Local paediatrician warns of incoming flu surge for Northern BC kids

Jan 3, 2023 | 6:43 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Just as thousands of children head back to the classroom, a local paediatrician is warning that another flu surge could be on the way.

Dr. Kirsten Miller, a local paediatrician said although things have seemed to quiet down locally, she is worried a return to the classroom post-Christmas break could mean more kids falling ill.

“We know that the children sick enough to be admitted, are not vaccinated,” said Dr. Miller. “We’re seeing kids that are ten, 11, 12, even teenagers that are critically ill from influenza-related health problems.”

Comparatively, this year Dr. Miller said the cases are more serious than she has seen with a number of children having severe trouble breathing. At times in late 2022, the sheer amount of cases she claims stretched the capacity in the pediatric unit at the University Hospital of Northern BC to the limit.

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Statistics as of December 12 show less than 10% of children under 18 years old in the Northern Health region have been immunized against the flu.

Dr. Miller is asking all parents to get the shot, and have their kids receive it as well in order to prevent more serious cases.

You can view the Northern Health clinics to receive your flu shot here.

by Caden Fanshaw

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Local paediatrician warns of incoming flu surge for Northern BC kids

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