Nova Scotia RSV Deaths Rise, Flu & COVID Cases Decline

Nova Scotia is now tracking severe outcomes from respiratory illnesses, including 17 deaths attributed to RSV this season. This detailed tracking, particularly for RSV, began with the implementation of immunization programs for infants under eight months and individuals over 75. The goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of these vaccination efforts by monitoring hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and fatalities.

While officials cannot directly compare RSV deaths to previous years, they observe a general decrease in severe respiratory illness impact. The current season has seen 72 flu deaths and 70 COVID-19 deaths. This contrasts sharply with the previous year, which recorded approximately twice as many fatalities for both illnesses, with 136 flu deaths and 123 COVID-19 deaths. Health officials encourage preventative measures such as handwashing, staying home when sick, and vaccination to protect vulnerable populations.

Despite a slight early winter spike in flu cases, the overall respiratory season has been less severe. Dr. Jesse Kancir, Nova Scotia's deputy chief medical officer of health, emphasizes the importance of vaccination not only for individual protection but also for community well-being, thereby safeguarding infants and seniors. Further data on the upcoming respiratory season will be available later.