The health authorities in Ottawa reported that wastewater data indicated high levels of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), in addition to COVID-19. While the activity of influenza and other respiratory viruses has stabilized this week compared to last week, COVID-19 activity has increased.

The Public Health Agency in the city of Ottawa also reported an increase in COVID-19 cases last week.

Wastewater data in the city showed that the presence of COVID-19 is 10 times higher than it was in December 2021, before the arrival of the Omicron variant. However, the major difference compared to the pandemic situation at the same time last year "lies in the amount of care."

Also, epidemiologist and assistant professor at the University of Ottawa Dr. Riyad Dionandan added: "People are less worried about this holiday season than they were last year," adding: "There is hardly any concern this season. However, the situation in hospitals is worse. I think people should be more cautious because care might not be available if needed."

To make matters worse, there is the spread of respiratory viruses, which will increase pressure on the healthcare system on the eve of the holiday season in the country.

In the same context, Professor Dionandan believes that the sudden rise in COVID-19 cases is likely in January next year. It is also likely that infection cases will increase with the return of indoor gatherings in winter.

Meanwhile, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kieran Moore expects an increase in COVID-19 cases next month after the Christmas holiday ends.

Professor Dionandan encourages taking measures to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, which can be transmitted to people with weaker immunity, whether younger or older. Note that the holiday period is usually a time for gathering and meeting, thus facilitating the transmission of respiratory viruses and other infectious diseases.

Dionandan advises wearing protective masks in indoor places and ensuring good ventilation in venues where gatherings will take place. He also explains that the new COVID-19 vaccine booster doses still prove effective in reducing the risk of infection transmission for some time, which is important as people gather in large numbers in the coming weeks.

The spokesperson criticized government messages telling citizens: "Live your life normally if you have been vaccinated," describing them as lenient. In his opinion, real concerns felt by many people about COVID-19 and the risk of reinfection with this pandemic are being ignored.

Additionally, the epidemiologist points out that researchers are studying the possibility of immune damage from repeated infections, saying: "This may mean reducing your ability to fight future infections with different diseases, not just COVID-19," according to his expression.