The Department of Health confirms that Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)—a respiratory virus that is most common in children but can also affect adults—is being reported at “above-expected levels” for this time of year.
Reports indicate that children are showing up at the Janeway Hospital in high numbers suffering with cold-like symptoms like fever, cough, and sore throat.
The department says since last August there have been 44 RSV detections in Newfoundland and Labrador, much higher for this time of year than any of the previous five seasons.
(Photo via Government of Canada: Number of positive respiratory virus tests reported by participating laboratories in Canada by surveillance week.)
Similar surges in respiratory illness are being seen across the country. Data from the Public Health Agency of Canada shows big increases in RSV and influenza in the week ending October 29.
The Department of Health says the number of tests conducted for RSV is three to five times higher compared to the three seasons prior to the onset of the pandemic, so while there is increased activity, more testing is also occurring.
