Kids are back in school and socializing, as Winnipeg is in the midst of a rough flu season.

Dr. Bunmi Fatoye, medical officer of health with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, says they're hoping the message is getting out for people to practice measures that can help control the flu's spread.

"Things like: when they're symptomatic, covering their cough, and making sure they practice good hand washing techniques, and most importantly staying home when they're ill."

The WRHA yesterday announced about 80 elective and non-emergency surgeries are being postponed because the influenza outbreak in the city is causing very busy emergency departments and an increased demand for in-patient beds.

The WRHA encourages everyone to get vaccinated. Dr. Fatoye says there are usually two waves of influenza, one we see now and one we usually see in March.

"Immunization is still the best defense that we know of and that we have."