178 words / 1 min read 

Influenza season has strained emergency departments nationwide, adding pressure to already stretched hospital capacity. 

What’s happening: 

• Nationally: Flu test positivity peaked at 33.3% in the week ending Dec. 27, 2025, the highest level in three seasons. Positivity eased to 27.1% by Jan. 3, per federal surveillance data. 

• Geographically: Widespread influenza activity has been reported in B.C., Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and P.E.I., contributing to ED overcrowding across multiple regions. 

📉 Other provinces at/​over peak: Alberta appears to be past the worst of an early, severe influenza A (H3N2) wave, with hospitalizations declining from a late-December peak. Meanwhile, Ontario reports flu activity has decreased for two consecutive weeks after peaking mid-December. 

📍Manitoba focus: Based on the latest public health reporting to January 3, Manitoba’s situation appears to be improving after hitting a peak over the holiday season, including reported influenza and COVID cases, respiratory-related ED visits and hospital admissions. 

• It’s still important to offer COVID and Influenza vaccines to your patients. 

• Find more including key resources to help you in your practice at the Doctors Manitoba Vaccine Program Updates page.