He mentioned that the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which mainly affects young children, had already peaked a few days ago, and that its circulation is decreasing. The effect of that slowdown should be reflected in pediatric care units in the coming weeks. On the other side, the influenza’s peak has still not arrived.

“It’s a virus in strong progression,” Boileau said. “All indicators of the flu season started much faster than usual. There’s high activity, and it’s on its way to even higher.”

He added that December is likely to be tough on that side, and he expects a peak by the end of 2022.

It’s a similar case for the COVID-19 situation, which is gaining momentum again in Quebec. That is largely due to the increased presence of the BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 variants, which have become the dominant strains in the province.

No Measure for Now

Despite the difficult month that awaits Quebecers, Boileau confirmed he will not issue new recommendations for health measures.

He still invites all citizens to get a dose of vaccine against the various viruses, including the influenza, which was made available free of charge to the entire population a little over a week ago.

That’s particularly recommended for people aged 60 and over, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, and parents of children under six months.

Among the other possible actions, Boileau noted the fact of staying at home when flu symptoms are appearing, wearing a mask in busy environments, and limiting the exposure of young children by reducing outings and visits.

As for the mask in schools, he doesn’t believe it’s necessary to force everyone to wear it. However, he recommends it for all those wishing to do so, as well as students and staff members with symptoms, such as a sore throat or cough.

translated by Alec Brideau

L’article Influenza and COVID-19: Possible Peak in December est apparu en premier sur Courrier Laval news.

It’s the best seasonal performance of Laval’s team since its debut in the K9 Frisbee Toss & Fetch circuit, which regroups nearly 130 teams from around twenty countries.

“The team really evolved a lot in three years,” said Nathalie Magnan founding member of Laval’s club. It’s been very good this season, and some talented rookies have joined us. Our ranking is the best in Quebec and Canada. Only four teams from the United States moved past us.”

At Toss & Fetch, players have 2 rounds of 60 seconds to throw as many frisbees as possible to their dog. The farther the object is caught, the more points the team gets.

Results obtained are sent to the league organizers, who then establish the weekly ranking, and determine the winners at the end of the fifth week of competition.

Participants

In the spring of 2022, Laval’s team had members, which represents an increase of 10 compared to the summer of 2020. People participating are aged from 12 to 87. They’re given a disability, as in golf, to avoid being discouraged when they’re starting.

“There are many grandparents coming with their family,” specifies Magnan. “There are even players from elsewhere who are coming to play with us.”

According to the team’s founder, Anne-Marie Gauvin and her dog Zoé are one of the pairs that stood out last season. They joined the team in the winter, and have already been moved up an individual category due to their good performance.

Goals

The Toss & Fetch summer season kicked off in June. Laval residents hope to have as good a season as the previous one.

“I’m expecting a similar ranking,” said Magnan. “Montreal’s team, which didn’t play last season, will be back. They’re matching us, and I think it will be a great rivalry.”

Laval’s squad also has her sights set on the Worldwide Championship, which will be competed over a single day next September. Expectations will be high in an attempt to bring home a first world title.

translated by Alec Brideau

L’article Laval Fifth in the World in Toss & Fetch est apparu en premier sur Courrier Laval news.