The latest update from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a promising decline in flu activity across the United States for the second consecutive week. While this trend suggests that influenza levels have peaked, several critical indicators, such as hospitalizations and pediatric deaths, remain alarmingly high. The CDC reports that nearly 100 children have lost their lives to the flu this season alone.
According to the CDC's latest weekly update, the test positivity rate at clinical laboratories is trending downward but still sits at a concerning 24.5%. Additionally, outpatient visits for flulike illness have decreased, yet the rate of 5.8% continues to exceed the national baseline for the 13th week in a row. States experiencing very high flu activity include Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine.
The cumulative hospitalization rate for flu cases has reached its highest level since the 2010-11 flu season. The CDC estimates that approximately 21,000 individuals have succumbed to the flu this season, with the most recent week showing a higher number of flu-related deaths compared to those attributed to COVID-19. In the latest reporting period, twelve additional pediatric flu deaths were documented, raising the total to 98, all linked to influenza A.
Among the influenza strains identified, there were a total of 11 subtyped strains, with 8 cases attributed to the 2009 H1N1 virus, 2 to H3N2, and 1 case involving a coinfection of both strains. This data underscores the need for continued vigilance and public health interventions to mitigate the impact of the flu this season.
In contrast to the ongoing flu crisis, the situation regarding COVID-19 appears to be stabilizing. The CDC reports a significant drop in emergency department visits related to COVID-19, and the test positivity rate remains steady at 4.3%. Wastewater surveillance indicates that levels are currently in the moderate range, with detections declining across all regions. However, the Midwest continues to report the highest levels of COVID-19 detections, followed closely by the South.
As the flu season progresses and with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed about health guidelines and to consider vaccination options to protect themselves and others from these infectious diseases.
