For the first time in weeks, the number of lab-confirmed influenza cases in the province have dropped, but hospitalizations and deaths have increased.

The latest Influenza dashboard, updated on Friday, shows that the number of lab-confirmed cases of the illness dropped to 185 from 219 the week before.

However the number of hospitalizations rose to 70 from 58 the week before, and the number of deaths rose from 5 in the previous week to 7.

Seven of the 70 people in hospital with influenza are in critical care as of the most recent reporting period.

In efforts to prevent the spread of illness, NL Health Services has extended mandatory masking in all facilities until April 14. The mandate, which has been in place since October, will be reevaluated at that time.