The flu season is shaping up to be particularly challenging this year, as new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a significant uptick in flu cases. Over the past week, hospitalizations for influenza soared, with more than 19,000 patients admitted, a sharp rise of approximately 10,000 from the previous week. The CDC estimates that over 7.5 million individuals have contracted the virus so far, and more than 3,100 have succumbed to it.
The surge appears to be largely driven by a new strain of the influenza A virus known as subclade K of A(H3N2), which first surfaced in Australia during the summer months. Virologist Andrew Pekosz from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health noted that the pattern of infection is similar to previous flu seasons regarding timing; however, the rapid increase in cases is noticeably atypical. New York state, in particular, has been severely impacted, reporting over 71,000 cases last week—the highest weekly total on record for the state.
While the current strain does not seem to be more severe or contagious than those in past years, experts like Florian Krammer, a virologist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, suggest that the virus has evolved enough to evade some of the immune defenses built up in the population. The flu vaccine is still considered the best line of defense, although experts warn there may be a mismatch between the circulating strain and this year’s vaccine, developed prior to the emergence of the new strain. Preliminary data from the UK indicates the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing hospitalization in adults is around 30 to 40%, fall within expected ranges.
Despite the importance of vaccination, only 42% of adults in the U.S. have received their flu shot this year. This statistic has led to calls for increased communication from the CDC to encourage greater vaccination uptake. In response, the CDC has launched a nationwide outreach campaign to raise awareness and promote preventive measures against the flu. Health officials emphasize that it is not too late to get vaccinated and encourage individuals to consult with healthcare providers regarding their vaccination options.
In addition to vaccination, there are other practical measures to help mitigate the spread of the virus. Wearing a high-quality mask in crowded or healthcare settings, practicing social distancing, and seeking medical attention promptly if infected are crucial steps everyone can take. Virologist Krammer notes the importance of consulting a physician for timely diagnosis and treatment, especially within the first 48 hours of infection.
As flu season progresses, the emphasis on vaccination and public health measures remains critical. With proactive efforts from both health officials and individuals, there is hope that the impact of this year’s flu season can be minimized, ensuring the health and safety of communities during this challenging time.