Montreal doctor says flu season is in full swing

A doctor at the Montreal Children’s Hospital says flu season has come early and is hitting hard.

Director of the infectious disease division Dr. Earl Rubin says the illness is spreading quickly — reported cases are doubling every week. He says cases are typically underreported.

And it’s not just at the Children’s Hospital, he says.

He adds there is a predominant strain this year that is likely to mutate, possibly leading to more cases and more severe disease.

Rubin suggests avoiding gatherings if possible when showing symptoms.

“It’s hitting right around the time of these holiday gatherings,” Rubin told CTV News. “If there are people who are susceptible to complications of flu, who especially have not been vaccinated, it may be best to stay away.”

Flu symptoms include high fever lasting up to five days, muscle pain, congestion, coughing, malaise and headaches.

To avoid getting seriously sick, Rubin recommends getting a shot.

To prevent spread, the doctor suggests coughing into your elbow, washing your hands, not sharing napkins and even wearing a mask if symptomatic.

With files from CTV News Montreal’s Olivia O’Malley