What would the effect of pandemic influenza be in Alberta?
Experts believe a pandemic influenza virus could reach Canada within three months after showing up elsewhere in the world. It would have its greatest effect on Canadians within five to seven months. The impact of pandemic influenza is unpredictable in timing, severity of illness and age groups primarily affected. The estimated effect in Alberta for a moderate pandemic compared to a non-pandemic year is: • Four times as many outpatient visits due to influenza; • Four times as many hospitalizations due to influenza; and • Eight times as many deaths due to influenza. Public services such as schools could be affected. Employee absences could make it difficult for businesses or government to operate.
