Hospitals in Niagara seeing 'alarming spike' in flu cases, urge people to get vaccinated

Hospitals in the Niagara region are seeing an alarming spike in flu cases, with a growing number of patients requiring hospitalization — including several in intensive care, according to Niagara Health.

This is the worst flu season region has seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic, says Dr. Karim Ali

Desmond Brown · CBC News · Posted: Feb 10, 2025 1:05 PM EST | Last Updated: February 10

A doctor examines a patient with a stethoscope. — Niagara Health says seven patients are currently being treated in intensive care, with dozens more admitted to hospital for flu-related complications. (Thomas Kienzle/The Canadian Press)

Hospitals in the Niagara region are seeing an "alarming spike" in flu cases, with a growing number of patients requiring hospitalization — including several in the intensive care unit (ICU), according to Niagara Health.

As of Monday, Niagara Health has 41 influenza cases in hospital with seven in ICU. On Friday, those numbers were 32 flu cases in hospital and five in ICU.

Dr. Karim Ali said this is the worst flu season the region has seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and he's urging people to get their flu shot.

"We are seeing high numbers of flu cases in our hospitals, and people are getting very sick," Ali said in a news release on Monday.

Ali is the medical director of Infection, Prevention and Control with Niagara Health, and the head of service for infectious diseases.

"Flu is not just a seasonal nuisance — it can lead to serious complications, and this year is proving that.

"I want to urge people to take flu season seriously and get vaccinated, as this year's flu shot appears to be highly effective in preventing severe illness," Ali added.

Several patients being treated in intensive care

Several patients are currently being treated in intensive care, with more admitted to hospital for flu-related complications, the release said.

Ali said this should serve as a reminder that influenza is not just a bad cold — it can be life-threatening, especially for seniors, young children and those with underlying health conditions.

The influenza virus, as seen under an electron microscope. (U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases)

Dr. Azim Kasmani, Niagara Region's Medical Officer of Health, said while the season is underway, it's never too late to get vaccinated.

"With flu season in full swing, it's important to remember that the flu vaccine is an effective tool in protecting yourself and others against the current strain," Kasmani said.

"The flu shot continues to be the best way to prevent the flu and reduce the risk of severe illness and complications."

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Kasmani added that by layering protection through vaccination, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and staying home when sick, people not only protect themselves but also those at higher risk of severe outcomes, such as hospitalization or even death, from getting infected.

Hospitals brace for more cases

Meanwhile, Ali said hospitals are bracing for more cases in the weeks ahead, and he hopes people take the necessary steps to stay healthy.

"We want people to protect themselves," he said.

Niagara Health is reminding residents that flu shots are available across the region at pharmacies, through family doctors, or at walk-in clinics. Many local pharmacies offer flu vaccinations, often with walk-in or appointment options.