Title: Worsening Flu Season Hits U.S. with High Levels of Respiratory Illnesses
In the midst of an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the flu season in the United States is worsening, with a staggering 38 states reporting high or very high levels of respiratory illnesses. This surge in illnesses can be attributed to a combination of flu, COVID-19, RSV, and other winter viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that this elevated flu season is likely to continue for several more weeks.
Interpreting flu reports during and after the holidays has proven to be challenging due to various factors. School closures, increased travel, and people’s reluctance to visit doctors during this time have made it difficult to accurately assess the true magnitude of the flu season. Nevertheless, the flu season traditionally peaks between December and February, and CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen predicts that this year’s peak will likely be reached by the end of January.
Despite these concerning trends, there is some good news. This season’s flu shots have been well-matched to the predominant strain of the virus, offering a glimmer of hope for those who have received the vaccine.
Since October, there have been at least 10 million flu illnesses, 110,000 hospitalizations, and 6,500 deaths reported. However, it is important to note that COVID-19 hospitalizations have not yet reached the same levels as the flu during the last three winters. Nonetheless, the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations still surpasses that of flu-related hospitalizations.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, a new variant of COVID-19, known as JN.1, is responsible for nearly two-thirds of the cases in the United States. Health officials, however, have not identified any evidence suggesting that the JN.1 variant causes more severe disease than other recent variants.
As the nation battles with these overlapping health crises, it is crucial for individuals to take necessary precautions. Practicing good hygiene, wearing masks, getting vaccinated against the flu, and following recommended guidelines from health authorities can all contribute to mitigating the impact of these respiratory illnesses.
The flu season is far from over, and staying informed and taking appropriate measures will be key in protecting ourselves and those around us during these challenging times.
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