The most recent U.S. government data indicates “a single-week decrease” in flu activity for the first time in months, following weeks of spikes.
However, health experts caution that a spike in cases is predicted soon and that the season is far from over. Dr. Eduardo Azziz-Baumgartner of the CDC’s Influenza Division told CBS News, “People try not to seek care during the holiday season, so we see these divots in the surveillance graphs every year, but it is very probable that during the next few weeks, we’ll see an upsurge of cases.” Another professional agreed.
“Even though there has been a slight decrease in cases over the past week, there could still be an increase in cases in the future,” stated Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical contributor for CBS News and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News. “Later in January and February is very often the peak of the influenza season, so just because we’ve seen a recent drop in flu cases doesn’t mean that there aren’t more to come.”
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that at least 14 million illnesses, 150,000 hospitalizations, and 9,400 fatalities have been linked to it thus far this season. There were 13 more pediatric deaths recorded this week, bringing the season’s total to 40. The increase in deaths among kids is worrying, Gounder noted. “Unfortunately, I think a lot of people coming out of the COVID pandemic are fatigued and tired of talking about vaccinations and getting vaccinated, but kids under 5 are very much at risk for hospitalization and even death from respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID and RSV, and this is because they have less mature immune systems and smaller airways,” she explained.
So while death from respiratory illnesses is still relatively rare among young children, “it’s really important to keep up to date with vaccinations in those youngest,” as it can “dramatically reduce the risk of these terrible consequences.” Azziz-Baumgartner noted that the vaccine helps anyone looking for protection. “Anyone who hasn’t gotten vaccinated against influenza should go get their vaccines so that they’re protected,” he said.
Frequently asked questions
What is Influenza (Flu)?
It is an infectious disease of the respiratory system and is brought on by influenza viruses that can infect the throat, nose, and occasionally the lungs. It can occasionally result in death and cause mild to severe disease. Getting vaccinated against it is the best way to avoid becoming sick every year.
Flu Symptoms
Influenza (flu) can cause mild to severe illness and, at times, can lead to death.Its symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have it often feel some or all of these symptoms:
- fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or body aches
- headaches
- fatigue (tiredness)
- some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
How Flu Spreads
Most experts believe that viruses are spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might get it by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes
What is the difference between influenza and COVID-19?
COVID-19 and influenza (flu) are both respiratory infections that spread easily, although they are caused by distinct viruses. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, was first discovered in 2019. An influenza virus infection is what causes it.
We know that COVID-19 spreads more quickly than. Reducing the risk of serious COVID-19 sickness and death requires continued efforts to increase the percentage of Americans who have received their COVID-19 vaccinations. There is more information available regarding the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines.
Also read-U.S. COVID-19 Hospitalizations Increase But Show Signs Of Stabilizing
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Disclaimer: The opinions and suggestions expressed in this article are solely those of the individual analysts. These are not the opinions of HNN. For more, please consult with your doctor
