The US is experiencing its highest rate of flu cases in 15 years, with nearly 8% of emergency department visits due to flu-like illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 30% of tests came back positive for flu as of February 1. This surge in flu cases, particularly among young children and in key regions like New York City, poses a significant risk to the US healthcare system.
The CDC has reported at least 24 million illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 13,000 deaths from flu so far this season. Pediatric flu deaths have reached 57, with 10 reported during the week ending February 1. Despite being available for both children and adults, flu vaccination coverage remains low, with only 45% of adults aged 18 and older vaccinated.
The nation is currently experiencing “very high” respiratory illness activity nationwide, with 12 states listed as such. This increase in flu cases has led to concerns about the potential pressure on healthcare systems in the coming weeks.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/outpatient-visits-flu-highest-15-years-swine-flu/story?id=118586600