Flu Season Worsening, Health Officials Warn
This flu season appears to be worsening as time goes on, according to health experts.
Cases are increasing, with infections spreading quickly as people gather for the holidays. The most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates there are nearly five million cases nationwide.
In Illinois, however, the situation seems slightly better compared to some other states. Recent statistics from the Illinois Department of Public Health show that before Christmas, the state was categorized as having a “moderate risk” for flu, with 4.5% of emergency room visits attributed to it.
Moreover, 20.5% of lab tests for respiratory illnesses are coming back positive for the flu.
New York is experiencing ‘high’ levels of respiratory illness, while states like Alabama, Colorado, and others are reporting ‘moderate’ activity. The rest of the country is seeing low or very low levels of flu activity.
While the flu this year shares similarities with past seasons, such as high fever and body aches, doctors note that this year’s strain is causing more vomiting in children, and symptoms seem to emerge more quickly and intensely.
The dominant strain this season appears to be a new variant called subclade K. Doctors assert that getting the flu vaccine can still lower the risk of severe illness, although vaccination rates are down this year.
Dr. Jennifer Seo, a pediatric medical advisor with IDPH, mentioned that the H3N2 virus is thought to be contributing to the spike in flu cases in New York.
“It’s wise to get tested if you have symptoms, as you may be prescribed antivirals like Tamiflu, but it’s important to start those within 48 hours,” suggested Dr. Alok Patel, an ABC News medical contributor.
The CDC advises that everyone over six months old should receive their flu shot.
Health officials warn that flu season typically surges again around February or March.
Meanwhile, twelve-year-old Gavin understands the importance of washing his hands regularly, especially since his father is an emergency medicine doctor.
Dr. Christopher Colbert emphasizes the importance of keeping surfaces clean, suggesting hosts have hand wash available for guests and disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs.
