Children’s Hospitals Week (CHW) is a signature event held annually to celebrate the power of our network and the impact we’re making on children’s healthcare—all made possible by supporters like you.
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Despite the fact that we’re entering into a new decade, challenges from the past have not disappeared.
For instance, the common flu is a problem children’s hospitals deal with every year, and this season has been particularly challenging for Canadians. Prepare for battle, because influenza B has taken us by storm.
Children are the primary target of this aggressive case of influenza that has launched 2020 into a state of distress. 59 per cent of influenza B cases affect people under the age of 20, and its impact can already be seen across Canada in our children’s hospitals.
A report from FluWatch, Canada’s public health agency, has documented 258 cases of flu-related hospitalization of children from mid-December 2019 to early January 2020.
The effects of this growing health challenge are being felt at our hospitals. For example, as of January 14, 2020, CHEO reported more than 65 cases of influenza B. Compared to only three cases at the same time last year, there’s no telling how many more will be affected.
As Canada’s children’s hospitals make huge strides in health care for kids, and ultimately Canada as a whole, we still have a lot of work to do. Together, our foundations and our partners will continue to fight for support and funding for research, facilities, treatments, and more. We’re inspired, passionate and prepared. Because if we can change the health of children, we can change the health of Canada.
If you suspect that a child in your family has the flu, learn when to seek medical attention with this helpful video from CHEO: https://youtu.be/QBXjoVrDHCU
