020. In the past seven-day period, an additional 13,948 cases have been reported.
Amidst this ongoing situation, the XBB.1.5 sub-variant of Omicron is circulating in Canada. While specific data on its prevalence and dominance in the country is not detailed in the latest reports, it is a cause for concern due to its immune evasiveness.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has recommended bivalent mRNA vaccines as the preferred booster doses for individuals aged 5 and older, including those targeting both the initial Wuhan strain of the coronavirus and the Omicron variant. These vaccines, which have been available in Canada since September 2021, are crucial for individuals at high risk for severe health problems from COVID-19.
Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada's chief public health officer, stated that while XBB versions are expected to increase in Canada, it is not known whether they will become the dominant lineage. However, ongoing vaccination efforts and the development of variant-specific vaccines aim to control its spread.
It is essential for Canadians to stay up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, as a "vital health and wellness action". If it has been over 6 months since an individual obtained their last dosage or was infected with COVID-19, it is time to obtain a booster dose.
Quebec has recorded the highest number of deaths due to the pandemic with 17,865, followed by Ontario with 15,786 deaths. As of the latest update, the total number of deaths in Canada has surpassed 50,000, with an additional 222 deaths reported.
While there is no evidence of a sharp rise in cases or increased severity with this or other new variants, nationally, the regular positivity rate is 13.4%. The total number of cases in Canada is not surging currently.
It is important to note that the XBB.1.5 sub-variant of Omicron is predicted to rise to 7% of total cases in Canada this month, up from a 2.5% frequency between December 25 and January 2.
In conclusion, while the XBB.1.5 sub-variant is a significant concern due to its immune evasiveness, ongoing vaccination efforts and the development of variant-specific vaccines aim to control its spread. Canadians are encouraged to stay informed, stay safe, and stay up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations.
Science plays a crucial role in tracking medical-conditions like COVID-19, with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) constantly monitoring new variants such as the XBB.1.5 sub-variant of Omicron. Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations is key to health and wellness, helping individuals at high risk avoid severe health problems from COVID-19.
