COVID-19: a persistent threat and current trends in Canada

Tracking COVID-19 surges through wastewater surveillance

One of the primary methods now used to monitor COVID-19 spread in Canada is wastewater surveillance. This approach provides insight into viral activity by detecting the presence of the virus in sewage systems. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, this type of monitoring has proven useful not only for COVID-19 but also for other respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).

Current data indicate that the level of COVID-19 viral activity in Canada is "moderate," with particularly high levels observed in regions such as Nova Scotia, Vancouver, and Toronto. Provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec maintain ongoing wastewater tracking for various cities, allowing for localized assessment of viral trends.

In contrast, Ontario has ceased regular updates on its wastewater surveillance for COVID-19. Instead, the province has shifted focus to a broader respiratory virus tool that tracks various metrics, including test positivity rates, outbreaks, and deaths related to COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. The latest weekly reports from Ontario indicate a "moderate" percent positivity for COVID-19, underscoring the ongoing circulation of the virus.

Assessing the severity of recent COVID-19 waves

Since late 2021, the Omicron variant of COVID-19 has dominated the global landscape, characterized by its rapid spread and numerous sub-lineages. Dr. Bogoch notes that while we remain in what he terms the "Omicron era," the impact of current sub-lineages, such as KP.3, appears less severe than the initial Omicron waves that heavily burdened healthcare systems.

Based on available data, Dr. Bogoch suggests that the effects of these current waves are likely to mirror those of recent surges, albeit with reduced severity. The widespread vaccination coverage in Canada, combined with previous infections and subsequent recoveries, has contributed to a population that is more resilient to the virus. However, this does not mean that the virus should be taken lightly.

"You still have to respect this virus, and it still packs a punch, especially with people who have risk factors for severe illness," Dr. Bogoch warns. Yet, he also acknowledges that the overall impact on Canada's healthcare system is not as profound as it was during the earlier stages of the pandemic.

Maintaining precautions in a post-mandate era

While public health mandates are no longer in place, the principles of infection control remain relevant. Dr. Bogoch emphasizes that voluntary measures, such as wearing masks indoors, continue to be effective strategies for those seeking to minimize their risk of infection.

"We haven't been living in an era of mandates for quite a long time, but the same precautionary measures will work," Dr. Bogoch explains. For any respiratory illness, including COVID-19, staying home from work when feeling unwell and wearing a mask around others can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Dr. Bogoch also points out the importance of not spreading illness to others, regardless of whether the infection is COVID-19, influenza, RSV, or even the common cold. "It's best to be able to stay home and not get anyone else ill," he advises.

Comparing COVID-19 with other respiratory infections

As COVID-19 becomes increasingly grouped with other respiratory illnesses like influenza and RSV, there are both differences and similarities in how these infections are managed and transmitted. Dr. Bogoch observes that this grouping reflects a significant shift from how COVID-19 was treated during the peak of the pandemic.

"I think if we take a step back and look at the 30,000-foot view right now, COVID is currently being treated very similar to other upper respiratory tract infections, whereas two-plus years ago, it was treated very differently," Dr. Bogoch notes. This change highlights the evolving nature of the pandemic and the ongoing adaptation of public health strategies to the current situation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has transitioned into a phase where the virus coexists with other respiratory infections, yet its presence remains significant. Through methods like wastewater surveillance and continued adherence to basic precautionary measures, Canadians can stay informed and protect themselves. The experiences of the past few years have equipped the population and healthcare systems with the tools and knowledge to manage this ongoing public health challenge.

source: CTV NEWS