Flu Season in the US is the Most Intense it’s Been in 15 Years
A Record-Breaking Season
The U.S. winter virus season is in full force, and by one measure, it is the most intense in 15 years. One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010, when a swine flu pandemic hit the nation, according to data posted Friday morning by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Widespread Impact
The flu has forced schools to shut down in some states. The Godley Independent School District, a 3,200-student system near Fort Worth, Texas, last week closed for three days after 650 students and 60 staff were out Tuesday. Jeff Meador, a district spokesman, said the vast majority of illnesses there have been flu, plus some strep throat. He called it the worst flu season he could remember.
High Flu Activity Across the Country
So far this season, the CDC estimates, there have been at least 24 million flu illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths – including at least 57 children. Traditionally, flu season peaks around February. Overall, 43 states reported high or very high flu activity last week. Flu was most intense in the South, Southwest, and western states.
Regional Variations
In Rochester, New York, the flu season has been intense but not necessarily worse than at the peak of other years, said Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric emergency medicine doctor at the University of Rochester Medical Center. She said there’s a lot of flu, but there’s also still a lot of RSV and a surprising number of babies with COVID-19. “All of the respiratory illnesses are around, with a vengeance,” Murray added.
CDC Response
The CDC declined to let an Associated Press reporter speak to an agency flu expert about recent trends. The Trump administration ordered a temporary “pause” on health agency communications and has continued to refuse interview requests that were routinely granted in the past. Late Friday afternoon, a CDC spokesperson acknowledged that the new data shows “the highest absolute value” of flu-like illness when compared with other seasons, but added that the statistic is complicated.
Vaccination Rates
U.S. health officials recommend that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccination. About 44% of adults got flu shots this winter, the same as last winter. But coverage of children is way down, at about 45% this winter. It’s usually around 50%, according to CDC data. About 23% of U.S. adults were up to date in their COVID-19 vaccinations as of late January, up from about 20% at the same point in time the year before. COVID-19 vaccination rates for kids were about the same, at around 12%.
What You Can Do
To avoid seasonal viruses, doctors say you should avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth because germs can spread that way. You should also wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Conclusion
The current flu season is the most intense in 15 years, with widespread impact across the country. While vaccination rates are lower than usual, it’s still important to get vaccinated and take precautions to avoid spreading the flu.
FAQs
Q: What is the current state of the flu season?
A: The current flu season is the most intense in 15 years, with widespread impact across the country.
Q: How many people have been affected by the flu this season?
A: The CDC estimates that at least 24 million people have been affected by the flu this season, resulting in 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths.
Q: What can I do to avoid getting the flu?
A: You can avoid getting the flu by getting vaccinated, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, washing your hands with soap and water, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
