Public health is not sounding the alarm regarding the viruses circulating in the region. Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is currently in a good position, having just come out of the holiday season. However, the flu should reach its peak, so to speak, in the coming weeks.
“When we look at the tests carried out for influenza A, as of last week until yesterday, 446 tests were carried out and only 13 of them came back positive. That gives about 3% positivity in the region, which is low, and at the provincial level, we are more like 10%,” first mentions the director of public health in Saguenay-Lac-Saint- Jean, Dr Donald Aubin.
The holiday festivities and gatherings, contrary to what one might believe, have not caused an increase in viruses such as influenza or the flu, but the “peak” will be reached shortly,
“Yes, we see each other more during this period, but there is less contact at work and there is no more contact at school, among the children. On the one hand, things don’t necessarily progress any further because of that,” he explains.
Regional public health also notes a slight drop in the transmission of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Regarding Covid-19, cases remain stable.
“We were higher than Quebec (12%) with 23%, and now we are at 18%. Chances are we’ve already reached our RSV peak. Covid is roughly stable, we are at 11% while the entire province is at 9%,” explains Dr. Aubin, adding that this weaker passage is due to the change in variant which is occurring. is currently performing.
-At this time last year, influenza had a 30% spread rate in the region. The major flu circulation, which will arrive soon, should last 8 to 10 weeks, according to the director.
The mask always recommended
Dr Donald Aubin assures that there is no obligation to wear a mask during illness, but still insists that it is advisable to wear it to avoid infecting a larger number of people. of people.
“We don’t want to give it to others, so wearing a mask in this context is appropriate. We still see several people doing it, in public places, and it’s the right thing to do. However, when there are Covid outbreaks in hospitals, masks become mandatory. »
