The 2022-2023 Flu Season: What You Need to Know
The Holiday Season Brings a Side of Flu
The holidays have come with a side of flu for many Americans, with 40 states reporting high or very high levels of illness last week, according to the latest government health data.
A Lot of Flu Out There
"A lot of flu out there," said Carrie Reed, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What’s Causing the Flu?
There are a number of bugs that cause fever, cough, sore throat, and other flu-like symptoms. One is COVID-19. Another is RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, which is a common cause of cold-like symptoms but can be dangerous for infants and the elderly.
Flu Virus on the Rise
The most recent CDC hospitalization data and other indicators show that the flu virus is trending higher than the other germs, Reed said. Several seasonal flu strains are driving cases, with no dominant one, she added.
RSV Cases on the Rise
Pediatric hospitals have been busy since November with RSV, but "influenza has now joined the party," said Dr. Jason Newland, an infectious diseases specialist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.
Where Flu Illnesses are the Highest
One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. That level last week was about equal to the peak of last winter’s respiratory virus season — which occurred at the same time of year. Reed noted that most people avoid medical appointments over the holidays if they can help it, so the data in late December might be skewed by people who came down with sudden illnesses.
Regional Breakdown
Last week’s flu activity was particularly intense in the South, Southwest, and western U.S. The states reporting lesser amounts of suffering were mostly in the northern Great Plains and in New England.
Seasonal Flu Statistics
So far this season, the CDC estimates, there have been at least 5.3 million flu illnesses, 63,000 hospitalizations, and 2,700 deaths — including at least 11 children.
How to Protect Yourself from Seasonal Illnesses
U.S. health officials recommend that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination, and they say it’s not too late to get a shot. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth because germs can spread that way, health officials say. You should also wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Other Germs to Watch
The CDC also has been keeping its eye on a rise of illnesses from norovirus, a nasty stomach bug, with 91 outbreaks reported early in December. Investigators also have been closely watching another kind of influenza virus, the Type A H5N1 version of bird flu. The CDC says 66 human U.S. cases of that were reported last year, but none of them in the last week.
Conclusion
The 2022-2023 flu season has been a challenging one, with 40 states reporting high or very high levels of illness. It’s not clear if this winter will be any worse than others, but it’s clear that flu is a significant concern. By taking steps to protect yourself and getting vaccinated, you can reduce your risk of getting the flu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many flu illnesses have been reported this season?
A: At least 5.3 million flu illnesses have been reported this season.
Q: How many hospitalizations have been reported this season?
A: At least 63,000 hospitalizations have been reported this season.
Q: How many flu-related deaths have been reported this season?
A: At least 2,700 deaths have been reported this season, including at least 11 children.
Q: What should I do to protect myself from seasonal illnesses?
A: Get an annual flu vaccination, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
