#17,162
Most years we'd still be a few weeks from the start of influenza season, but flu - and a surge of flu-like illnesses - came early this year. This week's numbers are down slightly (see chart below) - possibly due to the Thanksgiving Holidays - but may resume their rise next week.
As I reported earlier today, hospitals around the country are under significant pressure, and that may be further exacerbated by the upcoming holidays.
From this week's FluView Report.
Key Points
- Seasonal influenza activity is high across the country.
- Of influenza A viruses detected and subtyped during week 48, 76% have been influenza A(H3N2) and 24% have been influenza A(H1N1).
- Seven influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported this week, for a total of 21 pediatric flu deaths reported so far this season.
- CDC estimates that, so far this season, there have been at least 13 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 7,300 deaths from flu.
- The cumulative hospitalization rate in the FluSurv-NET system is higher than the rate observed in week 48 during every previous season since 2010-2011.
- The number of flu hospital admissions reported in the HHS Protect system increased during week 48 compared to week 47.
- The majority of influenza viruses tested are in the same genetic subclade as and antigenically similar to the influenza viruses included in this season’s influenza vaccine.
- All viruses collected and evaluated this season have been susceptible to influenza antivirals.
- An annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against flu. Vaccination helps prevent infection and can also prevent serious outcomes in people who get vaccinated but still get sick with flu.
- CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older get a flu vaccine annually. Now is a good time to get vaccinated if you haven’t already.
- There are also prescription flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat flu illness. It’s very important that flu antiviral drugs are started as soon as possible to treat patients who are hospitalized with flu, people who are very sick with flu but who do not need to be hospitalized, and people with flu who are at higher risk of serious flu complications based on their age or health.
- Multiple respiratory viruses are currently co-circulating with influenza. Testing is important to determine appropriate treatment.
It isn't too late to get a flu shot, and wearing face masks in public and using hand sanitizer can add additional layers of protection.
As always, if you do get sick, stay home.
