By the bioMérieux Connection Editors
Throughout flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) releases a weekly influenza surveillance report, Flu View. The report includes key updates, comparing influenza activity in the U.S. as well as predictions. You can use Flu View to track influenza activity throughout the country and specifically in your own state.
According to the CDC’s Flu View report from the week of Nov. 23, seasonal influenza activity continues to increase, but the number of cases vary by region. Widespread infection was reported in many of the southeastern states such as Alabama, Georgia and Louisiana. States with the least influenza activity include Missouri, Maine and Wyoming. The report also distinguishes whether viruses are influenza A or B and what their subtype or linage are.
Throughout the week of Nov. 23, about 3% of visits to healthcare providers were due to influenza-like illness. This percentage has been above the national baseline of 2.4% for three weeks. 8% of respiratory specimens tested in clinical laboratories were positive for influenza viruses. This is higher than the week of Nov. 16 One new influenza-associated pediatric death occurred, bring the total for this season to five.
The best way to prevent the flu is to get the seasonal flu vaccine. Vaccination well into flu season can protect you and those around you from the flu and its potentially serious complications. It’s not too late to get vaccinated.
Stay ahead of the flu this season. Follow the CDC’s Flu View to see if flu activity is high in your area and get vaccinated.
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment.
Opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those of bioMérieux, Inc.
