California is facing a concerning trend in flu-related deaths, with more people dying from the flu than COVID-19. According to the state’s health agency, 11 children have died from the flu between June 30 and February 8, accounting for about 16% of all pediatric influenza deaths in the US this season.
The California Department of Public Health reports that 26.7% of flu tests came back positive during the week ending February 8, with a positivity rate higher than previous seasons. This is the first time since 2020 that the percentage of flu-related deaths exceeds COVID-19-related deaths in the state.
Health experts attribute the severity of this season to the circulation of highly pathogenic avian influenza and lower vaccination rates. UC Davis Children’s Hospital has seen a significant increase in flu cases, with some patients requiring hospital admissions for severe cases.
To protect yourself from the flu, the California Department of Public Health recommends staying home when feeling sick, wearing masks, washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, ventilating indoor spaces, and getting vaccinated annually. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports common flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and muscle or body aches.
Getting vaccinated against the flu can reduce the risk of contracting the virus by up to 60%. However, even with vaccination, there is still a risk of catching another strain of influenza later in the season.
Source: https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/health-and-medicine/article300513869.html