Many Canadians have already suffered from a cold or flu and peak season hasn't even arrived yet.
Influenza activity is higher than normal for this time of year, says Health Canada.
To date this season, there have been 1,850 influenza-associated hospitalizations and 54 deaths have been reported.
What makes this season especially rare is that two strains have arrived at the same time and are making their rounds: H3N2 and a B strain.
The more common B strain often hits seniors, children and individuals with a weakened immune system. It has started circulating earlier this year, as it usually starts at the beginning of February.
Meanwhile the H3N2 strain is particularly severe, as this year's flu shot is only seeing about 10% effectiveness in fighting H3N2.
The H3N2 Flu is a subtype of influenza A. This type of strain has been known to be particularly severe according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Symptoms include:
Body aches
Fever
Headache
Sore Throat
Cough
Exhaustion
Vomiting and Diarrhea
However, health care professionals still recommend getting the shot due to multiple strains of viruses circulating.
In the first week of January, 1,406 Canadians reported influenza-like symptoms and 148 outbreaks were reported.
There are still eight to 10 weeks left of the season.
Both Interior Health and the Fraser Health Authority are already operating at overcapacity.
Here are few general tips on how to avoid the flu:
Get the flu shot
Wash your hands frequently
Get plenty of rest
Stay home if you're sick
