In brief
Recent data shows a rapid increase in flu infections across the U.S. during the holiday season, prompting health officials to label it a severe flu season. The CDC reports that 45 states are experiencing high flu activity with a particular focus on the H3N2 variant. Health experts highlight concerns over a mismatch between circulating strains and vaccine efficacy as hospitalizations and pediatric deaths rise. Urging vaccinations, officials warn that flu seasons may still peak in January or February.
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. flu infections surged over the holidays, raising concerns among health officials about the severity of the current season and the likelihood of worsening conditions. Government data revealed that the flu activity for the week of Christmas surpassed figures from last winter, which had already set high hospitalization records. Amidst the rising cases, COVID-19 infections are also reportedly increasing, although they remain less prevalent when compared to flu. Data indicates that 45 states are experiencing high or very high flu activity, up from 30 in the previous week. Influenza A H3N2 is the predominant strain, historically associated with severe outcomes in older populations.Notably, over 90% of tested H3N2 cases correspond to a new variant, known as subclade K, which shows significant differences from the current vaccine strain. Flu seasons usually peak in January or February, raising concerns about the implications of this strain mismatch for vaccination effectiveness.The previous flu season saw overwhelming illness levels, matching the highest hospitalization rates since the H1N1 pandemic. Thus far this season, there have been nine reported pediatric flu deaths, with overall flu-related emergency visits for children exceeding previous highest marks. The CDC estimates 11 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and around 5,000 flu-related deaths. The CDC is urging everyone, particularly those six months and older who haven't been vaccinated yet, to receive their annual flu shot.
