Number of confirmed flu cases is soaring earlier and earlier as years pass and the spectre of COVID-19 still haunts America.
The U.S. is currently experiencing the onset of the flu season. Seven states are reporting elevated levels of flu activity this week. A rise in the number of flu cases in also being noted in other regions. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new data (the page is updated every few days) revealing high flu activity in Louisiana, and reported higher levels in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, New Mexico, and South Carolina. Puerto Rico has also witnessed high flu activity, prompting an influenza epidemic declaration on November 10th. Dr. William Schaffner from Vanderbilt University remarked on the early start of the flu season, which traditionally peaks in December or January but commenced in October last year and is making a November appearance this year.
SEVEN STATES SEE PARTICULAR RISE IN FLU CASES
Flu activity is on the rise in New York City, Arkansas, California, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Alaska, previously experiencing high flu activity, did not report data last week. Monitoring flu during the season relies on reports from individuals with flu-like symptoms seeking medical attention. Of course, not all patients go to hospital and thus are not included in the statistics.
LESS DEADLY THAN THE AVERAGE FLU
The predominant flu virus this season generally leads to fewer hospitalizations and deaths in the elderly. The CDC estimates at least 780,000 flu illnesses, 8,000 hospitalizations, and 490 flu-related deaths, including one child, so far this fall. While the effectiveness of current flu vaccines is not yet clear, they are well-matched to the circulating flu strains. Vaccination rates, however, have decreased compared to last year, with 35% of U.S. adults and 33% of children vaccinated. In comparison, COVID-19 and RSV vaccination rates are lower, with 14% of adults and 5% of children vaccinated against COVID-19, and approximately 13.5% of adults 60 and older receiving RSV shots.
