By the bioMérieux Connection Editors
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Flu View, seasonal influenza activity in the U.S. is currently high. Thousands have already been hospitalized this season from influenza-associated illnesses and flu activity has continued to increase.
The most recent report, from the week of December 28, showed widespread influenza activity throughout most of the U.S. 34 states experienced high influenza activity. Nine states experienced moderate activity, and five states experienced low activity. Only Delaware and Idaho reported minimal activity. About 5.6% of visits to healthcare providers were due to influenza-like illnesses.
The percentage of respiratory specimens that tested positive for influenza at clinical laboratories increased to 26.3%. The report showed that the predominant flu strains and lineages varied by region and age group.
A total of 2,667 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations were reported by FluSurv-NET sites between October 1 and December 28. The highest rate of hospitalization was among adults older than 65, followed by children. 27 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have occurred this season.
Follow good practices to help you and your family stay healthy this season. If you haven’t been vaccinated, it’s not too late to do so! Avoid close contact with sick people, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, cover your coughs and sneezes and wash your hands often.
Flu View is the CDC’s weekly influenza report that is released throughout flu season. The report includes key updates, comparing influenza activity in the U.S. to predictions and past year’s statistics. You can use Flu View to track influenza activity throughout the country and specifically in your own state.
Opinions in this article are not necessarily those of bioMérieux, Inc.
