Flu season keeps marching on. Here is an update on the influenza outbreak circulating around the country and in the County.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says this is the worst flu season in 15 years. The number of cases is at its highest level since swine flu hit the country in 2009-2010.
Flu season typically starts in October and peaks between December and February. However, the severity of this year’s flu season may extend well into the spring.
Number of Cases Around the Country
The CDC estimates there have been at least 33 million flu cases as of February 15. More than 19,000 people have died from the flu so far this season. In addition, there have been 86 pediatric deaths. The flu has led to 430,000 hospitalizations.
Here in the County and the state, the flu outbreak remains very high which is the CDC’s top ranking of the virus’ severity.
Flu Vaccine Offers Protection
MCM spoke with the County’s Health Officer, Dr. Kisha Davis. She said the number of flu related hospitalizations has reached a 15 year high.
“We have seen more deaths from flu than Covid-19 this year,” Davis said.
“Flu season is expected to extend into late March, so it’s not too late to get a flu shot if you have not received one. However, there is no added benefit of getting a second flu shot if you already had one this season,” Davis added.
The flu vaccine offers protection against three strains of the flu virus. They include influenza A H1N1, influenza A H3N2, and an influenza B strain. The CDC says more than 95% of the cases currently circulating are influenza A strains.
Unclear What is Causing Surge
It is unclear why there has been a surge in flu cases this year. However, the CDC says the number of people getting vaccinated against the flu is down.
Other Respiratory Viruses
Flu is not the only respiratory virus causing problems right now. Davis said the number of RSV cases remains low; however, more people are getting sick with Covid-19. She said those cases are rising around the County, but the Covid-19 numbers are not at the same level the Health Department saw late in the summer and in the fall.
Davis recommends people stay home if they are sick whether they have the flu, RSV, or Covid-19. She said it is essential people avoid spreading illnesses to others.
“It is important for people to cover their coughs and sneezes, and wash their hands frequently. Meantime, there is treatment for both the flu and Covid-19,” Davis said.
Call Your Doctor If Symptoms Persist
She urges people who are not feeling well to contact their primary doctor to see if any treatment would help. She said the medications that are currently available work the best when symptoms first appear. Davis also recommends if people have symptoms that last more than 10 to 14 days to see their doctor for an additional evaluation.
