This year's dominant flu strain is covered by the shot, says Montreal public health

While the flu is being treated as an epidemic in other parts of Canada this year, that isn't the case in Montreal.

According to Montreal public health officerDr. Rene Par, there havebeen 20outbreaks in the Montreal areasince the start of flu season in September, butthose numbers are normal for this time of year.

The majority of the outbreaks have been at provincially run long-term-care homes, but a few have also been reported at hospitals.

"It's expected during a flu season with the H3N2 strain," said Par, adding that the strainis more aggressive than othersand causes more complications for the elderly.

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The good news is that if you got your flu shot, you should be covered, she said. The H3N2 strain was included in this year's vaccine.

Par said it's not too late to get the flu shot; it's still being offered in clinics.

The flu season should peak around late January or early February, she said. Last year, the flu season was delayed and peaked in late March.

"Each season is different, it never happens at the same time," saidPar.

If you think you've caught the flu, Par recommends taking some precautions:

• Avoid coming in contact with people who could suffer complications from the flu, such as the elderly, babies and people with weakened immune systems.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Stay away from public places where the flu can easily spread.

Last week,Montreal hospitals urged parents to keep kids with flu away from emergency roomsto ease overcrowding.

Anyone with questions about flu symptoms can visit their family doctor, a pharmacistor call Info-Sant at 811.