February 16, 2024 – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released its latest update on flu activity in the United States for Week 6, ending February 10, 2024. The report indicates that seasonal influenza activity remains elevated nationally, with some regions experiencing significant increases.
Key Findings from the Report:
- Overall Flu Activity: The CDC notes an elevated level of flu activity across the country. Some parts of the U.S., particularly regions 3, 5, and 7, have reported notable increases in flu cases.
- Virus Strains: The predominant strain this week has been the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus. The report provides a detailed breakdown of virus characterization, including genetic and antigenic data, as well as antiviral susceptibility.
- Outpatient Visits: Approximately 4.5% of healthcare visits were for respiratory illness, which is above the national baseline. This indicates a continued high level of outpatient activity related to respiratory illnesses.
- Hospitalizations and Deaths: The cumulative hospitalization rate stands at 54.9 per 100,000 individuals, with 10,787 patients admitted to hospitals with influenza this week. There have been 8 influenza-associated pediatric deaths reported this week, bringing the total to 82 for the season.
- Vaccination and Prevention: The CDC emphasizes the importance of the flu vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older and highlights the availability of prescription flu antiviral drugs, which are especially crucial for high-risk patients.
Regional Highlights:
- Increased Positivity: While overall percent positivity for influenza remained stable, there was a slight decrease in influenza A positivity and a slight increase in influenza B, driven primarily by activity in regions 3, 5, and 7.
- Hospital Admissions: The number of weekly flu hospital admissions has remained stable compared to the previous week.
- Pediatric Deaths: Eight new influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported during Week 6, highlighting the severe impact the flu can have on children.
CDC Recommendations:
The CDC continues to recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older as long as flu viruses are circulating. Vaccination can still provide significant benefits this season by preventing flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school, as well as preventing flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.
In addition to vaccination, the CDC advises the use of prescription flu antiviral drugs as an important second line of defense against the flu. These medications are most effective when started soon after illness onset and are particularly important for people at higher risk of serious flu complications.
Source: CDC.gov
