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H3N2 Influenza Drives Rising Hospitalizations Across Canada

Flu Cases Surge Across Canada as Hospitalizations Expected to Rise

Canada — Health officials warn that influenza activity is rising sharply, and hospitalizations are expected to surge in the coming weeks.
New data shows flu cases across the country continue to climb as the winter season deepens.

Nationwide flu tests have returned positive at increasing rates. About 28 per cent of tests now show influenza, up from last week’s figures.

Public health experts urge Canadians to get vaccinated as soon as possible. They say flu vaccines remain a key tool to reduce severe illness and hospital visits.

Rising Flu Cases and Hospital Pressure

Public health reporting shows thousands of confirmed influenza cases in recent weeks.
In Ontario alone, around 5,400 flu cases were reported for the week ending December 13.

Hospitalizations related to flu have nearly doubled in just one week.
Ontario reported just under 1,000 flu‑linked hospital stays, more than 400 more than the previous period.

Three children in the Ottawa area have died from complications related to influenza.
Health officials stress that young children and older adults face higher risk.

Emergency departments, especially pediatric units, are seeing heavier patient volumes.
One hospital reported a 50 per cent increase in emergency visits for respiratory illness.

H3N2 Strain Driving Severe Season

Health Canada notes that the H3N2 strain is dominant this season.
This strain often leads to more hospitalizations compared with other flu types.

Children and seniors are being hit particularly hard.
Most new infections occur in people under age 19, with children under five especially vulnerable.

Experts say this year’s H3N2 virus spreads rapidly, contributing to rising case and hospitalization numbers.
They emphasize that flu symptoms can range from mild to severe, and complications can be life‑threatening.

Advice for Canadians

Public health officials recommend everyone six months and older get a flu shot.
Vaccination can reduce severe illness and hospital stays even if it does not prevent all infections.

Other recommended protections include frequent hand washing and staying home when sick.
People with symptoms should avoid close contact with others to limit spread.

Experts urge people to follow guidance from local health authorities.
Staying informed can help residents take timely precautions throughout the peak flu season.

 

Failed Bombs and Mass Shooting at Bondi Beach Push Australia to Tighten Gun Laws

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Bondi Beach Attack Sparks Calls for Tougher Gun Laws in Australia

Australia — A deadly mass shooting at a Jewish Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, has shocked the nation.
Fifteen people were killed, and dozens were injured, prompting urgent calls for stricter gun laws and anti-antisemitism measures.

Failed Bombs and Planning

Court documents reveal the attackers also tried to throw homemade pipe and tennis ball bombs at the crowd, but they failed to detonate.
Police said the alleged gunmen had planned the attack for several months, scouting Bondi Beach two days earlier.

Photographs in the police report show father and son training with firearms in a remote rural area of New South Wales, which includes Sydney.

The Alleged Gunmen

The alleged attackers are Sajid Akram, 50, who was killed by police, and his son Naveed Akram, 24.
Sajid reportedly owned six firearms, while Naveed faces 59 charges, including murder and terrorism.

Authorities described the attack as meticulously planned.
The revelation of reconnaissance visits and firearm training has fueled public concern over gun access and security gaps.

Calls for Stricter Gun Laws

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and state leaders have said the attack underscores the need for tougher firearm regulations.
Officials are considering stricter licensing, national gun buyback programs, and tighter limits on firearm ownership.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns pledged to recall the state parliament to fast-track reforms.
Proposed measures include enhanced background checks and requirements that gun owners be Australian citizens.

Community Reaction

Thousands gathered at Bondi Beach to mourn victims and condemn antisemitism.
Citizens expressed outrage and called for immediate measures to prevent similar attacks.

The tragedy has sparked debate between advocates for stricter gun control and those concerned about overreach.
Experts emphasize that law enforcement, community education, and surveillance must complement legal reforms.

Looking Ahead

Australia is expected to introduce some of its toughest gun control laws in decades.
Officials aim to balance public safety, reduce antisemitic threats, and limit access to dangerous weapons.

 

Canada Spent $78M on Deportations as Removals Hit Decade High

Canada Spends Millions on Deportations as Removals Reach Highest Levels in Years

Canada — The federal government spent tens of millions of dollars on deportations in 2024 as removal numbers rose sharply.
Ottawa spent about $78 million to deport roughly 18,000 people, the highest total in over a decade, surpassing levels last seen under former prime minister Stephen Harper.

The costs include flights, border services operations, and enforcement activities.
Officials and advocates say the rising expenditure and deportation pace reflect growing pressure on Canada’s immigration system.

Record Deportation Numbers

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) detained and removed large numbers of foreign nationals in 2024.
By late 2024, data showed deportations reached levels not seen in nearly a decade.

In 2024, about 18,000 people were removed from Canada, a figure comparable to the peak under the Harper government.
This spike follows increased enforcement and faster removal processing, especially for failed refugee claimants.

Advocates note that most removals involve individuals whose refugee applications were denied.
Around 7,300 deportations in 2024 were linked to rejected asylum claims.

Who Is Being Removed

Many deportees include people whose claims for refugee protection were unsuccessful.
About four in five removals in recent reporting were for this reason.

Others face removal for non‑compliance with immigration rules, such as overstaying a visa or working without authorization.
Criminal convictions also account for a smaller share of removals.

Immigration advocates argue that some people face deportation before they finish appeal processes.
Critics say this raises concerns about fairness and the risk of returning individuals to unsafe situations.

Government Rationale and Costs

Officials say deportations uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the CBSA must remove those without legal status.

Supporters of enforcement say removals deter illegal stays and protect jobs and public services.
However, migrant groups contend that high costs divert funds from integration and support programs.

The growing deportation budget reflects a broader shift toward enforcement in recent years.
As Ottawa adjusts immigration targets and strengthens border policies, deportation spending may remain high.

 

White Christmas Unlikely for Much of Canada This Year

White Christmas Unlikely in Many Parts of Canada, Forecast Shows

Many Canadians dreaming of a snowy Christmas may feel disappointed this year.
Weather experts say a traditional white Christmas looks unlikely across several regions.

A white Christmas requires at least two centimetres of snow on the ground by December 25.
Current forecasts suggest warmer air will reduce snowfall in many populated areas.

Mild Temperatures Affect Holiday Weather

Meteorologists report above-seasonal temperatures in parts of southern Canada.
Warm air is moving northward as Christmas approaches.

This shift increases the chance of rain instead of snow.
Existing snow may melt before Christmas Day in some regions.

Weather experts say December has shown frequent temperature swings.
These changes make snowfall predictions more uncertain.

Cities With Low Snow Chances

Southern Ontario faces lower odds for snow on Christmas Day.
Cities like Toronto, Hamilton, Windsor, and Kingston may not see enough accumulation.

Coastal British Columbia also shows weak snow potential.
Vancouver and Victoria typically receive rain during mild winters.

Atlantic Canada may experience mixed precipitation.
Rain and slush could replace snowfall in parts of the Maritimes.

Regions Where Snow Remains Likely

Northern and Prairie regions still have better snow prospects.
Winnipeg, Regina, and Saskatoon already hold snow on the ground.

Cold temperatures may help preserve snow cover until Christmas.
These areas often experience stable winter conditions.

Northern Ontario also shows higher snow chances.
Cities like Thunder Bay and Timmins usually maintain winter snowfall.

Parts of Quebec and eastern Ontario may see late snowfall.
Light snow systems could arrive before the holiday.

Forecasts May Still Change

Meteorologists say weather patterns can shift quickly.
A late storm could still surprise some areas.

Experts advise Canadians to monitor daily updates.
Even snowfall may not meet official white Christmas standards.

 

Canada Moves to Block Carousel Schemes With New Tax Rules

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Canada’s Federal Budget Targets Tax Fraud Linked to Carousel Schemes

Canada — The federal government is strengthening its fight against tax fraud through new measures announced in Budget 2025.
A major focus involves cracking down on sophisticated GST and HST fraud known as carousel schemes.

Officials say these schemes cost the government millions in lost revenue each year.
They also undermine trust in Canada’s tax system and harm honest businesses.

The budget introduces new tools designed to close loopholes that criminals often exploit.
The goal is to stop fraudulent refunds before they leave government accounts.

How Carousel Schemes Work

Carousel schemes involve a network of companies trading goods or services.
Some businesses in the chain appear legitimate but exist only on paper.

One company collects GST or HST from buyers.
However, that company never sends the tax to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Meanwhile, another company in the chain claims tax credits for amounts never paid.
This allows fraudsters to profit while leaving the government with losses.

Authorities say these schemes often operate across borders.
They can also involve digital services and telecommunications.

Reverse Charge Mechanism Introduced

Budget 2025 proposes a reverse charge mechanism to stop this fraud.
Under this system, buyers become responsible for reporting and remitting the tax.

This change removes the incentive for missing traders to disappear.
Fraudsters can no longer collect tax and vanish without paying it.

The proposal applies to certain high-risk transactions.
Telecommunication services feature prominently in the initial rollout.

Eligible buyers will calculate the GST or HST themselves.
They will report it directly on their tax return.

If allowed, buyers can still claim an input tax credit.
This preserves fairness for legitimate businesses.

Consultation and Implementation Timeline

The government plans to consult with industry before finalizing the rules.
Officials want feedback from businesses and tax professionals.

The consultation period runs into early 2026.
Final regulations will follow after industry input.

The government says it will monitor the system closely.
Further expansions may target other sectors vulnerable to fraud.

Broader Push for Tax Fairness

The anti-fraud measures form part of a wider budget strategy.
Ottawa aims to protect public revenue and promote fair competition.

Officials say tax evasion shifts costs onto ordinary Canadians.
Strong enforcement helps fund health care and public services.

The government also plans increased cooperation with international partners.
Information sharing will help track complex fraud networks.

Why It Matters to Canadians

Stopping carousel schemes protects taxpayer money.
It also ensures honest businesses do not face unfair competition.

Experts say prevention works better than recovery.
Once funds disappear, recovery becomes difficult.

By closing loopholes, Canada aims to modernize tax enforcement.
The budget signals a tougher stance on financial crime.

 

Retailers Alert Shoppers to Surge in Realistic Counterfeit Cash

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Retail Council Warns Canadians About Highly Convincing Fake Bills

Canada — The Retail Council of Canada is warning consumers and businesses about a surge in highly convincing counterfeit bills.
The alert comes during the busy holiday shopping season, when cash use increases across the country.

Retail groups report a sharp rise in fake bills appearing in stores.
In some cases, retailers have seen more counterfeit notes in one month than all of last year.

The counterfeit bills reportedly include $20, $50, and $100 denominations.
Officials say the bills look so real that many people cannot spot them easily.

Why the Fake Bills Are Hard to Detect

According to retail experts, counterfeiters have improved their techniques.
The fake notes closely resemble genuine Canadian currency.

Many of the bills include convincing holograms and detailed printing.
Some cashiers only discover the fakes after the money reaches counting machines.

Retail Council officials say even experienced staff can struggle.
The quality of the counterfeit bills makes quick detection difficult.

Holiday Shopping Creates Opportunity for Fraud

The holiday season creates ideal conditions for counterfeit circulation.
Busy stores and long checkout lines reduce time for careful inspection.

Retailers often hire seasonal workers who may lack cash-handling experience.
This increases the risk of fake bills passing through unnoticed.

Experts say criminals exploit high traffic and rushed transactions.
They believe organized groups may be responsible for the surge.

Advice for Shoppers and Retailers

Retailers are urging staff to check key security features on every bill.
Raised ink, clear windows, and textured details help identify real currency.

Consumers should also remain cautious when receiving cash.
Using debit or contactless payments can reduce risk.

Anyone who suspects fake money should report it to a bank or police.
Passing counterfeit bills is a serious criminal offence in Canada.

Authorities Call for Stronger Action

Industry leaders want stronger enforcement and public awareness.
They say better training and police support could limit future losses.

The Retail Council encourages information sharing between businesses.
Early reporting helps prevent further spread of counterfeit cash.

Front-Yard ‘Letters to Santa’ Mailbox Draws Hundreds in Ontario

Homeowner Creates Front-Yard ‘Letters to Santa’ Mailbox That Draws Hundreds of Notes

Canada — A homeowner in Ontario has created a festive tradition by placing a special “Letters to Santa” mailbox in her front yard.
The idea has captured the community’s heart and drawn hundreds of holiday notes from children this season.

Melanie Provis placed the bright mailbox on her lawn early in December.
She wanted to give local children a fun way to send their Christmas wishes to Santa.

Since then, the mailbox has filled with about 200 letters addressed to Santa.
Provis and her family have responded to many of those letters with handwritten replies.

Spreading Holiday Cheer

Provis says seeing children’s enthusiasm inspired her to take part in the tradition.
Kids from across the neighbourhood eagerly drop off their lists and seasonal greetings.

Parents and neighbours have praised the mailbox initiative.
Many say it brings joy and excitement during the busy holiday season.

Some letters include drawings, questions for Santa, and lists of gift wishes.
Provis reads each letter carefully before preparing a personalized response.

She says writing back has become a joyful family activity.
The responses often include warm holiday wishes and messages of encouragement.

A Community Tradition Takes Root

The idea has sparked curiosity among neighbours and passersby.
Many have stopped to ask about the mailbox and share their own holiday stories.

Provis hopes the tradition will continue for years.
She says it helps keep alive the magic and wonder of the season for children.

The front-yard mailbox has also drawn attention online and in local social groups.
People have shared photos and stories of children happily posting their letters.

Some neighbours say the mailbox has strengthened community bonds.
Families now plan walks past the house just to see if Santa has “sent” any replies.

Keeping Holiday Magic Alive

Provis says the best part is seeing children’s smiles.
She believes small traditions like this help create lasting memories.

Her mailbox has become a symbol of kindness and holiday spirit.
And for many families, it adds a special touch to the festive season.

 

Christmas Travel Delays Spread Across Canada During Holiday Rush

Christmas Travel Delays Hit Canada as Holiday Rush Peaks

Canada — Christmas travel is becoming challenging across Canada as the holiday rush intensifies.
Airports, highways, and border crossings are experiencing heavy congestion nationwide.

Major airports including Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa are handling extremely high passenger volumes.
Most flights are operating near full capacity as families travel between December 21 and December 23.

Airports and Highways Under Pressure

Airport officials report longer security lines and crowded terminals.
Screening checkpoints are taking more time due to increased passenger flow.

Holiday demand has pushed airlines to maximum schedules.
Even minor delays are causing ripple effects across flight networks.

Meanwhile, highways across several provinces are seeing heavy traffic.
Drivers are facing slower travel times on major intercity routes.

Authorities urge motorists to expect congestion during peak hours.
Travel delays are likely to continue through Christmas Eve.

Winter Weather Complicates Travel Plans

Winter conditions are adding pressure to holiday travel.
Snow, freezing rain, and gusty winds are affecting multiple regions.

Some areas are experiencing icy roads and reduced visibility.
These conditions are slowing traffic and increasing accident risks.

Air travel is also vulnerable to winter disruptions.
Weather delays in one city can affect flights nationwide.

Officials warn travellers to prepare for schedule changes.
Checking forecasts before departure remains essential.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Travel officials recommend arriving early at airports.
Passengers should closely monitor flight updates and notifications.

Drivers should allow extra travel time and drive cautiously.
Winter tires and emergency supplies remain strongly advised.

Travellers should stay flexible with plans when possible.
Backup arrangements can reduce stress during unexpected delays.

Planning ahead can help ensure safer and smoother travel.
Patience remains key during Canada’s busiest travel period.

 

Snow Forecast: Which Parts of Canada Could See a White Christmas


Canada
— As Christmas approaches, many Canadians are watching the weather for snow and a “white Christmas.”
A white Christmas means at least 2 centimetres of snow must be on the ground on December 25.

Early forecasts indicate a major winter weather system could influence snow chances nationwide.
This storm may determine whether snow remains on the ground on Christmas morning.

Snow Coverage Expected in Many Regions

Several parts of Canada have already seen snow this December.
Cold Arctic air has brought snow and below‑normal temperatures to large areas.

Western and central Canada, including the Prairies and much of interior British Columbia, already have substantial snow cover.
That increases the likelihood of snow still being present on Christmas morning.

Northern and interior regions like Yellowknife and Whitehorse typically see consistent snow by late December.
These areas almost always have a white Christmas due to their cold climates and early snowpack.

Varied Chances Across the Country

Not all regions have the same odds.
Southern coastal cities like Vancouver and Victoria have low chances due to milder winter conditions.

In contrast, cities like Winnipeg, Iqaluit, and Timmins often see snow cover by December 25.
Historical data shows these places have high probabilities of white Christmas mornings.

Southern Ontario and parts of Quebec could go either way.
Recent warm spells may reduce snow cover in some southern areas.

Storm Could Tip the Scales

Meteorologists say the next big winter storm may be key to Christmas snow.
If it brings additional snow and cold air, many regions may hold onto snow into the holiday week.

Without fresh snow or sustained cold, some southern areas may see slushy or green conditions instead.
That could leave parts of southern Canada without a traditional white Christmas.

Looking Ahead

Weather patterns can still change in the days before Christmas.
Experts recommend watching forecasts closely as the holiday approaches.

A white Christmas remains possible for much of Canada, especially in the north and interior.
However, chances vary widely depending on local conditions and new weather systems.

 

Bystander Killed in Toronto Shooting: Suspect Found Guilty

Toronto Man Found Guilty in Fatal Shooting Near Supervised Consumption Site

Toronto, Ont. — A man has been convicted of second‑degree murder in a deadly Toronto shooting.
The verdict stems from a 2023 incident that drew attention to supervised consumption sites.

A jury delivered the guilty verdict on December 19, 2025 in an Ontario court after hearing evidence over several days.
The decision brings closure to a high‑profile case that shocked the local community.

Details of the Fatal Shooting

The defendant, Damian Hudson, was charged after a stray bullet struck a bystander during a violent confrontation.
The victim, 44‑year‑old Karolina Huebner‑Makurat, was standing near a supervised consumption site in Leslieville when she died.

Police say the shooting happened in July 2023 during a fight involving multiple people.
Hudson fired a gun in the dispute, and the bullet traveled beyond the main altercation.

Huebner‑Makurat was not involved in the conflict but was hit by the stray round.
She died from her injuries shortly after the shooting.

Court Proceedings and Verdict

Hudson maintained a plea of not guilty throughout the trial.
However, the jury concluded that he was criminally responsible for the fatal shot.

Second‑degree murder carries an automatic life sentence.
Under Canadian law, Hudson will face a prison term with no chance of parole for at least 10 years.

The jury’s decision followed careful review of witness testimony and case evidence.
Prosecutors argued that Hudson’s actions showed a reckless disregard for human life.

Defence lawyers emphasized the chaotic nature of the incident.
They argued Hudson did not intend to kill an innocent bystander.

Community Impact and Legal Significance

The case renewed discussion about violence near supervised consumption sites.
Some local leaders and residents called for renewed safety measures following the verdict.

Officials say this conviction affirms that bystanders deserve protection from gun violence.
Public safety advocates hope the outcome will encourage broader community enforcement efforts.

The verdict also highlights ongoing concerns about violence linked to illicit drug activity.
Authorities continue to balance harm‑reduction services with community safety priorities.

 

Unlicensed Woman Accused of Practising Massage Therapy Using Stolen Identity

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Toronto police are investigating a disturbing case involving the alleged impersonation of a registered massage therapist. Authorities say a woman practised massage therapy under another professional’s identity for several months at downtown Toronto spas.

The registered therapist involved says she discovered the issue after noticing irregularities tied to her credentials. The situation raised immediate concerns about patient safety and professional accountability within regulated health services.

Allegations and Police Investigation

According to police, the suspect worked at two Toronto locations earlier this year. She allegedly used the legitimate therapist’s registration details while treating clients. Investigators believe she collected payments and submitted insurance claims using false information.

Spa operators reportedly became suspicious after spotting inconsistencies in bookings and documentation. They contacted authorities and Ontario’s massage therapy regulator once concerns escalated.

Charges and Ongoing Search

Police have laid multiple charges against the suspect, including identity theft, fraud, and practising a regulated profession without proper licensing. Officers say the woman remains at large and are asking the public for help locating her.

Investigators continue to review records and encourage anyone who received treatment from the suspect to come forward. Officials stress that reporting helps protect others and supports the investigation.

Why Credential Verification Matters

Registered Massage Therapists in Ontario must meet strict education, training, and licensing requirements. Regulators say this ensures safe treatment and professional accountability. Practising without a licence can put clients at risk of physical harm and financial fraud.

Health officials advise clients to verify practitioner credentials before receiving treatment. Checking registration details can help prevent similar situations and ensure proper care.

Looking Ahead

The case has sparked renewed attention on credential checks within the wellness industry. Authorities hope increased awareness will encourage both businesses and clients to confirm professional qualifications.

As the investigation continues, officials remind the public that regulated health care relies on trust, transparency, and proper oversight.

 

Packaged Salads Recalled in Western Canada Over Health Risk

Certain Salads Recalled in Western Canada Over Listeria Risk

Health officials have recalled specific salad products sold in Western Canada due to possible Listeria contamination. The recall affects multiple brands and varieties sold in grocery stores across the region. Officials urge consumers to check their refrigerators and throw out affected products immediately.

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness. It can be especially dangerous for pregnant people, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Products and Locations Affected

The recalled salads include prepackaged blends with leafy greens and mixed ingredients. They were sold in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon and Northwest Territories.

The recall covers products with certain best-before dates. Consumers should not eat, serve, or sell any affected packages. Store staff must immediately remove the products from shelves to protect public safety.

Health Risks and Symptoms to Watch For

Officials warn that Listeria infection can lead to fever, muscle aches, and nausea. In severe cases, it can cause meningitis or bloodstream infections. Symptoms may show up within hours or take weeks to appear.

If you experience severe symptoms such as stiff neck, severe headache, or confusion after eating recalled salads, seek medical help promptly. Pregnant individuals may face miscarriage or other complications even with mild symptoms.

Advice to Consumers

Public health authorities advise residents to check their fridges now. They should look for salad product names and best-before dates listed in the recall notice. If consumers find affected items, they should dispose of them safely.

People can also return products to the place of purchase for a refund. Anyone unsure whether their salad is part of the recall can contact the store or the health authority for confirmation.

Retailers and Supplier Actions

Retailers across Western Canada have already started pulling the recalled salads from shelves. Suppliers are working with health officials to investigate the source of contamination.

Officials continue to monitor the situation and communicate new information as it becomes available. For now, throwing out the recalled products is the safest step for residents to protect their health.